Does driving near large trucks make you nervous? Most drivers admit to at least some anxiety when sharing the road with semi-trailer trucks. This anxiety is not unwarranted; in fact, trucks play some role in approximately 3,608 fatal crashes per year, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Driving near trucks on snowy or icy roads is especially dangerous. Trucks take significantly longer to stop on snow-covered roads, and winter conditions increase the likelihood of serious hazards, like fishtailing. The American Truck Association shared tips for safely sharing winter roads with large trucks:
Don’t Treat Trucks Like Any Other Car
Driving carefully around trucks, especially in harsh winter weather, is critical. Trucks cannot stop as quickly as other vehicles. Winter roads make it even more difficult for trucks to stop. With that in mind, it is important never to cut in front of large trucks– especially with too little room to spare. Drivers should also keep in mind that truck drivers have larger blind spots. Play it safe, and stay out of trucks’ blind spots on icy roads.
Avoid Blinding Fellow Drivers
Brushing off snow from your car is not just for your own benefit. It’s true, snow or ice can fly off the roof of your car and block your windshield. It is just as likely, however, for snow to fall off in the opposite direction and blind drivers behind you. Letting snow build up on mirrors or windows creates larger blind spots.
An Emergency Kit Can Save Your Life
The American Truck Association and AAA Exchange recommend keeping a flashlight, flares, road reflectors, blanket, bottled water, kitty litter or rock salt, and tire repair kit in the truck of your car. Staying safe and visible prevents car accidents, and saves you the trouble of talking to semi truck accident attorneys and auto accident injury attorneys and filing auto accident injury claims.
Avoid lengthy consultations with semi truck accident attorneys. Safely and respectfully share winter roads with truck drivers by keeping in trucks’ limitations in mind, clearing off your car, and stowing emergency products and materials in the back of your car.
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