Semi-trucks are a common sight on the road; unfortunately, motor vehicle accidents involving semi-trucks often result in serious injuries or death. It’s important to be aware of how to stay safe around them to protect yourself and other road users. The question is, how can you stay safe around semi-trucks?
Watch out for blind spots
A semi-truck has large blind spots on all four sides. If you can’t see the truck driver in their mirrors, they can’t see you. So, always be aware of a truck’s blind spots and avoid driving in them. Additionally, use your turn signals when you change lanes, and don’t assume the truck driver has seen you.
Give them plenty of space
Because of their size and weight, it takes a semi-truck longer to stop than a passenger vehicle. So, it’s important to give them plenty of space when passing or being passed by a truck. Additionally, avoid cutting off a truck, as they may not be able to stop in time to avoid an accident. If they make a sudden stop, you could rear-end them and cause a serious motor vehicle accident.
Be extra cautious at night
When visibility is reduced at night, it becomes even more difficult for truck drivers to see other vehicles. It’s therefore not uncommon for truck drivers to experience fatigue at night. So, if you must drive at night, be extra cautious around semi-trucks.
Be aware of wide turns
A semi-truck needs a wide turning radius to make a turn. So, when approaching an intersection, be aware of a truck’s position and give them plenty of room to make a turn. Additionally, never try to pass a truck on the right while they’re making a right turn, as you could get caught in their blind spot and be hit by the truck.
In the end, how you stay safe around semi-trucks really comes down to using common sense and being aware of their blind spots. By following the tips above, you can help to keep yourself and other road users safe when sharing the road with these large vehicles.