Alberta Class 7 License Practice Test

The recommended following distance for a large vehicle is four seconds. This extended following distance is crucial because large vehicles, such as trucks and buses, require more time and distance to come to a complete stop due to their size and weight. In various driving conditions, including poor weather or heavy traffic, it’s essential to give yourself ample space to react and stop safely. A four-second gap allows the driver behind a large vehicle to see potential hazards ahead without being too close, which can help prevent accidents caused by sudden stops. Maintaining this distance also helps to enhance visibility, as larger vehicles can obstruct the view of the road ahead.

In contrast, shorter following distances, like two or three seconds, may not provide enough reaction time when driving behind a large vehicle, increasing the risk of a collision in emergency situations.