As the driver of a car, it is likely that you feel intimidated or scared when you come to pass a heavy vehicle on the road. It may be that you believe that it is driving too fast in respect to its load, or that you worry that the driver will not see you while you are overtaking.
It is important as a driver to be well-equipped in knowing how to safely pass a large vehicle such as a truck or a bus. This knowledge can prevent a collision and make driving on highways much more comfortable for everyone on the road.
How to pass safely
Before passing, make sure that you can see the driver in the mirror. You should always take your time to ensure that you are signaling clearly, the driver has seen you, and that you have enough time to accelerate. Before moving back into the same lane as the truck, it is important that you make sure that you can see the vehicle in your rear-view mirror and that there is adequate space between.
Keeping out of blind spots
One of the most common reasons why collisions with trucks happen is because of blind spots. It is important to be aware of the blind spots that trucks have, and to make sure not to linger in them. Make sure that you can always see the driver in his or her side mirror.
If you have had an accident involving a truck or another large vehicle, it is important that you conduct thorough research into how the law affects your specific situation.
Source: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, “Tips for Driving Safely Around Large Trucks or Buses,” accessed Feb. 16, 2018