When you are driving and come close to a large vehicle like a semi, you might feel scared or anxious. You understandably want to stay safe from the risk of a major accident with a big truck.
To minimize your driving worries, follow the following roadside tips while sharing the road with large trucks.
Stay Away From Large Trucks During Inclement Weather
Bad road conditions due to extreme weather gives commercial drivers less control of their vehicles and less road visibility and less control of their trucks. Always drive with caution as slippery roads due to snow, rain, sleet or ice can make your car to slide underneath the truck you are driving close to.
Be Patient While Passing
If you must pass a commercial vehicle while driving, speed up and drive closer to the shoulder of the road instead of near the truck. As a safe practice, always pass on the left side of vehicles. Switch on your turn signals a few seconds before you change lanes to let the truck driver know you plan to merge. When passing a truck at night, dim your bright lights as not to obscure the driver’s vision.
Pay Attention on Steep Downhill Roads
While you are cruising down a steep road, stay clear of the front of a semi truck. The momentum from going downhill causes large trucks to pick up speed. Thus, these drivers need more time to stop than those in smaller passenger cars do.
Be Mindful of Blind Spots
Large blind spots called “No Zones” are all around big trucks. A commercial driver might not see you, If you drive too closely to these areas on his or her truck. Directly in front of the cab and the right side of the truck pose the most danger.
Overall, driving consciously and safely will make you a more responsible driver and may help you avoid auto accidents.
Don't hesitate to reach out to Shay + Associates Law Firm if you require the expertise of a skilled personal injury lawyer in Springfield or Decatur, Illinois.