How can you tell if you are tailgating a truck?

Being able to see the rearview mirrors of a truck is a critical indicator of your following distance. If you cannot see the truck's rearview mirrors, it often means you are too close, making it more likely that you are tailgating. This creates a potential safety hazard because following too closely reduces your reaction time in case the truck suddenly stops or slows down.

In contrast, while being able to see a truck's brake lights might suggest that you are within a reasonable distance, it does not provide a full picture of your proximity to the vehicle. Hearing the truck's engine does not correlate directly with tailgating, as sound can travel regardless of distance. Likewise, maintaining eye contact with the driver is not a reliable indicator of your following distance; being too close could obstruct your view of the mirrors instead. Therefore, being able to clearly see the truck's rearview mirrors is the most effective way to determine if you are tailgating.