Truck driving becomes a lot more complex when sharing the road with other drivers. It may be quiet if you are out in the country, but the majority of your time will be spent on highways. Truck drivers must share the road with vehicles of all shapes and sizes including motorcycles and compact cars.
You will be driving a 50,000+ ton vehicle going an average of 55 mph, it’s your responsibility to stay safe and be considerate of other drivers while doing so. Here are some tips to help you stay safe!
Be Aware Of Your Speed
It’s understandable that a 50,000+ ton rig will travel slower than the average car. When on multi-lane highways be considerate of drivers who are traveling faster and stay in the right-hand lanes if possible.
Though semis tend to move a bit slower, you’ll still need to make sure you’re not speeding. It can be tempting to want to finish your route as soon as possible. Remember that you are operating a large vehicle and things could get very dangerous if you go above the speed limit.
Leave Space Between Vehicles
You are driving a much larger vehicle and will need more room to stop than the average-sized car. The standard rule is to leave enough space so that another car could fit between you and the vehicle in front of you. Sticking to this rule will give you plenty of space if you ever needed to hit the brakes to avoid an accident.
If other traffic cuts in, which they will, remain calm and professional. Back off and allow them ample room so that you are following safely. People can be inconsiderate of truck drivers because they don’t realize how difficult it is to operate a larger rig. Be the bigger person. At the end of the day, you are ultimately responsible for the safety of yourself and the drivers around you.
Allow Cars In When Necessary
Being in a massive truck does not mean you own the road. Sometimes accidents, traffic, or road closures force other drivers to switch lanes. Be polite, allow other vehicles in front of you when they need to get over. Drivers will likely return the favor when you are the one that needs to be let in next time.
Give the same level of respect and appreciation you expect to receive on the road. In the end, it’s all about sharing the road and respecting everyone’s right to the road. If you respect other motorists they are likely to respect you in return!
Want some more tips to help you stay safe on the road? Sharing the road is a big concern for a lot of truck drivers⏤especially when driving at night. Check out these tips on sharing the road with other drivers at night!
