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semi trucks parking in non-parking spots is hazardous because
they can obstruct views, block lanes, and lead to severe accidents, including deadly crashes with smaller vehicles. This is particularly dangerous on highways, ramps, and during nighttime when visibility is poor, and has resulted in fatalities and injuries.
Specific hazards include:
- Obstruction of sight lines: A parked truck can block drivers' views of curves, intersections, or oncoming traffic, making it difficult to navigate safely.
- Lane blockage: Trucks may park in a way that narrows or completely blocks travel lanes, forcing other vehicles into different lanes or into potentially dangerous situations.
- Collisions: Vehicles, especially those that are smaller or driving at night, may not see the parked truck until it's too late, leading to high-speed collisions. Fatal crashes have occurred when passenger vehicles hit illegally parked semi-trucks, particularly in areas with poor lighting.
- Impeded traffic flow: When a truck is parked illegally, it can cause congestion and disrupt the smooth flow of traffic, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Inadequate lighting: Trucks parked on the side of the road without proper lighting at night are nearly invisible to other drivers, creating a significant and often deadly hazard.
- Risk to other drivers: Drivers who strike a semi-truck parked illegally on the side of the road can suffer catastrophic injuries or death.