Accidents Involving Heavy Vehicles in Singapore

Trucks, buses, and other heavy vehicles share the same roads as smaller cars, but their size and handling characteristics create unique accident risks that both heavy vehicle drivers and other motorists need to understand.

1. Blind Spot Collisions

Heavy vehicles have significant blind spots on all sides, particularly directly behind and along the sides near the cabin. Smaller vehicles that linger in these zones are often not visible to the driver at all.

Prevention tip: Car drivers should avoid lingering beside or behind heavy vehicles for extended periods. If you can’t see the truck driver’s side mirrors, assume they can’t see you either.

3. Wide Turns at Junctions

Trucks and buses need a wider turning radius than cars, which sometimes means they swing wide before completing a turn. Vehicles or pedestrians positioned too close can be caught off guard.

Prevention tip: Give heavy vehicles extra space at junctions, especially when they signal a turn. Never attempt to squeeze past a truck that’s beginning to turn.

3. Sudden Stops Due to Load Shifts

Poorly secured cargo can shift during sudden braking or turning, occasionally causing the vehicle to behave unpredictably or even tip.

Prevention tip: This is primarily a responsibility for heavy vehicle operators, who should ensure loads are properly secured before every trip. Other drivers should maintain distance from heavy vehicles as a general precaution.

4. Reduced Visibility for Following Drivers

Cars following closely behind a truck or bus often can’t see traffic conditions ahead, since the heavy vehicle blocks their view entirely.

Prevention tip: Avoid tailgating heavy vehicles. Keep enough distance to maintain visibility of the road ahead, and only overtake when you have a clear, safe opportunity to do so.

5. Fatigue Among Commercial Drivers

Heavy vehicle drivers, particularly those on long routes or tight delivery schedules, may face pressure to skip rest breaks, increasing the risk of fatigue-related accidents.

Prevention tip: Companies should enforce reasonable rest schedules for drivers, and drivers themselves should prioritise adequate rest over meeting tight deadlines. Other motorists should stay alert around heavy vehicles at all times, since fatigue isn’t always visible from the outside.

Final Thoughts

Because of their size and weight, accidents involving heavy vehicles tend to have more serious consequences. Awareness of blind spots and turning behaviour, from both sides, is key to preventing these incidents.