Sharing the road with commercial trucks requires awareness and understanding of how these large vehicles operate. One key consideration is the space trucks need when making wide turns. Failing to give trucks the necessary room can lead to dangerous situations.
The Mechanics of Truck Turning
Trucks handle turns very differently from regular passenger vehicles due to their size and weight. One key difference is the truck’s turning radius. Unlike a car, a commercial truck has a much wider turning radius, which means it cannot make sharp turns as smaller vehicles do. Instead, trucks need to swing out to make space for their trailer to follow through the turn.
When a truck makes a turn, especially a semi-truck with a trailer, the back end of the trailer swings in the opposite direction of the turn. This is called “off-tracking.” For example, if a truck turns right, the trailer swings to the left, which can surprise drivers who are unaware of how trucks navigate turns. Additionally, the length and weight of trucks—sometimes over 70 feet long and weighing up to 80,000 pounds—make it impossible for them to turn as tightly as smaller vehicles. This is why trucks need extra space during turns.
Dangers of Crowding Trucks at Turns
Drivers who don’t give trucks enough room to make wide turns put themselves at risk of accidents. One of the most dangerous situations occurs when a driver tries to squeeze between a turning truck and the curb. Many drivers mistakenly believe they can quickly pass on the right while the truck is turning, but this can place them in the truck’s blind spot, where the truck driver may not see them, leading to a collision.
Another risk is the potential for side-impact collisions when vehicles are caught in a truck’s blind spot or too close to a turning truck. Trucks often need to adjust their turns, brake suddenly, or swing further into adjacent lanes, putting nearby vehicles in danger. Additionally, trucks may need to slow down or stop unexpectedly when making wide turns, especially at busy intersections or in tight spaces. Drivers who follow too closely may not have enough time to react, resulting in rear-end collisions. Keeping a safe distance is essential to avoiding these risks.
Why Trucks Need to Swing Wide
Trucks often need to swing wide to complete turns safely, especially in cities or at intersections. This wide turn helps the truck navigate tight corners that would be too difficult for such a large vehicle to manage without hitting the curb or other obstacles.
When approaching a turn, truck drivers may need to swing left before turning right or swing right before turning left. This extra movement allows the truck’s trailer to follow through the turn without cutting the corner too sharply. Truck drivers must also be cautious of pedestrians, cyclists, and other obstacles like street signs or parked cars. Swinging wide creates a safer path for the trailer, reducing the risk of accidents involving people or objects near the turn.
Tips for Staying Safe Around Trucks Making Wide Turns
To stay safe around trucks making wide turns, it’s important to drive defensively and give trucks the space they need. One of the best ways to stay safe is to remain behind the truck while it completes its turn. Trying to pass a truck while it’s turning, especially on the right side, can put you in the truck’s blind spot, which is extremely dangerous.
Trucks have large blind spots, also known as “no zones,” located on the sides, front, and back of the vehicle. If you can’t see the truck driver in their mirrors, they likely can’t see you either. Avoid staying in these areas, particularly when a truck is preparing to turn. Always maintain a safe following distance, especially when driving near trucks. Trucks may need to stop or adjust their position during turns, and being too close reduces your ability to react in time.
Additionally, always watch for the truck’s turn signals. Truck drivers usually signal well in advance, so pay attention and slow down when you see a truck indicating a turn. Giving trucks enough space and respecting their signals is crucial for road safety.
Legal and Safety Considerations
Not giving trucks enough space when they make wide turns isn’t just dangerous—it can also lead to legal consequences. If a driver crowds a truck during a turn and causes an accident, they could be held liable for the collision.
An Ohio truck accident lawyer explained that many traffic laws are designed to ensure that all vehicles, including trucks, operate safely on the road. In certain areas, drivers are required to yield to trucks making wide turns. Ignoring these laws can result in fines or penalties, not to mention the potential for severe accidents that could have been avoided with more cautious driving.
