1. Maintain a safe following distance: Large trucks require more time and distance to stop compared to regular vehicles. Keep a generous following distance of at least 4 seconds to allow for the truck's stopping distance.
2. Don't tailgate: Avoid driving too close to the back of a truck. Tailgating a truck limits your visibility and reaction time in case the truck suddenly brakes or changes lanes.
3. Be aware of blind spots: Large trucks have large blind spots on their sides and rear. Avoid these areas as much as possible. To be safe, make eye contact with the truck driver or wait until you can see their entire truck in your mirrors before proceeding.
4. Use your headlights: Especially during low-light conditions or inclement weather, make sure your headlights are turned on so that the truck driver can see you more easily.
5. Don't cut in front of a truck: Allow trucks enough time to change lanes or merge onto the roadway. Cutting in front of a truck can cause a collision since they need more time and distance to react.
6. Slow down in construction zones: When passing through construction zones or areas with reduced speed limits, be mindful of the large trucks and slow down to ensure everyone's safety.
7. Communicate with the truck driver: If you need to pass a truck, signal well in advance and be patient. Once the truck driver signals to let you pass, do so swiftly and safely. Avoid lingering alongside the truck.
8. Consider truck routes: If you know that there are designated truck routes in your area, try to use those roads when possible to reduce traffic congestion.
9. Be patient: Trucks are essential for transporting goods and services, and they may sometimes move at slower speeds. Being patient and courteous on the road can go a long way in ensuring everyone's safety.
10. Follow traffic laws: Always adhere to traffic laws and signals, especially when sharing the road with large trucks. Safe driving practices benefit everyone on the road.
