In 2022 alone, a total of 5,936 people lost their lives in large-truck crashes in the United States, which is an alarming 49% increase from a decade ago. Even more concerning, 70% of those fatalities were occupants of other vehicles.
These statistics underscore the critical importance of sharing the road safely with semi-trucks and other large commercial vehicles. While professional truck drivers undergo extensive training, the sheer size and weight of these vehicles create unique challenges on the freeway. Here are some tips to help you stay safe.
Understand safe passing
When passing a semitruck, timing and space are crucial. Trucks have large blind spots on all sides, so if you cannot see the truck driver in their side mirror, they likely cannot see you. Always pass on the left side of the truck and maintain a steady speed. Once you are ahead, do not merge back into the truck’s lane until you can see its entire front in your side mirror.
Keep a safe distance
Tailgating is dangerous with any vehicle but particularly risky with large trucks. Maintain at least a four-second following distance when driving behind them. If road conditions are poor, increase this distance even more.
Stay calm
If you find yourself stuck behind a slow-moving truck, the driver may not have the option to speed up. Trucks and buses often have speed limiters onboard to make sure they operate under specific restrictions. Becoming frustrated and resorting to aggressive driving tactics like tailgating or excessive honking will not improve the situation.
Avoid drowsy driving
This tip applies to all driving conditions, but it is particularly important when traveling alongside semi-trucks. Driving while fatigued can slow your reaction times and impair your judgment, making it harder to respond to the movements of large trucks around you. If you are on a long trip, take regular breaks and consider sharing driving duties with a passenger.
Sharing the road safely
Remember, safety is a shared responsibility among all drivers. By adapting your driving habits around these large vehicles, you are not only protecting yourself and your passengers; you are also contributing to the safety of truck drivers and everyone else on the highway.