fbpx Skip to main content
Call or Text Me On My Cell (888) 254-7119
(888) 254-7119 Contact Us
Are you Driving Safely Around Trucks? Tampa,  Florida
Truck on Highway Tampa FL

Driving near trucks or any large commercial vehicle can be a dangerous experience. Taking the right safety measures could save your life. Even if the truck driver is at fault, it is important to give yourself the best chance possible of avoiding a serious truck accident. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and avoid accidents.

Beware of Blind Spots

The larger the vehicle, the larger the blind spots; which is why giving trucks space is so essential. The blind spot on the driver’s side is as wide as a lane, stretching to the back end of the trailer. On the passenger side, a truck driver’s blind spot is generally two lanes width and extends just beyond the back side of the trailer.

Believe it or not, a truck’s blind spot at the front of the vehicle stretches 20 feet from the bumper. The rear blind spot is a whopping 30 feet behind the truck. All a truck’s blind spots are part of what’s known as the “no zone.” In case it isn’t obvious what that means: Driving in a truck’s blind spots is never a good idea.

It is also important to note that the larger mirrors on a truck can contribute to an accident. If you do not dim your lights to a low-beam as you approach or pass a truck, you risk blinding the driver as the light reflects off the truck’s mirrors.

Safely Pass Trucks

When passing a truck, approach from the left to keep all parties safe. Make sure to maintain consistent speed and signal your intention to pass early enough so that the truck driver can see you. Remember the blind spot at the front of the truck as you attempt to merge back into the lane in front. Check your rearview mirror before merging to ensure it is safe to do so.

If a truck is attempting to pass you, slow down so that the driver is able to merge back into the lane with plenty of space. Remember, maneuvers in a truck are more difficult than with a smaller vehicle.

Give Trucks Time

As a general rule, give trucks time to perform maneuvers. Whether you intend to pass a truck or the truck is trying to pass you, extra time is needed. The same principle applies to giving trucks the time and space that they need to turn, reverse or stop.

You need to allow trucks time to stop in case of an accident. If you do not keep at least four seconds driving distance between your vehicles, a truck driver may not have time to stop if there is a rear-ending accident. This could result in your vehicle being trapped below the trailer and precious seconds wasted before the truck driver applies the brakes.

You will also need time to react to any issues that the truck driver or the vehicle itself may experience. Getting caught too close to a truck that suffers a blowout or jackknifes could prove catastrophic.

If you have been in a truck accident that was caused by the other driver, reach out to the offices of Ligori & Ligori Attorneys at Law for a free consultation.

Posted on behalf of Ligori & Ligori Attorneys at Law

Do You Have a Case? Free Consultation!

Let’s get started

What Our Clients Say

"El bufete del Sr. Ligori se tomó el tiempo para explicar el proceso legal y encontrar otro abogado en otro condado. Si este bufete de abogados puede hacer un esfuerzo adicional por su cliente, imagine la dedicación y la experiencia si usted fuera su cliente."
Angela K.

Google Reviews

My experience with Ligori & Ligori was excellent. Their attention to detail and genuine concern for my situation showed that they truly cared about me as a client. The staff was professional, knowledgeable, and kept me informed throughout the entire process. I would highly recommend Ligori & Ligori to anyone needing help and direction after an auto accident.

Alisabeth S.

Ligori & Ligori is an amazing law firm. The employees take time with you to make sure that you truly understand the details of your case and why things are done a certain way to produce the best results. When calling, I always spoke to a person and on the off chance that a message was left, I received a return call promptly. I highly recommend Ligori & Ligori.

Michael J.

Mr. Ligori and his staff were excellent and their customer service was without a doubt, outstanding. They go above and beyond when working on a one on one basis. They made sure I was satisfied and taken care of throughout the entire process. I highly recommend anyone in need of an attorney. They definitely exceed expectation.

Sarah R.