What Should You Not Do To Drive Safely Near Big Rigs?

When sharing the road with large commercial trucks, caution is key. These vehicles take longer to stop and have bigger blind spots than most drivers realize. To drive safely near big rigs, you should not tailgate, drift in their blind zones, or weave between lanes. These choices can easily lead to serious crashes, particularly in high-traffic areas like St. Louis.

At Goldblatt + Singer, we’ve seen the consequences of truck collisions firsthand. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and alert.

Contact a Goldblatt + Singer St. Louis Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Free case consultation call us at (314) 936-3434

What’s considered a big rig?

“Big rig” is a common name for a large freight-hauling truck, usually a semi-truck or tractor-trailer used in long-distance commercial transport. These vehicles consist of two main parts: the tractor (where the driver sits) and a detachable trailer used to carry goods. When fully loaded, they can reach up to 80,000 pounds in weight and stretch more than 70 feet. In areas like St. Louis, these trucks are everywhere, making it essential to know how to drive safely around them.

Dangers of driving around big rigs

Big rigs support our economy by moving goods nationwide, but their presence on the road comes with significant safety concerns:

• Expanded blind spots: Large trucks have limited visibility in key areas, including the front, both sides, and especially the rear.
• Delayed braking ability: Fully loaded, these vehicles require much longer stopping distances than standard cars.
• Wind sensitivity: Their tall, boxy shape makes them vulnerable to swerving or tipping during strong gusts.
• Unpredictable lane movements: Trucks often change lanes for merging or positioning, and misjudgments can be dangerous.
• Hazardous cargo spills: Unsecured or spilled freight can pose serious threats to surrounding traffic in collisions.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports that unsafe behavior around trucks contributes significantly to crash rates.

What shouldn’t you do when driving near big rigs?

There are several specific behaviors to avoid to reduce your risk of a crash. To drive safely near big rigs, you should not:

• Cut in front of a truck: Abruptly switching lanes ahead of a big rig can lead to rear-end collisions. Remember, these trucks can’t stop on a dime.
• Tailgate or follow too closely: Staying close to a truck’s rear end places you in a blind spot and leaves little room for reaction if traffic stops suddenly.
• Stay in blind spots: If you can’t see the truck driver in their side mirror, they probably can’t see you. Avoid lingering in these zones.
• Pass on the right: Always pass trucks on the left side, which has better visibility. Passing on the right often puts you directly in a blind spot.
• Merge aggressively: Forcing your way into traffic ahead of a truck during merges can catch the driver off guard, increasing crash risk.
• Drive distracted: When you’re near big rigs, your attention needs to be 100%. A quick glance at your phone can result in a catastrophic mistake.

While common in daily traffic, these actions are especially risky when heavy commercial vehicles are involved.

Tips for a safe ride

While it’s critical to understand what not to do, there are also proactive habits you can develop to make the road safer for everyone:

• Keep a safe distance: Allow plenty of space when following, merging, or changing lanes near big rigs.
• Use turn signals early: Give truck drivers plenty of notice of your intentions so they can adjust accordingly.
• Be patient: Understand that trucks move more slowly, especially when accelerating from stops. Give them time and space.
• Avoid road rage: Don’t engage in aggressive maneuvers or attempt to “punish” truck drivers. These reactions only escalate risk.
• Anticipate wide turns: Trucks need extra space to make right turns. Don’t try to squeeze by on the right if you see a truck with a turn signal.

Also, consider revisiting safety tips provided by trusted organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Their ten tips for safe driving reinforce these ideas and encourage more mindful behavior behind the wheel.

Need legal support after a truck crash in St. Louis?

You may be entitled to compensation if you or a loved one has been hurt in a collision involving a commercial truck. At Goldblatt + Singer, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these crashes can take. We’re here to listen, guide, and advocate for your best outcome. Contact us today (314) 231-4100 for a free consultation. We’re ready to help you understand your rights and take the next step toward recovery.

Jeffrey Singer

Jeff Singer, Managing Partner at Goldblatt + Singer for over a decade, is a seasoned personal injury attorney known for his compassionate yet tough advocacy. He has resolved hundreds of cases and recovered millions for clients. Recognized as a Missouri Super Lawyer and Top 100 National Trial Lawyer, Jeff also serves on the Missouri Bar’s Chief Disciplinary Committee and the Board of Governors for the Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys.

Free case consultation call us at (314) 936-3434