Every day, millions of drivers share the highway with large commercial trucks. These massive vehicles are essential to our economy, but they also present unique challenges for passenger vehicles. Understanding how to safely drive around commercial trucks can prevent accidents and save lives. The following tips can help.
Tip #1: Understand a truck’s blind spots
Blind spots are a serious issue for commercial trucks. Because of the size of these vehicles, drivers are naturally dealing with larger blind spots. These “no-zones” exist on all four sides of the truck. Drivers are wise to understand where truck drivers cannot see them.
The largest blind spots generally include:
- Behind the trailer, extending up to 30 feet
- Along the right side of the truck, spanning multiple lanes
- The front, approximately 20 feet
- Along the left side, though smaller than the right
It is helpful to assume that the truck driver is unaware of your presence when you are in these zones and take action to move into visible areas as quickly as safely possible.
Tip #2: Give trucks plenty of space
Large commercial vehicles require much more time and distance to stop than passenger cars. A loaded semi-truck traveling at highway speeds can need the length of two football fields to stop. Never cut off a truck after passing, and always leave extra following distance when driving behind one.
Tip #3: Pass safely and efficiently
When passing a semi-truck, commit to the maneuver and complete it promptly. Lingering next to a truck puts you in the driver’s blind spot and leaves you vulnerable if the truck needs to change lanes suddenly due to road conditions or other traffic.
To help better ensure safe passing, consider the following:
- Accelerate to pass quickly but within speed limits
- Signal before merging
- Check that you have plenty of space between you and the truck before returning to the lane
These simple steps help both you and the truck driver have adequate space and visibility throughout the passing maneuver.
Safety on the road
Driving on roads with commercial trucks requires patience, awareness and respect for the challenges these drivers face. Take charge of your safety today by putting these defensive driving habits into practice every time you hit the highway. Your vigilance protects not only your life but the lives of everyone sharing the road with you. Stay alert, drive smart and reduce the risk of getting into a tragic trucking accident.
