As a driver, you should always be aware of your surroundings. However, if you are like many drivers, you might notice that when you see a semi-truck, you perk up a bit more because you are aware of how dangerous they can be. There are many steps you can take to do your part in staying safe on the road.
It is important to always be aware of what is going on not just in front of you but alongside you and even behind you.
6 Tips For Safe Driving Near Semi-Trucks
By staying alert, you may be able to stay out of harm’s way or spot problems that you should avoid. The next time you are sharing the road with a semi-truck, keeps these tips in mind:
- Stay out of its blind spot: This rule of thumb applies – if you cannot see the truck driver in the side mirror, the truck driver most likely cannot see you. If you find yourself in a blind spot, either slow down or move ahead to get in a safer position. Blind spots include areas alongside the truck as well as areas in front of and behind the truck.
- Pass with care: Remember the above tip – if the driver is not visible in the mirror, he cannot see you. Make sure you can see the driver in the truck’s side mirror. As with any passing maneuver, use your turn signal and avoid staying in the blind spot. After passing, do not pull too closely in front of the truck; this would put you in another blind spot.
- Extend courtesy to truck drivers: If a truck is attempting to pass you, stay on its right side and decelerate slightly if possible. This gets you out of the truck’s blind spot at a faster pace.
- Don’t cut off a truck: Pulling directly in front of a semi-truck not only puts you in its blind spot, it puts you at risk of being rear-ended. Large trucks do not have the capability of stopping as quickly as cars. A truck needs plenty of room to make a complete and safe stop.
- Don’t tailgate: When you follow a semi-truck too closely, you are putting yourself in two dangerous situations. You will be in a blind spot, and if you get hit from behind, the force from the impact could push your car under the truck.
- Give them room to turn: If you see a semi-truck with its turn signal on, allow it plenty of room to maneuver. Never try to sneak around it or stop in front of the line at a stoplight. The truck needs that extra space.
Semi-truck accidents can result in serious injuries or death. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, talking to a truck accident attorney is an important first step to take in recovering compensation and seeking justice.