It can be dangerous to drive around semi-trucks, although it is often unavoidable. These trucks are much heavier than passenger cars, weighing approximately 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. This means that people in smaller vehicles are much more likely to suffer serious injuries if they get involved in an accident.
Thankfully, there are some things you can do to stay safe. It’s important to consider ways in which driving around trucks may be different than driving around other passenger vehicles. Below are three tips that will help.
Beware of the blind spots
First and foremost, because of their size and design, semi-trucks have a lot of blind spots. It may be difficult to see the driver if you are on the side of the truck, directly behind it or even directly in front of the cab. Try to stay out of these blind spots, increasing your following distance or passing the truck if necessary.
Watch for wide turns
Many motorists get hit when trucks make wide turns. A truck may be turning right when a driver pulls their car up on the right-hand side of the truck, thinking that they have plenty of space. But the trailer is going to swing through that space as the truck turns, striking the car.
Keep an eye on your mirrors
Semi-trucks have long stopping distances that can be almost twice as long as passenger cars. If you’re stopped at a red light or in stalled traffic, watch your mirrors to see if a truck is coming up behind you. Many rear-end accidents happen when trucks do not stop in time.
Have you been injured in an accident involving a semi-truck? If so, take the time to look into all of your options to seek financial compensation.
