Does your day-to-day commute often put you on the highway? If so, then driving around semi-trucks or tractor-trailers is probably a pretty common thing for you. However, no matter how often you do it and how comfortable you are with it, it's in your best interest to always put a few extra safety measures into place. Check out Toyota of N Charlotte's top tips for driving safety around semi-trucks and tractor-trailers.
Driving safety tips for your highway commute
Semi-trucks and tractor-trailers are big - a lot bigger than a passenger car. They have a lot of weight on their side, too, which makes them especially dangerous if they get into a car accident. Use these driving safety tips to safely navigate around them and continue to make your way down the highway.
Tip #1: Leave as much space as possible between your N Charlotte Toyota and the semi-truck. You want to leave plenty of space in between your car and a semi-truck when you're driving behind them. Remember, if you rear-end one of these trucks, your front bumper isn't going to do you any favors. These trucks are much higher than your car, and if you do run into one of them, it's likely that your windshield will collide with the back of the truck instead of your bumper, which could have fatal consequences.
Tip #2: Pass them carefully and on the left. Another driving safety tip for semi-trucks is to pass them carefully and on the left. This is common road courtesy and they'll expect passenger cars to pass on the left, so hopefully, they'll be more aware of you. Additionally, be sure to give them plenty of space when you get in front of them - do not cut them off. They have a lot of weight behind them and can't come to a sudden stop as easily as you can.
Tip #3: Watch for their blind spots. Semi-trucks are big and thus, have big blind spots. Be sure to pass these trucks quickly and efficiently so you can avoid being in their blind spot for long. A good rule of thumb is that if you can't see the driver's side mirrors, they can't see you. You don't want to be in their blind spot if they're trying to change lanes.
Tip #4: Avoid driving near them in bad weather. Semi-trucks also have a lot of surface area, which means windy weather affects them more. Avoid driving your N Charlotte Toyota around these trucks in wet, windy, or winter weather. If they lose control of their vehicle, it's much harder for these drivers to regain control and you're much more likely to get into an accident with them.
Tip #5: Don't drive aggressively around them. Do not drive aggressively around semi-trucks. You should use your turn signals, give them space, and avoid cutting them off or tailgating them. Remember, if you get into a collision with an 80,000 lb vehicle, it's not likely that you'll win.
Schedule auto repairs and get answers at Toyota of N Charlotte
Have questions or need auto repairs after an accident? Call Toyota of N Charlotte's body shop today. We're open and waiting at (704) 659-2025 and we're conveniently located just off I-77 at exit 23 in Huntersville.
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