South Carolina Driver's Permit Practice Exam

Why should you avoid making sudden stops in front of large trucks and buses?

1. They may swerve to avoid you

2. They have smaller blind spots

3. They can take longer to stop

4. They have priority on the road

The correct answer is: They can take longer to stop

Avoiding sudden stops in front of large trucks and buses is primarily important because these vehicles have significantly longer stopping distances compared to smaller vehicles. When a driver makes a sudden stop, the larger vehicle may not be able to stop in time to avoid a collision, as they require a greater distance to come to a complete stop due to their size and weight. Additionally, commercial vehicles are often loaded, which further increases their stopping distance. Understanding the dynamics of braking for larger vehicles is crucial for safety. If a smaller vehicle comes to an abrupt halt, it can create a dangerous situation where the truck or bus, unable to stop quickly enough, might collide with the rear of the smaller vehicle. Drivers should always be aware of their surroundings and the vehicles around them, ensuring they maintain a safe distance and avoid impeding the flow of traffic, especially in front of larger vehicles.