Car Crash Attorneys
Driving safely and avoiding accidents with large trucks requires keen awareness, a good understanding of their limitations, and a commitment to observing essential road safety practices. Here are some strategies to keep in mind according to a truck accident lawyer from our friends at MartinWren, P.C.
Understand Blind Spots: Trucks have large blind spots on all four sides. These are areas where the truck driver can’t see you. Familiarize yourself with these zones and avoid driving in them. If you must pass a truck, do it quickly and safely to minimize the time you spend in the blind spot. A good rule of thumb is that if you cannot see the driver in their sideview mirror, they cannot see you.
Maintain Safe Distances: Trucks require more space to maneuver and longer distances to stop than smaller vehicles. Therefore, maintain a safe following distance, at least four to five seconds behind a truck. This gives you a better field of vision, more time to react, and space for the truck to stop or change lanes if necessary. This is especially important in bad weather.
Pass Safely: When overtaking a truck, pass on the left side where the truck’s blind spot is smallest. Ensure you can see the entire cab in your rear-view mirror before pulling in front of the truck. Never cut off a truck; their longer stopping distances mean they may not be able to avoid colliding with you. Pass in a place where you have extra space to maneuver in case of emergency.
Be Visible: Always have your headlights on near large trucks, even in the daytime. This increases your visibility to the truck driver. Avoid driving directly behind a truck, where your vehicle might be invisible, and do not forget that if a driver seems to be drifting into your lane, use your horn to alert them.
Be Predictable: Large trucks cannot maneuver as quickly as smaller vehicles. Therefore, avoid making sudden moves that could surprise a truck driver. Signal your intentions well in advance and maintain a consistent speed when you’re near a truck. If a truck is acting unpredictable, allow them to pass.
Watch for Wide Turns: Trucks need extra room to make turns, especially right turns. If a truck has its turn signal on, don’t try to squeeze by it or cut it off. Stay back and give the truck plenty of room to complete its turn. If you need to turn around a truck, be sure to signal your intentions well ahead of time.
Stay Alert: Pay close attention to the road, traffic, and a truck’s brake lights or turn signals. Avoid distractions such as mobile phones, eating, or anything that could take your focus off driving, especially around large, heavy vehicles.
Be Patient: Trucks move slower and take longer to accelerate than smaller vehicles. Be patient, don’t tailgate, and never try to race a truck. Always be the most vigilant around trucks.
Prepare for Weather Conditions: Trucks create a lot of spray, which can decrease your visibility in wet conditions. Keep your distance. In high winds, trucks can sway and become difficult to control, so give them extra room. If there are icy roads, try to stay out of the way of trucks.
Sharing the road with large trucks doesn’t have to be intimidating. With understanding and patience, you can drive confidently and safely. Remember that truck drivers are professionals doing their job. Mutual respect and understanding can go a long way in ensuring safety for all road users. If you get into an accident, contact a lawyer near you.