NHVR urges motorists to take care around trucks

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator is urging motorists to take extra care around heavy vehicles during the school holidays, as more families and caravanners are expected to take to the roads over the break.

The regulator says drivers should always give trucks plenty of room, particularly when merging and overtaking, and stay out of their blind spots.

NHVR Corporate Affairs Executive Director Michelle Tayler says motorists who are nervous around heavy vehicles should slow down and remain alert.

“If you’re overtaking a truck, make sure you have a clear view ahead and plenty of road to complete the manoeuvre safely,” Ms Tayler said.

She also says trucks often need more than one lane to turn at corners, intersections and roundabouts, and warns drivers should allow three to four times more space when merging or overtaking in front of a truck.

The NHVR is also reminding motorists these school holidays that if they cannot see the truck driver in its mirrors, there is a good chance they cannot be seen either.