It might be intimidating to drive next to 18-wheelers, especially for inexperienced drivers. Due to their size and weight, these enormous commercial vehicles represent a serious risk to other road users, and collisions can have devastating consequences. However, there are techniques to keep yourself safe while driving next to 18-wheelers. We’ll give you some advice in this article on how to stay secure and prevent mishaps:
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Recognize the blind spots in the driver’s path.
When following an 18-wheeler, one of the most crucial things to remember is that they have sizable blind zones. Around the truck, there are blind spots where the driver cannot see other cars. Therefore, it’s crucial to refrain from driving for an extended time in these places. An 18-wheeler’s right side and the area behind the truck are its blind zones.
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Maintain a safe following distance.
Keep a safe following distance when driving next to 18-wheelers since this is additional important safety advice. This involves allowing enough room between your vehicle and the truck to accommodate lane changes or unexpected stops. One car length should be maintained for every ten miles per hour of speed is a decent general rule of thumb. Keep at least six vehicle lengths between you and the 18-wheeler in front of you, for instance, if you’re moving at 60 mph.
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Avoid using drugs and drinking alcohol.
Even though it might seem simple, driving after drinking is hazardous and must be shunned in all circumstances. Drugs, such as sedative drugs, comprise anything that inhibits your cognitive or motor skills. Being drunk may cost you your position in addition to posing safety risks.
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Do not be distracted.
Driving while distracted is always unsafe, but it’s hazardous when you’re behind an 18-wheeler. Because of how much room and time these cars need to navigate, accidents might happen when drivers get suddenly distracted. To avoid distractions while driving, such as texting, eating, or even talking on the phone, it is crucial to maintain your attention on the road.
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Drive defensively
Although careful driving is always vital, it is essential when sharing the road with 18-wheelers. This entails paying attention to your environment and foreseeing any dangers. For instance, you should slow down and allow an 18-wheeler to merge safely onto the highway. Similarly, you should enable an 18-wheeler plenty of room and stay out of their blind spots if they change lanes.
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Put on your seatbelt.
According to studies, almost 1 in 6 truck drivers do not use their seat belts. In addition to being necessary, seatbelt wearing is the most preventive approach to lessen the damage. Failing to use a seatbelt annually contributes to more than 40% of crash-related fatalities.
Getting legal counsel from a Denver scooter accident lawyer is crucial if you’re in a car accident with an 18-wheeler. These attorneys specialize in assisting individuals injured in incidents brought on by the negligence of others. They can assist you in obtaining the settlement you are due for your harm, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
In conclusion, it can be risky to drive next to 18-wheelers, but there are precautions you can take. You can lower your risk of accidents by being aware of the driver’s blind spots, maintaining a safe following distance, avoiding distractions, and driving defensively. Be bold and ask for assistance from a truck accident lawyer in Colorado if you’re in a crash.
