Large commercial trucks transport cargo across Illinois every day, and a fully loaded truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds under federal and state limits. When you drive near a vehicle that size, small errors can lead to severe injuries. While you cannot control a truck driver’s conduct, you can adjust your driving habits to minimize the risk of getting into an accident.
Driving habits to help you avoid getting in a truck accident
Due to their tremendous size and weight, trucks require significantly more time and distance to stop, turn and change lanes. With this in mind, you can reduce the risk of danger by giving them space, driving predictably and keeping the following driving habits in mind:
- Avoid blind spots: If you cannot see the truck driver’s face in the side mirror, the driver likely cannot see you.
- Pass carefully: It is generally safer to pass on the left, maintain a steady speed and return to your lane only after you see the entire truck in your rearview mirror.
- Increase following distance: Extra space gives you more time to react if traffic slows.
- Do not cut in front of a truck: Large trucks need longer stopping distances, and sudden lane changes increase crash risk.
- Allow room for wide turns: A truck may swing left before turning right. Do not drive between the truck and the curb.
- Adjust for weather and traffic: Slow down and leave more space in rain, snow, ice or heavy traffic.
Illinois law requires you to drive at a speed that is reasonable and proper for conditions. Under 625 Illinois Compiled Statutes 5/11-601(a), you must reduce speed whenever the weather, traffic or roadway conditions require it.
Minimizing the risk of truck accidents
Truck accidents can be serious and even life-threatening due to their weight and size. You lower your risk of a truck crash in Illinois when you stay out of blind spots, keep extra distance, pass with care and slow down when conditions change. By being mindful of trucks and their limitations, you can make the road a safer place for you and the other drivers you share it with.