5 helpful pointers for driving safely around tankers and large trucks
5 helpful pointers for driving safely around tankers and large trucks
It can get quite unnerving to see a large vehicle close to you while driving. Even if you are an experienced driver, you find yourself being concerned. While you can vouch for your own expertise, you cannot vouch for the truck drivers. A minor mishap is all it takes, and the story may take a sour turn.
Across major Nigerian cities and towns, there have been a number of accidents involving large trucks. Many lives and properties have been lost. Despite Government efforts to keep these trucks off the roads during the day, they continue to move, putting the safety of road users at risk. Disaster usually strikes in the midst of this struggle for movement
One can never be too cautious. To stay safe, you must take every precautionary measure in the book.
This is why the Road Users Academy is here with 5 pointers to help you navigate the roads safely alongside behemoth vehicles.
Shun distractions
While driving, it is not uncommon to see drivers making phone calls, texting, or browsing social media. Taking your eyes off the road while driving is extremely dangerous not to even talk of around a large truck; you're implying that you don't value your life, driving near such vehicles is usually a matter of life and death. Everything else can wait
Avoid blind spots
Blind spots exist on the back, front, and sides of large vehicles. Check the rear mirror of the truck to see if you can see the driver. Are you able to see him? If the answer is no, he cannot see you either. Move away from him to a safe distance. Otherwise, he may unintentionally move in your direction.
Practice patience
Patience is a crucial virtue that sadly a good number of road users lack; they are always in a hurry. Better late than never, as the saying goes.
Struggling for right of way with a tanker or truck is borderline suicidal, If things take a wrong turn, you will be unable to withstand the weight of the truck.
Don't even think about tailgating, allow enough room for such vehicles. Spending more time on the road than you would like is preferable to being involved in an accident.
Be very alert and cautious before overtaking
Large vehicles move slowly, causing delays for motorists behind them. The majority of accidents involving large trucks occur when motorists attempt to overtake them without first performing proper checks.
Don't move just because you see a small opening, make certain that the space is large enough. Horn continuously to alert the driver that someone is overtaking. Wave at or signal the driver as you move if possible. As a result, the driver will be fully aware of your presence and will give you space.
Don’t drink and drive
Driving under the influence of alcohol or any intoxicating substance for that matter is inherently risky, even worse when done alongside heavy machinery. Because you have no idea what kind of vehicles you'll encounter on the road, it's best to avoid drinking before setting out.
Adhere to these simple pointers, and your safety when around large vehicles is all but guaranteed.
