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Safe Following Distance
- 1/29If you are driving a heavy vehicle at normal speed
Even at normal speed, heavy vehicles need more stopping distance. Always maintain a large space gap and avoid sudden braking.
When road conditions are wet, sandy, or dusty
Slippery or loose surfaces greatly reduce traction. Lower your speed by 15 to 30 km/h and avoid sharp turns or braking to prevent skids.
At speeds above 80 km/h
Higher speeds significantly increase stopping distance. Be cautious of aquaplaning, especially on wet roads, and prepare to slow earlier.
If your truck is fully loaded
A fully loaded vehicle takes longer to stop. Use brakes gently and over longer distances to avoid overheating and brake fade.
When following another heavy vehicle
Large vehicles obscure your view. Leave enough space to react to unexpected slowdowns or road conditions ahead.
If visibility is reduced by fog or sand
In low visibility, slow down, turn on fog lights or low beams, and increase your following distance to avoid collisions.
When approaching traffic signals or junctions
Heavy vehicles take longer to stop. Anticipate signals and slow down early to prevent overshooting the stop line.
If the vehicle ahead is smaller and brakes suddenly
Smaller vehicles stop faster. Keep a wider gap to allow safe reaction time and avoid rear-end collisions.
When descending a long hill under load
Heavy trucks must avoid continuous braking on slopes. Downshift and use engine brakes to maintain control and prevent brake failure.
At highway speeds with a full cargo load
High speeds combined with a full load require increased awareness, extended braking zones, and smoother maneuvers.
If the road is curved or sloped
Curves and slopes increase rollover risk for heavy vehicles. Enter at a safe speed and use engine braking to maintain control.
When traveling in traffic near urban construction zones
Stay attentive to workers, equipment, and traffic redirection. Maintain a safe buffer zone and be ready to stop.
If another vehicle cuts into your lane
Ease off the accelerator and increase following distance. Sudden swerving in a heavy vehicle can cause loss of control.
At toll gates or checkpoints
These areas are narrow. Slow your vehicle early and watch side clearance to avoid hitting barriers or other vehicles.
When you are being tailgated
Allow more stopping distance ahead so you can brake gently, giving the tailgater time to react.
If you are driving in stop-and-go traffic
Heavy vehicles should avoid hard acceleration and braking. Use low gears to maintain control and space between vehicles.
When your vehicle brakes are warm from heavy use
Brake fade can occur if brakes overheat. Use engine braking and allow brakes to cool before further steep descents.
If you are pulling a loaded trailer
Trailers add weight and length. Make wider turns, brake early, and monitor trailer sway using mirrors.
At night or in low-light conditions
Reduced visibility requires slower speeds, use of proper lighting, and constant scanning of road edges and signs.
When carrying fragile or top-heavy cargo
Fragile or high center-of-gravity loads can shift or tip easily. Accelerate, brake, and steer gently to maintain stability.
When approaching an intersection where visibility is blocked
Your view is obstructed by buildings or other vehicles, reduce speed and edge forward cautiously.
If road conditions include gravel, sand, or oil patches
Slippery or loose surfaces can reduce traction. Avoid sudden braking or turning to prevent skidding or rollovers.
At higher altitudes or hot weather
Engine cooling systems and brakes are stressed at high altitudes or in heat. Use lower gears and rest if needed.
When using air brakes or air-assisted systems
Ensure the air system is fully charged before moving. Avoid repeated braking that can drain pressure rapidly.
If your truck is equipped with retarder or engine brake
Retarders and engine brakes help reduce wear on service brakes and improve safety during descents or gradual slowing.
When your view of brake lights ahead is blocked
Stay further back and look ahead through vehicle gaps. Monitor traffic flow and road signs to anticipate stops.
If traffic is moving unpredictably
Watch mirrors frequently, avoid distractions, and maintain a safe buffer to handle sudden lane changes or braking.
If your load is unevenly distributed
Uneven cargo can affect balance. Take curves and turns slowly to reduce rollover risk, especially if top-heavy.
When you are new to driving a loaded vehicle
Heavier vehicles respond slower to steering and braking. Learn how the load affects handling before entering complex traffic zones.