6 Ways To Safely Share the Road With Truck Drivers

One of the best things about being a truck driver is exploring the open road. Whether it’s driving on the interstate or passing through rural areas in Iowa, truck drivers get to see an amazing landscape. Unfortunately, truck drivers also see recklessness which brings frustration and fear. Commercial drivers face these unique challenges because trucks handle differently than other vehicles.

Ideally, everyone should follow the rules of the road and respect other drivers to make roads safer. However, that is not always the case.

Here are six things that should be considered when sharing the road with truck drivers.

1. Trucks have blind spots. Yes, trucks have mirrors, but don’t automatically assume a truck driver can see you.
2. Trucks fluctuate speeds going uphills and downhills. Trucks carrying a heavy load will probably decrease or increase speed, which is normal.
3. Allow a safe distance behind a truck. Following a truck too closely is not only dangerous, but it also puts your vehicle in the truck’s blind spot. Additionally, trucks brake differently, which makes it difficult to stop quickly compared to cars and vans.
4. Always use turn signals when changing lanes.
5. Don’t text and drive. Distracted drivers cause accidents, leading to injury or possibly death to themselves and other drivers.
6. Trucks catch the wind and it may alter their path. Allow extra space when passing trucks on windy days.

When on the road, drivers should be mindful and courteous of commercial truck drivers. Consider following these safety tips to help make driving safer for everybody.