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Whether you’re driving a smart car or motor home, it’s always important to follow other vehicles at a safe distance to avoid an accident. When you’re behind a semi truck on the freeway, however, the potential dangers become even more severe. To avoid hefty collision repairs or potentially life-threatening injuries, take time to learn the safe way to navigate around heavy-duty vehicles. Especially with winter rapidly approaching, there’s no better time to play it safe than on the slick and icy road.

How to Avoid Collision Repair

Following Too Closely Defined

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, following too closely means that even if you remain attentive to the vehicle in front of you, you still wouldn’t be able to prevent an accident if the driver were to slam on the brakes unexpectedly. You can’t prevent a truck driver hitting the brakes due to a deer or swerving vehicle, but you can make sure you give enough space to stay out of trouble if it happens.

Rule of Thumb

collision-repairAs a general rule, when driving below 40 miles per hour, you should leave at least one second for every 10 feet of a vehicle’s length. For speeds higher than 40 mph, you need to allot an extra second. It takes longer for large trucks to brake and safely stop, which means you should keep an even greater distance from them. During adverse weather conditions, double your distance. Snow, ice, and even rain can greatly affect braking lengths. 

Blind Spots

Following a truck, motor home, or another vehicle too closely may prevent the driver from seeing you in the rearview or side mirrors. With this issue in mind, practice extra precaution when passing.

 

If you need collision repair, the experts at Stephenson Truck Repair have you covered. Based in Lincoln, NE, the premier mechanics service motor homes and trucks of all kinds. If have you any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, call a friendly professional at (402) 466-8532. To learn more about the the RV and truck service, visit their website.

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