“Random Occurrences: Oversized Loads ”
Large trucks carrying massive cargo are often fun to look at and speculate what it is for and where it is going. However, drivers do not see oversized loads on the daily. In this 4th installment of Random Occurrences, we will look at 4 tips for driving near oversized loads.
Tip #1: Stay out of Blind Spots- These vehicles are often large with oddly shaped cargo. With this size bigger blind spots occur. Blind spots occur directly in front of the vehicle, to its sides, and at certain distances behind the vehicle. Depending on the shape of the load other blind spots can occur. If you can not see the driver's mirrors, most likely the driver can not see you.
Tip #2: Follow Escort vehicle instructions- Some oversized loads have pilot cars or escort vehicles leading the way or following them as they maneuver from place to place. These vehicles help indicate an oversized load is nearby and are often indicated with flashing lights and orange flags. The oversized load is required to have flags indicating its outline. These vehicles may give directions to keep you and other drivers safe because oversized loads may need to do unconventional actions to get where they need to go.
Tip #3: Do not cut off Oversized Load- Avoid driving closely in front of oversized loads, with the cargo being of weights upwards of 80,000 pounds it takes a long distance for the truck to come to a complete stop. Make your intentions to turn and slow down well in advance to give ample time and space for the vehicle to slow down behind you. An object in motion will remain in motion unless it is acted upon by an unbalanced force. The force of your car in front of the oversized load will only slightly affect the movement of the oversized load.
Tip #4: Stay Alert- It is hard to miss such massive objects traveling down the roadways, but it can happen. Give space around the eternity of the vehicle. Avoid passing on the right-hand side. When passing, do it swiftly and smoothly being on the lookout for swerves and the overhanging of the load. Be on the lookout for sudden jolts. Oversized loads are more susceptible to wind gusts than smaller vehicles.
Oversized loads may look cool as they travel down the roadways, but they can pose certain challenges to driving. If you give caution, stay in the driver’s sight, and use common sense, you will have no problem staying safe when driving around oversized loads. Come back next week to learn what to do when you encounter a tornado on the road.