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.
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