Don’t Overtake Trucks! Mind the Blind Spots!

Driving is no easy feat, especially if you’re used to driving on big roads full of trucks. This is because driving in with a lot of trucks requires special skills, given the blind spot, or the viewpoint that is blocked from the perspective of the truck driver.

A blind spot is a weak point in driving and is also believed to be one of the main factors that cause accidents. It should be noted that each vehicle has different blind spots. The bigger the vehicle, the bigger the blind spot area. So as a vehicle driver and being on the road with a big truck, it goes without saying that you have to be more cautious.

Blind Spots on Trucks

There are quite a lot of blind spots on a truck, not only the visibility is lacking to the rear, but the front-visibility of the truck driver is also limited. If you are too close to the blind spot, usually the truck driver will not be able to see that. For example, if there is a motorbike driver or a person who is 1 to 2 meters in front of the truck, then you might crash because the driver couldn’t see you.

To avoid crash, interaction with the driver is key, especially for the truck driver so they would know your whereabouts. A simple interaction can be done through honking your horn or using your headlights. Make sure the truck driver recognize and identify your location.

Another way you check whether you’re in a safe zone is by looking at the truck driver through the reflection of the truck's rearview mirror. If you can see the driver, then you are not in the blind spot of the truck. On the other hand, if the driver is not visible, then you are in the blind spot, and this means that you have to stay away from the truck as farther as possible.

Mind your distance

Other than this blind spot, another thing you need to keep an eye on is your distance when driving, especially with trucks. Try the rear-view mirror: if the truck’s front tires are on full visibility, then you’re distance is safe.

Keep in mind that whenever there’s a chance to clear away, it’s better to do so. Remember, loaded trucks cannot suddenly slam on the brakes. It will require a good long braking distance until the trucks finally fully stop.

If you’re driving behind a truck, don’t forget to give out any signs that you are indeed behind it. If there’s any chance of overtaking it, better take it and do it quick.

Safely overtaking trucks

There’s a safe way to overtake a truck: give out a signal by honking your horns or using your headlights. This serves somewhat as a cautious sign that you’re about to overtake it. Pay attention to the distance to get back into the lane, not disregarding the length of the truck that must correspond to its speed. Make sure the distance is safe by looking in rear-view mirror like previously discussed.

You can go ahead use these tips when you’re driving with loaded trucks on highways. But if you’re encountering a problem during your drive on a highway, you can check out our tips on how to safely use emergency lance on highways on this article: Here’s How You Use Emergency Lane on Highways.