As we enter the busy summer months and more of us are traveling it is important to be more aware of our surroundings as we drive. Highways are filled with vehicles, from tractor trailers to bicyclists and everything in between.

Keep these tips in mind:

• Bicycles are harder to see than full sized vehicles. If you’re a rider consider wearing high visibility colors and install lights front and rear. Obey all traffic laws and be predictable. Always wear a helmet. When driving a car around a bicyclist give them at least 3’ of space.
• Motorcycles are also harder to see, so the same recommendations apply. Wear all your protective gear, especially the helmet.
• Tractor trailers take a long time to accelerate and a long time to stop. It takes about the length of a football field to stop a tractor trailer from highway speed. Trucks will have to make very wide turns, so don’t find yourself caught between the trailer and the curb by trying to go inside a tractor trailer making a right turn. Always allow extra room around the big rigs.
• People traveling away from home are often unfamiliar with the area and tend to make quick turns or slow down as they navigate their way around. Keep at least three seconds of following distance from the car in front of you and stay alert.
• Fatigue is insidious and can be a serious safety hazard on the road. Plan your days appropriately, get plenty of rest, and stay well hydrated on these long summer days. 

Check out the following resources for more information regarding safe driving. Enjoy the summer safely!

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration—a great resource to learn more about distracted driving, child safety seats, teen driving, safety ratings and more.

Bicycle safety information available from Bicyclesafe.com.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has a campaign devoted to sharing the road safely.

Posted ByRandy Klatt, (Retired May 2022)