Driving on highways and interstates often involves sharing the road with large commercial vehicles, including big rigs, semi-trucks, and 18-wheelers. These vehicles are integral to the economy, transporting goods across the country. However, due to their size and weight, big trucks operate differently than passenger vehicles, which can present unique hazards on the road.
Understanding and respecting these differences is crucial for ensuring safety. In the United States, there were 523,796 accidents involving big trucks in 2021, highlighting the importance of driving safely in their vicinity.
Get tips for sharing the road with these large vehicles and learn how a Syracuse truck accident lawyer from Catalano Law can help if you’re hurt in a big rig collision.
How Big Rigs Are Different
Big Rigs and semi-trucks are not just larger versions of passenger vehicles; they have different operational and design characteristics, which can lead to more catastrophic outcomes in a collision. Here are some of the biggest differences between semi-trucks and passenger vehicles:
| Characteristic | Big Rigs and Semi-Trucks | Standard Passenger Vehicles |
| Stopping Distance | Needs a longer distance to stop—required to stop from 250 feet away when traveling at highway speeds | Significantly shorter distances required to stop—approximately 140 feet, at 60 mph. |
| Blind Spots | Extensive blind spots (No-Zones) around front, sides, and rear | Smaller blind spots, mainly to the rear sides |
| Weight | Up to 80,000 pounds fully loaded | Ranges from 2,500 to about 4,200 pounds |
| Operational Requirements | Special Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and adherence to FMCSA regulations like hours of service and cargo securement requirements | Standard driver’s license |
Tips for Sharing the Road with Semi-Trucks
Navigating the roads alongside semi-trucks requires awareness and understanding of their unique challenges and limitations. As you drive alongside these big rigs in Central New York and the Southern Tier, keep the following safety tips in mind:
- Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Keeping a safe distance behind a truck is critical due to their longer stopping distances. This space allows for adequate reaction time if the truck brakes suddenly. A good rule is to stay at least 4 seconds behind the truck in ideal conditions, adding one more second at speeds of 40 mph or higher, and more in adverse weather.
- Avoid a Truck’s Unique Blind Spots: Spend as little time as possible in the truck’s No-Zones. These areas extend up to 20 feet in front of the cab, 30 feet behind the trailer, and two lanes alongside the truck. When passing, give yourself enough space to accelerate smoothly and move past the truck without lingering beside it.
- Anticipate Wide Turns: Trucks require more room to make turns, with a turning radius of about 55 feet. They often swing widely to maneuver through turns safely. Be aware of this and avoid squeezing between a truck and the curb, especially when the truck signals a turn.
- Pass Safely and Use Turn Signals: When passing a big truck, always do so on the left side where the driver has better visibility. Use your turn signals early to communicate your intention to change lanes or pass, giving the truck driver ample time to adjust their speed. Make sure you can see the truck in your rearview mirror before pulling in front of it, ensuring you’re not cutting it off.
- Do Not Cut Off the Truck: Given that they have 40% longer stopping distances, cutting in front of a truck can be dangerous if sudden braking is necessary. Always ensure there is plenty of space between your vehicle and the truck when merging into their lane.
- Remain Patient: Trucks have limitations on speed, acceleration, and maneuverability. Showing patience and giving trucks the space and time they need, especially on inclines, contributes to safer roads for everyone.
Get Legal Help if You’re Involved in a Big Rig Accident
Despite taking safety precautions, you may be hurt in a collision due to a truck driver or trucking company’s negligent actions. If you’re involved in a crash, you need the help of an experienced attorney who can fight aggressively for your rights.
Our legal team at Catalano Law knows what it takes to prove liability against commercial trucking companies and negotiate for a fair settlement on your behalf. We can help you get compensation to pay for any medical bills, lost wages, or other damages you suffer in a semi-truck accident.
Contact us for a consultation, and let us represent your interests and get you the recovery award you deserve.