Operators of cars may not understand that driving on the road when there are large trucks and buses takes different skills than maneuvering around other cars. As a result, more accidents can occur, and they tend to be more serious, or even fatal, because of the sheer size of the trucks.
One of the ways to stay safe on the road is to understand how to drive around larger vehicles.
Hazards that trucks pose
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the passengers of a small vehicle generally take the brunt of the injuries, and they have the majority of fatalities when there is a crash with a large truck. One of the main reasons is that trucks are tall and weigh significantly more than cars. The high ground clearance also makes it easier for smaller vehicles to ride underneath.
Because of their size, trucks take much longer to come to a stop. When there is inclement weather, stop time increases.
Driving tips
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration discusses that one of the easiest ways that other drivers can avoid crashing with trucks is to give them space. This means staying back and staying out of a truck’s four large blind spots. To avoid getting hit from behind, a driver should not cut too close in front of a truck.
If a truck is turning, other drivers need to give it extra space. This is because trucks make wide turns and need additional clearance. Just as it takes a truck longer to stop, it also takes longer to accelerate. When this occurs, drivers should practice patience.
Along with following tips specifically designed for driving around trucks, drivers should always practice safe driving, such as driving defensively, wearing a seatbelt, minimizing distractions and driving sober.