usxpop |
05-07-2008 02:27 PM |
Draft or slow down
OK, I've read all the posts so far on this subject and must say I'm pleased that, so far, there's no flaming of anyone by anyone else.
Much discussion about moving over to let big rigs get by in right lane. No one seems to be a big rig driver and many are expressing opinions of what those drivers think.
I'm retired now, but I drove big rigs for two different OTR (over the road) companies. Among the many things drivers think about 4-wheelers (anyone driving a car of pickup) is that almost all of them are idiots and should not be allowed to driver on the hwys. That seems harsh, but you'd have to see the many stupid things cars and pickups do in front of, beside, and behind big rigs. If you travel the hwys with a CB radio, listen sometime to comments from one driver to another about car and pickup drivers who just nearly caused big problems. Happens all the time. Oh, BTW, if you do listen be prepared for the bad language. Sorry folks, truckers can be potty mouths.
Anyway, to the subject of lane changing, driving slow, etc. What drivers want from cars and trucks is consistnacy. If you are in a lane and a big rig is coming up on you, stay in the lane until the big rig is well in front of you and safely back in the lane in front of you. I know many of you want to use P&G and lesser speeds on the hwys. If you do, pick and choose where and when - hopefully not close to big rigs. Save it for more open areas.
As to drafting. Ever see the little plackard on the back of many trucks that reads, "If you can't see my mirrors, I can't see you." It doesn't take driving too close to get into that area behind a big rig to be invisible. If you want to draft, do so at least several vehicle lenghts back. Contrary to popular belief, big rigs can stop fast enough to sucker you right under the run-under bar on the back of the rig if you're drafting too close. If you are passing a slower rig, "get'er done." Drivers don't like a car or pickup taking too long getting around. We may not be as "fleet-o-foot" as a car or pickup, but when we need to maneuver, we can make a lane change or stop quickly.
I'm still lerning about the hypermilage tricks, but don't try using them full time. There is a time and place. Which would you rather have, 70mpg by going slower than all traffic including big rigs, or get your butt run over by someone not payinng attention and hitting you from behind? Most rig drivers hate to drive through Ohio because of the speed differential between big rigs and other vehicles. 55mph for rigs and 65-70 for others. Be willing to scarifice high mpg for safety. After all the ultimate way to save gas is to not drive. However, don't die just to boost milage.
If you drive in high traffic areas (much of the eat coast corridors) just live with less milage for increased safety. The big rig driver will appreciate your safe driving. Best way to be safe around big rigs is consistancy.
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