4 Tips for Driving Safely Near Trucks to Prevent Trucking Accidents

We all know that sharing the road with semi trucks can be stressful, especially when you’re in a smaller car. If you worry about being in an accident with these trucks, don’t be! We’ve created a list of tips to help you prevent a crash. Here are 4 tips for driving safely near trucks to prevent trucking accidents:

1. Stay Out of Their Blind Spot

One of the things you have to look out for when driving with semi trucks is their blind spot! Being so big, it’s sometimes hard for them to see you coming up on the sides. There are a few areas near the truck that we recommend you avoid as much impossible, including 20 feet ahead or 30 feet behind the truck, two lanes wide on the truck’s right side and the lane on the driver’s side extending back to half the truck’s length. Remember, if you can’t see the driver in his/her mirror, they probably can’t see you.

2. Keep a Safe Distance

While it is important to give all cars space on the road, this is especially important for trucks. During a right turn, trucks can take up two lanes, so make sure you never try to pass a truck while they’re turning in order to avoid being trapped. If you drive close behind semi trucks, you increase the likelihood of trucking accidents. When the truck brakes suddenly, high winds cause a rollover or the truck experiences a tire blowout, you’re more at risk to be in a collision if you’re driving too close.

3. Stay Focused

Always avoid distractions while driving on the road with trucks. Keep away from eating while driving or being on your phone. Remember, Tennessee is a hands-free state and there are tons of consequences to texting and driving. The biggest consequence you may face is being in a crash with a truck or another commercial vehicle due to these distractions. You always want to stay focused so that in case the trucks experience any issues, you’re ready to respond appropriately.

4. Wear Your Seatbelt

In the worst case scenario that you are in a crash, it is imperative that you wear your seatbelt to stay as safe as possible. Your seatbelt can keep you from suffering more life threatening injuries upon a crash. Our goal is to keep you out of any kind of accident, but if it happens you want to take all the necessary precautions to keep yourself safe. Tennessee requires all driver and front seat passengers to wear a seatbelt at all times, as well as backseat riders 18 and younger.

Now that you have a few tips for driving safely to avoid trucking accidents, you can feel more confident on the road with semi trucks. Have you or someone you love been in an accident? You need to contact a truck accident attorney. Contact our lawyers today and let us help you get the compensation you’re owed!