Navigating the road is already difficult enough on a good day, considering the numerous hurdles you will come across. Unfortunately, adding large trucks to the mix can create an even bigger safety hazard.
But there are certain things you can do to increase your safety on the road. In particular, you can increase your safety when sharing the road with trucks.
Mind a truck’s blind spots
The Roadway Safety Foundation discusses how you can share the road with trucks in a safe way. The first is to keep in mind that trucks have more blind spots than a passenger vehicle. Thus, you should not drive next to a truck for extended periods of time. When passing, you should also stay to the left and do so in a quick but careful way.
When driving at night, do not use high beams around trucks, either. This can temporarily blind the driver and cause a dangerous crash. This is especially true on the freeway, where vehicles can travel the distance of a football field in 3 seconds or less.
The braking time of trucks
Keep in mind that trucks need more time to brake, too. If you notice a back-up ahead of you and there is a truck behind you, start braking way in advance. Give the truck driver ample warning that you will potentially come to a stop soon, so they can prepare to do the same.
Finally, understand that truck drivers cannot contain or control all dangers related to their vehicle. For example, if their tire blows out, it can create a hazard by flying at your windshield. There is no way to predict or prevent all of these issues, so it is best to give a wide berth to all trucks.
