8 Holiday Weekend Road Safety Travel Tips – Driving Near Trucks

Driving near semi-trucks can be intimidating, especially during the busy Thanksgiving weekend. Following these safety tips can reduce the risk of car-truck accidents:

1. Stay Visible & Avoid Blind Spots

• Semi-trucks have large blind spots on all sides. If you can’t see the truck driver’s mirrors, assume they can’t see you.
• Tip: Pass trucks quickly and avoid lingering beside them. Stay far enough behind to be visible in the truck’s mirrors.

2. Maintain a Safe Distance

• Semi-trucks are harder to control in wet or slippery conditions, especially if the driver needs to react quickly.
• Tip: Leave plenty of space between you and the truck, giving you time to react to sudden stops or lane changes.

3. Pass with Caution

• Passing trucks requires extra care due to their size and sometimes weather conditions.
• Tip: Pass smoothly and quickly. Don’t pull in front until you can see the truck’s headlights in your rearview mirror.

4. Anticipate Wide Turns

• Trucks need extra space to turn, especially at intersections, and may swing wide into another lane.
• Tip: Avoid staying close to a turning truck. Give them room to maneuver safely.

5. Don’t Tailgate

• Following too closely blocks your view of the road ahead.
• Tip: Keep a safe distance to see past the truck and react to hazards.

6. Watch for Sudden Slowdowns

• Trucks often slow down or change lanes unexpectedly due to their size.
• Tip: Stay alert to a truck’s movements and brake lights. Be ready to adjust your speed.

7. Be Cautious in Bad Weather

• Rain, snow, or fog makes it harder to see and increases stopping distances for trucks. In fact the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) require truck drivers to exercise extreme caution or pull over in in hazardous conditions such as snow, ice, sleet, fog and others
• Tip: Slow down, increase following distance, and use headlights in poor conditions.

8. Avoid Distractions

• Distracted driving is dangerous, especially around large trucks.
• Tip: Stay focused and avoid distractions like phone use when driving near trucks.

From the perspective a a truck accident attorney, following these tips can help keep you safe on the road this Thanksgiving weekend. Safe driving habits and awareness go a long way in preventing accidents with tractor-trailers.

Contact Our Truck Accident Law Firm In New York State

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in New York State, contact Feroleto Law to schedule a free and confidential consultation. Our dedicated team of legal professionals understands the complexities of truck accident cases and is committed to providing you with the best possible representation. We have a proven track record of securing fair compensation for victims of truck accidents, and we are ready to fight for your rights. contact Feroleto Law to schedule a free and confidential consultation.