Space Between Cars and Trucks Can Mean Difference Between Getting Home Safe and Getting Into a Wreck

Isn't it the stereotype that all big trucks or 18-wheelers think they own the road? I'm sure many of you have seen it. There are just some trucks that seem like they're way too close to you, and you actually may be right.

According to the Virginia's Commercial Driver's Manual, there are certain guidelines for truck drivers to follow in order to manage the space ahead, behind, to the sides, for turns, overhead, and to cross/enter traffic.

Given that it's easier for a small car like a Ford Focus to brake quicker than a Hostess Delivery Truck, large vehicles are to maintain at least one second distance for each 10 feet of vehicle length.

For example, if you're driving a 40-foot vehicle at about 40 mph, then you should have 4 seconds in between you and the car ahead of you.

With this in mind, next time you are driving down Interstate 64 (I-64), I-264, or I-664 and you see a large truck following to close to you in the rearview mirror, you'll know that they're not following the rules of the road.

Unfortunately, many truckers disregard the law in favor of getting their haul to its destination faster. This creates a tension on the road between cars and large commercial trucks that sometimes leads to serious car-truck wrecks.

If you've been the victim of a crash involving a large truck and suspect it was due to the truck following too closely, consult with an attorney right away. Commercial trucks are subject to federal guidelines and an attorney can help determine whether or not the truck driver violated these regulations in your accident.   

To learn more, check out our free consumer guide on what to do if you get seriously hurt in a truck accident.