If you’ve ever been driving on the motorway or even down a particularly busy dual carriageway you may have found yourself stuck behind two truckers cruising side-by-side, taking up two lanes with their huge, slow-moving truck vehicles. Then you might have wondered why on earth do they do that? Don’t they realise their stopping other vehicles from driving past them? We know it can be frustrating, especially when it slows down traffic, but there’s actually a lot more to this driving behaviour than meets the eye. Here at Cromwell Trucks, we understand the trucking world inside and out, and we’re here to shed some light on this common road situation.
The Importance of Safety
First and foremost, safety is a big reason why you might see trucks driving next to each other at a slower pace. Trucks have large blind spots and need plenty of space to manoeuvre. When two trucks drive side-by-side, they can better control their speed and keep a steady pace. This is especially important in tricky driving conditions, like on steep hills or in bad weather. By sticking together, they help maintain a consistent speed and reduce the risk of sudden changes that could lead to accidents.
Regulating Traffic Flow
Truckers also use this tactic to help regulate traffic flow. When trucks drive side-by-side, they can effectively block impatient drivers from weaving in and out of lanes. This can help prevent accidents that might occur when smaller vehicles try to squeeze between trucks or cut in and out of lanes abruptly. Think of it as a way for truckers to maintain order on the road and keep things moving more smoothly. Obviously, no one asked them to do this, but nevertheless it can be an effective method of adding some sense of stability and calmness to an otherwise hectic environment.
Uphill Challenges
Have you ever noticed that trucks like curtainsiders and box vans often slow down significantly when going up a hill? Well, this is because of the heavy loads they carry. Not all trucks climb hills at the same speed, so when one truck is moving slower than the other, they might end up driving side-by-side as smaller vehicles just drive on-by. Trucks are often limited by their speed governors, which means they can’t accelerate beyond a certain point. This can result in trucks driving together on an incline until they can safely get past each other.
Professional Courtesy
Truckers have their own set of road rules and a strong sense of community. They often use CB radios or hand signals to communicate with each other. When one truck needs to pass another, they might ask for permission to do so. If conditions aren’t ideal for overtaking, the trucks might end up traveling side-by-side for a while, so as to stay within easy access of one another. This is all part of their professional courtesy and teamwork, making sure that everyone stays safe and follows the unwritten rules of the road.
Why It Matters to You
So, what does all this mean for you as a driver? Understanding why trucks sometimes drive side-by-side can make you a more patient and safer driver. It’s helpful to remember that truckers and lorry drivers are doing their best to manage their vehicles and keep everyone on the road safe whilst piloting a much more dangerous vehicle relative to your standard car or van. By being aware of these reasons, you can better anticipate how they’ll behave and adjust your driving accordingly.
So, the next time you find yourself behind two trucks driving side-by-side, give them a little space and a bit of understanding. They’re not just occupying the road – they’re making sure it stays safe for everyone.