FMCSA Safety Clips – Videos
Share the Road Safely
As a driver, it’s important to remember that you are sharing the road with other vehicles, including large trucks and buses. To ensure everyone’s safety, it’s important to follow these tips for sharing the road safely:
- Keep a safe distance: When driving behind a large truck or bus, make sure to maintain a safe following distance. Large vehicles have larger blind spots, so it’s important to stay far enough back to allow the driver to see you in their mirrors.
- Avoid sudden lane changes: Large vehicles require more time and distance to come to a stop or change lanes, so avoid sudden lane changes or cutting off a truck or bus.
- Pass with caution: If you need to pass a large truck or bus, do so with caution. Make sure there is plenty of space and use your turn signal to indicate your intention to change lanes. Pass quickly but safely, and don’t cut back into the lane too closely in front of the truck or bus.
- Stay out of blind spots: Large vehicles have significant blind spots, particularly on the right side of the truck or bus. If you can’t see the driver’s face in their mirror, they can’t see you. Avoid lingering in these blind spots and make sure the driver can see you before making any maneuvers.
- Be patient: Large trucks and buses may take longer to accelerate, climb hills, or pass other vehicles. Be patient and give these vehicles the space and time they need to navigate the road safely.
By following these tips, you can help ensure everyone on the road stays safe and arrives at their destination without incident. Remember, sharing the road is a responsibility we all share, so drive defensively and remain aware of your surroundings at all times.