Tips for avoiding commercial truck accidents

On Behalf of Holmes & Wiseley, P.C.

The commercial trucks that travel Michigan’s highways are a vital part of our economy on both a state and national level. Unfortunately, motorists who don’t drive safely around these large trucks create thousands of accidents each year. When you’re on the roads with commercial trucks, be sure to keep these safe driving tips in mind.

Leave some extra room

When you find yourself behind a large truck on the road, you cannot see as far in front of you as you can when following a passenger vehicle. With this in mind, you should leave more space between you and the truck in front of you. This allows you more time to brake or swerve if necessary.

Leaving extra room when in front

You should also leave extra room between your vehicle and a commercial truck when passing them. Commercial truck accidents routinely happen when a passenger vehicle stops suddenly in front of a commercial truck. Don’t cut in front of large trucks, as they need much more time and space to stop than a commercial vehicle.

Avoiding blind spots

Most drivers know they need to stay out of a truck’s blind spot, but they don’t always know how to do so. When looking at the mirror on the driver’s side of the truck, can you see the driver’s face? If not, he or she can’t see yours, meaning you are in their blind spot.

It’s not a competition

If a commercial truck tries to pass you or get in front of you, let them do so, even if you believe you have the right of way. Remember, it’s better to be safe than it is to be “right.”

Every year, thousands of people suffer injuries due to commercial trucking accidents. Knowing how to safely share the roads with these large vehicles is crucial.

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