Driving on the busy highways of Tennessee means sharing the road with all kinds of vehicles, including large tractor-trailers. These big trucks are imposing and have different challenges than smaller vehicles.
It’s important to be mindful of these differences when driving near them. By following a few key safety tips, you can avoid dangerous situations on the road.
Stay out of blind spots
One of the biggest dangers of driving near tractor-trailers is their large blind spots, which some people refer to as “no zones.” These blind spots exist on all four sides of the truck, but they are particularly large on the sides and rear. Remember that if you can’t see the driver in their side mirrors, they likely can’t see you either.
Avoid staying in these no zones for long periods of time. If you need to pass a truck, do so quickly and on the left side where the driver has better visibility.
Give trucks plenty of space
Tractor-trailers typically need more time to stop than smaller cars, and that’s even more so when they’re carrying a heavy load. If you’re driving in front of a truck, avoid cutting them off or making sudden stops.
Also, leave extra space between your car and the truck to give them enough room to slow down or stop when necessary. On the highway, it’s also a good idea to give trucks extra space when they’re merging or making wide turns because their size makes it harder for them to maneuver quickly.
Be patient and stay alert
These large vehicles often drive slower due to their size and weight, especially uphill or when turning, so avoid tailgating or weaving in and out of traffic to get around them. Stay focused, and don’t let distractions take your attention away from the road. Appreciating that trucks are slower helps you stay calm and make safer decisions.
Driving safely around tractor-trailers requires a bit of extra awareness. By exercising additional care around these vehicles, you can help reduce large truck accidents and keep everyone safe on Tennessee roads.