This month, we’re going to review how to share the road with commercial vehicles.
When a commercial vehicle such as a truck or a bus collides with a smaller vehicle, those in the smaller vehicle are much more likely to be severely injured or killed. This is the result of size and weight differences between the two types of vehicles. But vehicle size and weight do not cause crashes — drivers do.
Here’s what you need to know to stay safe:
STOPPING POWER: Commercial vehicle drivers cannot stop or maneuver their vehicles as easily as a car. They take longer to stop. A car traveling at 55 mph can stop in about 130 feet to 140 feet. A commercial vehicle traveling at the same speed takes 400 feet to stop.
Keep a safe distance behind a truck or bus. Following too closely greatly increases the chances of a rear-end collision. Extend the distance between your vehicle and a commercial vehicle as weather or road conditions deteriorate.
WIDE TURNS: Commercial vehicles need room to make right turns. They may swing wide to the left to safely negotiate a right turn. When you see a commercial vehicle with its right turn signal on, realize the truck is going to make a wide right turn. Do not try to pass on the right-hand side or you might get squeezed between the truck and the curb. Stay behind a truck making a right turn.
When following a commercial vehicle, observe its turn signals before trying to pass. Cutting in between a commercial vehicle and the curb or shoulder to the right may result in a crash. If the commercial vehicle appears to be starting a left turn, wait and verify which way the driver is signaling before passing on the right.
At intersections, stay behind white stopping lines. White stopping lines are there for a reason. If you stop past the line, commercial vehicles will not be able to complete their turns without hitting you.
BLIND SPOTS: Commercial vehicle drivers may not be able to see vehicles alongside or close behind. Commercial vehicles have deep blind spots behind and on both sides. You increase the chances for a crash the longer you drive in the blind spots. Remember, if you cannot see the commercial vehicle driver in the truck’s side mirror, then the driver cannot see you.
Also, never cross behind a commercial vehicle that is preparing to back up or is backing up.
ON THE HIGHWAY: Signal intended lane changes or turns well in advance. Be careful when passing and allow enough time and distance to pass safely. Never cut off a truck or bus, force it to slow down or stop suddenly.
Always pass commercial vehicles on the left side and maintain a consistent speed when passing. Be sure you can see the entire cab of the truck in your rear view mirror before signaling and pulling in front of the commercial vehicle after a pass.
When merging onto the highway, commercial vehicles may not be able to move over, so match the flow of traffic as closely as possible, pick your spot and go. When exiting, leave space between you and the vehicle behind you. Plan your move early and always signal your intentions as soon as possible.
BAD WEATHER: Slow down if a truck or bus is passing you, especially during bad weather. Splash or spray from their tires can reduce visibility. Start your wipers before the vehicle passes.