Driving around trucks on America’s highways is a hazard for those in smaller vehicles. Particularly for newer drivers, maneuvering around these highway behemoths may be very intimidating.
Fortunately, there are a number of ways to share the road safely with trucks. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, passenger vehicle drivers should stay out of the blind spots of a truck and ensure to always give it plenty of room.
Understanding a truck’s blind spots
Just like trucks are bigger than passenger vehicles, the blind spots are larger as well. The blind spots in front and behind a truck are nearly 30 feet long. The blind spot on the left side of a truck only takes up one lane. The blind spot on the right side of the truck takes up two lanes of traffic. This is why it is very important to ensure that you always pass a truck on the left-hand side. Otherwise, the trucker may not see you.
Giving plenty of space
In addition to staying out of the blind spots of a truck, you should appreciate how much space to give one. If you are tailgating a truck, you are in the truck’s blind spot and there is a chance that your vehicle could end up underneath the truck.
You should also give a truck plenty of space because trucks need extra training room, particularly as they are turning to the right. Make sure that you never block the “box” at intersections in order to give large vehicles like trucks and buses enough room to turn. Sharing the road with trucks might seem intimidating, but with the right knowledge, you may find it very simple.