How many red reflective triangles should be carried in a vehicle?

A vehicle, specifically a commercial motor vehicle, is required to carry three red reflective triangles. This requirement is set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations. The purpose of having three triangles is to ensure that drivers have enough warning devices to effectively signal an emergency situation. If a breakdown occurs, the triangles can be strategically placed to alert oncoming traffic, enhancing safety on the road.

Using a single triangle would not be sufficient for visibility across a wide area, and carrying more than three could be impractical and unnecessary. Therefore, having three triangles strikes a balance between safety preparedness and practicality.