Don’t Make The Same Mistake I Did.

I just came back from a trip that ran me through Chicago coming and going. I told a coworker that Chicago must translate to "right lane closed ahead." I have never seen more right lanes closed, both directions, for construction than in Chicago... it's like a challenge to them, how many right lanes can we have closed at once.

Haha. I play in Chicago often. I've had my mirrors scrubbed a few times by other trucks coming over the lane lines to avoid other hazards, but never any damage. I just pull over as soon as as can and pull them back in. Thankful for mirrors that push out instead of breaking if scrubbed. Hasn't happened in my 2019 so far, they're mounted slightly more forward and in, than the '16 Cascadia.

Good lesson learned. Glad you are ok.

Good lesson learned. Glad you are ok.

“Yes” to both for me as well. Luck was on the OP’s side.

It is indeed a lesson learned... however I look at the much bigger picture here:

- an elevated level of situational awareness needs to kick-in when on local roads. A whole “nother” animal...

- looking further down the road; always anticipating anything that can cause an issue and having an advance plan to avoid it. Hyper vigilance is required because there are many more variables possible here. Always think and look ahead.

- extended left lane running on a local highway with intersections and turning lanes is not advisable. Assume the truck you are passing, or passing you on the right has an operator with one week old CDL and the driver has never experienced this before. Adopt that mind-set and apply appropriate caution always. Limit left hand running to only what is required to approach a left hand turning lane.

So yes “rushing” usually never results in a positive outcome but there is more here than just “that”. Huge learning experience and opportunity for looking at the bigger picture and how-to handle it safer next time.