If you’ve ever felt uneasy sharing the road with massive 18-wheelers, you’re not alone. Between sudden thunderstorms and changing weather, frequent roadwork, and the sheer size of big rigs, driving across our state can be intimidating—even for locals. Louisiana’s unique combination of inclement weather, increasing congested roadways, and long rural stretches make it important for anyone who drives here to remember specific driving safety tips, especially when sharing the road with large commercial vehicles.

At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we aim to empower our community with practical knowledge to help prevent life-changing accidents. Here, we’ve put together information on large truck accidents in Louisiana and, most importantly, what you (and everyone) can do to safely share the road with these vehicles.

What Are the Main Causes of Big Rig Accidents on Louisiana Highways?

In Louisiana, big rig accidents are relatively common. Every year, there are about 4,000 traffic accidents statewide involving large trucks and buses, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and MCMIS data. There are many factors that contribute to these incidents.

Weather

Severe weather—including flash floods, heavy rain, and, specifically, fog and “super fog”—often makes highway driving hazardous.

In October 2023, dense fog and smoke from nearby fires on I-55 led to one of the most tragic and catastrophic traffic incidents in Louisiana history. The multi-vehicle pileup over Lake Pontchartrain involved 168 separate vehicles, including three 18-wheelers. One of the large trucks involved was a tanker carrying hazardous liquid, which spilled onto the roadway and caught fire. Eight people died and 63 were injured.

The incident was, in part, caused by what officials described as a “super fog,” a combination of dense fog and wildfire smoke that reduced visibility to near zero. Though the exact combination of factors that led to this superfog are somewhat rare, poor visibility on Louisiana roadways is not. In fact, fog is very common throughout the state, but particularly in southern regions, like New Orleans and Baton Rouge, where water is abundant and warm, wet air from the Gulf of Mexico frequently moves over cooler inland water and land.

Along with fog, Louisiana frequently sees rain and high winds, particularly during hurricane season, which can make driving here very dangerous. Even experienced motorists can be caught unawares in sudden rain showers and storms, making it more important than ever for drivers—including truck drivers—to remain vigilant and exercise caution at all times.

Fatigue

Louisiana truck drivers (and those passing through the state) are subject to federal hours-of-service laws set forth by the FMCSA. These laws restrict the number of hours a truck driver can be on the road, both consecutively and over the course of certain set periods. The goal is to make sure truck drivers aren’t operating their large, heavy vehicles while overly tired, as this can be extremely dangerous. However, these rules are not always followed.

Within the trucking industry, hours-of-service violations are very common. Despite the mandatory implementation of electronic logging devices (ELDs), which automatically track driver’s hours behind the wheel, many truck drivers and trucking companies have found ways to push the limits and break the law. Whether drivers skip rest breaks on their own to meet performance-based incentives or are pressured by employers to meet unrealistic deadlines or make up for poor scheduling, the results are the same: fatigued truck drivers on the road, putting everyone around them at risk.

Distraction

In recent years, distracted driving—on the part of both passenger vehicle drivers and truck operators—has become an increasing concern. Activities like texting, using social media, checking a GPS, and even eating while driving contribute to preventable truck crashes every single year, and Louisiana drivers are especially susceptible.

A report from KPLC found that Louisiana is the third-leading state for distracted driving. The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission (LHSC) reports that, in 2023, more than 20% of all traffic fatalities were caused by inattention. That same year, distracted driving led to 3,625 serious injuries. The LHSC notes that distracted driving is often underreported, meaning the true number of injuries and deaths caused by driver inattention is likely much higher.

Traffic

For those who commute in major cities like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport, it’ll come as no surprise that heavy traffic is another common cause of large truck accidents. Congestion across critical corridors like I-10, I-20, and urban connectors in cities is common, especially during rush hour. These traffic patterns force frequent lane changes and abrupt stops—conditions that are particularly dangerous for vehicles with high centers of gravity and long braking distances, like 18-wheelers.

How Louisiana Drivers Can Safely Share the Road With Big Rigs

Driving next to a large tractor-trailer or semi can be intimidating but knowing the best ways to stay safe when sharing the road with these vehicles can help drivers feel confident.

Avoid “No Zones:” One of the most important safety tips when driving near a semi-truck is to avoid the vehicle’s “no zones.” The “no zone” of a large truck refers to its sizable blind spots along the sides, rear, and front. When driving near an 18-wheeler, remember that if you can’t see its mirrors, the driver probably cannot see you. Lingering in these blind spots, especially when merging or passing, increases the risk of a collision.
Keep a Safe Distance: Maintaining a safe following distance is critical. Because a fully loaded big rig can take over 300 feet or more to stop—about three to four times longer than a passenger car—drivers should leave a gap of at least four seconds behind trucks, and even more during rain or low visibility. Sudden stops are a frequent cause of rear-end truck collisions, as well as underride accidents, and the risks are especially high in heavy traffic, construction zones, and poor weather. Using signals early and changing lanes carefully, not abruptly, makes your intentions clear and gives trucks more time to respond.
Pass With Care: When overtaking a semi-truck or big rig, always do so quickly and on the left side, where the driver has better visibility. Avoid lingering alongside the trailer, as this is one of the most dangerous places to be. Never cut back in too soon after passing; a good rule of thumb is to wait until you can see the truck’s entire front grille in your rearview mirror before merging back into the lane and always use your blinkers so that the truck driver can anticipate you moving back into the lane.
Be Cautious Around Wide Turns: Big rigs require much more space to turn, especially to the right. Truck drivers often swing wide to avoid hitting curbs or obstacles, which can catch nearby drivers off guard. If you see a truck signaling a turn, give it plenty of room and never try to squeeze between the trailer and the curb, as this can have serious or even fatal consequences.
Watch for Driver Fatigue and Weather Hazards: Louisiana highways often see long-haul drivers who may be drowsy, fatigued, or slowed by heavy rain, wind, or fog. Be especially alert when conditions are poor. Slippery pavement, strong winds, or reduced visibility can make it harder for truck drivers to control their vehicles. Keeping extra distance and lowering your own speed in these conditions can help prevent chain-reaction crashes.
Respect Truck Speed and Limitations: Trucks are heavier and slower to accelerate than passenger vehicles, especially on inclines or in traffic. Trying to weave around them or force them to adjust their speed suddenly is risky. Instead, be patient and give these vehicles time to maneuver safely, particularly in congested areas.
Avoid Driving Distracted: Sharing the road with big rigs requires full attention. Even a few seconds of looking at a phone or down at a GPS can mean missing a truck’s lane change or sudden brake lights. Staying alert allows drivers to respond quickly and make safer decisions around large commercial vehicles.

