California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Safe Driving PracticesMedium
You are driving on a multi-lane roadway and need to pass a large truck. What is the safest way to do this?
- ASignal, pass slowly on the left, and merge back when you see the truck's headlights in your rearview mirror.
- BPass the truck quickly on the left side.
- CPass the truck quickly on the right side.
- DStay in the truck's blind spot for a short period to assess traffic.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Pass the truck quickly on the left side.
When passing a large truck, it's safest to pass quickly on the left side. Trucks have larger blind spots, especially on their right side. Passing quickly reduces the time you spend in any of their blind spots, minimizing risk.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Passing slowly increases the time you spend in the truck's blind spots, which is unsafe. You should also see the entire cab in your rearview mirror, not just the headlights, before merging back.
- C. Passing on the right is more dangerous due to the truck's large right-side blind spot ('no-zone').
- D. Staying in a truck's blind spot is extremely dangerous as the driver cannot see you.
Passing Large Trucks
Pass large trucks quickly on their left side to minimize time spent in their extensive blind spots (no-zones).
- Trucks have large blind spots on all sides.
- Their right-side blind spot is particularly large.
- Pass quickly to reduce risk.
- Ensure you see the full truck cab in your rearview mirror before returning to lane.
Memory trick: Left, Quick, Clear! Then look in the mirror.