Driving alongside tractor-trailers (semi-trucks) can be a nerve-racking experience. How can you be sure that the truck driver knows you’re there? The easiest way to share Kenosha roads with these seasoned big rig drivers is to understand a few critical truck accident safety rules. For more information, reaching out to the experienced attorneys at our firm today.
Rule 1: Know Where the Truck’s Blind Spots Are
Trucks have sizable blind spots on all four sides of the vehicle. First, understandably, because of the height and length of a truck with a trailer attached, the area behind the truck is the largest blind spot. If you are following 30 feet or less behind a truck, assume that the driver cannot see you — and adjust your speed accordingly.
Next, on either side of the truck, there are significant blind spots alongside its length. Don’t assume that the driver can see you if you’re riding next to the truck.
Finally, the immediate area in front of a truck is a blind spot that most people do not think about. The truck engine sits high and far in front of the cab of the truck, so the space up to 20 feet in front of it is a blind spot (or at least an area with limited visibility). As a result, it is important not to change lanes in front of a truck, because the trucker might be unable to see your vehicle.
To drive safely alongside trucks in Kenosha, it is best to check for their mirrors. If you can’t see any mirrors on the truck, the driver cannot see you.
Rule 2: Understand the Time and Distance Required to Stop a Truck
Trucks weigh a lot because they are big vehicles that are often carrying a heavy payload. Trucks might weigh 20 to 30 times more than a passenger vehicle.
As a result, stopping a truck weighing up to 40 tons and traveling at 65 miles per hour is not an easy or quick process. In fact, a truck traveling at 65 miles per hour may take the length of 2 full football fields to come to a complete stop.
Rule 3: Give Them Space for Turns
Turning in a tractor trailer truck is a tricky task. Trucks simply are not able to make sharp turns because of their size and length.
The truck cab turns at a different angle than the trailer hauled behind, and the turning radius can require around 55 feet of space. As a result, it is best to give trucks that are turning a wide berth to safely make their turns and avoid an accident in Kenosha.
The Importance of Safety to Prevent Truck Accidents in Kenosha
Trucks will occasionally pull to the side of the road to inspect their vehicles or perform roadside maintenance. Remember to move over into the left lane and give the drivers space to safely perform their tasks. The same rules apply for truck drivers when you pull to the side of the road to change a flat tire.
Whenever there is a vehicle on the shoulder of a road, you should move to the left lane if it is safe to do so, or, at the very least, slow down as you pass.
To avoid accidents, there are many crucial tips for safely sharing Kenosha roads with trucks. Understanding these tips can make you a safer and more informed driver.