Bonneville America Forums Forums Off Topic Discussion Forums Lounge VERY Scary!!!!

Ten years ago, I worked for a large textile leasing company (G&K Services), and got to start up a new Super Route here in Houston. They purchased me a new Freightliner diesel truck - a BIG delivery truck, not an 18-wheeler, but as big a truck as you'll see that's not an 18 wheeler - I can't remember how long or GVWR or such - it's been too long.

But I suddenly saw every 18 wheeler and every other kind of big truck or van out on the road and found myself a lot more conscious of them and what I could do to be more courteous towards them. Even when in my own pickup - it is a very good feeling to give a trucker a break - like blocking for him at an intersection when you see his right blinker on, but he's in the left lane. Like recognizing he is trying to make a left turn in front of you but needs a break in traffic to pull it off - especially on a two lane. I would stop well back of the intersection and give him plenty of room to make his turn, blocking others behind me that would have never recognized his need. I still do this, of course, but the point to be taken is the awareness level that came with me driving a bigger truck, too. Always made me feel good to help a trucker out.

I realize we as bikers don't need that kind of help on the road - we just need to be seen. That would often be enough. Could be the difference in tragedy or a non-event. Our awareness level towards others has certainly been elevated, but how are we going to get everyone else's attention?