Aragorn wrote:
Duane wrote:...when a truck in front me decides to make a quick right...
Did you not have enough distance in front of you to stop on time and decided to change lanes instead or did you have enough time to slow down but just didn't feel like breaking?
I probably had enough time to stop but it was warm out and I was enjoying the breeze so I switched lanes. We were going 30mph and I braked a little before changing lanes. So I don't know what that put me at for speed wise. I honestly don't remember seeing the guy pull out of the gas station. I switched lanes, passed through the intersection, looked to switch back to the right lane because I had to turn soon and thats when I noticed him stopped in front of me. Applied both brakes, skidded a little and then the next thing I am looking in his window. So somewhere in between passing through the intersection and checking behind me he pulled out and stopped. This all took place in a matter of seconds.
I guess what I could have done on my side to have changed the out come some is not look to change lanes so soon after crossing the intersection. If I had kept my eyes forward, even for that one second glance, that may have given me an additional second of braking. Who knows what that could have done. I doubt I could have avoided hitting him but may have lessened the damage some. He said he didn't see me, I'm guessing he saw the truck turn, focused on oncoming traffic and bolted out when he thought he could make it.
Be safe, keep your distance and try your best to be seen!