Enhancing road safety can significantly be achieved by educating passenger car drivers on how to share the road with larger vehicles such as trucks and buses.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) supports this approach wholeheartedly. The agency has introduced a comprehensive “toolkit” available on their website, targeting teenagers to impart essential knowledge for driving safely around large trucks and buses.
“FMCSA’s resources are designed for driving instructors, parents and others who teach young drivers,” states the agency on its online platform. “The information and tips help drivers understand large trucks and buses and the safe driving behaviors needed around them.”
Of course, it’s not just young drivers who can benefit from a refresher—drivers of all ages could improve their safety around these large vehicles.
The FMCSA’s toolkit includes valuable materials such as a lesson plan, a presentation, and a student handout.
Key Tips for Passenger Vehicle Drivers
- Wide Turns: Large vehicles require more room to turn. Attempting to pass while a truck or bus is turning can lead to accidents. It’s crucial to slow down and allow them enough room to complete their turns.
- Extended Stopping Distances: Cutting closely in front of a truck or bus during a merge can be dangerous as these vehicles need more time to stop. Ensure there is sufficient space between your car and the larger vehicle when merging.
- Significant Blind Spots: Trucks and buses have large blind spots, making it difficult for their drivers to see smaller vehicles. If you find yourself in a truck’s blind spot, safely accelerate to pass it or decelerate to stay behind it.
“Trucks and buses are extremely large, travel long distances, and deliver the goods we need,” FMCSA emphasizes. “Respect the rig by learning the risks they pose and giving them space.”
The FMCSA also advises young drivers to maintain a safe distance from large trucks and buses and to minimize distractions like texting while driving.
For further details, you can access the full resources here.
Source: Land Line
