Large commercial trucks are huge in size when compared to the smaller automobiles on the roads. They weigh an average of 80,000 pounds and are enormous when compared to the lightweight vehicles that weigh around 3,977 pounds. Hence, it is essential to take safety measures while sharing the roads with these vehicles. Below are a few facts about the large commercial trucks and things to remember when sharing roads with them. Remember that it is always better to consult a truck accident lawyer in the event of a mishap.
The Maneuverability of Big Commercial Trucks
The California Department of Motor Vehicles has made data about the physical abilities of enormous trucks accessible to the overall population with a goal to lessen the number of mishaps. It is significant for drivers to know about the following:
- Longer Stopping Distance
Due to their weight and size, huge business trucks take more distance to stop than traveler vehicles. A normal traveler vehicle can stop in around 400 feet while moving at 55 mph, it will take the normal huge truck going at a similar speed roughly twice that distance to stop. It is not safe to slow down or stop before a huge business truck.
- Blind Spots
Drivers of commercial trucks have blind spots. They are present because truck drivers are unable to see the vehicles in a particular region in their mirrors. The DMV has a clearly explained diagram regarding these spots on their website. As a general rule, you should remember that if you cannot see the truck driver on their mirror, they will not be able to see you.
- Bigger Turning Radius
Remember that the trucks swing really wide when turning left or right. Hence, it is better to stay clear of their way if you see them turning.
- Less Maneuverability
Large trucks are not as maneuverable as other vehicles. The common 18-wheeler can be as long as 70 or 80 feet. Since they carry more weight, they need a lot of room to turn. Besides, they are a little slow to start and stop. Based on the guidelines by California DMV, such trucks should be run on the far right or the one left to the far right path in the highway. This s applicable where there are four or five lanes in total.
Keep the above factors in mind as you drive on the roads shared with commercial trucks.