When one truck is following another, it must keep a distance sufficient for what purpose?

The requirement for one truck to maintain a sufficient distance behind another is primarily for safety reasons, allowing for one vehicle to safely enter the space between the two trucks. This distance provides adequate room for maneuverability and response to sudden changes in speed or direction. If the following truck keeps an appropriate following distance, it ensures that it can react effectively to any emergencies or abrupt stops without risking a collision.

Maintaining this distance is critical in commercial vehicle operation where large trucks require longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles. This safety protocol is in line with regulations that emphasize preventing accidents and ensuring that there is a cushion of space for other vehicles to safely change lanes or merge into the traffic flow.

While factors like roadside emergencies, smooth lane changes, and fuel efficiency may all be impacted by following distance, the primary concern relates to the ability of another vehicle to merge or enter a lane safely without cutting off or colliding with either truck.