(757) 333-3333Tips to Avoid Aggressive Truck Driving
Road rage is a significant problem on the highways of the United States. It’s bad enough when car drivers come to blows but aggressive truck driving can be even more serious for other road users.
Most of us have encountered some degree of aggressive truck driving. We’ve looked in our mirrors and seen a big rig bearing down on us. The driver is failing to keep a safe distance.
Perhaps we have seen a truck turning at an intersection without making sure the way is clear. Tractor-trailers have a wide turning arc and it’s a maneuver that forces other vehicles to get out of the way.
It’s understandable that some truckers will feel frustrated from time to time. They travel for hours on the highways of America. They are out in some of the worst conditions and are under pressure to make deliveries on time.
However, there are some things you can do to control yourself and keep your cool on the highway.
The Commercial Driver License Manual provides some pointers on how to avoid aggressive truck driving.
Top Tips to Avoid Aggressive Truck Driving
- Always be attentive to the road ahead. Don’t be distracted by eating or other factors. Under federal law truckers should not use a hand-held cell phone.
- Do not hog the left lane and drive slowly. You should only be in the left lane if you are overtaking.
- Slow down and maintain a reasonable following distance behind the vehicle ahead. We have previously noted the danger posed by truckers who follow too closely.
- Be realistic about your schedule. Setting an unrealistic schedule is a surefire recipe for frustration and aggressive truck driving. Factor in time for road construction, bad weather and peak-hour congestion.
- Don’t fret. If you are going to be later than expected deal with it. There’s nothing you can do. Take a deep breath and accept the delay.
- Don’t intimidate. Truckers can sometimes use the size of their vehicle to what they perceive as their advantage. If you deliberately tailgate or drive in a menacing fashion, other drivers may be alarmed and make dangerous mistakes. As a commercial driver, you have additional responsibilities.
When trucking accidents occur they are often serious. If you engage in aggressive truck driving, your career may be at risk and your company could face a major lawsuit.
If you have been injured by an aggressive trucker, our Virginia tractor-trailer injury lawyers would like to hear from you.
