How To Avoid Semi Truck Collisions

Posted in Car Accidents,Driving Safety,Semi-Truck Accidents on December 1, 2016

Large 18-Wheelers seem to be everywhere on today’s highways. Unfortunately, they are an essential part of today’s society. Instead of trying to avoid them all together, learning how to drive near them can help you drive safer. This article provides tips and rules of the road that may prevent an accident one day.

Driving Safely Near Semi Trucks

 

Always wear a seatbelt

Seatbelts can be the difference between life and death in a car accident, especially when paired with a giant 18-wheeler. Clicking your seatbelt before driving is the easiest way to ensure your safety every time you hit the road.

Be attentive

It is extremely important to not let anything distract you when driving near a semi truck. Be alert and aware of what the truck driver is doing because these large trucks can easily sway or swerve into your lane.

Stay at a safe distance

Stay a safe distance in front of or behind the semi truck in order to create a safe zone in case anything happens with the truck. Semi truck tires are likely to blow, so remaining a safe distance from them will keep you out of the line of fire.

Stay visible

Semi truck drivers can’t see around their huge trucks, so when you’re driving near them it’s your job to make yourself visible. When passing a semi truck, do so on the left side. Get around the truck quickly and be aware that they can only see your vehicle if you can see the driver.

semi truck driving on the highway

Other things to avoid

  • Sudden movements around trucks – they cannot see you
  • Sudden lane changes
  • Pulling into traffic in front of a truck
  • Sudden stops – trucks will not be able to stop in time to avoid an accident
  • Do not drive on the right side of a truck that is making a right turn