When trucks get into crashes with passenger vehicles, the likelihood is that someone is going to get hurt. Large vehicles crush smaller ones, so the victims inside could be hurt worse than in other kinds of collisions.
More than one out of three truck drivers have been involved in a crash during their career. Those odds aren’t good. While not all drivers will have the opportunity to take steps to avoid a truck crash once it’s in motion, everyone can take steps to prevent them. Here are three helpful tips to keep you safe in your vehicle if you have to travel near large trucks.
1. Give them space
One of the best ways to avoid a crash of any kind is to give other drivers more space. This is particularly helpful with large trucks, because they need more time to stop and maneuver. If you are riding near one, slow down and back away or speed up and get ahead of it. Just make sure there is plenty of space if you want to merge in front of the vehicle, so the driver doesn’t have to brake.
2. Use your turn signals
It’s always beneficial to use turn signals if you’re going to merge into a lane with a large truck. It’s helpful to turn your signal on at least two or three seconds before attempting to merge, so that the driver has time to see what you intend to do.
3. Don’t tailgate other drivers
Finally, don’t ride too close to other drivers. Though the semi truck or vehicle behind you might have given you plenty of space, if you have to slam on your brakes suddenly, there’s a chance that they won’t have time to stop. Always give yourself plenty of time to stop if the vehicle ahead of you needs to slow or respond to a hazard unexpectedly.
These tips can help you prevent a truck crash. If you are involved in one, remember that you may be able to seek compensation.