Many people find 18-wheelers frightening road companions. They have good reason to, as a collision with a truck can be devastating for the people in the smaller vehicle.
While you can alter your route to try and avoid those frequented by trucks, chances are you will need to drive alongside them at some point.
Here are 3 tips to make that safer:
Allow them plenty of space
You should always keep a safe distance from any vehicle. Yet trucks need even more space as they are far less maneuverable than the average car and have much more extensive blind spots.
These two factors can make it difficult for drivers to spot cars and even more difficult to avoid them in an emergency. A good rule of thumb is that if you cannot see yourself in the driver’s side mirror, you are too close behind. Also, take extra care when pulling into a lane in front of a truck, as they take a long time to brake.
Expect the unexpected
Did you know that a truck might pull out to the right to make a turn to the left? They often need to do so due to their large turning circles. You should also consider what you would do if a truck tire burst while you were close or a trailer blew over on a windy day. Again, distance helps you avoid the unexpected.
Assume the driver might be tired
Truckers drive more than most. While the government limits how many hours they are allowed to drive, you might be shocked to realize how ample those limits are. By once again allowing more distance, you give yourself a chance to avoid issues if the driver falls asleep at the wheel.
If, despite these precautions, a truck injures you in a crash, seek legal help to examine your options.