Safety tips for driving near a trash or recycling truck

You’re driving down the street and you come upon a Rogue Disposal & Recycling trash or recycling truck that’s running its weekly collection route. The nature of our job — stopping and starting our oversized trucks in order to collect and empty roll carts — can sometimes disrupt the flow of traffic. And while our drivers do their best to move as far over to the side as they can be, the reality is that there are times when we all have to share the road. Following this simple list of safety tips can help keep everyone safe next time you find yourself driving near a trash or recycling truck.

Things you can do when driving to prevent accidents

We understand that being stuck behind a trash or recycling truck can be frustrating. Not surprisingly, the leading cause of accidents with solid waste trucks come from people losing their cool and driving too close. Another frequent contributor to accidents is when drivers behind the truck become distracted. Here are some tips to keep traffic moving as quickly as possible while keeping everyone safe.

• Trash and recycling trucks have to stop and start as they collect their loads. If you’re driving near one of these trucks, always keep your distance and be prepared to stop.
• Since garbage trucks are big and bulky, there are blind spots where the driver might not see you. Keeping your distance helps the drivers know you’re there.
• If you are going to pass a trash or recycling truck, proceed carefully. Make sure you are aware of all your surroundings, wait for a spot where you have the space and visibility to pass, then go. Don’t cross double-yellow lines or try and pass on a hill or curve. And never, ever try and pass a collection truck on the right side or at an intersection.
• The more you can stay calm, cool and collected, the less likely you are to make an impulsive or dangerous mistake.
• While our drivers all do their utmost to make sure everything being dumped into the truck ends up in the truck, every now and then wind or other factors send some debris into the street. Again, making sure you are well back will prevent your car from any damage.
• It takes these collection vehicles nearly twice as long to stop as it does a passenger car. So never cut in front of a collection truck or stop suddenly in front of one.
• All of our trucks are equipped with a back-up alarm. So when you hear the “beep-beep-beep” that signifies the truck is in reverse, pay attention and move out of the way.

What about situations outside your vehicle?

Whether you’re biking, jogging, skateboarding or walking, be extra vigilant around collection trucks, always making sure to keep a safe distance. Because these trucks make frequent stops and wide turns, never try and go around the truck as it’s making its collections. Don’t cross in front of the truck — stand safely off to the side until the truck has completed its pickup and driven away before you cross the street. And while kids often love seeing the garbage truck in their neighborhood, make sure they watch from a safe distance — and never in the roadway. Pro tip: Our driver’s love it when kids give a wave!

What to do when you encounter a trash and recycling truck: a recap

Next time you’re out and about and you come upon a big red Rogue Disposal & Recycling truck, remember these pointers for keeping yourself and our drivers safe:

• Stay alert
• Pay attention to the surroundings
• Remain visible
• Keep a safe distance
• Avoid distraction
• Keep your eyes and ears open
• Make sure children are kept at a safe distance

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we move along city streets, country roads and through your neighborhoods each week collecting trash and recycling. Please keep an eye out when you see us and we’ll do the same for you. Be safe out there, everyone!