Trucks and buses are extremely large, travel long distances, and deliver the goods we need. Respect the Rig by learning the risks they pose and giving them space.
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The Risks of Driving Around Large Trucks and Buses
Roll-Overs
Rigs and large buses are at greater risk for rolling over because of their size and weight. Rigs could rollover for being too top-heavy, high winds, or taking a curve too quickly.
Wide Turns
Trucks make wider turns to avoid hitting the curb, light poles, or anything else by the road. In order to do this, they usually leave a wide space to the left/right of the truck. Do not pull into this space or you could end up wedged between the two with a crushed car.
Safety Tips
Also…
- Don’t Cut Off A Truck or Bus – Do not cut in front of a truck because they can’t see directly in front of their rig. It also takes trucks a longer distance to stop and cutting in front of them before a stoplight increases the risk of a crash.
- Let the Truck/Bus Pass You – Reduce your speed slightly when a truck is trying to pass you. This makes it easier for them to get around your car.
- Lower Your Brights – Trucks’ and Bus’ large side mirrors reflect bright lights from other vehicles into the driver’s eyes.
Large Trucks and Buses by the Numbers
- 5,005 lives lost in 4,455 crashes involving large trucks or buses; fatalities increased 8% from 2016, and fatal crashes increased 8%.
- Large truck occupants comprised 17% of all large truck and bus fatalities, a 7% increase from 2016.
- Large trucks and buses account for 13% of the traffic fatalities.
- 61% of fatal crashes involving a large truck occurred in rural areas.
- California, Texas, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina – these ten States represent 51% of fatal crashes involving at least one large truck or bus.
Sources:
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association, Large Truck and Bus Crash Facts 2018