Sharing the Road

Drivers must remember that cars are not the only ones using the road. There are also large trucks, buses, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians, and everyone has the responsibility to follow traffic laws and respect other drivers.

Drivers who are following large trucks should pay attention to the blind spots and avoid them at all costs; some trucks have helpful signs on their vehicles stating where their blind spots are. Trucks should be given a lot of room to turn and maneuver. Drivers of commercial vehicles should keep their speeds at a safe rate, keeping in mind that it is difficult to stop their vehicles quickly if there are any dangerous situations.

Construction sites may make many drivers impatient and restless because it costs them time; however, it is very important for drivers to slow down in construction zones for the safety of the workers and follow all signals for yielding or stopping. Traffic fines are higher in construction zones for these reasons.

In some rural or suburban areas, slow moving vehicles such as farm equipment can share the road with drivers. Drivers should always be aware that some of these machines drive at very slow speeds; use extra caution when attempting to pass any slow moving vehicles.

There are many places where pedestrians have the right of way: in a crosswalk with the walk signal constantly lighted or if the don’t walk signal has started to flash after the pedestrian has entered the crosswalk. In unmarked areas, the pedestrian has the responsibility to yield to drivers before they attempt to cross the street. In neighborhoods or school zones, drivers should look out for children who might suddenly run into the

street from yards, playgrounds, or driveways.

In the case of motorcycles, most accidents are caused because drivers had low visibility of the motorcycle. Drivers should be aware of any motorcycles around them or opposite from them at stoplights. Motorcycle riders should be prepared with protective clothing and headgear and should refrain from unsafe passing, speeding, or riding.

It is everyone’s responsibility to make sure that accidents do not occur and everyone can share the road.