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EDMONTON — With summer road trip season approaching and traffic volumes expected to increase across Alberta, RCMP are reminding motorists to take extra care when sharing the road with commercial vehicles.
Police say collisions involving semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, buses and other large commercial vehicles can often be avoided when drivers understand the limitations these vehicles face because of their size and weight.
The reminder comes as more Albertans prepare for summer travel and as highways become busier with vacation traffic, commercial transport and construction activity.
RCMP say commercial vehicle operators should complete vehicle inspections before trips, stay informed about road and weather conditions, maintain safe following distances and ensure cargo is properly secured.
Passenger vehicle drivers are also being encouraged to adjust their driving habits around larger vehicles.
Police advise motorists to avoid lingering in truck blind spots, leave additional space when changing lanes in front of commercial vehicles and allow extra room when trucks are turning, as many require a wider turning radius than passenger vehicles.
Drivers are also reminded to increase following distances behind large trucks to improve visibility and provide more time to react to changing traffic conditions.
RCMP note commercial vehicles can create strong wind gusts, water spray and flying debris, particularly during adverse weather conditions.
“A variety of vehicles share our roadways every day, and it’s everyone’s responsibility to keep each other safe,” said Sgt. Darrin Turnbull of Alberta RCMP Traffic.
“Commercial vehicles need more time and space to operate safely due to their size and weight.”
Police say defensive driving and giving commercial vehicles additional space can help reduce the risk of collisions during the busy summer travel season.
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