How far should you stay behind a large truck while driving?

Staying at least 5 seconds behind a large truck is important for several reasons. Large trucks have significant blind spots and take longer to stop than passenger vehicles. The 5-second rule allows for a safe stopping distance, giving you ample time to react to any sudden changes in the truck's speed or direction. This distance enhances your visibility around the truck, allowing you to see potential hazards such as pedestrians or merging traffic. Furthermore, it reduces the risk of being caught in a situation where you might have to stop abruptly, which is critical given the truck's size and braking capability. Overall, maintaining this distance promotes safer driving conditions for everyone on the road.