How to Cross in Front of a Truck Safely

Two Methods:Cross in front of a truck safely as a motorist.Cross in front of a truck safely as a bicyclist.

Whenever you're around a truck, whether as a pedestrian, a motorist, or a bicyclist, it's imperative to use an extra degree of caution. Even more than cars, trucks have heightened blind spots and slow reaction times. Therefore, if you want to cross in front of a truck safely, make sure you teach your children the following tips, and make sure you follow them as well. Consider the following when learning and teaching others how to cross in front of a truck safely.

Steps

  1. Image titled Cross in Front of a Truck Safely Step 1
    1
    Cross the street at designated crosswalks or corners. Trucks will not expect pedestrians to dash in front of them at non-designated spots.
  2. Image titled Cross in Front of a Truck Safely Step 2
    2
    Drive in a truck's visible zone. Don't drive directly next to a truck, or you could be in that driver's blind spot.
  3. Image titled Cross in Front of a Truck Safely Step 3
    3
    Leave additional space when crossing in front of a truck.
    • If the truck has to stop suddenly, you want as much space between your bicycle and the truck as possible.

Method 1
Cross in front of a truck safely as a motorist.

  1. Image titled Cross in Front of a Truck Safely Step 4
    1
    If the truck sees you start to pass, continue passing. Don't do anything the truck wouldn't expect you to do.
  2. Image titled Cross in Front of a Truck Safely Step 5
    2
    Observe the truck, the stoplights, and other lanes of traffic before crossing.
  3. Image titled Cross in Front of a Truck Safely Step 6
    3
    Pass the truck as quickly as is safe. To safely pass a truck, wait until you see the entirety of the truck's front in your rear-view mirror. Only then can you turn back into the lane.
  4. Image titled Cross in Front of a Truck Safely Step 7
    4
    Avoid the truck's considerable blind spots. This includes directly behind the truck and along the length of the truck.
  5. Image titled Cross in Front of a Truck Safely Step 8
    5
    Look both ways before crossing the street, and watch the tires of the truck. Only cross when the tires are at a complete standstill.
  6. Image titled Cross in Front of a Truck Safely Step 9
    6
    Use your blinkers when passing. To avoid a collision, the truck driver should always be aware of where you intend to go.
  7. Image titled Cross in Front of a Truck Safely Step 10
    7
    Use designated hand signals for right turns, left turns, and slowing down.
    • Because they're larger than cars, trucks cannot stop or react as quickly as one might expect. Always let a truck driver know exactly when you're going to cross in front of him.

Method 2
Cross in front of a truck safely as a bicyclist.

  1. Image titled Cross in Front of a Truck Safely Step 11
    1
    If you can't see the truck driver, the driver can't see you. Only cross after you've made eye contact or waved, and the truck driver has given a visual confirmation that he sees you.
  2. Image titled Cross in Front of a Truck Safely Step 12
    2
    Make eye contact with the truck driver before crossing.

Tips

  • Trucks have reduced visibility, even in the daytime. At night, make yourself as visible as possible when crossing in front of a truck.
  • Drive, bike, and walk conservatively around trucks. If you don't have to cross in front of a truck, don't.
  • Wear reflective jackets or light-colored clothes and always use a bike light in the dark.
  • Teach your children about pedestrian safety around trucks from an early age. Tell them what to do to be safe around trucks, and lead by example.

Warnings

  • Never let children cross in front of trucks, or any traffic, without holding their hands or having them secured in strollers.

Sources and Citations

Show more... (1)

Article Info

Categories: Defensive Driving Skills & Safety