How to Safely Pass a Tractor Trailer on Florida’s Turnpike
Florida’s Turnpike is busy. It is filled with large commercial trucks. Passing them can be stressful, even overwhelming. A crash involving an eighteen wheeler has the potential to be catastrophic. It is imperative that you take a proactive approach to safely pass a truck. At Pike & Lustig, LLP, we are strong advocates for highway safety. Here, our West Palm Beach truck accident lawyer provides a guide to safely passing a tractor trailer on Florida’s Turnpike.
You Need to Be Fully Aware of the Truck’s Blind Spots (“No Zones”)
Tractor trailers have large blind spots on all four sides. The most prominent one is on the right side, directly behind the trailer, and close to the front. Here is the rule: If you cannot see the truck driver’s side mirror, they likely cannot see you. While truckers are responsible for safely managing their blind spots, the unfortunate reality is that you cannot always rely on them to do so. You should play it safe and stay out of those blind spots when on Florida’s Turnpike.
Always Use Your Turn Signal and Check Mirrors Before Passing a Large Truck
Before initiating your pass of a tractor trailer, you should activate your turn signal and double-check your mirrors and blind spots. You should make sure you have enough space to accelerate and move into the left lane without cutting off another driver or the truck itself.
Pass on the Left, Avoid Passing on the Right
The left lane is the proper and safest lane for passing in Florida. Passing a tractor trailer on the right is especially dangerous because the truck’s larger blind spot on that side increases the chance that the driver will see you. Always overtake from the left when on the Turnpike. We know that there are situations on Florida’s ever-busy Turnpike when passing a large truck on the right is very tempting. Still, it is not the safest way to pass and it should be avoided.
Maintain a Steady Speed While Passing
You should not quickly speed up or slow down when passing a tractor trailer. Instead, drivers should use steady acceleration to pass efficiently. From there, you should only return to the right lane after you see the entire truck in your rearview mirror. Play it save: Give extra space when merging back in front of the eighteen wheeler.
Be Patient: Better Safe than Sorry
In some cases, the right time to pass a large commercial truck in Florida is “later.” If you cannot safely pass a tractor trailer, then you should not pass. Patience is best.
Contact Our West Palm Beach Semi-Truck Accident Attorney Today
At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our West Palm Beach semi-truck accident lawyer is a strong, aggressive advocate for victims. If you or your loved one was hurt in a semi-truck crash, we are here to help. Contact us today for a free, no obligation initial case review. With an office in West Palm Beach and an office in Miami, we handle semi-truck accident cases throughout South Florida.
