Because semi-trucks are so much bigger and heavier than passenger vehicles, truck drivers must drive their big rigs with extreme caution. Even minor accidents involving semi-trucks can result in major injuries for people in cars, trucks, and SUVs.

In addition to following local and state traffic laws, truck drivers must also follow guidelines set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This means most truck drivers are even more safety-conscious than other drivers—but not all! Whether they’re rushing to make a delivery, distracted, inexperienced and undertrained, or simply negligent, some truck drivers drive dangerously, putting themselves and others at risk.

If you see a truck driving dangerously on Oklahoma’s roads, following these steps can protect you, your passengers, and other motorists.

8 Steps to Take When Driving Near a Dangerous Truck

Just as it’s important to take charge after an accident by calling 911 (and not assuming someone else already has), it’s also important to take action if you notice a dangerous truck before it can cause an accident. Reporting a dangerous truck can save lives, as it can result in the negligent driver being pulled over and potentially terminated from their position or even arrested if they’ve broken the law in a dangerous way.

Eight steps to take when noticing a truck driving dangerously include:

1. Move Your Vehicle Away From the Truck: Even the biggest pickup trucks and SUVs are no match for semi-trucks on the road. If traffic flow and spacing allow, put as much distance between your vehicle and the truck as possible. Don’t speed or make any dangerous maneuvers—only create space if it’s safe to do so.
2. Note Important Details About the Truck: Gather as much information as you can about the truck without putting yourself in danger, including:
   • The truck’s license plate number
   • The trucking company name and identifying numbers on the truck
   • The time, location, and direction the truck is traveling
   • A description of the dangerous behavior, including speeding, swerving, tailgating, and more
3. Call 911 in an Emergency: If the driver’s behavior has already caused an accident or is immediately threatening to other drivers, call 911 to report the incident to local authorities. Provide them with the details you gathered. Be safe when calling 911 and do so either by using a hands-free function or by having a passenger make the call.
4. Report the Driver to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP): If you’re on a highway or interstate and believe the driver is violating traffic laws but isn’t immediately threatening public safety, you can contact the OHP by dialing 911 instead of *55, which was retired in December 2021. The dispatcher will transfer your call to the OHP.
5. Report the Driver to the Trucking Company: Many trucks display a “How’s My Driving?” sticker with a phone number. You can call the number to report the incident directly to the trucking company, providing the truck’s identification information. If this sticker and contact information aren’t available, look up the trucking company’s contact information when you get home.
6. Submit a Report to the FMCSA: You can also report unsafe commercial drivers to the FMCSA through their National Consumer Complaint Database, especially if the driver is violating safety regulations.
7. Avoid Attempting to Communicate With the Driver: Refrain from trying to communicate with the driver on the road. Because semi-truck cabs are so much higher off the ground than passenger vehicle seats, there’s a good chance the driver won’t see you and you’ll only be putting yourself and your passengers at risk. In addition, it’s unlikely the driver will change his behavior even if he does see you.
8. Film the Incident: If possible and safe, you can record the dangerous driving on your dash cam or by having a passenger use a smartphone to capture a video. This video can be sent to the OHP, FMCSA, or trucking company as proof of the driver’s dangerous behavior.

Our Oklahoma City Truck Accident Lawyers Are Ready to Help

When trucks are driven dangerously, the chances of a crash occurring increase significantly. While reporting dangerous trucks can result in drivers getting pulled over, fired, or even charged with crimes, crashes can still occur before police arrive or trucking companies take action.

If you or someone you love was injured in a crash caused by a negligent truck driver, Parrish DeVaughn Injury Lawyers wants to help. We have the experience and aggressive approach needed to win truck accident claims, and we can put those to work for you. Contact our Oklahoma City truck accident lawyers today for a free consultation.