Fact: More than 80% of all accidents involving a semi-truck and a smaller vehicle are caused by the smaller vehicle.  With this in mind, one must consider what they can do to minimize the risks of an accident.  After all, sharing the road with semi-trucks is a part of driving.

Stay Safe When Sharing the road with Semi Trucks

Be a defensive driver

Staying alert and aware of your surroundings whenever you drive is important. But when you are sharing the road with a semi, it is vital. Because their vehicle is bigger and weighs more, it takes them longer to slow down and stop. Pay attention to their turn signals, traffic flow, and anything that could impede safety.

Stay back

Tailgating is never a good approach to driving, but when it comes to traveling behind a semi, it can be hazardous. Likewise, when driving beside or in front of a semi-truck, leave plenty of space for them to merge or turn.

Pass them quickly

Your car, SUV, or truck moves faster than a semi, so when you pass semis, don’t putter around. Instead, speed up and drive closer to the shoulder instead of the truck. In addition, do not pass them on downgrades, and don’t cut them off! They cannot stop or adjust as quickly as you can. When a truck driver is merging or passing, allow them plenty of space and slow down if needed.

Stay out of their blind spots

A semi-truck’s biggest blind spot is its right side. However, other areas with low visibility include the front of the truck, areas along the driver’s side, and behind the trailer. Understand that if the driver cannot see you in their mirrors, they don’t know you are there. You can do your part to stay safe by employing the four-second rule for following behind a semi.

Light matters

If your lights are bright, dim them when driving near or past a semi. The bright lights reflect off their mirrors and make it difficult to see. And, when it comes to turning, don’t forget to use your signals! They need time to adjust their speed. If you turn without warning, you increase the risk of an accident.

Don’t get distracted

Watch for construction zones, road debris, and any motorists on the side of the road and drive safely. You should also put down the phone, food, and drinks to fully focus on the road. These actions might seem minor, but it only takes a second of distraction for an accident to occur.

Of course, ensure your vehicle is road-worthy before heading down the road. This is especially important if you will be making a long road trip. After all, if you are experiencing vehicle issues, it can distract you. Taking a few minutes to check and top off fluids can make a difference. Make this task easy by having the items you need on hand. Contact your AMSOIL dealer, Buy Great Oil for all your fluids and filters.

Sharing the road with semis is a part of life. Do your part to protect yourself and drivers. Pay attention. Use your signals and pass quickly but cautiously. Trucking accidents can be life-altering. Learning to share the road with these large vehicles can prevent accidents and save lives.