Trucks are different from smaller vehicles due to their size and weight. Additionally, they have unique blind spots – larger ones. Therefore, you need to be extra careful when driving around a truck.
Here are three places a truck driver may not see you.
1. On the sides
A truck driver may not see you on the sides. Thus, you need to be cautious when driving in a lane next to a truck or overtaking. If you need to change lanes, look at the truck driver’s side mirror. If you can see their reflection, they can see you. Thus, you can safely change lanes.
If you want to overtake, confirm that you can see the truck driver’s reflection in their side mirror, signal clearly, move into the left lane, and accelerate. Do not slow down when you are on the side of a truck or overtake when a truck needs to increase its speed, such as on a downgrade.
2. Directly in front
If you are ahead of a truck, give it extra space – you should be able to see the truck’s headlights in your rearview mirror. Also, after overtaking a truck, never cut in front of it. Drive further until you can see it in your rearview mirror before merging into the lane.
3. Directly behind
Tailgating any vehicle is dangerous, but the danger can be higher with trucks because you will be in its blind spot. Increase your safe following distance when behind a truck.
If a truck driver hits you despite you observing safety measures, get legal guidance to protect your rights.