SHARING THE ROAD SAFELY WITH BIG RIGS
TIPS AND TRICKS: Semis are slower to brake and have more blind spots, so don’t make risky moves
Many people get anxiety when they look in their rear-view mirror and see a large semi behind them. These 80,000-plus-pound machines can seem daunting when they drive alongside your Prius or Civic, but have no fear, there are tips on how to safely share the road with even the largest of vehicles.
It is important to play it safe. If a truck is signalling and about to enter your lane, resist the urge to speed up to avoid getting stuck behind it. Drive on the side of caution, as you can brake a lot faster than an eighteen-wheeler and avoid a potential crash.
If you are behind a truck while it has stopped on an incline, it’s imperative to allow extra space. When it releases its brakes, the truck could roll back a few feet before it gets going again.
This should be a rule no matter who you are sharing the road with, but if your streetside partner is a 40-tonne truck, do not cut in front. It takes a lot longer for them to stop than it does for any passenger vehicle. Trucks leave large gaps in front of them to allow for stopping distance, so by cutting in and filling their safety gap, you’re creating a potentially hazardous situation. Commercial trucks also have large blind spots on both sides which can impair them from seeing if another vehicle is about to swerve in front.
Speaking of blind spots, the larger the truck, the larger the blind spots. It is vital you are aware of where these spots are. Either side of the truck, especially on the right, are not visible to the driver, as well as areas in the front and back. If you can’t see the driver in their side mirror, they can’t see you. If you must pass a truck, you will be in their blind spot so do so slowly and carefully.
Be aware of the wind. Semis are vulnerable to wind, which makes them hard to control. Give them ample space and time.
Large trucks also require extra turning room. Watch their turn signals and give them space to manoeuvre. Driving between a truck in the middle of a turn and the side of the road could result in you getting stuck.
It can be especially daunting to share the road with a truck in the rain or snow so when approaching an oncoming truck, make sure your wipers are on to prevent any spray from obscuring your view. Keep your windshield clean and your wipers in good working condition.
No matter how comfortable you are behind the wheel, stay alert at all times, especially around trucks. Their weight and size makes them slower to react. Always practice safe driving habits and do not panic when sharing the road with trucks, remember these tips and your road anxiety will disappear.
To learn more about safety and the latest development in technology in the auto industry, join us at the 2018 Vancouver International Auto Show at the Convention Centre West from March 28 to April 1. For tickets and more information, visit VancouverInternationalAutoShow.com.