It is already starting to snow in Montana, which means that it is even more important to know how to share the road with large trucks when the roads are slick with snow and ice.
Each year, over 100,000 people sustain injuries in crashes due to winter weather conditions, such as heavy snow, as well as icy and slushy roads. It can be difficult to brave the roads in the winter when you just have to worry about other cars, but when it comes to sharing the road with large trucks, like semis, you may be apprehensive.
Leave plenty of room
This is a good tip for all winter-weather driving, but when you are sharing the road with large trucks it is even more important. By giving them space, you can ensure that (depending on who is in front) you each have enough time and space to come to a safe and complete stop. It is important to remember that semis take a lot longer, and much more space, to stop than normal cars due to their weight and size.
Don’t cut them off
If you slam on your brakes in front of a large truck, or cut them off, the likely will not have enough time to stop without crashing into you, especially if the roads are slick. Make sure to plan ahead so you are not putting yourself in a dangerous situation.
If you can’t see the driver, they can’t see you
Large trucks have double the number of blind spots, also called “no-zones” than a typical car. A good rule of thumb is that if you can’t see the truck driver’s face, they may not be able to see you. This is important in the winter, as they may not be able to react quickly enough.
This winter, stay safe by using these tips when sharing the road with large trucks. If the roads are bad enough, it may be wise to stay off of them.