Semi-truck drivers also have limited views directly in front of the cab and behind the trailer. Their view could be blocked for three or more lanes. The largest blind spot for a truck driver is their right side. You will be less likely to have a collision with a semi-truck if you take the following precautions: To help the public better understand how to share the road with large trucks, the American Trucking Associations (ATA) began a program called Share the Road in 1986. The majority – about 67% – were occupants in passenger vehicles. In 2019, more than 4,000 people died in large truck crashes. With these statistics, it is easy to see how a car-tractor trailer accident can be devastating for the car driver. They can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, a significant difference when compared to the average weight of a compact car, 2,900 pounds, or even a large SUV, 5,600 pounds. Tractor-trailers can measure around 72 feet long (longer if carrying more than one trailer), 13.5 feet tall, and 8.5 feet wide. Tractor-Trailers Pose Specific Dangersĭriving near large commercial trucks ( semi-trucks, tractor trailers, and 18-wheelers) requires unique strategies because these vehicles are longer and have a wider steering ratio/turning radius, slower stopping times, and bigger blind spots. According to a recent study by Auto Insurance Quote, West Virginia ranks among the 10 worst states for fatal car accidents. This great rule of thumb works no matter what type of vehicle is traveling in front of you.ĭefensive driving is important no matter what you are driving or what vehicles are around you. A minimum of three seconds should pass before you reach that same point. To do that, pick a roadside marker up ahead and note when the vehicle ahead of you passes the mark. The National Safety Council recommends you leave at least 3 seconds between you and the vehicle in front of you. Have you ever heard of the 3-second rule? No, not about how long dropped food can be on the floor and still be OK to eat.

Driving directions for tractor trailer