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With summer traffic increasing on Alberta's busiest highways, including the QEII corridor through Airdrie, the Alberta RCMP is urging all motorists to exercise extra caution when driving around commercial vehicles.
"Sharing the road with, or operating, semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, buses, or other commercial vehicles, requires extra caution," the RCMP said in a provincial traffic safety bulletin.
Officers said interactions between large and small vehicles require special attention to visibility, stopping distance and turning space. Commercial drivers are advised to complete trip inspections before departure and to carry all required inspection certificates.
The RCMP advised drivers to stay alert on the road and pull over if they feel tired, and recommended checking road, traffic, construction, and weather conditions before starting a trip. Large vehicle operators are also reminded to keep a safe following distance, stay aware of blind spots, make wide turns safely, and properly secure all cargo.
Passenger-vehicle drivers are being urged to adjust their habits when travelling near larger vehicles. That includes staying far enough back to see both of a truck's side mirrors — with the RCMP noting, "If you can't see the truck driver, they can't see you."
Increased following distance also allows drivers to better see oncoming traffic and avoid hazards created by strong wind gusts, road spray or flying debris when trucks pass on wet roads.
Motorists are also being asked to avoid cutting in front of trucks when changing lanes, as large vehicles require more time to slow down or stop. Drivers should not crowd commercial units when they are turning, since heavy trucks often need a wide turning radius.
"Commercial-passenger vehicle collisions have added dangers due to the size and weight of larger vehicles," said Sgt. Darrin Turnbull with Alberta RCMP Traffic. "Taking extra precaution around trucks and trailers can significantly reduce the risk of collision."
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