Large commercial vehicles are common on most highways. Due to their size, 18-wheel trucks have special handling needs.
Here are some tips to help you navigate your car safely when sharing the road with 18-wheelers.
Maintain a safe distance
18-wheel trucks require a longer stopping distance than a regular automobile. If you merge in front of a large truck, you should leave adequate space to allow the truck to stop. If you are behind the truck, you must stay back to anticipate the longer stopping distance. If a sudden stop or crash occurs, your vehicle can get pinned under the back of an 18-wheeler as they are higher off the ground than your car. Maintaining a safe distance can help avoid serious injury associated with your vehicle impacting the back of a tractor-trailer.
Beware of blind spots
Drivers of tractor trailers have large blind spots on either side of the container part of the truck. If you can see the truck driver in their mirrors, they can probably see you. You should signal properly and avoid passing in the right lane when passing a car.
Stay attentive
When driving on the road with 18-wheelers, you need to pay attention to the signals from the truck drivers. Tractor trailers require a wide turn radius when turning right or left, so you want to take care if you see one signal to turn. You must allow the truck the proper space and time to complete the turn.
Tractor trailers are larger and heavier than any automobile. Drivers of four-wheel cars should avoid an accident with an 18-wheeler.
