When a truck becomes disabled on the highway, flares or reflectors must be placed approximately what distance ahead of and to the rear of the disabled vehicle?

Placing flares or reflectors a distance of approximately 30 meters ahead of and to the rear of a disabled vehicle on the highway is essential for ensuring safety. This distance allows oncoming drivers sufficient warning to see the disabled vehicle well in advance and make necessary adjustments to their speed or direction, helping to prevent accidents. The recommended distance is based on the visibility needs at high speeds, as vehicles can cover ground rapidly on highways.

This standard is designed to provide adequate reaction time for other road users, taking into account the typical speed limits on highways, which are generally much higher than in urban areas. The 30-meter distance is considered effective for alerting drivers while still ensuring that the flares or reflectors are close enough to signal the presence of a hazard without being obscured or too distant to be seen clearly.