Driving next to big trucks can be dangerous for inexperienced teenage drivers. In fact, 9 out of 10 vehicle collisions involve passenger cars and large trucks. Although driving next to big rigs can be intimidating, Sure-Drive Driver’s Training knows that there are steps young drivers can take to stay safe on the open road. Their knowledge comes from more than 25 years of experience providing teenagers in northern Kentucky with stress-free and affordable driving courses.

Here, the Edgewood-based driving school shares four safety tips to keep you protected when sharing the road with big trucks.  

• Beware of Blind Spots: Big trucks, especially those with hauling trailers, have large blind spots. Truck blind spots are known as the No-Zone and should be avoided at all times. To guarantee you don’t enter this area, make sure you can see the truck driver in your side mirror. If you can see him, that means he can see you. A trucker’s biggest blind spots are directly behind the truck and immediately in front of it. Keep your car at a safe distance so the truck driver has more reaction time on the road.
• Do The Expected: Motorists operating large vehicles need time and space to respond to anything occurring on the road. To avoid collisions, keep teen driving steady and predictable. Stay in your lane and use your signals to alert truck drivers as to any traffic changes.
• Pay Attention: You should always be alert on the road. Texting or talking on the phone increases your chances of getting into an accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration even states that 21% of fatal car collision involve drivers ages 15 to 19 talking on their cell phones.
• Be Polite: Driving can be aggravating at times. Remember to keep a cool head when driving. Be courteous of other vehicles, especially large trucks. Give other motorists the room they need to operate their vehicles. Courtesy will keep everyone safe.

Teen driving can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be with help from Sure-Drive Driver’s Training. The northern Kentucky driving school can teach you all you need to know to stay safe when driving. To enroll in driving classes, call (859) 331-0007 or visit the company online to learn more about their teen driving courses.