How fast can you drive a heavy truck or trailer?
How fast can you drive a heavy truck or trailer?
Posted on November 22, 2022
Truck driving can be exhausting and dangerous as it involves being on the road for long hours. Sometimes, a truck driver may go over the speed limit without even noticing. The heavy truck max speed for most vehicles is over 160 kph, but that doesn't mean you should drive at that speed.
Heavy truck speeding can be especially dangerous because most trucks carry a load or pull a trailer. Trying to brake that load can compromise the braking if it's not done in good time. Come with us as we look at how fast you can drive your heavy truck or trailer.
How Fast Can You Go?
In 2008, the Ontario legislature passed a bill that permits speed limiters to be used on most large trucks to cap trailer max speed. The speed limiter caps the speed at 105 kph to reduce road accidents and pollution.
A speed limiter or governor works by automatically reducing your engine's efficiency. When a vehicle reaches the set speed, it can’t go any faster. Most manufacturers add these devices to prevent drivers from damaging tires and pushing the vehicle past its limits.
Speed limiters have, over the years, proven to improve fuel economy and lower maintenance costs for companies and truck owners. The speed limiter also assists with fighting climate change, as they help in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Most recently manufactured trucks come equipped with speed limiter technology and don’t need extra installation. Speed limiters have become mandatory for most trucks manufactured after 1995, especially in Canada.
How to Ensure You’re Driving at the Right Speed
When driving long distances or in a large vehicle, it's easy to lose focus and forget to check the speed limit. We have put together a few tips to help ensure that you're always driving at the right speed as a trucker:
- Always check the posted speed limit.
- Drive slower in bad weather conditions such as snow and fog or when the road conditions are bad or dangerous.
- Slow down when you go downhill.
Truck drivers should also remember to maintain a reasonable following distance because the vehicle requires more time to brake. Be sure to reduce your speed when anticipating a stop. Also, you’ll want to avoid overtaking other vehicles because a truck requires more distance and time.