When passing a truck or commercial motor vehicle, what should you be aware of?

When passing a truck or commercial motor vehicle, being aware of the side, rear, and front no-zones is crucial for your safety. These no-zones are areas around the truck where the driver's visibility is limited, meaning they may not see vehicles that are directly beside them or right behind or in front.

Understanding these no-zones helps drivers recognize that they should avoid lingering in these areas when attempting to pass. For instance, if you are in a truck's blind spot on the right side, the driver may not be aware of your presence, which poses a significant risk. Additionally, knowing these no-zones allows you to make safer decisions while maneuvering around large vehicles, ensuring you can pass safely and quickly without putting yourself in danger.

While the other choices are relevant factors to consider when driving around trucks, they do not emphasize the importance of understanding visibility limitations. The truck driver's visibility is important but is primarily affected by the no-zones. The speed limit is consistent and applicable to all vehicles, though not as specific to the nuances of passing large trucks. The truck's load can affect its size and weight, but it does not directly relate to the immediate safety risks posed during the act of passing. Thus, focusing on the no-z