Three Ways to Drive Safely near Semi-Trucks
Published on July 26th, 2019 by The Illinois Hammer Injury Law Firm
Navigating a tight freeway is tricky as it is, but it’s even harder and scarier when there are semi-trucks on the freeway as well. Semi-trucks are responsible for transporting goods or materials over long distances, so they rely on the freeway to do so in the quickest way possible. Unfortunately, semi-trucks can be dangerous to drive around. They have large blind spots and weigh enough to cause serious damage to other passenger vehicles.
Our Chicago truck accident lawyers have worked on many truck accident cases, so we understand the importance of safe driving and the destruction that follows after accidents with a truck. Follow these tips to keep you and your loved ones safe on the road.
1) Give the Truck Extra Space
If you typically don’t leave a lot of room behind cars you’ll want to make a conscious effort to not follow semi-trucks too closely. Keep in mind that because semi-trucks weigh so much, it takes them significantly more time for them to stop than standard passenger vehicles which means they break earlier than you may expect. If possible, drive in a different lane so you are not trailing the truck.
2) Stay Out of The Truck Blind Spot
Because semi-trucks are much longer than traditional vehicles, their blind spots are much larger as well. As a general rule of thumb, if you can’t see the truck’s mirrors, the driver of the truck cannot see your car. If you plan on moving around the vehicle we suggest if possible to move around the truck by changing lanes on the side closest to the driver so he can more easily see you.
3) Use Common Sense
A little bit of common sense goes a long way when it comes to driving safely around semi-trucks. Checking your mirror at regular intervals and staying patient will help you tremendously while driving near semi-trucks. Often a semi-truck will stay in the slow lane to allow slower and faster vehicles easier passage. Work with the truck driver to keep you and the driver safe.
If you find yourself suffering physically or financially because of a truck-related accident, rely on our Chicago truck accident lawyer for guidance during this time. Feel free to call us today.
