5 Tips for Sharing the Road with Semi-Trucks in New Mexico
At the Law Office of Samuel I. Kane, P.A.., our truck accident attorneys in Las Cruces understand how often we are all subjected to semi-truck traffic throughout New Mexico. Whether you are driving on the interstate, city streets, or rural areas, large trucks are everywhere, but there are ways to share the road with these intimidating vehicles, which just might keep you and your family safe.
Here is how.
Watch for the Truck Driver’s Blind Spots
The length of a semi-truck and trailer leaves many blind spots where the driver cannot see other vehicles nearby.
Commercial truck blind spots often occur in the following areas:
- Up to 20 feet directly in front of the truck
- Up to 30 feet directly behind the vehicle
- In the left lane between the front and half of the trailer’s length
- In two right lanes of the vehicle between the front and half of the trailer’s length
A common rule of thumb when traveling alongside semi-trucks is that if you cannot see your vehicle in their side-view mirror, assume the truck driver cannot see you either.
Following All Semi-Trucks at a Safe Distance
Semi-trucks do not operate as quickly or effectively as cars, trucks, or SUVs.
They require more time to maneuver or stop and following too closely may place you in a dangerous position with the truck.
To ensure you have a safe following distance, leave at least a four-second space between your vehicle and a semi-truck.
Make Way for Semi-Trucks Making Wide Turns
Semi-trucks have a wide-turning radius, which often requires the driver to swing the truck and trailer into an adjacent lane.
If you are driving near a semi-truck that is turning, do not attempt to pass on the same side of the street where they are turning.
Take Care When Passing Semi-Trucks
Passing large vehicles on our roadways takes deliberate care and attention, so you are sure the truck driver knows your movements.
Before passing, be sure you see the driver in their side-view mirror, turn on your turn signal, and pass as quickly as you safely can, minimizing the time you spend in their blind spot.
Stay Focused When You Are Behind the Wheel
Any time drivers are behind the wheel of their vehicles, they must focus on the task at hand: Driving.
Avoid distractions, including using your cellphone, GPS device, or adjusting your vehicle’s features until you are stopped.
Remaining focused allows you to be attentive, possibly spotting signs of a collision before they occur.
If you have been hurt in a truck accident in New Mexico, contact our truck accident attorneys New Mexico at the Law Office of Samuel I. Kane, P.A. by calling (575) 222-0472 to schedule a free consultation, so we can review your claim and begin building a strong case on your behalf today.
