Whether you use your local roads or the highways, it is common to see large trucks now and then. The number one rule of driving safely around trucks is to give them enough space. These vehicles have a huge blind spot, and the driver may not see you if you drive too close.
Avoid Tailgating
If a truck needs to pass you, stay to the right and avoid speeding to block it. Instead, stay to the right and give the driver room. If possible, stay away from large trucks to avoid blind spots and accidents if the driver loses control of the vehicle. Also, driving directly behind a truck is dangerous. If a truck suddenly stops, you may not have time to react. Avoid crowding a truck when it is going uphill.
Be Focused
Don’t get too comfortable on the road, especially when approaching large trucks. Tires can explode, or a truck driver may drift across lanes. Unfortunately, it is hard for them to react quickly due to the weight and size of their trucks. Always stay alert, and be ready to take defensive actions if the truck driver can’t control the truck or change lanes.
Wear a Safety Belt
No matter how careful you are on the road, you cannot control other drivers’ behavior. Wearing a safety belt and ensuring the kids are safe in the back seat is the best defense in case of an accident. Road safety starts with you, and buckling up can save your life. At times, accidents are inevitable. Consult a motorcycle accident attorney Denver, CO, to file for compensation.
Watch Out for turns
Trucks require more space when turning than passenger cars. A truck must swing wide before turning. Avoid passing a truck before it turns; wait and keep your distance. Getting in between turning trucks is also dangerous because you could be in their blind spot. If you are caught in between, honk your horn and alert the driver. Always signal correctly when passing a truck and use the left lane. Accelerate fast and safely and give the truck enough space before pulling in front of it.
Be Extra Careful at Night
At night, there’s less traffic, so truck drivers can take that advantage and drive faster. You can also expect them to be exhausted and drowsy. Due to fatigue, the driver may not spot obstacles, including other vehicles. Therefore, leave enough space and avoid passing until you’re in a well-lit place.
Watch for Blind Spots
All vehicles have blind spots for the drivers, and trucks are no exception. Suppose you drive directly in front of a truck or close to a truck where you cannot view its side mirrors and know that the truck driver does not see you. Also, a truck driver may not see your car as you drive along either side of the truck. Being in a blind spot can be disastrous if a driver swerves or changes lanes abruptly.
You cannot avoid large trucks on the road, but you can drive safely around them. Always keep left when passing a truck, avoid tailgating, and be focused on preventing accidents. Every driver should drive safely and protect others.
