How to Drive Safely Near Big Trucks

Driving a car around big trucks can be a bit unnerving at times, but doesn't have to cause any major problems. When sharing the highway and city roads with big commercial delivery trucks, use extra caution and follow these safety tips.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Stay visible to the truck driver. If you can't see each of the truck's side mirrors, then the drive can't see you. Usually this means staying further away from the truck.
2. Don't tailgate. Besides not being visible to the truck driver, you also need time and space to brake safely.
3. Signal your intentions. Whenever driving in front of a large truck, always signal early your intention to change lanes. Don't make sudden moves.
4. Signal before passing a truck on a two-way road. Make the pass without hesitating as soon as the way is clear and move safely back into the right lane when the entire truck is in your rear view mirror.
5. Give the truck extra room for turns. Because of their extra length, big trucks sometimes need to use two lanes to turn. This is especially true when making right turns. Cooperate by staying behind until it finishes the turn.
6. Stay out of the truck's blind spots. Areas on either side of the truck, and right behind it, are not visible with mirrors and are blind spots. Drive through the blinds spots quickly.
7. Always leave the left passing lane open for trucks.