As a driver, you understand the importance of being alert and careful on the roads. However, when it comes to sharing the highway with semi-trucks and 18-wheelers, you’ll need a different set of skills to avoid a personal injury. Here are some of the best defense tactics to utilize behind the wheel, so you can lessen your chances of being involved in an accident. 

3 Defensive Driving Tips to Use Around Trucks

1. Be Aware of Blind Spots

Semi-trucks and 18-wheelers have different blind spots than typical sedans and SUVs. Because of the long cabs running behind them, it’s much harder to see the traffic in the back. The best rule of thumb is to stay within sight of the side mirrors. If you can’t see them, your vehicle won’t be visible to the truck driver, increasing the chances of an unexpected stop or merge. 

2. Keep a Safe Distance

Because trucks bear so much power and weight, it takes a lot longer for them to come to a full stop, especially if the driver presses on the breaks unexpectedly. If you’re trailing too close behind, it could lead to a fender bender. To avoid any potential issues, keep at least two cars’ distance behind. 

3. Anticipate Wide Turns

Due to their large and long shape, trucks have to make their turns much wider than civilian vehicles. This can be dangerous if you’re driving too close next to them, as you could get stuck between the truck and the curb or get hit from the end of the cab. If there’s an intersection coming up, keep at least two lanes between you and the semi.

If you do experience a personal injury in a truck accident for which you are not to blame, talk to the team at Coyne, Cundiff & Hillemann, P.C. in St. Charles County, MO. These lawyers have over 75 years of combined experience, giving them the insight and expertise needed to successfully represent your interests. Give them a call today at (636) 561-5599 to schedule a consultation, and visit their website for more information on their personal injury services.