The Complexity of Driving a Big Rig Truck vs. Driving a Car

In order to drive a large commercial truck, drivers must undergo substantial training and pass a series of difficult exams in order to receive their commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs). If drivers wish to operate certain types of commercial vehicles–such as those carrying passengers or transporting hazardous materials (HAZMAT)–they must undergo additional training and receive additional licenses. Commercial truck driving requires all of these qualifications because operating these large big rigs is substantially more complex than operating a regular passenger vehicle for many reasons.

Weight of the Truck

While an average passenger vehicle generally weighs around 4,000 pounds, large tractor-trailers can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds. The sheer weight of the truck can make driving more challenging and drivers must be trained specifically on driving heavy vehicles. The heavier the vehicle, the harder it can be to slow down or stop, especially at highway speeds. Truck drivers must be aware of how much room to leave in case they need to brake. In addition, it can be a lot easier to lose control of a heavy truck on steep hills or on turns.

Turns and Maneuvers

In addition to weight, commercial trucks are significantly larger in size than passenger vehicles, as a single trailer can be 53 feet long. This does not include the length of the cab of the truck or whether a truck may tow double trailers. Additionally, because trucks are so much taller, the high center of gravity makes it more common for trailers to roll over. In order to avoid accidents, drivers must specially learn to safely maneuver these large vehicles around turns, when in reverse, and in traffic.

Blind Spots

While every car may have blind spots, commercial trucks have large areas surrounding the truck that they cannot see. These areas are commonly called “no-zones” and they exist along the sides of the trailer and directly in front of and behind the truck. While it is safest for motorists to avoid driving in these zones altogether, many drivers are not aware of the full extent of the blind spots on a commercial truck. For this reason, truck drivers should constantly be aware of these no-zones and understand when it is safe to make lane changes.

Blind Spot Infographic

Additional Rules and Regulations

Commercial drivers are expected to follow all traffic laws, which can be confusing as the laws may change slightly as they drive through different states. Furthermore, truck drivers must comply with a wide array of regulations enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations can be more stringent than local traffic laws regarding certain limitations, including driving under the influence and using handheld devices. In a truck accident case, you must not only examine whether any traffic laws were violated but also whether the truck driver was in violation of any FMCSA rules and regulations.

Because of the difficulties associated with driving a big rig truck, driving ability and qualifications often play an important role in truck accident cases. For this reason, scrutinizing whether the driver properly operated the truck will be a highly important part of your case.

Hank Stout
Follow Me!

Related Resources

What is a Crash Truck

What is a Crash Truck?

July 30, 2024 - Hank Stout
Do Truck Drivers Get Fired for Accidents (1)

Do Truck Drivers Get Fired for Accidents?

July 30, 2024 - Hank Stout
how to report truck drivers

How to Report Truck Drivers

July 2, 2024 - Hank Stout

Get a Free Case Review

    Our Office Locations

    Houston Office (713) 405-1263 550 Post Oak Blvd, Suite 530 Houston, TX 77027
    Austin Office (512) 616-2222 9433 Bee Cave Road Building III, Suite 200 Austin, TX 78733
    Marble Falls Office (830) 201-1111 705 US 281, Suite 200 Marble Falls, TX 78654
    San Angelo Office (325) 340-4000 202 W Beauregard Ave San Angelo, TX 76903
    Cypress Office (713) 987-7111 17302 House & Hahl Rd Suite 210, Cypress, TX 77433