Following a logging truck with falling bark
You are riding a 650 cc motorcycle on a two-lane rural road with a 100 km/h limit. You are behind a logging truck carrying bark and logs. The truck is doing about 75 km/h. Bark and small stones are falling from the trailer. The road has a blind crest 200 metres ahead, and a passing lane starts in 600 metres. A strong crosswind is blowing from your left. The truck's left indicator flickers on, then off. You have been following about two seconds back and want to get past before the passing lane because you are worried about the truck turning. There is a cyclist on the left shoulder about 150 metres ahead.
1. What following distance should you use, and why?
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Use at least 4 seconds, and more if the bark is falling. In dry conditions the minimum is 2 seconds, but debris, crosswind and a heavy truck increase your reaction and braking needs. Four seconds gives you time to see bark, avoid it, and stop if the truck brakes suddenly. Keep out of the centre of the lane where debris collects.
2. Should you overtake before the passing lane? Justify your answer.
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No. A blind crest 200 m ahead, an ambiguous left indicator, falling bark, a strong crosswind, and a cyclist on the shoulder all make an early overtake unsafe. The truck may be turning left, in which case it will slow and cross the cyclist's path. The passing lane is only 600 m away and gives a safer, wider opportunity. Wait, keep 4 seconds back, and watch the truck's indicator and wheels.
3. How would you overtake safely in the passing lane?
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Check mirrors, signal, head-check, and make sure the truck is not indicating left. Use the full passing lane, accelerate decisively, and do not linger alongside the trailer; crosswinds can push you. Watch for bark and for the cyclist if the shoulder narrows. Return to the left lane only when you can see the truck's headlights in your mirror, and cancel your indicator.