Sharing the Road With Large Trucks

Large commercial truck driving down the highway
|

If you've ever driven on a highway, chances are you've come across a tractor-trailer truck or two. These massive vehicles can weigh anywhere from 25,000 to 80,000 pounds fully loaded, which is about 20-25 times the weight of a regular car. Due to their size and weight, it's particularly important to exercise caution when driving around them. Here are some tips on how to safely navigate around tractor-trailer trucks.

1. Stay Out of Blind Spots

Be aware of the truck's blind spots. There are four main blind spots on a tractor-trailer truck:

  • Directly in front of the cab;
  • Directly behind the cab;
  • On the driver side of truck near the cab and along-side certain parts of the trailer;
  • On the passenger side of the truck near the cab and along-side certain parts of the trailer.

Remember . . . If you can't see the truck’s rearview mirrors, then they probably cannot see you!

2. Signal When Passing

Passing an 18-wheeler can be especially dangerous. You should always signal your intention to change lanes to begin passing a large truck. By signaling your intention to move into the other lane, you give the truck driver a chance to adjust their speed and give you plenty of room to pass safely. You should also always signal before turning back into the truck’s lane.

3. Don’t Cut Off a Truck

Never cut off a large truck when changing lanes. When switching lanes, give yourself plenty of room to do so. Don't cut back in front of the truck too soon, as the driver may not have time to brake. It is important to remember that large trucks cannot maneuver or slow down as quickly as passenger vehicles. Pulling too closely in front of a large truck leaves the driver with less room to maneuver which could cause a serious accident.

Driving next to a large truck can be a nerve-wracking experience. By following these safety tips you can help ensure a safe and incident-free journey when sharing the road with tractor-trailer trucks this holiday season. However, sometimes accidents do happen, and when they do, it’s crucial to contact Cunningham Bounds.

Alabama Truck Accident Attorneys

If you’ve been in a car accident with a large truck, it’s important to know your rights. The attorneys at Cunningham Bounds are here to help you get the compensation you deserve after being involved in such a traumatic event. Contact us today for more information on how we can assist you during this difficult time.

Call us at (844) 417-0930 or fill out a consultation request form on our website.

Share To: