What is a good rule of thumb for drivers sharing the road with a tractor-trailer?

A good rule of thumb for drivers sharing the road with a tractor-trailer is that if you can't see the truck driver in their side mirror, they can't see you. This principle underscores the importance of understanding blind spots around large vehicles like trucks.

Tractor-trailers have significant blind spots on all sides, and the area where the driver cannot see other vehicles is often much larger than that of a standard car. By being aware of these blind spots, drivers can make safer choices, such as ensuring they maintain a distance where the truck driver can see them, thus reducing the risk of accidents resulting from sudden lane changes or turns by the truck.

Being mindful of this aspect of driving allows for better communication on the road. It encourages drivers of smaller vehicles to be cautious and to stay visible to truck drivers, ensuring safer navigation around them during maneuvers like merging or passing.