Sharing Roads With Commercial Trucks Safely

Here are 5 truck accident tips from a lawyer intended to help promote safety when sharing roadways with large commercial trucks:

1. Be aware of the truck’s blind spots.

Large commercial trucks have large blind spots that can make it difficult for the driver to see you. Truck Law explains the importance of being aware of these blind spots and to avoid driving in them.

Here are the blind spots of a truck:

• The area directly in front of the truck: The truck driver has a limited view of this area due to the hood of the truck.
• The area directly behind the truck: The truck driver has a limited view of this area due to the trailer.
• The area to the left of the truck: The truck driver has a limited view of this area due to the large mirrors on the passenger side of the truck.
• The area to the right of the truck: The truck driver has a limited view of this area due to the large blind spot created by the trailer.

To avoid driving in these blind spots, stay at least two truck lengths behind a truck and pass it on the left side only when it is safe to do so.

2. Give trucks plenty of space.

When driving behind a truck, give it plenty of space. This will give the truck driver time to react if you need to stop suddenly.

A good rule of thumb is to leave at least two truck lengths between your vehicle and the truck in front of you. This will give you enough time to stop if the truck stops suddenly.

3. Don’t tailgate trucks.

Tailgating a truck is dangerous for both you and the truck driver. If you tailgate a truck, you may not be able to stop in time if the truck stops suddenly.

Tailgating can also cause the truck driver to feel uncomfortable and unsafe. If you are following a truck too closely, the truck driver may be forced to take evasive action, which could lead to an accident.

4. Don’t pass trucks on the right.

It is illegal to pass trucks on the right in most states. Trucks have large blind spots on the right side, and it is difficult for the truck driver to see you if you are passing on the right.

If you must pass a truck, do so on the left side and only when it is safe to do so. Make sure to signal your intention to pass and check for oncoming traffic before moving into the left lane.

5. Be patient when driving near trucks.

Trucks can take longer to accelerate and brake than cars. Be patient and allow trucks plenty of time to merge onto the highway or change lanes.

It is also important to be patient when driving behind a truck. Trucks can’t stop as quickly as cars, so be prepared to stop early if the truck in front of you brakes.

By being patient and understanding, you can help to promote safety when sharing the road with large commercial trucks.

In addition to these tips, here are some other things you can do to stay safe when driving around trucks:

• Be aware of the truck’s speed. Trucks can’t stop as quickly as cars, so be prepared to stop early if the truck in front of you brakes.
• Don’t cut off trucks. Trucks have a long stopping distance, so don’t cut them off or change lanes in front of them without warning.
• Be aware of the truck’s height. Trucks can be very tall, so be careful not to hit your head on the truck’s undercarriage when you’re driving underneath it.
• Be aware of the truck’s exhaust. Trucks emit fumes that can be harmful to your health, so don’t drive too close to the truck’s exhaust.

By following these tips, you can help to keep yourself and others safe when driving around trucks.