The Do's And Don'ts Of Driving A Semi In Traffic

As summer gets underway, traffic on the roads may get even more hectic for drivers. However, truck drivers’ risks are amplified even further. Trucks do not have the same space or ability to dodge obstacles the way smaller vehicles would, due to their size and weight. Dangerous high-traffic areas such as heavy traffic, construction zones, and toll roads can be handled more easily, with some advance planning. Here are a few things to consider, when heading into heavy traffic.

Plan Early

In order to make the most of your drive, you want to research weather and road conditions of where you’re headed, early. Since weather is responsible for over 20% of vehicle crashes, according to DOT, always make sure to check the forecast ahead of time and the day of your trip.  Due to the fact that summer is also construction season, you want to anticipate any potential road closures or redirections. When you know what to anticipate, you can avoid the traffic jams and issues that come with unpredictability  of weather, traffic and other drivers.

Avoid Distractions

There are a lot more hazards on the road in traffic, than there are on an empty highway. Some factors to consider are:

• Construction Workers
• Flaggers 
• Sudden Lane Changes By Other Drivers
• Uneven Roads
• Narrower lanes

Using your phone or other devices while driving is already not a great idea, but in congested traffic you may miss important developments if you are not careful. Set your GPS before you leave, and turn your radio down if the weather is bad or the road conditions are difficult.

Follow The Speed Limits

We all want to get where we’re going quickly, but it’s important to follow the speed limits on highways and roads, especially around any curves or ramps, as this can become a hazard and lead to rollovers. Most curves or ramps are easier for smaller vehicles, but not semi trucks; so you may need to practice extra caution, and reduce your speed by about 10 mph in these areas at least. During construction season, there is more foot traffic, unexpected debris and items around the highways or roads, so it’s important to follow the speed limits in order to be safe.

Make Space For Yourself

Since there is more traffic on the road, it is even more important to keep an eye on your surroundings and what may be in your blind spots. Take into account your load weight and the weather, so you can adjust your speed and position, giving yourself enough distance to stop safely in case you need to. Remember, a semi truck which is not fully loaded and only going 55 mph will need about 520 feet to stop safely, on ideal roads with ideal conditions. 

Space is going to be essential in managing driving during heavy traffic, so keep that in mind as you move forward. The more space you give yourself, the safer you will be. Drivers around you can be unpredictable so give yourself room and time to react.  Remember, defensive driving is your safest best.

Avoid Lane Changes

While it is not always easy to stay in one lane for a long time, you will want to avoid changing lanes often during periods of heavy traffic especially.  You simply cannot anticipate others changing their lanes or where they may be physically in relation to you. There are more cars moving around you, so changing lanes in traffic becomes more of a hazard for a semi and its many blind spots.

If you must change lanes, signal early and leave a bit of time so that the cars behind you or around you can see where you plan on heading. Follow the classic trucker’s rule, where you turn your signal on for 3 seconds, while checking your mirrors and then 7 seconds to make a lane change.

Watch Your Trailer

Driving a semi is a difficult task, because you have a lot to account for, including your trailer which is about 70 feet behind you. When you change lanes or make turns, you have to be especially careful to make sure your trailer does not stray outside the lines or end up causing issue. Turn on your turn signal early when making a lane change, at least 3 seconds before moving into a lane, so that you can clear the path for you to move into the next lane.

Keep Checking Your Mirrors

Checking your mirrors every 8 to 10 seconds is not only going to help you stay focused on the road, but it also helps keep you alert while driving. In order to know what is coming in and out of your blind spots, these frequent mirror checks are important, especially in heavy traffic areas.

Take Your Time

You can expect a lot of the unexpected when it comes to driving in traffic. Lanes could become more narrow due to construction or changes in traffic pattern, and other drivers can be very unpredictable. Remember that construction workers can still be walking around roads which seem finished, so when entering any area with signs or cones indicating construction, you want to slow down. It is important to be patient and give yourself time, even if you feel rushed. No load is worth your life and safety. 

When driving in heavy traffic, it is best to stay alert and watch out for other drivers who may not know what they are doing. If you are to slow down or stop, do so carefully so that you do not get into an accident. The roads may be busier this summer, but you’ve got all the tools to handle the traffic and get to your destination quicker.  A little planning can save a lot of time, fuel and frustration.