When you drive on the highway in California, you usually encounter semitrucks. A collision with one of these trucks can have disastrous consequences for you and your family. Because of this, you need to make sure that you know how to share the road with truck drivers.
Some of the best ways to protect yourself on the highway are techniques you already know and practice. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, you can help prevent a collision with a truck by wearing your seat belt and by paying attention to the road. However, you can also protect yourself by understanding more about semitrucks.
Understand the blind spots
Semitrucks have large blind spots that can prevent a truck driver from seeing your vehicle. Truckers usually cannot see your car if you drive right next to the semi. They also may not see you if you are less than 20 feet from the front of the truck and less than 30 feet away from the rear. If you have to drive near a truck, make sure you can see the truck driver. If you can see the trucker, the trucker can see you.
Use caution when passing
Because semitrucks have such extensive blind spots, they may not be able to slow down in time if you cut them off. When you need to pass a truck, make sure you use the left lane, where the truck driver expects you to be. You should typically use your turn signals. Do not pass the truck until you can see it in your rearview mirror. This can help you make sure that there is enough space between your vehicle and the truck.
When you hit the road, the only car you can control is your own. If you learn to share the road effectively, you can drive confidently knowing that you are doing everything possible to prevent a collision.