Last Updated on February 5, 2024 by John Robinson
When it comes to the rules of the road, there are a few that everyone should know and follow. One of those is to always drive extra careful around trucks. Trucks can be dangerous if they’re not given the space they need, so here are six good reasons to drive carefully around them.
Truck Drivers Are in a Hurry
Truck drivers are often in a hurry to get their load delivered on time. This can lead them to take risks while driving, such as speeding or not paying attention to the road. When you’re driving around a truck, be aware that the driver may not be paying attention and give them plenty of space.
On the other hand, some delivery trucks, like Amazon trucks, have strict time limits to make their deliveries. This can lead the drivers to drive erratically, and if you happen to be in an accident with an Amazon truck, the company may not be held liable because they are having contractors or gig deliveries, that are not full-time employees. In this case, the best would be to hire an accident lawyer that specializes in this type of case, to help you receive the compensation you deserve.
Trucks Have Large Blind Spots
Trucks have large blind spots, which means the driver may not be able to see you if you’re driving in certain areas around the truck. It’s important to be aware of these blind spots and avoid them if possible. If you must pass a truck, do so quickly and safely. Additionally, it’s important to use your turn signals when you’re driving around them. This will let the truck driver know where you’re going and help them avoid hitting you. Make sure you’re visible when driving around trucks, and avoid driving in their blind spots.
Also, avoid driving in a truck’s blind spot when they are making a turn. The driver may not see you, and you could get hit by the truck. Blind spots are usually located on the sides and rear of the truck and can be hard to see, especially at night.
Trucks Are Big and Heavy
Trucks are much larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, which means they take longer to stop. This is especially true if the truck is carrying a heavy load. If you must brake suddenly or make a sudden turn, make sure you give the truck plenty of space. Additionally, avoid driving in front of a truck on a hill. If the truck driver needs to stop suddenly, they may not be able to do so in time and could end up rear-ending you.
On the other hand, If you’re tailgating a truck and they have to stop suddenly, you could end up rear-ending them. Therefore, it’s important to maintain a safe following distance when driving behind, and in front of a truck.
Trucks can also be noisy, which can be distracting for you and other drivers on the road. If you’re driving next to a truck, be aware of this and make sure you’re paying attention to the road. Avoid driving next to a truck if possible, and if you must, make sure you’re not distracted by the noise.
Trucks Have Wide Turns
Trucks have wide turns, which means they need more space to make a turn. If you’re driving next to a truck and they signal that they’re going to turn, give them plenty of room. Additionally, be aware that the truck may swing out into another lane when they’re making a turn. This is especially true if the truck is carrying a large load.
Additionally, avoid driving alongside a truck when they’re making a right turn. The truck may swing out to the left to make the turn, and you could get hit by it. Some trucks have to make a wide turn because of the length of their trailer. If you see a truck making a wide turn, give them plenty of space and don’t try to pass them.
However, if you’re driving in a truck’s blind spot and they signal that they’re going to turn, don’t assume that they’ll see you. Move out of the way as soon as possible, so you’re not in the way when they make their turn.
Trucks Can Spill Their Loads
Trucks can spill their loads, which can be dangerous for you and other drivers on the road. If you see a truck spilling its load, slow down and give them plenty of space. Additionally, avoid driving behind a truck that’s carrying a large load. If the load shifts, the truck could jackknife, and you could get hit by it.
Additionally, be aware of the possibility of a tire blowout. If a truck loses a tire, it can bounce into another lane and hit you. It is also important to be aware of road debris. When a truck loses its load, it can cause debris to fall onto the road. This can be dangerous for you and other drivers, so it’s important to be aware of it and avoid driving over it if possible.
Trucks Block Traffic
Trucks block traffic when they’re stopped on the side of the road. If you see a truck stopped on the side of the road, slow down and be prepared to stop. Do not try to pass the truck unless it is safe to do so. Additionally, trucks that are stopped on the side of the road can be difficult for other drivers to see. This is especially true at night. If you’re driving at night, be extra careful when you’re near a truck that’s stopped on the side of the road.
However, if a truck is blocking your lane, do not try to pass it on the shoulder. This is extremely dangerous and could result in an accident. Instead, wait until it is safe to pass the truck. You can also use your horn to get the truck driver’s attention, so they know you’re there.
Maintaining a safe following distance is essential when driving behind, or in front of a truck. Additionally, be aware of the noise trucks can make, and avoid driving next to them if possible. Moreover, trucks have wide turns, which means they need more space to make a turn. If you’re driving next to a truck and they signal that they’re going to turn, give them plenty of room. Finally, be aware that trucks can spill their loads, and if you see a truck spilling its load, slow down and give them plenty of space.
By following these simple tips, you can help keep yourself and other drivers safe on the road.
