Truck Accident

Sharing the Road with Trucks

The results of a truck accident can be catastrophic. Due to the fact that passenger vehicle drivers have no control over the actions of truck drivers, the driver's best course of action is to practice defensive driving. The most favorable outcome for all involved is a reduction in the number of truck accidents; the drivers of automobiles have their own part to play in making the roads a safer place for all of us.

Automobile drivers must recognize that trucks behave very differently from cars and must drive accordingly. To minimize the chances of an impact involving a truck, automobile drivers must avoid several risky driving behaviors:

Driving in the "no-zones"
"No-zones" are dangerous areas around large, long vehicles where accidents are more likely to occur. Every truck has several blind spots or "no-zones" that passenger vehicle drivers should avoid because their vehicle disappears from view while they are driving in those areas:

• Side no-zone: If you can't see the driver's face in the side mirror, he can't see you.
• Rear no-zone: The truck driver can't see you behind the truck unless you are at least 200 feet behind them.
• Front no-zone: Look for the whole front of the truck in your rearview mirror before changing lanes in front of it, then don't slow down.
• Backing up no-zone: Don't cross behind a truck that is backing up; they have no rearview mirrors and can't see you.
• Right turn no-zone: Truck drivers must swing left before turning right in most places; don't squeeze between them and the curb, and give them plenty of room to turn.

Changing lanes abruptly around a truck
If a motorist abruptly moves in front of a truck and has to brake suddenly, the truck will not be able to match their relatively short stopping distance. Anticipate the flow of traffic before moving in front of a truck.

Speeding up
When a big truck is passing you, do not speed up. Slow down slightly and stay to the right to let the truck pass you. This will allow you to get away from the truck's dangerous side zone much more quickly. Also be aware of the wind gusts created by a big truck, and keep both hands on the wheel to keep your vehicle from drifting while the truck is alongside you.

Passing improperly
Allow plenty of time and space to pass a truck. At highway speeds this can take up to 30 seconds, so pass the vehicle as quickly as possible and avoid pacing alongside the truck. Change lanes only when you can see the front of the truck clearly in your rearview mirror. Again, be aware of wind gusts and drive accordingly.

Tailgating
If you are too close to the rear of a truck when a braking emergency occurs, your first clue to the situation will be the brake lights of the truck, which may or may not give you enough time to stop. Hitting the rear of a truck may result in a seriously injurious underride accident.