Large tractor-trailers are an essential part of getting the things we use every day from one side of the country to the other. While these drivers work hard to be safe on the road, they can get in dangerous situations, just like other drivers
When a truck driver gets in a difficult situation, they have to maneuver a large vehicle with heavy cargo, making a dangerous situation much worse. When driving near large trucks and trailers, it is essential to take extra precautions to help everyone get home safely.
Here are a few tips to help you stay safer near semis.
Pass with care
When you are on the road, it can feel like it takes a long time to get around a large tractor-trailer. As you are alongside a semi, there is a large blind spot where the driver cannot see your vehicle. Likewise, you cannot see the other side of the semi to see if there is a danger that the driver needs to respond to.
If you need to pass a semi, it is best to try to move quickly through their blind spot so that there is less time that the driver cannot see you. Keep in mind that if you cannot see their mirrors, they cannot see you, and the smaller your vehicle, the easier it is for you to disappear into a blind spot.
Watching for drowsy drivers
It is no secret that truck drivers often work long hours. With so much time behind the wheel, there are bound to be drivers who have difficulty staying awake.
If you notice a driver having a hard time staying in their lane or who cannot maintain their speed, it is best to give the driver plenty of space. Although you may not be able to avoid them altogether, try to provide them with plenty of room for last-minute reactions and corrections.
Room to stop
It is also essential to keep in mind that a large truck will take significantly longer to stop. When you are in front of a semi, you should be aware of what is happening in front of you so you can avoid sudden stops. If you need to stop quickly and the shoulder or lane next to you is open, you may want to get to the side to give the semi more time to stop.
When you use caution around semis, you can help everyone get to their destination safely.
