How to Pass a Tractor Trailer Safely on a Highway in Florida
Tractor trailers are massive vehicles. When carrying a full load, they can weigh as much as 40 tons. For obvious reasons, passing a tractor trailer on a highway—where speeds regularly hit 50, 60, or even 70 miles per hour—can be stressful and intimidating. At Pike & Lustig, LLP, we are strong advocates for roadway safety. Within this blog post, our Miami truck accident lawyer provides a guide to passing a tractor trailer safely on a Florida highway.
Always Pass a Tractor Trailer On the Left
Highways are supposed to be orderly places. Even on a three-lane highway or a four-lane highway, passing should be done on the left. Safe passing practices are especially important for drivers who are going by large commercial trucks. Passing on the right can be dangerous because it is harder for truckers to see you. Always check your mirrors and signal before you move into the left lane. As a driver, you should make sure you have enough space to pass safely without rushing.
Do Not Hang Out in a Large Truck’s Blind Spot
Commercial trucks have large blind spots. These blind spots are frequently referred to as the truck’s “no zones.” They are inherently dangerous. You should avoid staying in a truck’s blind spot. These are areas around the truck where the driver cannot see you—especially on the right and directly behind. If you linger in these zones, the driver might not know you are there. That increases the risk of an accident if they decide to change lanes or stop suddenly. Pass through these areas quickly.
Give the Trucker Ample Space
You need to give a large commercial truck plenty of space when you pass by them on a highway in South Florida. Always give a tractor trailer plenty of space when passing. These large vehicles need more time and distance to stop than a car. After passing, make sure you can see the truck in your rearview mirror before returning to your lane. Getting rear-ended by a truck can put you and your family at a truly catastrophic safety risk.
Avoid Passing a Commercial Truck If You Have to Speed
As a driver, you should never speed to pass a commercial truck. Speeding endangers not only you but other drivers and the trucker. Obey the speed limits and only pass when you can do so safely within these limits. If conditions require you to speed to pass, it is safer to stay behind the truck until it is possible to overtake without exceeding speed limits.
Contact Our Miami, FL Commercial Truck Accident Attorney Today
At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our Miami truck accident lawyer provides aggressive advocacy to injured victims. If you were involved in a crash with a large commercial truck on a highway, we are here to help. Initial consultations are free and fully confidential. Call us now to get started with your case. We fight for the rights of truck accident victims throughout all of South Florida.
