ATRI or the American Transportation Research Institute has released their analysis of the top bottleneck areas for trucks. Last year in 2020, St. Louis, Missouri, specifically the intersection where I-44 meets I-64 and I-55, ranked 33rd on the list.
Recently, they released a similar analysis for 2021 and guess what? The same intersection is still on the list. Worst is that it is now in the top 8!
Intersections and trucks aren’t a great mix. Intersections already have a bad reputation for accidents and so do trucks. That’s because of their sheer size and limitations. Although you can avoid that specific intersection, it wouldn’t change the fact that there will still be trucks where you’re driving.
Avoid needing that towing service and getting into a serious accident. Here are some tips on how to drive around trucks. In that way you lessen the risk of accidents whether you’re at the intersection or not.
Don’t Cut Them Off Too Close
A truck is slow for a reason. They are huge and heavy plus it would be far more difficult to control them at faster speeds. That may be the reason why you want to pass them.
However, you don’t overtake just like you would with another car. That’s because they may not be able to see you due to their blind spots. Plus it would take time for the break to stop the huge truck.
If you are passing a truck, it would be best to wait until you see both of their headlights in your rear view mirror before you go in front of them. That would give a good distance and improve the chances that the truck driver sees you.
Sudden Breaks Should Be Avoided
In case you are in front of the truck, you should also be mindful about your breaking habits. Using your break abruptly isn’t a good idea whether you are in front of another car or a truck.
The risk of having bumped by the vehicle behind you increases when it is a truck that is following you. That’s because it’s much harder for huge vehicles to stop.
Know Their Blind Spots
Trucks have much larger blind spots than smaller vehicles. They can’t really see the sides of their vehicle especially on the passenger side. That’s why sometimes they won’t even know that a car is there.
Give Them Space
Whether the truck is behind or in front of you, you should give them space.That distance is very important when they use their brakes. Even if the truck driver has fast reflexes, the brakes won’t stop the heavy truck immediately. That distance can save you from being crushed by a humongous vehicle.
Be Cautious Around Them
Although most of the accidents involving trucks are due to their blind spots, you should still remain cautious even if you are positive that the truck driver can see you. That’s because something can still happen beyond their control.
Sometimes truck tires can come loose. Some trucks that have blown a tire can still be driven. However, those pieces of tires could be dangerous especially at fast speeds. They can hit your windshield and cause you to be distracted or surprised that you lose control over your vehicle.
Similarly, in winter time or while driving on slick roads, you should be aware of your distance. Even if the truck stops, you could end up sliding underneath the truck if you are too close. Defensive driving is best practiced in these situations.
Avoid Distractions
Whether it is your phone, changing the songs on your radio or eating, distractions while driving puts you at risk of accidents. This isn’t only true for those who are driving around trucks but also for all.
Car accidents among cars could just be as fatal as car accidents with trucks. Distracted driving is one of the many reasons why that can happen. It is best to focus on the road and on driving. The less distractions, the less risk of being in an accident.
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