[SentraSE-R]

You folks don't get it. 0.15 seconds is an excellent reaction time. That means from the time you notice the big rig's brake lights to the time you jam on your brakes, you've already eaten the big rig's rear end. The only time you should be within 1-2 car lengths of anyone at highway speeds is if you're in the lane next to them.

From riding an underpowered motorcycle on highways, there is a maximum drafting benefit 10' behind a truck, where he actually sucks you along with him. But you can get much of the same wind blocking benefits with much more safety in the adjacent lane, or 100 feet back.

Considering the overall scenario, even on an hour-long commute, it's better to drive 15 mph slower, and leave 15 minutes sooner, than to risk being lunch meat jammed underneath the frame of a tractor-trailer. I've seen the blood on the windshield. The frame comes across at neck height, just right to decapitate you - a benefit to end your suffering instantly. Bumpers drop lower, though, to keep you alive and push your engine block into your knees. It's not worth it.