Way too many truck drivers call us because they need an auto accident attorney after another driver cut them off. Unfortunately, many people don’t know how to drive safely around semi-trucks. So, here are some safety tips for sharing the road with truck drivers.
Stay Out of “No Zones”
If you can’t see the truck driver in their side mirror, assume that the truck driver can’t see you. Semi-trucks have huge blind spots, so you need to be sure that you are driving where you can see each other. However, this is not entirely effective and you still need to be sure that you don’t drive too closely to the rear of the truck—a major blind spot. If you need to, slow down or move ahead to stay seen. This will help prevent accidents.
Pass with Caution
Before passing a semi-truck, make sure that you can see the truck driver in their side mirror. Always give the truck plenty of space before pulling in front of them and never pass them from the right lane. Also be sure that you don’t pass them on a downgrade where they have a tendency to pick up speed. We have gotten too many calls from truck drivers who need an auto accident attorney because another driver passed them when they shouldn’t have.
Don’t Cut Them Off
We all know that it’s dangerous to cut someone off, but this is especially true when it comes to pulling in front of large trucks. Commercial trucks take about 40 percent longer to stop than the average vehicle. Never cut people off, especially truck drivers. Not only is it inconsiderate, it’s dangerous and can lead to a lawsuit if the other person has to hire an auto accident attorney or if their family member ends up hiring a wrongful death attorney because you made a bad decision and caused a wreck.
Here at Robert J. DeBry and Associates, we have attorneys that can help you if you have been in an accident as a result of another driver’s careless driving. Whether you live in Salt Lake City or Provo, we can help you. Call us today for a free consultation.
Sources:
https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/ourroads/tips-driving-safely-around-large-trucks-or-buses
http://www.truckaccidentattorneysroundtable.com/blog/5-tips-for-sharing-the-road-with-tractor-trailers/