When crossing or entering traffic with a heavy vehicle, what is an important consideration?

Heavy vehicles require larger gaps in traffic than cars primarily due to their size and weight. This is crucial for several reasons. First, heavy vehicles, such as trucks and buses, typically weigh significantly more than standard passenger vehicles. As a result, they have longer stopping distances, meaning they need more time and space to safely come to a stop. Additionally, the acceleration of a heavy vehicle is often slower compared to lighter cars, which means that drivers must anticipate and account for the time it takes to reach a safe merging speed.

Moreover, the larger size of heavy vehicles also creates blind spots, which can further complicate their ability to gauge gaps in oncoming traffic accurately. This is why drivers of heavy vehicles must be particularly vigilant and patient when entering or crossing traffic, ensuring they have ample space and time to maneuver safely.

Understanding this need for larger gaps helps ensure not only the safety of the heavy vehicle operator but also that of other road users.