Pass With Care
It was a fiery collision that was completely avoidable—one that cost six people their lives. The Osceola County crash occurred when a Hyundai Tucson was attempting to pass a number of vehicles by zipping past them into oncoming traffic. That’s when the driver apparently lost control, and smashed head-on into a semi-truck. Both vehicles erupted in flames, and no one was able to escape the Hyundai. Three adults and three children lost their lives in the accident, and the driver of the semi incurred minor injuries that required hospitalization.
Understanding Passing Distance
Passing slower vehicles may be a temptation, but many people don’t realize the minimum passing distance and minimum sight distance required to safely complete the maneuver. When traveling at just 30 miles per hour, a driver should be able to see at least 500 feet ahead and will require 1,100 feet to complete the pass. Those numbers jump to 800 and 1,800 feet respectively when driving at 50 mph, and 1,200 and 2,500 when traveling at 70 mph. That’s important to know, especially considering the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s conclusion that the number of highway fatalities on two-lane roads is double that of other highways. In fact, three out of every four two-vehicle crashes take place on undivided two-lane roads—often when someone is attempting to pass a slower vehicle.
Tips for Passing
While there are certainly occasions when it is perfectly fine to pass another motorist, drivers should always do so cautiously:
- Be sure there is no oncoming traffic;
- Double check behind yourself and to your left to be sure no one is attempting to pass you;
- Let other drivers know your intent by using your signals;
- Scoot into the passing lane, speed up, and keep moving until you see the slower vehicle in the rearview mirror;
- Use your signal to indicate you are returning to the original lane.
When Passing is Prohibited
Not only is it dangerous—it’s also illegal to pass another vehicle in certain situations:
- Within 100 feet of a bridge, intersection, tunnel, viaduct, or railroad crossing.
- When it requires crossing a double yellow line;
- When a sign indicating no passing allowed is posted;
- When approaching the crest of a hill;
- When approaching a curve.
Following an Accident
If you are involved in an accident through no fault of your own because another driver chose to negligently or recklessly attempt to pass a slower vehicle, you may be dealing with serious property damage, injuries, or even death. Personal injury law exists to address the physical and emotional toil following such an incident.
Fighting for You
The compassionate Kissimmee and Orlando personal injury attorneys at Salazar & Kelly Law Group go all out to collect the compensation you deserve following an accident. To discuss, schedule a confidential consultation right away.
Source:
fox35orlando.com/news/6-killed-osceola-county-crash-state-road-60-officials-say
