When driving behind a large truck on the freeway, what is the safest distance to maintain?

Maintaining a safe distance behind a large truck on the freeway is crucial for ensuring adequate visibility and reaction time. Large trucks have significant blind spots, often referred to as "no-zones," which can make it difficult for truck drivers to see smaller vehicles that are close behind them. By staying farther behind the truck than you would behind a passenger vehicle, you are allowing yourself a clear view of the road and anticipating any potential hazards or sudden stops that the truck driver may have to make.

This increased distance also provides more time to react if the truck needs to brake suddenly or if debris falls from the truck. In addition, maintaining a greater distance can help you avoid the effects of wind turbulence caused by the truck, making your driving experience safer and more stable.

In adverse weather conditions, as seen in other options, closely following the truck could lead to dangerous situations, as both visibility and stopping distances may be reduced. Similarly, being right alongside the truck can lead to risky situations since you could inadvertently drift into its blind spot. Keeping a greater distance enhances overall safety on the road.