Passing Semi Trucks and Trailers on the Highway

I was driving home yesterday when I saw something on the highway that made me want to write about it. i have been driving for 50 plus years and it never ceases to amaze me the things I see people do on the highway.

My wife was with me and she commented on how ofter we see the same thing. So here is what My complaint is about: Passing Big trucks.

When you are passing big trucks on the road there are somethings you need to be aware of.

1. If the driver of the truck can't see you in their rear view mirror they don't know you are there. this means that when you approach from the rear make sure to pull out soon enough that the driover of the truck knows you are there.

2. If you pull out to pass a truck don't slow down once in the passing lane. If you are on cruise drive you may not seem like you have slowed but you will becasue there is a change in the draft on your vehicle. If you have ever watched car racing you will have heard of drafting before. The drag of the wind on your vehicle changes when you pull out from behind a larger vehicle. This will tend to slow your vehicle down.

3. If you are driving the speed limit you may have to exceed it to make a pass, if you are already over the speed limit and attempt to pass you will have to increase your speed even more to over take the truck. This could get you a ticket if you happen to be spotted by radar.

4. Consider the other drivers on the highway. if you pull out to pass on a hill and find you don't have the power or don't wish to go faster you will be hindering the drivers behind you. if they are approaching at a high rate of speed and you suddenly pull out to pass your actions could result in an accident.

5. if you pull out to pass don't stay in the outer lane next to the truck holding up traffic. If you can't make the pass quickly back off and let other drivers pass then make your attempt again. Your consideration may save lives.

While you may be the law abiding citizen that drives the speed limit, others may not be. Don't impose your morals on others to prove a point. Today road rage can get you killed.

I find that driving at a reasonable speed and watching out for others makes my driving experience more pleasurable than being stressed by having to watch out for radar traps, or other police cars checking speeds.

Be safe drive safe and stay alive.