What Should You Do if You Notice a Trucker Driving Erratically?

Maryland’s highways are packed with commercial trucks on any given day, especially along I-95, I-70, I-695, and the beltway. While most truckers are trained professionals, sometimes you may see one driving in a way that makes your heart skip a beat.

They might be swerving between lanes, slamming on the brakes for no reason, or barreling down the highway way too fast.

When a massive 18-wheeler is not under control, they are a danger on the road. But what should you do if you notice a trucker driving erratically?

Taking the right steps can help prevent a serious truck accident. Here’s what you need to know.

The Signs of Erratic Driving

Some truckers are simply bad drivers, but their behavior may not fall into the erratic category. However, some driving behaviors should put you on high alert.

Be sure to watch out for:

• Weaving or drifting between lanes
• Sudden braking or acceleration
• Speeding or failing to maintain a steady speed
• Ignoring traffic signals or signs
• Driving on the shoulder or straddling
• lanes
• Failure to use turn signals or making jerky lane changes
• The driver appears distracted or drowsy

These red flags can indicate many issues, such as fatigue, distraction, mechanical failure, or even impairment. With the size and weight of commercial trucks, even a single mistake can lead to a serious accident.

How to Handle an Erratic Truck Driver

If you witness a driver acting dangerously on the road, you should take action. Here are a few steps to report the driver and keep others safe.

Keep Your Distance

The first step is to get as far away from the truck as possible. If the driver suddenly loses control, you don’t want your vehicle to be anywhere near them.

Make sure to increase your following distance. Avoid driving directly beside or in front of the truck. If you must pass, do it quickly and cautiously. You never want to linger in the truck’s blind spots.

Do Not Engage the Driver

You may want to honk or flash your lights, but don’t. You don’t know what’s causing erratic behavior.

It could be everything from road rage, exhaustion, or even a medical emergency. Instead of escalating the situation, focus on keeping yourself safe.

Note a Few Details

You may want to report the situation to the local authorities if it appears to be dangerous. Make sure to get the following:

• The truck’s license plate number
• Trucking company name
• Color, make, and model of truck
• Highway or road name, mile marker, and direction of travel
• Time of day and the specific behavior you witnessed

Keep in mind that the more information you can provide, the better.

Report Their Driving

If the truck poses an immediate danger, you must call 911. Let law enforcement handle the situation. They can track down the driver and deal with the situation safely.

For non-emergency situations, you can also report the driver by calling:

• 410-579-5959 for the Maryland State Police for commercial vehicle enforcement
• 1-888-DOT-SAFT to report unsafe commercial drivers to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)

If the truck has a “How’s My Driving?” sticker, you can report them directly to the trucking company.

Many companies take complaints seriously, especially if the driver’s actions put others at risk.

Why You Should Report

While Maryland has stringent trucking laws, enforcement agencies must rely on reports from drivers like you to stop dangerous truckers before they cause crashes. Many accidents are caused by certain factors, such as:

• Driver fatigue
• Distracted driving
• Overloaded trucks
• Substance use

By reporting an erratic truck driver, you are helping make Maryland’s highways safer for everyone.

Keep Everyone Safe on the Road

Spotting a reckless truck driver on the road can be a frightening experience. However, you will want to remain calm and take a few steps to ensure your safety.

You need to take action the next time you see a trucker swerving on I-95 or speeding through a construction zone on the beltway. One phone call could prevent a disaster.

If an erratic driver has injured you, you can pursue your legal options. These drivers and their employers can be held liable for any damages caused by this behavior.

Belsky & Horowitz, LLC, can help you take your next steps to find a remedy.