[Ocnbrz]

In my lifetime I have operated all kinds of equipment, including big rigs. In years past many were operated by professional drivers. I wish that were still the case today. Many are paid by the mile, if the truck isn't moving they aren't making any money. The hours are long and the pay stinks. They are constantly being pushed to cover more distance, to move more product in less time. For the independents the cost of fuel and tires alone can drive them out of business. Many are away from home for weeks at a time. Companies cut corners on vehicle maintenance. Yes, the govt. conducts safety inspections of the vehicle and driver but they aren't going to catch all the problems. It's a hard occupation to attract good people to. Long hours, low pay, bad weather, bad drivers, it all adds up to trouble. We have all had our sleepless nights. Imagine that in a rig next to you weighing 100,000 lbs and traveling 60+ miles an hour. Their not going to stop on a dime!

While there are plenty of "bad" truck drivers there is no shortage of "bad" auto drivers either. Aggressive drivers, no matter what they drive are a hazzard to everyone! More than one truck accident was caused by someone in a car that didn't give that truck enough room ... or time to stop, slow down etc.

Be aware that on most highways trucks are restricted to the right two lanes. Don't hang out in their blind spots, Right behind the cabs doors is a spot that is very difficult for a truck driver to see. In Clint's example he was stuck till he could get around them. Having been behind the wheel of both kinds of vehicles I won't ride next to a truck if at all possible. As soon as I can pull away from them I do! Another reason to stay clear of them. Many trucks run recap tires on everything but the steering tires.If the air pressure isn't maintained at a proper level the tire can overheat and will pop. Hence the strips of tire rubber alongside many interstates.

Bottom line is everything we buy was brought to the store by a truck. We are going to have to live with them. The main thing is give them plenty of room. Many of us have cell phones now, if a truck driver is being unsafe report him! But above all watch out for yourself. Nobody else is going to do it for you.