Safety Tips for Sharing the Road with Wind Turbine Blade Haulers

Some truck drivers in the United States routinely transport oversized loads that require extra caution when driving, both for their own safety and that of other motorists. Due to the size of these vehicles, there are areas around the truck and roadway that the driver cannot see clearly, increasing the number of blind spots.

Truck blind spots are areas around the semi-trailer where the driver’s visibility is obstructed or completely blocked. These blind spots are a result of the considerable length and height of semi-trailers and are typically located in the following areas:

• Rear: the blind spot can extend approximately 20 to 25 vehicle lengths behind the truck.
• Front: due to the height of the truck, the driver of a smaller vehicle does not have the same forward visibility as the truck driver.
• Right side: the blind spot on the right side can extend along the entire length of the trailer and span up to three lanes at a diagonal angle.

Although all trucks have blind spots, those transporting oversized loads can face greater visibility and maneuverability challenges. One example is trucks transporting large components, such as wind turbine blades. In these cases, taking extra precautions and maintaining an adequate following distance is especially important to prevent accidents.

Safety Tips for Sharing the Road with Wind Turbine Blade Haulers

Recently, the Illinois State Police (ISP) issued a press release stating that motorists traveling through the state may notice an increase in oversized loads transporting wind turbine blades, including frequent trips along U.S. Route 136 from Havana to I-155 and I-55, before continuing to destinations throughout Illinois.

For this reason, the ISP offered several tips for safely sharing the road with these loads. Due to their size, these types of loads require additional space and patience to travel safely. The ISP recommends that motorists encountering one follow these guidelines:

• Maintain a safe following distance: Keeping a greater following distance and staying away from the large blind spots is one of the most important precautions.
• Be prepared for wide turns: Oversized loads may occupy multiple lanes when making turns, exiting the roadway, or merging into traffic. Pay close attention to turn signals and other indications of their intended movements.
• Pass carefully: Only pass these loads when it is safe and legal to do so, and avoid merging back into the lane too soon. Avoid dangerous maneuvers and sudden braking, and do not make abrupt lane changes—especially do not attempt to squeeze between the load and another vehicle.
• Watch for escort vehicles: These loads are often accompanied by escort vehicles. Follow their instructions and be prepared for temporary reductions in speed or brief stops.

• Be patient: These loads travel below the posted speed limit for safety reasons, which can cause traffic congestion. Remaining patient in these situations will help ensure everyone’s safety.
• Stay alert: Wind turbine blades can extend well beyond the trailer and may move slightly when traveling over uneven roads. Always maintain a safe distance.
• Remember their limitations: Oversized loads cannot stop or maneuver as quickly as other vehicles.

By giving these loads the space they need, you are helping keep everyone traveling on Illinois roads safe, the ISP release stated. As a driver, it is also important to maintain a safe distance, use turn signals properly, and wait for the appropriate time to make a merging maneuver.