Interstates across the state of Kentucky are constantly bustling with travelers, and large tractor-trailers make up a large percentage of the overall traffic. Traveling at high speeds on a crowded interstate highway next to these massive trucks is enough to rattle even the most experienced drivers. Truck accidents need to be avoided at all costs. Trying to pass a tractor-trailer is something that can be particularly intimidating. Here are a few tips on how to safely pass a tractor-trailer.
When approaching a tractor-trailer, drivers should always be aware of the truck driver’s blind spots. Tractor-trailers have blind spots on all four sides of the vehicles. When attempting to make a pass, do not linger in these blind spots longer than necessary. The biggest blind spot for a truck driver is on the right side of the vehicle, so always pass on the left and do so in a quick but safe manner.
Once a tractor-trailer has safely been passed, do not immediately merge back in front of the truck. Merging directly in front of a tractor-trailer is basically like cutting the vehicle off and is incredibly dangerous. Tractor-trailers require more time to stop due to their massive size. If traffic suddenly stops, any vehicle directly in front of a tractor-trailer could possibly be crushed.
Passing tractor-trailers on the interstate doesn’t have to be intimidating. Just remember to avoid blind spots and give the vehicles plenty of space. Unfortunately, any accident involving a tractor-trailer is more likely to be fatal. When truck accidents in Kentucky result in the death of an individual, the surviving family members can take action by pursing litigation on behalf of the deceased victim. Damages from a successful lawsuit could help families with end-of-life expenses and other documented financial losses.