BOSTON -- Driving with trucks on the road requires special consideration.

They are not like cars in the way they operate. While truck drivers are generally better drivers than the rest of us, that doesn’t mean they don’t make mistakes. They are professionals, but they’re not perfect. The fact that they are driving a huge machine means that we need to be especially aware of how to share the road with them.

They Need Space

Trucks are huge and they have a lot of momentum. They are not as maneuverable and take a lot longer to stop than smaller cars because of their weight. This means they need more space than the rest of us.

Don’t Linger Next To A Truck

Cars can momentarily "disappear" from view due to blind spots. Try to pass trucks quickly to increase visibility and reduce dangers associated with lingering beside a truck.

Don’t Cut In Front

In Boston traffic, many drivers use that space in front of a truck as an opportune time to change lanes. This is not a good move, especially if you suddenly need to brake and you’re too close to the truck you just cut off. It’s the back side of your car that will pay the price.

One rule for passing a truck is that you should be able to see the entire front of a truck in your rear view mirror before you change lanes. Truckers say that you should give them 10 car lengths ahead before changing lanes.

Don’t Tailgate Trucks

You’ve seen the signs on trucks that say “If you can’t see my mirrors, I can’t see you.” Trucks have large blind spots. If they don’t know you’re there, they won’t be able to make decisions based on your proximity. It puts you at great risk. Not to mention, that if you’re too close, it blocks your view of the road and inhibits your ability to drive safely. You’re flying blind as well. It’s a classic case of the blind leading the blind.

It’s especially important to avoid tailgating gravel trucks. It’s not unusual for material to spill out and break a windshield, or ding your paint job.

Wide Turns

Turning right:

Because of their size, trucks sometimes need to swing wide left to turn right. This can take them out of their lane. Always watch for turn signals to see which direction a truck may be going.

Turning left:

When approaching an intersection, be sure to stop behind the white line. Trucks need ample room when turning left. If you’re out in the intersection, you could make it very difficult for a truck to turn around you.

Pass on the left:

If possible, pass a truck on the left, not on the right, because the truck's blind spot on the right is much larger, running the length of the trailer and extending out three lanes.