It feels like in 2023, you can’t go 60 seconds while driving on the streets or highways without seeing a delivery driver of some kind. Whether it’s a speeding Amazon delivery van, a FedEx truck racing to make their delivery on time, or an UberEats driver trying to drop off their next order of lukewarm food that’s supposed to be hot, it’s unavoidable. We all deal with these drivers on our highways, city streets and neighborhoods.
As automotive safety experts, we know all too well the dangers that larger commercial vehicles pose on the road. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), large vehicles like trucks and buses are involved in close to 5,000 fatalities each year. The laws of physics in a car crash explains that a delivery vehicle weighing 5x as much as a small car, both traveling at 45mph, will create an impact with 5x the amount of force in crash. While Amazon, FedEx, UPS or USPS delivery vehicles aren’t nearly as large as a fully loaded up 80,000 pound semi-truck, they are oversized vehicles carrying thousands of pounds of freight on board and can weigh between 20,000-30,000 pounds. Yes, an accident involving a commercial delivery vehicle can cause significantly more damage and injury than with a regular small car.
So, how can we stay safe when there are literally millions of delivery drivers on our roads in 2023? Here are some potentially life saving safety tips below:
Tip #1: Avoid Blind Spots
Stay out of blind spots. Commercial vehicles have large blind spots on the sides and rear of the vehicle. If you can’t see the driver in the side mirror, they can’t see you. Always pass quickly and safely, and never linger in a blind spot.
Tip #2: Keep a Longer Than Normal Following Distance
Keep a safe distance. Because commercial vehicles take longer to stop, it’s important to give them plenty of space. You know the 3 second following distance rule? Well, the National Safety Council recommends following at least four seconds behind a commercial vehicle. Remember, the heavier the vehicle, the more time it takes to stop the vehicle.
Tip #3: Watch out for Wide Turns
Be aware of wide turns. These aren’t Porsche 911s here. These are large commercial vehicles that don’t exactly make tight turns. If you’re behind one or next to one, give it plenty of space and be prepared for the driver to swing wide.
Tip #4: Always Use Turn Signals
I mean, you should always do this when driving, but we’ll say it again: use your blinkers. Always signal when changing lanes or turning, and make sure to check your mirrors and blind spots before doing so. This will help prevent collisions with delivery vehicles that may be in your blind spot or following closely behind.
Tip #5: Avoid Distractions
Lay off the TikTok, Instagram or texting while driving, ok? Distracted driving is a leading cause of motor vehicle accidents. Driving distracted near a delivery truck is a recipe for disaster and quite possibly death. Sorry to be morbid, but it’s true.
Tip #6: Stay Clear of Wild Drivers
If you are near a delivery driver and you are seeing them drive distracted or driving wildly, just get away from them. If they cut you off, don’t play the road-rage game here. Take a deep breath and just get away from the driver.
Stay Safe in 2023
Follow the tips outlined above and you will avoid accidents with delivery truck drivers.