Large vehicles in traffic (Give space) is about how you as a driver ensure safety and flow when meeting and overtaking large vehicles like trucks and buses.
For general advice on positioning and driving method, see Positioning and driving method.
For techniques for safe overtaking, see Overtaking and lane change.
For a defensive approach, see Defensive driving.
For more on blind spots, see Blind spots around heavy vehicles.
Why give space to large vehicles?
Large vehicles have larger blind spots, longer braking distance, and can cause turbulence affecting smaller vehicles. Keeping proper distance reduces risk and improves traffic flow.
Recommended distances and margins
| Vehicle type | Min. lateral distance | Min. following distance |
|---|---|---|
| Truck/Bus | 1.5 m | 3 seconds |
| Trailer | 1.0 m | 2 seconds |
| Other large vehicle | 1.2 m | 2.5 seconds |
| Long modular combination | 1.5 m | 4 seconds |
Planning to tow yourself? Read Driving with a trailer.
Junctions and roundabouts
- Plan lane position before entering junctions with bus bays or terminals. Review rules in Right-of-way and roundabouts.
- Hold your line through the roundabout; allow the bus or truck to straddle lanes if needed.
- Use shoulder checks to cover the left blind spot for large vehicles in the inner lane. Combine with the routine from The five look rules.
Overtaking assessment
| Scenario | Risk | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Truck swinging wide before a turn | Occupies extra road width | Wait until the vehicle has completed the turn before passing |
| Bus approaching a stop | Passengers may step into the carriageway | Slow early and be ready to stop |
| Long-haul truck on rural road | Air pressure and turbulence | Keep steady throttle, maintain lateral gap, complete the pass decisively |
| Snowplough or gritter | Spray and poor visibility | Stay back and wait until the driver waves you by |
Need smoother merging after the pass? See Merging and queue driving.
Practical tips
- Anticipate turns and maneuvers – large vehicles need more space for turning and lane changes
- Stay visible – avoid blind spots, especially on the right side
- Reduce speed well before overtaking
- Avoid sudden gear changes and steering inputs in turbulence
- Be patient – large vehicles accelerate and brake more slowly
- Watch for signals – track indicators and brake lights, and confirm with eye contact when possible. Read Communicating with other road users.
Signalling and contingency
- Keep the right indicator ready when passing a truck heading for a lay-by so you can show intent and free space early.
- Use a brief hazard warning if you must brake hard in a queue behind a bus, following the guidance in Hazard warning lights and triangles.
- Report hazardous incidents (such as dropping cargo) to the road authority on 175 and note the registration number.
Checklist before overtaking a large vehicle
- Is visibility good enough – do you see the entire vehicle in the mirror?
- Do you have sufficient following distance behind?
- Is there enough space at the overtaking point?
- Are there any oncoming or crossing road users to consider?
- Are there no tight groups of cyclists or pedestrians nearby? By giving sufficient space to large vehicles you contribute to a safer, more predictable traffic system.