Safe Driving Around Trucks

Driving on America’s highways and interstates these days can be a harrowing feat.

Avoiding speeding or distracted drivers is one thing, but sharing the road and navigating around commercial 18-wheelers, dump trucks and buses is an art. Drivers of passenger vehicles can educate themselves and try to protect themselves and their passengers on the often-scary roads. There is a great article published by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, from a truck driver’s point of view. Here are some helpful hints:

• Stay out of the so-called “no zones.”

  There are several “zones” around a large motor carrier, where the truck driver either cannot see you or is difficult to see a passenger vehicle. The figure below portrays these “zones.”

• Stay Back!

  These trucks have a blind spot that can extend up to 30 feet behind them. The driver of the passenger vehicle has no way of knowing what is up ahead. The passenger vehicle could slide under the truck in the event of a sudden stoppage.

• Don’t Cut in Front.

  This may be common sense to some, but a large truck or bus takes over 40% longer to stop than a regular passenger vehicle. The graphic below is a good depiction of this— Don’t run the risk of getting rear-ended by a much larger commercial vehicle.

• Be Patient and Stay Alert!

  So, we saved the best pointer for last. These are the factors most under your control. Be patient with other drivers, especially large, commercial trucks and buses. Honking, driving eratically, and weaving in and out of traffic can cause a distraction to other drivers and the effect can be devastating. Stay alert, as well. Never drive fatigued. Stop, walk around and grab some coffee to help stave off any drowsiness. If sleepiness continues, stop immediately at the first available location. Your life is worth it.

Should these pointers prevent even one accident, and it’s well worth our time. Lean On Us— Joshua C. Snable, Snable Law | Injury Lawyers