What should you do if you attempt to pass a heavy truck and notice strong wind gusts?

In situations where strong wind gusts are present while you're attempting to pass a heavy truck, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Slowing down and waiting for calmer conditions is the most prudent approach. Strong winds can significantly affect the stability of both your vehicle and the truck, especially if it's a larger vehicle that can be affected more by wind. By reducing your speed, you have more control over your vehicle and can safely navigate the passing maneuver without risking losing control due to wind turbulence.

Choosing to speed up to finish passing quickly can increase the risk of an accident, as it may lead to instability and a lack of control. Changing lanes regardless of conditions could expose you to unnecessary dangers, such as crosswinds that could push your vehicle off course. Passing on the left for more space might not be sufficient if wind conditions are severe, as the space itself doesn’t address the challenge of handling the strong gusts that could impact your vehicle’s handling right after passing the truck. Therefore, waiting for calmer conditions while maintaining a safe distance ensures a more secure and steady driving experience.