Factsheet 34 – February 2005

Printable version (one file)

Sharing the road with trucks and oversize vehicles

Vehicles of many different sizes share New Zealand's road network, but they don't always share it safely.

Every year around 80 people die as a result of crashes between trucks and cars or motorcycles, and a further 800 people are injured.

Although motorists sometimes blame these crashes on 'truckies who think they own the road', in most cases it is the car driver or motorcyclist who is at fault.

Part of the problem is that many motorists just aren't aware of the potential hazards that exist when big and small vehicles share the road.

The more that car drivers and motorcyclists know about the limitations of trucks and how they should drive when they encounter them, the more crashes may be prevented.

So, what can you do to share the road more safely with trucks? Motorists who follow these guidelines in this factsheet can help ensure a safer journey for themselves, their passengers, and other road users.

Read about:

• Sharing the road safely with trucks.
• Sharing the road safely with oversize vehicles or loads.

Where you can find out more

• Email us: info@nzta.govt.nz.
• Phone our driver licensing contact centre: 0800 699 000.
• Write to us: NZ Transport Agency, Private Bag 6995, Wellington 6141.