How To Safely Share The Road With Trucks in Montana
Montana’s wide-open highways and rugged terrain make for some of the most scenic drives in the country. But they also mean sharing the road with large commercial trucks—vehicles that can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and take much longer to stop than a passenger car. Whether you’re cruising through Billings, tackling the steep mountain passes near Bozeman, or navigating winter roads in Missoula, knowing how to drive safely around big rigs is critical.
At Doubek, Pyfer & Storrar, PLLP, our Montana truck accident attorneys want to help you stay safe on Montana’s roads, especially around large trucks. But if the worst happens and you’re injured in a truck accident, we’re here to fight for you. Our experienced legal team has been protecting accident victims since 1978. Call us today at 406-442-7830 for a free consultation.
Why Sharing the Road with Trucks is Different
Semi-trucks aren’t like regular cars. They have massive blind spots, take longer to brake, and need extra space to turn. A small mistake around a truck can lead to a serious, life-changing accident.
Montana’s highways see a high volume of truck traffic, especially with industries like farming, logging, and oil transportation. Weather conditions—like icy roads in winter or high winds in open plains—can make things even more dangerous.
Understanding how trucks operate can help you stay safe. Here’s what you need to know.
Essential Safety Tips for Driving Near Trucks
1. Stay Out of Blind Spots (The “No-Zones”)
Trucks have large blind spots on all sides. If you can’t see the driver’s face in their side mirror, they likely can’t see you. Here’s where to avoid lingering:
- Front: Trucks need more time to stop, so never cut one off.
- Sides: The right side is especially dangerous—if possible, pass on the left.
- Rear: If you’re too close behind a truck, they won’t see you, and you won’t see what’s ahead.
2. Give Trucks Extra Space
Unlike a car, a truck can’t stop on a dime. If a semi is traveling at 65 mph, it needs the length of about two football fields to come to a full stop. Tailgating or cutting off a truck puts you at serious risk. Stay at least four seconds behind a truck in normal conditions. Increase that distance in bad weather like snow, ice, or rain.
3. Watch for Wide Turns
Trucks need extra room to turn, especially at intersections. You’ve probably seen a semi swing left before turning right referred to as a “jughandle turn”—that’s because their trailers can’t turn sharply. This is not a safe procedure, nor is it what a truck driver is supposed to do — they are supposed to do a “button hook turn”. Nonetheless, because unsafe truck drivers will do a jughandle turn, you should never try to squeeze between a turning truck and the curb. You could get caught in a “squeeze play” accident. If a truck has its turn signal on, give it room to turn — even if it is performing an unsafe maneuver. Better safe than sorry!
4. Pass with Caution
Passing a truck isn’t like passing another car. Because of their size, trucks create strong wind resistance, which can push your car around. Here’s how to pass safely:
- Don’t Pass on the Right. Always pass on the left – it’s easier for the driver to see you.
- Don’t linger next to the truck. The less time you spend in their blind spot, the better.
- Careful merging. Before merging back, make sure you see the truck’s front grille in your rearview mirror.
5. Be Prepared for Weather Conditions
Montana’s unpredictable weather makes driving near trucks even trickier.
- Winter: Ice and snow mean longer stopping distances. Drive slower, increase following distance, and avoid sudden movements.
- Wind: Montana’s open plains create strong crosswinds that can push trucks into your lane. Stay alert and keep both hands on the wheel.
- Fog and Rain: Visibility can drop fast. Use headlights, keep your distance, and never assume a truck driver sees you.
What to Do If a Truck Accident Happens
Even if you follow every safety rule, accidents can still happen—especially when truck drivers are fatigued, distracted, or reckless. If you or a loved one has been in a crash with a semi-truck, here’s what to do next.
1. Call 911 Immediately
Truck accidents often cause serious injuries. Even if you feel okay, adrenaline can mask pain. Let emergency responders check you out.
2. Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you’re able, document everything:
- Take photos of the accident scene, damage, and road conditions.
- Get the truck driver’s information (name, company, insurance).
- Talk to witnesses and get their contact details.
3. Don’t Talk to the Trucking Company’s Insurance
After an accident, the trucking company’s insurance might call you. Be careful—they aren’t on your side. Because of the size of these crashes, truck companies have specialized insurance agents and even attorneys that will show up to the crash site the date of the crash to inspect what occurred. They might try to blame you because they know you don’t understand the complexities of the safety regulations and the legal liability for truck drivers and truck companies. Or, they might try to force you to accept a low settlement. However, don’t play along. You are not required to give into a statement, so let your lawyer handle it.
4. Call a Truck Accident Lawyer Right Away
Truck accident cases in Montana are complicated. They often involve multiple parties—like the truck driver, their employer, and even the company that loaded the cargo. You need a lawyer who knows how to fight back.
At Doubek, Pyfer & Storrar, PLLP, we handle truck accident cases across Montana. We’ll investigate what happened, gather evidence, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Stay Safe—But Know We’re Here If You Need Us
Montana’s roads are beautiful, but they can also be dangerous. By driving carefully around trucks, you can reduce your risk of a serious crash.
But if an accident does happen, don’t wait. Call Doubek, Pyfer & Storrar, PLLP, today for a free consultation. We’ll stand by your side and fight for the justice you deserve.
