We share ways with each other every day. Do you drive safely around these big trucks? You may not be as safe as you think, especially if you’re taking a long time to pass 18-wheel trucks. These large excavators bring most of the store-bought materials into them. An accident with a semi truck can be fatal, that’s why you must learn how to pass by semi trucks safely.
What should you know about semi trucks?
In order to practice driving defensively, you should know a few facts about the big trucks that are on the road with you. Here are some things to think about:
How should you properly pass a semi-truck?
The best way to practice driving safely around semi-trucks is to remember a few things as you pass. Here are four simple tips to keep you and your truck driver safe in traffic.
You remain visible
Before passing, make sure you are visible to the truck driver. If you can see the driver in the side mirror, he can also see you. When the truck driver knows where you are, you will have a better chance of driving safely through his truck.
Pass on the left
Always pass on the left. It is not always illegal to pass to the right, but the left lane is generally considered to be a lane for faster cars. This is also the closest lane to the truck driver, making you more visible to them.
Pass at a safe speed
You don’t need to overtake the truck with missiles. Practice driving defensively and passing safely on the left side while maintaining a steady pace. Exit from your blind spot as quickly as possible to help ensure the driver and his co-driver feel safe on the road.
Leave plenty of space
Before returning to the right lane, make sure you have enough space. Most of the time, when you point to the right lane, the semi-truck will point to let you know that it is safe to move into that lane.
Is it safe to pass a semi truck on the right?
Overtaking a vehicle on the right is one of the least safe driving actions you can take. You take many risks while doing this, including truck drivers not being able to see you in traffic. It is better to pass on the left and never pass on the right.
What are the driving safety rules to remember when sharing the road with trucks?
Offers seven tips for driving safety while sharing the road with semis. These tips are:
- Driving Defensively – anticipate potential problems and how you will avoid them
- Maintain a safe driving distance – getting too close to trucks can be a problem
- Avoid blind spots – these are the areas where truck drivers can’t see your vehicle
- Pass quickly – this helps both you and the truck driver
- Big trucks don’t cut it – 18-wheelers stop much more slowly than passenger vehicles
- Dim your bright lights – This is a good idea to drive safely near any vehicle
- Always Signals – Signals let truckers and other drivers know your intentions on the road
Easily cross semi trucks while on the highway by practicing simple and defensive driving safety practices.
Then, check out why it looks different, or learn more about driving safely while on the road in semi trucks in this video below:
