A typical scenario on the highway: you’re in a passenger vehicle stuck behind a large truck moving very slowly in the middle of rush hour traffic. You become frustrated and attempt to pass the large truck. How do you do it?
According to The American Trucking Association, large trucks are three times more likely to be struck in the rear than a passenger vehicle. This accident can often happen due to improper passing, speeding, and several other factors. To prevent a severe collision, drivers should know the correct ways to pass a truck safely.
Proper Way To Pass a Truck
Here are some things you should consider when passing a truck:
- Give yourself ample room around the truck. Driving too close to a truck may lead to a devastating accident.
- Pass on the left side of the truck whenever you can. Truck drivers have better visibility on the left side.
- Abide by the speed limit and quickly pass and move ahead of the truck.
Recognize the “No-zone”
The No-zone is the area around a truck where the visibility is concealed. Huge trucks, such as semi-trucks or 18-wheelers, have substantial blind spots on both sides. The limited visibility can lead to trucking accidents. When passing a truck, do not linger in the no-zone area, and do your best to avoid them while passing.
The North Carolina Department of Public Safety (NCDPS) also warns motorists to avoid lingering in a truck’s no-zones. They have published a helpful graphic illustrating where a truck’s no-zones are located:
Credit: NCDPS, https://www.ncdps.gov/our-organization/law-enforcement/state-highway-patrol/commercial-motor-vehicle-enforcement/no-zone-safety
According to the NCDPS, “an excellent rule of thumb for motorists sharing the road with a tractor-trailer is, if you can't see the truck driver in his side view mirror, he can't see you."
If involved in a trucking accident, it can leave you with devastating injuries and overwhelming medical bills. The consideration and defensive driving procedures you practice will help all drivers on the road stay safe and reach their destination.
North Carolina Truck Accident Attorneys
The team at Daniel, Holoman & Associates LLP is dedicated to helping you achieve the best outcome for your case. If you or a loved one sustained an injury during a truck collision, call (866) 380-2281 to discuss your legal options and find out how an attorney can help you.