Driving along the highway is already scary. However, it gets even more frightening when you share the road with massive trucks, right? That’s why a few simple safety tips can go a long way to prevent unwanted accidents. Here are a few to keep in mind:
Stay out of blind spots
Trucks have large blind spots, often called “no-zones,” where the truck driver cannot see other vehicles. These blind spots are located directly in front, behind and along each side of the truck. To stay safe, avoid lingering in these areas. If you can’t see the truck driver in their side mirror, they likely can’t see you either.
Maintain a safe distance
Trucks require significantly more time and distance to stop than smaller vehicles. That’s why tailgating a truck is never a good idea: You might not have enough time to react. So, it is always better to maintain a reasonable following distance with trucks.
Be careful when merging or changing lanes
Merging and changing lanes around trucks require extra caution. Trucks have a slower acceleration and larger turning radius, making it harder for them to maneuver quickly. When merging in front of a car, ensure you have plenty of space and avoid cutting them off. Signal your intentions early and clearly, giving the truck driver enough time to adjust their speed. Similarly, when a truck merges into your lane, provide them plenty of space and avoid speeding to cut them off.
Following these tips can help ensure a safer journey for yourself and others on the road. Remember, patience and caution are key when sharing the road with trucks.
