BISMARCK, ND ( KXNET ) — According to North Dakota data, so far in 2024, at least 25 percent of all fatal crashes on North Dakota highways have involved commercial motor vehicles.

That sobering statistic underlies the start of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. It’s a time to recognize and honor the 3.5 million professional truck drivers in America. And it’s a time to remind motorists to use extra caution when driving near a commercial motor vehicle.

Among the tips offered to share the road with semi-trucks and other large vehicles:

Drive defensively: Pay attention to vehicle locations, traffic flow, vehicle signals and weather so you can anticipate problems and have plenty of time to react.

Avoid blind spots: Large vehicles have extensive blind spots on both sides. If you can’t see the driver’s face in their side-view mirror, they can’t see you.

Pass safely, or not at all: Semi-truck and other large vehicles need twice the time and space to stop as smaller passenger vehicles. When changing lanes in front of large vehicles, allow one vehicle length for every 10 mph you are traveling (70 mph = 7 car lengths).

Pay close attention: Never cross behind a truck that’s backing up. Truck drivers don’t have a rearview mirror and therefore may not see you behind them.

Avoid the “squeeze play”: Truck and bus drivers sometimes need to swing wide to the left to safely make a right turn. They can’t see vehicles squeezing in between them and the curb. Watch for their turn signals and give them room to turn.

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