Trucks are a common sight on our highways as they deliver goods across the country. However, sharing the road with these large vehicles requires extra caution and awareness to prevent accidents and ensure everyone’s safety.
Driving near trucks requires extra caution due to their size, weight and blind spots. Here are three essential tips to help you stay safe on the road.
1. Avoid blind spots
Due to their sheer size and design, trucks have larger blind spots compared to smaller vehicles. These blind spots, often referred to as “no-zones,” are areas around the truck where the driver’s visibility is significantly reduced or completely obstructed. The most common blind spots for trucks are located directly behind the vehicle, along the sides near the rear wheels and slightly ahead of the cab. If you can’t see the truck driver in their side mirrors, chances are they can’t see you either.
2. Maintain safe distance
Driving too close to a truck increases the risk of accidents, especially in emergency situations. Due to their design, trucks require ample time and distance to stop compared to smaller vehicles. Therefore, it’s essential to maintain a safe following distance when driving behind a truck. The general rule of thumb is to leave at least a four-second gap between you and the truck in front of you.
3. Practice safe passes
When passing a truck, make sure you have clear visibility ahead and behind you and use your turn signal to indicate your intention to pass well in advance. Check your mirrors and blind spots to better ensure there are no vehicles in the adjacent lanes and then accelerate smoothly to pass the truck on its left side whenever possible. Avoid passing trucks on the right, especially at intersections or exits where trucks may need to make wide turns. Maintain a steady speed while passing and do not linger alongside the truck.
If you are injured in a truck accident due to negligence, you may be able to seek compensation. Consider seeking legal guidance to help understand your rights and options for pursuing a claim.