American pickup trucks are getting larger every year. With this rise in size comes an increase in traffic accidents involving these big pickups. Larger bodies mean more prominent blind spots, and pickups are no different from large commercial trucks and buses in having limited visibility for their drivers.
Drivers of smaller vehicles need to know how to drive safely around these hulking machines. Here’s what you can do to be safe when driving on the road together with large trucks and buses.
Know where the blind spots are
Oversized vehicles and pickup trucks have blind spots around their front, back and sides. The rule of thumb is that if you cannot see the driver in their side mirror, they cannot see you.
If you are passing by a large vehicle, give them ample space. Never pass on their right side; always give trucks and buses plenty of space and time to merge in front of you.
Do not tailgate
Don’t follow closely when behind large vehicles. The area immediately behind the truck is a No Zone or a blind spot. If the car stops suddenly with you tailgating not far behind, your small vehicle could slide under it, which might prove fatal.
Similarly, avoid braking suddenly in front of a heavy truck. These vehicles have immense momentum and will not be able to stop on a dime if you suddenly stop in front of them. Make sure you are driving far ahead of buses and trucks.
Pedestrians must be more careful
If you are not driving, you must be even more careful around large trucks. A new study found that taller trucks pose a greater risk to pedestrians, with a 45 percent higher likelihood of causing a fatal accident.
On the off chance you get into an accident
If you get into an unfortunate accident involving a truck or a pickup, prioritize your health and safety first. Seek immediate medical attention, and do not worry about who was at fault. Leave that to insurance companies and accident investigators to decide.
After when you are feeling better and have taken stock of your medical costs, you may begin thinking about compensation.
