In a scenario where a truck has a lower speed limit, what should you do to stay safe?

• A. Use extra caution when changing lanes or passing
• B. Drive at the same speed as cars to avoid attention
• C. Stay in the left lane and push ahead
• D. Ignore the slower traffic and stay in your lane

Answer: (A)

When you encounter slower traffic like a truck with a lower speed limit, the key is to plan your lane change and pass carefully. Trucks take longer to accelerate and have bigger blind spots, so you need extra room and clear visibility before moving out of your lane. Signal early, check your mirrors and blind spots, and only pass when you have a safe, unobstructed gap. Make the pass quickly and smoothly, then return to the right lane once you can see the truck in your rearview mirror. Maintain a safe following distance behind the truck and avoid tailgating or lingering in the left lane.

Trying to drive at the same speed as faster traffic to “blend in” can tempt risky behaviors, and staying in the left lane to push ahead blocks other vehicles and increases the chance of a collision. Ignoring the slower traffic and staying in your lane deprives you of a safer option to pass when conditions allow.