Stay out of the no-zones
A loaded tractor trailer has four large blind spots: directly in front, directly behind, along the right side from cab to trailer end, and a smaller one along the left side. The rule of thumb: if you cannot see the truck driver in their side mirror, they cannot see you.
Pass on the left, finish quickly
When passing a truck, signal early, accelerate past, and only return to the truck's lane once you can see the entire front of the truck in your rearview mirror. Lingering alongside a truck means lingering in its blind spot.
Right turns swing wide
Trucks need extra room for right turns. Never try to squeeze between a turning truck and the curb. Drivers signaling right and starting to swing left first are setting up a wide right turn, not changing their mind.
Stopping distance
A loaded 18-wheeler at 65 mph needs more than the length of two football fields to stop. Never cut in front of a truck and hit your brakes. If you must merge in front, leave at least four seconds of space.