What does the term "off-tracking" refer to in vehicle operation?

The term "off-tracking" refers to the phenomenon in which the rear wheels of a vehicle, particularly in a tractor-trailer or longer vehicles, follow a different path than the front wheels when making turns. This occurs because the front wheels have a shorter turning radius compared to the rear wheels. As a result, the back of the vehicle effectively "cuts" the corner and can follow a narrower path, which is especially important to understand for safe navigation in tight situations, such as intersections or while navigating around obstacles.

Understanding off-tracking is crucial for truck drivers as it affects the vehicle's overall maneuverability and the space needed to make sharp turns, ensuring safety for both the driver and surrounding road users. It is vital for drivers to anticipate this behavior, particularly in urban environments or when operating near other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.