Driving around big rigs and other large vehicles can be a little overwhelming for people in smaller cars, but the fact is that we all have to share the road. While drivers of those large trucks typically have advanced training, the size of the vehicle itself creates some limitations.
According to the Roadway Safety Foundation, more than 80% of all accidents involving small vehicles and semi-trucks are caused by the smaller vehicle. But learning how to share the road can help prevent these dangerous collisions.
Keep Your Distance
One of the most important things to remember when sharing the road with a large vehicle is to keep your distance. When you tailgate, you put yourself in the driver’s blind spot. If the truck slams on its brakes, you could even end up with your car underneath it. Stay at least 20 feet in front of the truck. Because of the size of the cab, the driver may not be able to see you otherwise.
Pass on the Left Side
If you want to pass a big rig or other large vehicle on an interstate or highway, always do so quickly and do it on the left side. These drivers have a lot more blind spots than you do, so you never want to ride alongside them. If they attempt to move over when you’re next to them, they may not see you. When you can see their headlights in your rearview mirror, you can switch lanes. Just remember that it can take 30 seconds to pass.
Turn Off Your High Beams
If you find yourself behind a large truck at night, make sure you turn off your bright lights or dim them if possible. When your lights reflect off the truck’s mirrors, it can blind the driver and cause an accident.
Don’t Slam on Your Brakes
If a large truck is behind you, it’s important not to slam on your brakes if you can help it. If you do need to stop suddenly, try to pull off to the side of the road. Remember that it takes the truck a lot longer to brake, so you need to ensure they have plenty of time. This is another reason why it’s important to drive at least 20 feet in front of the vehicle.
Understand that Large Trucks Take Wide Turns
Something else to consider is that big rigs — and other large vehicles, like buses — make very wide turns and often need extra space. This is another reason to keep your distance, even when you’re stopped at an intersection. If you are stopped at an intersection, make sure you don’t stop past the line or within the block in the middle. Not only is this a basic rule of driving, but it can help ensure the larger vehicle has enough room to turn without hitting you.
Drive Safely
Simply making sure you follow basic yet essential rules for driving can make sharing the road with a big rig a lot less anxiety-inducing. Wear your seatbelt at all times. Don’t speed or drive recklessly. Don’t drive distracted. Avoid texting, playing with your phone, or doing anything else that takes your eyes off the road. It only takes two seconds for an accident to occur. And don’t get behind the wheel if you’re tired or you’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Be Patient
Finally, be patient with truck drivers. Often, they’ve been driving all day — sometimes up to 11 hours. Their line of vision isn’t as great as yours in a smaller vehicle. Your patience could be the difference between safety and an accident.
A collision with a large truck can cause devastating injuries and fatalities to drivers and passengers in other vehicles as well as the truck driver. In fact, there were 69 such injuries in 2023 in the city of Fremont, California alone. Learning safe driving techniques when sharing the road with big rigs is one step in preventing accidents and making our roads safer for everyone.
Article Last Updated: January 21, 2025.
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
