Province urges public to use caution near large commercial vehicles

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on March 29, 2025.

Alberta’s government is reminding drivers to exercise caution when driving near large commercial vehicles.

Unlike personal vehicles, trucks and buses need more room on the road to operate safely, and take longer to stop than passenger vehicles. As such, motorists are encouraged to give semi-trucks and buses the room they need to operate safely, avoid blind spots and be aware that many semi trucks will swing slightly to the left before making a right-hand turn.

“When passenger vehicles are involved in a collision with a large vehicle such as a semi-truck or bus, the occupants are more likely to be killed or injured because of the differences in weight, stopping distance and rollover potential,” said the province.

In 2022 in Alberta, there were 25 fatal and 65 major-injury collisions involving semi-trucks, says the province. As of March 31, 2024, there were 85,034 semi-trucks registered in Alberta.

They recommend leaving at least three metres between the front of a vehicle and the rear of a semi-truck stopped at a light or stop sign, especially on a hill.

Commercial drivers can also do their part by staying alert while driving, ensuring their cargo is secured and being aware of road conditions.