Most drivers are fairly courteous and follow these simple rules:

• Don’t drive slowly in the passing lane;
• Don’t prevent other vehicles from overtaking you;
• Avoid cutting anyone off;
• Only change lanes when it’s safe;
• Give way to others when you’re pulling out; and
• Use indicators to allow plenty of warning.

When sharing the road with trucks, you should follow those rules as well as a few more specific ones to help keep our highways and roads safer for all road users.

Always be courteous

Obviously, trucks are much bigger than cars and need a lot more space to manoeuvre on our roads. Give them the space they need to navigate tight turns and corners, and never overtake a truck when it is turning.

Don’t tailgate

Following a car too closely is dangerous, so it’s even more so when following a truck. Keep a safe distance – try to leave at least a two-to-four second gap between the truck and your car. Leave more at night or when it’s raining. If you follow a truck too closely, or too close to the truck’s front passenger door, you will be the driver’s blind spot.

What’s your rush?

One of the biggest irks trucks drivers have is car drivers who pull out in front of them in the lead-up to a stop sign or red light. Trucks need twice as far to pull up, and drivers are very experienced, knowing exactly when to break to pull up safely at a stop. If a car weaves into the truck’s lane while the truck is already slowing, the likelihood that the truck can pull up safely without needing defensive action drops significantly. It’s dangerous and silly. Be patient.

Pay close attention

When travelling behind a truck on a two-lane highway, at times you may not have a clear view of the road ahead. Only pass when you do have a clear view, and don’t slow down once you’ve completed the pass. For the most part, truck drivers are extremely courteous and will wave you past when they see the road ahead is safe and clear. Always remain vigilant for oncoming traffic yourself though, and remember to give the truck driver a wave of thanks when you’re safely ahead.

You shall let him pass

If a truck is attempting to pass you in a passing lane, don’t speed up. Chances are you’ll end up blocking the truck out of the lane with nowhere to go when the lane ends.

Night moves

If you’re following a truck at night, dip your lights to the low beam position. Some trucks don’t have the same anti-glare mirrors cars have and bright lights can be dangerous and distracting.

Chill out

If you start to feel aggravated while driving, pull over into a safe area and take a quick walk to clear your head. The road is for everyone, so don’t get stressed out. It’s better to arrive a few minutes late than to cause an accident.