What is a common misconception about driving commercial vehicles?

The belief that commercial vehicles handle and stop like personal vehicles is a common misconception. In reality, commercial vehicles differ significantly in size, weight, and design compared to standard passenger vehicles. These differences affect how they maneuver, brake, and respond to driver input.

For instance, due to their larger mass, commercial vehicles have a longer stopping distance than regular cars. This means that they cannot stop as quickly and require more time and distance to slow down, especially when fully loaded. Additionally, their handling characteristics differ; they often have a higher center of gravity, which can lead to challenges with rollover risk during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers.

Understanding these differences is crucial for ensuring safe operation and preventing accidents on the road. Drivers must always be aware of how their commercial vehicle behaves compared to a passenger vehicle and adjust their driving techniques accordingly to maintain safety.