We all know the feeling of being stuck behind a truck while driving on the road. It can be difficult to pass safely and quickly, but with the right precautions, it is possible to do so without endangering yourself or others. Our friends from Unidos Legales have put together tips on how to pass a truck safely to hopefully prevent accidentes de camiones from happening.
Check Your Blind Spots
Blind spots are the areas around the truck that you can’t see from your vehicle’s mirrors. They include areas on the sides and rear of the truck. Make sure you check these areas before attempting to pass, as this is where many accidents occur. Do this by quickly glancing over your shoulder in the direction of the truck and use your mirrors as well. Always make sure that there is nothing blocking your view before continuing. It’s also important to remember that truck drivers have blind spots as well, so stay alert and make sure to allow them plenty of time and space to safely move out of your way.
Use Your Signals
When passing a truck on the road, it is essential to use your turn signals. Doing so will help alert other drivers of your intentions, and provide the truck driver with an opportunity to adjust their speed if necessary. When signaling, make sure to use both hands so you can easily keep a firm grip on the steering wheel. It is also important to signal long enough in advance that the truck driver has plenty of time to react. If you don’t have enough time to make the pass, wait for a better opportunity when you can safely pass. Make sure to always check your mirrors and look ahead before changing lanes.
Give the Truck Plenty of Room
When you’re passing a truck on the road, it’s important to give them plenty of room. You don’t want to risk cutting them off or ending up too close. To ensure a safe pass, allow yourself at least three car lengths between you and the truck when you’re attempting to overtake. If there is heavy traffic or poor visibility, make sure to leave even more room between the two vehicles. When giving the truck enough space, always remain in your lane and never swerve into the other side of the road.
Be Patient
Trucks have large blind spots and require extra time to move out of the way, so rushing the process can lead to dangerous outcomes. Make sure you have a safe distance between your car and the truck before you begin to pass. If you are in a hurry, it’s best to change lanes far enough in advance that you don’t need to speed up or cut off the truck. Give yourself plenty of time to safely pass and don’t worry about the speed of traffic in other lanes. Keep your speed consistent, stay alert, and be patient.
Don’t Cut Off the Truck
Before you make the pass, make sure that the truck has plenty of space to move over before you start your pass. It is also important to make sure that you maintain a safe speed as you pass the truck. If you try to pass too quickly, you may end up cutting off the truck driver or running into them. Additionally, pay attention to your mirrors and be mindful of your surroundings. This will ensure that you have enough time to slow down and avoid cutting off the truck driver.
These tips should help keep you safe on the road, but if you get into a truck accident, contact a lawyer near you for help.
