There were 4,965 fatal accidents involving semi-trucks in 2020. Large vehicles were a factor in approximately one in ten of the fatal crashes in Georgia in 2014. Passenger vehicle drivers should exercise extreme caution around 18-wheelers due to the latter’s larger size, greater weight, and reduced visibility.

In case you find yourself in a situation it’s best to discuss your case with Newnan personal injury attorney.

Increasing your visibility and decreasing the likelihood of an accident are both possible outcomes of following these guidelines.

KEEP A SAFE DISTANCE BY FOLLOWING

When sharing the road with semis, it’s important to keep a safe following distance. At least 30 feet should separate vehicles so that the driver may easily see them in his or her mirrors. With more room between you and the car in front, you’ll have more time to respond to an abrupt stop or do a quick u-turn.

Under 40 mph, the FMCSA suggests leaving at least 4 seconds between your car and the one in front of you. Above 40 miles per hour, add a second to your buffer zone.

PREVENT LOOKING IN THE WRONG DIRECTION

Knowing where semi-trucks’ blind zones are located is crucial for safe driving around them. To put it simply, if your car is in the truck driver’s blind spot, the truck driver can’t see you.

  • Closer than 30 feet, immediately behind the truck.
  • A distance of less than 20 feet in front of the truck.
  • Next to the front of the vehicle and the load, on either side.
  • Separated by a lane to the right of the truck.

Most drivers can see their passengers in their side mirrors. Being in these blind spots increases the likelihood of being involved in an accident and should be avoided. Spend as little time as possible in the aforementioned places if you’re only passing through.

Safely overtaking a truck.

More caution is needed when passing 18-wheelers than when driving a regular car. Even though it’s annoying to be stopped behind a vehicle, you should be patient and wait for a safe passing chance.

When attempting a passing manoeuvre, drivers must make sure it’s safe to do so. If you can’t see what’s ahead of the vehicle, or if you observe traffic slowing down, you shouldn’t pass. While passing a truck, stay to the left to stay out of the truck’s blind zone on the right.