Getting into an accident with
a large truck is no joke — you’re much more likely to incur an injury or
serious damage to your car due to the size of a large truck. It’s why you
should be especially attentive when you’re driving near a large truck. The following
are a few safety tips for driving near large trucks that will help to reduce
the risk of getting into an accident with one:
- Pass
as soon as possible – If you have an opportunity to pass
around a large truck that’s in front of you, make sure that you do so promptly.
Don’t linger to the side of the truck because you risk taking up a position in
their blind spot. Try to start the passing maneuver far enough behind the truck
so that they can see you in their mirror. - Avoid
their blind spots – You should never drive
side-by-side with a large truck if it’s possible to avoid since they could wipe
you off the road if they decide to change lanes and they don’t see you. - Keep
your distance – Don’t drive too close to the back
of a truck. It may be difficult for them to see you there. Additionally, large
trucks are known to blow out their tires – it’s why they have so many of them.
You won’t want to be near a truck when one of its tires blows out, which is why
you should stay a safe distance behind them (and why you shouldn’t spend much
time driving beside them if possible). - Give
the truck time to stop – Remember that the heavier a
vehicle is, the longer it will take them to come to a full stop. Generally
speaking, a large truck that’s going 65 mph will need as much as 200 yards to
come to a full stop. Account for the time it will take for them to stop when
braking behind them. - Pay
attention – Just pay attention to what the
truck is doing, whether they are slowing down, stopping, turning or changing
lanes. If you’re not paying attention, you could slam into them — and you’re
likely to take the brunt of the damage as a result.
Use these tips to drive
safely near large trucks. If you need a truck accident lawyer, be sure to contact us at the Law Office of Gloria
Seidule for a free consultation and case evaluation today.
