If you’ve ever driven across the vast expanse of Wyoming, particularly along Interstate 80 (I-80), you’re no stranger to the constant presence of semis. As a recent spring break road trip took me across the entire length of I-80, I had a front-row seat to the sheer number of large commercial vehicles navigating this critical stretch of highway.
Wyoming’s weather is unpredictable, with wind gusts that can be especially fierce across open highways. As I rode along in the passenger seat, it became impossible to ignore the noticeable swerving of semis in front of us. These large vehicles, often carrying heavy loads, can become dangerously unstable when buffeted by strong crosswinds. However, during my drive, I observed that many of these large rigs were not carrying loads — which can turn them into “sailboats” when hit by wind gusts. Without the weight of a load, these trailers can be more prone to tipping or swerving unpredictably.
In fact, during our trip, I learned that the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) had issued a safety warning for commercial drivers: Stay off the roads if you are not hauling a load. This is due to the increased risk of wind-induced instability. Despite this warning, it was apparent that not all drivers followed these guidelines.
Distracted Driving: A Growing Concern
Another observation that raised concerns was the sighting of drivers distracted by their phones. Although not as common as the swerving caused by wind, it was clear that some commercial drivers were not entirely focused on the road. It underscores the importance of being vigilant behind the wheel. Distracted driving can have serious consequences, especially in large vehicles like semis.
Stay Safe and Vigilant
Driving in Wyoming can be challenging, especially when sharing the road with semis. Whether you’re behind the wheel of a large truck or a passenger car, it’s essential to stay alert, respect the space of others on the road, and stay updated on any safety alerts or advisories.
Stay safe on the Wyoming roads, and contact us if you need us.