Naturally, you may want to pass a slow-moving truck to go about your day. However, you need to observe several steps to guarantee a safe overtake.
Since trucks are larger and heavier, you should approach an overtake differently. Here are three tips to help you:
1. Confirm that you can see the driver’s reflection
Before commencing the overtake, check the truck’s side mirror. If you can see the driver’s reflection, they can see you. If you can’t, you may be in a blind spot, which means the driver can’t see you.
2. Move to the left
When you are certain you can see the driver’s reflection, signal clearly and move to the left. Then, confirm it’s safe to go ahead and accelerate. Even though the right-hand side of a truck has the largest blind spot, the left-hand one extends backward as well. Therefore, do not linger on the side. Pass safely and quickly.
Once you have passed the truck, keep driving until you can see it in your rearview mirror before switching back to the lane.
3. Know when not to overtake a truck
There are instances when overtaking a truck can be dangerous, even when circumstances suggest it’s safe to pass. Firstly, avoid passing a truck that’s approaching a hill since the driver needs to speed up.
Additionally, never overtake a turning truck. Trucks need more space to turn – if you try to pass a truck during a turn, the driver may not see you, and this can lead to a serious accident. You should also be extra cautious when you want to overtake a truck during harsh weather and at night.
A negligent truck driver may still endanger you when overtaking despite observing these safety measures. If such a driver hits you, obtain as much information as possible about your case to protect your rights.