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Big Rig Drivers Give Tips To Safely Share The Roads

By: Katiera Winfrey
Updated: January 9, 2013
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MIDLAND--During Wednesday's rain creating wet road, four big rigs accidents happened throughout the day. While none of the accidents turned out to be deadly, it does however raise the question: What can all drivers do to make things a little bit safer?

Big 2's Katiera Winfrey spoke to several big rig drivers and based on what they say, everyone has a role to play in keeping the roads safe.

On rainy days it's almost inevitable, there will be some wrecks.

"To our big truck drivers and car drivers always be completely aware of everything that is going on around you," said four year big rig driver Mary Hart.

Of the four rig accidents Wednesday, most of them happened along interstate 20. Based on police information, they were all caused after some interaction with a big rig and a car.

Steve Beaty has been driving big rigs for nearly 27 years. During that time, he's also spent time teaching other drivers.

"If you see a one truck accident I would venture to say 90 percent of them were caused by a car and a truck trying to keep from killing somebody in that car," said Beaty. "If you see a truck in a ditch more than likely a car cut him off and hit the brakes and he had to dodge the car to keep from running it over."

Beaty said it's important for small cars to keep their distance. However, others say experience may also get in the way.

"Some of the older drivers get too confidant or newer drivers too. Don't get too confidant anytime. Always be on your toes about watching," said 12 year big rig driver Patricia Carter.

Many big rig drivers say people driving smaller trucks and cars feel that the road is theirs, when in fact it's something that should be shared.

"When we've got our turn signal on they're not Christmas decorations, it means we need to change lanes. If you see our turn signal on, don't gun it to get past us," said Beaty.

And just like a train needs plenty of time to stop, so does a whopping big rig trailer.

"We can't stop as fast as they can," said Carter.

Safety Tips When Driving Near Big Rigs:

One: Don't pass slowly

Two: Before getting over make sure you can see both of the rigs headlights in rear view mirror (NOT side mirror)

Three: The additional space left in traffic is to allow room to stop, not an invitation to jump further in line

Find Katiera on Facebook or follow her on Twitter!

Comments

Thanks for sharing this! My son just started driving big rigs and he loves it but gets nervous when driving around smaller cars. He's told me that rig mats are a good way to drive more safely, though I'm not exactly sure what they are. Hope this helped! http://www.paradoxaccess.com/about-us.php

Holly J. February 26, 2013 at 9:32 am

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