Trucks and cars need to look out for one another. Trucks pose a very special challenge for many drivers, especially those that are not familiar with how these large vehicles operate. Here are a few very important safety tips for sharing the road safely with trucks:

Statistics

• In 2006, 77 people died in heavy truck-involved crashes.
• Heavy trucks and buses, which comprise 11 to 12 percent of the motor vehicle travel in Maryland, comprise fewer than 5 percent of the vehicles involved in reported crashes and 8 percent of the vehicles involved in fatal crashes. 
• When heavy trucks are involved, the crashes are more severe. 
• Multiple-vehicle crashes, the occupants of other vehicles are more often the ones killed or injured.
• In most fatal crashes involving commercial trucks and passenger vehicles, the passenger vehicle is at-fault.

Beware of the “NO-ZONES”

Much like cars have blind spots, so do trucks. The difference is that the spots are much larger. These No-Zones make it difficult for the driver to see. Be aware and keep in mind that your visibility is the key to your safety. If you can’t see the truck driver in the truck’s mirror, the truck driver can’t see you.

Never cut in front of trucks

Cutting in front of any vehicle creates a potentially dangerous situation and it becomes even worse when forcing a heavy vehicle to brake suddenly. When it is necessary to pass a truck, make sure there is plenty of room between you and the truck to avoid dangerous braking situations.

Trucks turn differently than cars

Trucks make wide turns, especially right turns. Trying to squeeze between a turning truck and the side of the road can result in a very serious crash. Be patient and give trucks plenty of room to turn.