What consideration must you take when driving behind a heavy truck?

When driving behind a heavy truck, it's essential to consider both its longer stopping distance and its visibility issues.

Heavy trucks are significantly larger and heavier than standard vehicles, which means they require more time and distance to come to a complete stop. If you are following closely behind, it can be difficult to gauge how far ahead the truck can safely stop, especially in emergency situations. This makes maintaining a safe following distance crucial to allow for adequate reaction time.

Additionally, visibility issues are a significant concern when driving behind a heavy truck. The height and size of the truck can obstruct your view of the road ahead, including traffic signals, pedestrians, and other vehicles. This can limit your ability to anticipate potential hazards and react effectively. When you are in their blind spots, they cannot see you, which can lead to dangerous situations.

By taking into account both the longer stopping distance and the visibility limitations when driving behind a heavy truck, you can make safer driving decisions and reduce the risk of accidents.