Don't #uck with a Truck!

By Ben
General

DON'T #UCK WITH A TRUCK!

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator

ROAD SAFETY INITIATIVE FOR L & P PLATE HOLDERS

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR for those playing at home) is a government authority whose vision is to provide "A safe, efficient and productive heavy vehicle industry serving the needs of Australia." (ref)

Based in Queensland, the NHVR operates nationally and has recently launched a cheeky campaign called Don't #uck with truck! The aim of this campaign is to help pass on vital information to L and P plate drivers about how to behave when driving around trucks.

Do you think you know how to drive near heavy vehicles?
Have you ever thought about stopping distances?
What about blind spots? 
Here is the info from the NHVR Webpage.

LEAVE TWO LANES FOR TRUCKS WHEN TURNING
Truck drivers often need to take up more than one lane to turn at corners, intersections and roundabouts, so keep both lanes beside a truck free when it is turning. Truck drivers might not be able to see you next to them and you could collide with a truck as it turns.

PULLING IN FRONT OF A TRUCK CAN CAUSE A CRASH
When pulling in front of a truck, give them 3 to 4 times more space than you would give a car. Trucks take a lot longer to slow down and stop than cars. If truck drivers need to brake hard behind you, you may cause them to swerve, lose control or crash.

PATIENCE IS CRITICAL WHEN OVERTAKING A TRUCK
It can be frustrating to be ‘stuck’ behind a truck but be patient if you’re going to overtake. Wait for a dedicated overtaking lane or long stretch of road where you have a clear view ahead, then indicate and overtake quickly to reduce the time you’re in a truck’s blind spot. Only pull back in when you can see a truck’s headlights in your rear-view mirror.

If you have not had much experience driving around trucks, ask your driving instructor to run through some strategies with you. Check out the videos linked above for element to get more information. 

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