California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Rules of the Road and Right-of-WayMedium
You are driving on a two-lane road and see a large commercial truck approaching from the opposite direction. You should be aware that large trucks can create a 'wind blast' or 'air turbulence' that can affect your vehicle. How should you best prepare for this?
- AGrip the steering wheel firmly and be prepared for a slight push from the wind.
- BBriefly turn on your hazard lights to warn the truck driver of your presence.
- CSteer firmly to the right to create more space between your vehicle and the truck.
- DSpeed up to pass the truck as quickly as possible.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Grip the steering wheel firmly and be prepared for a slight push from the wind.
Large trucks create significant air turbulence that can push smaller vehicles. Gripping the steering wheel firmly provides better control and allows you to counteract the sudden force, maintaining your lane position safely.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Hazard lights are for disabled vehicles or extreme hazards, not for anticipating air turbulence from an oncoming truck.
- C. Steering aggressively to the right might cause you to go off the road or into another lane if there's one.
- D. Speeding up towards an oncoming truck is dangerous and counterproductive to safety.
Large Truck Wind Blast
The air turbulence generated by large commercial trucks that can affect the stability of smaller vehicles, requiring drivers to maintain firm control.
- Affects smaller vehicles
- Requires firm steering grip
- Anticipate the push
Memory trick: Truck's wind, grip the wheel!