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 truck approaching from the opposite direction. You should be especially cautious because large trucks often create what phenomenon that can affect your vehicle?
- AA vacuum effect that pulls your vehicle towards them.
- BA bright glare from their headlights, regardless of time of day.
- CA strong tailwind that pushes your vehicle forward.
- DA wind buffer that can push your vehicle to the side.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. A wind buffer that can push your vehicle to the side.
Large trucks displace a significant amount of air, creating a 'wind buffer' or 'air turbulence' that can push smaller vehicles, like cars, to the side as the truck passes. This requires drivers to maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While there's some air disturbance, it's more of a push (buffer) than a pull (vacuum).
- B. Headlight glare is not specific to trucks creating air effects and is usually only an issue at night.
- C. Trucks create turbulence, not a consistent tailwind, and it's usually a side push.
Large Truck Air Turbulence
Large trucks can create air turbulence or a wind buffer that can push smaller vehicles to the side, requiring drivers to be prepared.
- More pronounced when trucks pass at high speed.
- Can affect vehicle stability, especially for smaller cars.
- Maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel.
Memory trick: Big truck, big blow, hold tight and go slow.