How to Drive Safely Around Trucks and Heavy Vehicles

Sharing the road with trucks, buses, and other heavy vehicles is part of everyday driving in Australia. These vehicles are larger, slower to stop, and often have significant blind spots, which means driving near them requires extra care and awareness. Whether you’re a learner driver or already licensed, understanding how to stay safe around heavy vehicles is essential.

Why Driving Near Trucks is Different

Unlike cars, trucks and heavy vehicles:

• Take longer distances to brake and stop.
• Have large blind spots on all sides.
• Need more space to turn, often swinging wide.
  
• Can block your visibility of the road ahead.
  

Recognising these differences helps you adjust your driving and avoid risky situations.

Safe Driving Tips Around Trucks and Heavy Vehicles

1. Stay Out of Blind Spots

Trucks have large blind spots on both sides, directly in front, and behind. If you can’t see the truck driver’s mirrors, chances are they can’t see you. Always position your vehicle where you remain visible.

2. Keep a Safe Following Distance

Never drive too close behind a truck. They can’t see you in their rear blind spot, and if they brake suddenly, you won’t have enough time to react. Maintain at least four seconds of space and increase it in wet conditions.

3. Be Cautious When Overtaking

When overtaking a truck:

• Always overtake quickly and safely.
• Use your indicators early.
• Never cut back in until you can clearly see the truck’s headlights in your rear-view mirror.
  

4. Give Trucks Extra Turning Space

Large vehicles often need two lanes to make a wide turn. If you see a truck indicating, don’t squeeze beside it—give it the space it needs to complete the turn safely.

5. Avoid Sudden Lane Changes

Cutting in front of a heavy vehicle can be extremely dangerous, as they take longer to slow down. Always signal early and change lanes only when there’s plenty of room.

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Heavy vehicles travel slower on steep hills and may take time to accelerate. Avoid aggressive driving—overtake only when it’s safe and legal.

Why These Tips Matter

Following these defensive driving practices can:

• Reduce your risk of serious accidents.
• Keep traffic flowing smoothly.
• Make you a more confident driver in busy road conditions.
  

Learn Safe Driving with DOS Driving School

At DOS Driving School, we teach more than just the basics. Our experienced instructors help learners and new drivers build confidence in real traffic conditions, including safe driving around trucks and heavy vehicles.

Call us today on 03 8738 5185 or text us at 0490 049 705 to book your lessons.