A collision with a semi-truck can cause permanent, life-altering injuries or even death. It is vital that both parties drive safely while traveling next to each other to maximize safety. Consider these three driving mistakes that can cause semi-truck accidents:
1. Staying in a Semi-Truck Driver’s Blind Spots
It is imperative that a semi-truck driver understands how to change lanes safely and drive with passenger vehicles in mind. But, it is also the passenger vehicle driver’s responsibility to know where a semi-truck driver’s blind spots are and avoid them as much as possible. Here are a semi-truck’s four major blind spots:
- Directly in front of the cab.
- Directly behind the trailer.
- Under the left cab mirror and extending one
- Under the right cab mirror and extending two
Passing a semi-truck is sometimes unavoidable. If you must pass, make sure you do so quickly and put one lane between your vehicle and the truck, if possible.
2. Changing Lanes Suddenly
The most effective way for vehicles to communicate with each other on the road is by using turn signals. To ensure safety, it is vital that you initiate your turn signal at least 100 feet or 5 seconds before you change lanes. If you change lanes suddenly, especially in front of or behind a semi-truck, a serious accident can occur. If possible, keep your turn signal on for a reasonable amount of time so the semi-truck driver can see that you are about to change lanes.
Semi-truck drivers must adhere to these traffic laws, as well! If you see a semi-truck with its turn signal on, make sure you do not speed up to pass it. Allow him to change lanes first, then you can pass the truck safely.
3. Poor Merging Practices
As your passenger vehicle merges onto fast-moving roads like interstates or highways, you must be mindful of how fast the vehicles are traveling that are in the right lane. Ideally, the vehicle on the interstate will shift into the left lane to allow you ample space to merge. However, this is not always possible. As you merge onto the interstate, make sure you are accelerating at an appropriate speed, so you do not force a semi-truck or other vehicles to slam on their brakes.