Understanding the Behaviors of Drivers of Lifted Trucks: Insights and Myths

The perception that drivers of big lifted trucks often tailgate and speed has become a common topic in driving communities. However, it’s important to note that not all drivers of such vehicles exhibit these behaviors. This article will explore the underlying factors contributing to these perceptions and address some of the misconceptions.

Factors Contributing to Driving Behaviors

Several factors can influence the driving behaviors of drivers of lifted trucks. These behaviors range from personal attitudes to societal and cultural influences.

Vehicle Size and Visibility

Larger trucks often have a commanding presence on the road. This can make some drivers feel more confident or aggressive. This confidence might lead them to engage in behaviors like tailgating and speeding, even if these behaviors are not inherently linked to the size of the vehicle.

Cultural Factors

The culture around lifted trucks emphasizes ruggedness, power, and dominance. Drivers of these trucks might feel the need to assert themselves on the road, leading to more aggressive driving behaviors. This is particularly true in communities where such behavior is celebrated or expected.

Perceived Safety

Some drivers may feel safer in larger vehicles, leading them to take more risks than they would in smaller cars. This can result in behaviors like tailgating and speeding. The perception of safety can be influenced by the driver’s confidence in the vehicle’s durability and ability to handle certain driving conditions.

Speed and Performance

Many lifted trucks are equipped with powerful engines and capable of high speeds. Drivers may be inclined to push their vehicles to their limits, especially on highways, where they can experience this power first-hand. This desire to reach the vehicle’s maximum potential can translate into faster speeds and more adventurous driving.

Social Influence

If a driver is part of a community or group that values fast driving or aggressive behavior, they may feel pressured to conform to these norms. Peer pressure can significantly influence a driver’s behavior, leading to actions that might not be in line with personal driving preferences.

Frustration with Traffic

Some individuals may become frustrated with slower traffic, leading them to tailgate or speed in an attempt to navigate more quickly. This behavior is often a result of impatience and a desire to reach their destination more efficiently.

Accuracy of Speedometers in Lifted Trucks

It is interesting to note that some owners of lifted trucks may not realize how fast they are actually going. The addition of larger tires to the truck can throw off the speedometer, leading to discrepancies in the readings.

For example, if a truck owner has lifted their truck and installed 35-inch tires, the speedometer may not be calibrated correctly. This can lead to situations where the speedometer indicates a lower speed than the actual speed. As a result, the driver may be traveling faster than they realize, especially at higher speeds.

Modern Speedometer Considerations

The accuracy of modern speedometers can vary. Electric speedometers, which are now more common, do not always have built-in mechanisms to correct for changes in tire size. This means that simple methods of calibrating the speedometer, such as adjusting gears, are no longer feasible. Dealerships may need to reprogram the speedometer to account for the new tire size.

Personal Experience

The author of this article drives a slightly lifted truck with 35-inch tires. At 35 mph, the speedometer might read 40 mph, and at 65 or 70 mph on the speedo, the actual speed could be 75–80 mph.

This discrepancy can lead to a lack of awareness regarding the true speed of the vehicle, especially on highways where high speeds are frequently observed. It underscores the importance of understanding one’s speedometer and compensating for any inaccuracies that may be present in a lifted truck.

It is crucial for drivers to recognize the influence of these factors and strive to maintain safe and considerate driving practices, regardless of the type of vehicle they are operating.