Semitrucks are a fixture on the roads in Illinois. It would be unusual to find someone who has not shared the roads with these huge vehicles. A good way to avoid getting into a truck accident is to know the various blind spots on a truck.
Things to remember about driving behind a truck
As a general rule of thumb, whenever you drive near a truck, you should be able to see the truck driver’s face through their side mirrors. If you can’t see the trucker’s face, it means that they can’t see you. You should also give a semitruck plenty of extra space when driving behind it. Trucks use a different kind of braking system that makes it take longer for them to completely stop. Following farther behind gives you more time to stop safely if the truck suddenly brakes and could prevent a truck accident from happening.
Trucks and blind spots
Trucks have blind spots on either side of their cabs. Never try to pass a huge truck from the right, as this blind spot is one of the largest and could easily result in a crash. The front blind spot spans around 20 feet ahead of the truck.
There is a smaller blind spot on the left side of semitrucks. However, if you have enough room when driving to the left of a truck, it’s safe to pass it from that side.
Huge trucks also have blind spots at their rear. This blind spot extends around 200 feet from the back of the semi. This is why it’s so important to allow more space when behind a truck. You need plenty of time to react and stop safely.
Being smart when sharing the road with a semitruck is the best way to remain safe. Use defensive driving and always give the truck plenty of extra space.
