5 Safety Tips for Driving Around 18-Wheelers

Safe driving around tractor-trailer trucks is paramount. One false move and a serious Florida truck wreck can occur. These accidents can have serious consequences for you and your family, something we see on a daily basis as Fort Lauderdale accident lawyers.

There are many negligent truck drivers out there, who get behind the wheel without sleeping or after drinking. Sometimes they cause Florida truck crashes that are simply unavoidable. Other times, safe driving practices can keep you out of harm's way. Here are 5 safe driving tips to follow when driving near semi-trucks:

1. Never speed and always follow rules of the road - Safety around trucks starts with being as safe as possible yourself. Don't cause an accident with aggressive driving.
2. Give trucks plenty of room - Trucks can't stop on dime. Give them at least 10 car lengths when pulling in front of them and pass only in designated zones.
3. Don't drive in their blind spots -Truck drivers cannot see cars if they are tucked in behind their trailer. Stay at least 20-25 car lengths behind a truck and minimize time spent beside them.
4. Stay away from aggressive drivers - If a truck driver is driving poorly or overly-aggressive, stay as far away as possible. Report their driving to the police as soon as you can.
5. Be courteous to truck drivers - Truckers have a difficult job. Using your blinkers and letting them into your lane can help you make friends on the road and avoid conflicts.