Semi trucks are a staple on the roads in Kentucky. Most of the time, they are operated safely and responsibly, but an accident can occur for a number of reasons. You can stay safe while sharing the road with trucks by following these tips.
Follow at a safe distance
While driving behind a regular passenger vehicle, you need to give at least one car’s length to be safe. When traveling behind a truck, you should at least double or even triple that distance. Huge trucks need extra room to come to a complete stop because of their complex braking systems, which means you also need adequate time to stop when following them. Giving big trucks extra space can prevent a truck collision from happening.
Avoid blind spots
Trucks have several blind spots on both sides and at the front and back of the vehicle. A good rule of thumb to remember is that if you can’t see the driver in their mirror then they can’t see you either. If this is the case, you’re traveling in a blind spot, and it’s a good idea to slow down or speed up until you’re in the driver’s line of sight.
Pass safely
Knowing how to safely pass a truck can prevent deadly truck crashes. You should never pass a truck or any other vehicle on the right. Only do so on the left and only when it’s absolutely safe. Always make sure that your vehicle is far enough ahead of the truck before passing in front of it. The driver needs plenty of time to be able to react and slow their speed so that you can safely pass.
Be aware of wide turns
Huge trucks make much wider turns than regular passenger vehicles. Be on the alert whenever a truck is making a turn, and be patient. Never try to pass a truck when a turn signal is flashing, and stay out of the intersection so that the truck has plenty of room to turn.
These are some of the smartest things you can do to remain safe while sharing the road with a truck.