Frequently Overlooked Safety Tips for Preventing Big Rig Accidents in Louisiana

Beyond well-known driving rules, Louisiana’s unique conditions call for several lesser-known big rig safety tips. One highly effective tactic is leveraging state-specific traffic and weather apps, such as the Department of Transportation’s Louisiana 511 app, which provide live updates on things like flooding, closures, and current highway conditions. These tools give Louisiana drivers and truckers a real-time advantage for route planning or adjusting speed during unexpected slowdowns.

Another safety habit that’s often missed is maximizing visibility around trucks. Use your headlights in low-visibility conditions, even during daylight hours, and avoid lingering in trucks’ blind spots. In high-traffic areas, such as Baton Rouge’s busty interstates or Lake Charles’ many bridges, signal any lane change early and make your movements consistent and predictable to surrounding truck drivers.

Community involvement can have a powerful, if sometimes overlooked, impact on highway safety. Participating in local safety coalitions, supporting the installation of improved signage, or advocating for regular maintenance checks on the state’s commercial fleets are practical ways anyone can help reduce risks systemwide.

What Truck Drivers Should Know About Preventing Accidents

Big rig operators traveling in Louisiana face uniquely challenging roadways and weather patterns, which demand advanced planning and proper responsiveness. Route planning should factor in the likelihood of flooding, especially in low-lying or rural areas. Truckers can benefit from consulting the Louisiana 511 road information system for real-time updates on closures, detours, and hazardous road conditions. Identifying alternate routes ahead of time helps avoid dangerous last-minute maneuvers on unfamiliar roads.

Adapting to changing weather is another cornerstone of truck safety in Louisiana. Sudden storms and dense fog can create low visibility and other hazards, like puddles and flooding. Proper driver training and regular vehicle maintenance—including routine tire, brake, and windshield wiper inspections—can help ensure trucks are able to handle these challenges. During downpours, lowering your speed below posted limits and increasing space between your vehicle and others helps compensate for slick pavement and decreased visibility.

Effective fatigue management is especially important for Louisiana-bound truckers taking long-haul routes between cities like Alexandria, Lafayette, and Monroe. Compliance with hours-of-service regulations, regular breaks, and attention to early signs of drowsiness are necessary. Not only is it the law, it’s also critical for the safety of everyone on the road.

How Truckers & Motorists Should Respond to a Crash or Near Miss With a Big Rig

Experiencing a collisions or near miss with a commercial truck is alarming, but your response immediately afterward can make a meaningful difference for your safety and legal protection. Start by moving your vehicle out of traffic, if possible, and giving yourself a moment to recover from shock. Even without an actual collision, near-misses can trigger significant stress and adrenal responses, so it is important to check on everyone in your vehicle and assess any potential injuries or trauma.

Once safe, document every detail of the incident, no matter how minor it seems. Take clear photos of your vehicle, any contact points (if applicable), and the surrounding road or traffic conditions. Note the trucking company, the truck’s USDOT number, and its license plate number, as well as the exact location and time of the incident. Gathering input from witnesses or exchanging brief details with other involved parties can be vital, especially if unsafe driving or aggressive maneuvers were involved.

Depending on the circumstances, you might choose to notify law enforcement, particularly if you observed reckless driving or if the incident left you shaken. Reporting the incident establishes an official record and may prompt a follow-up by authorities or your insurance provider. If you’re unsure whether to make a report or what your next steps should be, contacting a legal team such as Clayton, Frugé & Ward can help you clarify your options and protect your rights. We routinely assist clients with documenting events and communicating with authorities to support any future claims or safety reviews.

Resources & Support After a Big Rig Accident

After a big rig accident in Louisiana, immediate access to support can make a major difference for your recovery and peace of mind. Helpful resources start with 511LA, the state’s official service for road conditions, closures, and traffic alerts. If you or your loved ones are dealing with emotional distress or trauma after an incident, the Louisiana Department of Health provides crisis hotlines and mental health guidance, with services available to all who need them.

Knowing your rights and responsibilities after a Louisiana truck accident is equally essential. Our team can help clarify your options and obligations, while hospital social workers or case managers often help coordinate medical follow-up or transportation. At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we provide personalized support, guiding families step by step through insurance processes, claim negotiations, and accessing healthcare professionals familiar with truck accident trauma. These connections are particularly valuable for those navigating unfamiliar legal or medical terminology while healing from a major event.

Choosing the right legal partner is one of the most consequential decisions you’ll make after a truck accident. Our firm’s proven results with complex and large-scale personal injury cases, including 18-wheeler collisions, reflect our dedication to clients throughout Louisiana. Reach out to us today to discuss your unique situation.