Commercial motor vehicles, including semi-trucks, tractor-trailers and other heavy trucks are much larger and heavier than passenger vehicles. Because of their size and weight, they need more time and space to stop, turn and maneuver.
All drivers share responsibility for roadway safety, especially when traveling near heavy vehicles.
Large trucks:
- Take longer to stop and accelerate.
- Have large blind spots on all sides.
- May need extra room to turn or change lanes.
- Can be affected by wind, weather and road conditions more than smaller vehicles.
Understanding these differences can help prevent serious crashes.
- Give trucks space. Leave extra following distance and room to merge or change lanes.
- Avoid blind spots. If you can’t see the driver in their side mirror, they can’t see you.
- Pass with care. Pass quickly and safely, and don’t move back into the lane until you can see the entire front of the truck in your rearview mirror.
- Never cut in front of a truck. Trucks need much more distance to stop.
- Watch for wide turns. Trucks and buses may swing wide to turn. Don’t try to squeeze between the truck and the curb.
- Stay alert. Snow spray, fog, wind and turbulence from large trucks can reduce visibility and vehicle control.
Patience and awareness save lives. Giving larger trucks the space they need helps prevent crashes and keeps everyone safer on the road.
Contact us for education materials, training, or other resources.