Rules for following distances

Curtis
Mowers
Posted 6/18/03

Ask a Trooper

Question: Curt, what is the correct following distance? Everyone seems to be way too close behind each other. What can I do as a driver having someone too close behind me? Isnąt there a rule of so many vehicle lengths for miles per hour to use as a guide?

Answer: The law states a specific distance for vehicles pulling trailers. This includes semi truck tractors with trailers. They must maintain a minimum distance of 500 feet.

While the law does not state a specific distance for vehicles not pulling trailers, we do teach a rule which might help you. We no longer teach the old rule of one car length for every 10 miles an hour of speed. These days, it is just not good enough.

The Minnesota Safety Council Defensive Driving Instructors now teach what we call the 3-Second Following Rule. Watch the vehicle in front of you. When that vehicle gets past an object such as a sign, pole, bridge, etc., then count łone thousand one, one thousand two, one thousand three.˛ You should not arrive at that spot sooner than your count to three. Also, you must add one second for every hazard that exists. Hazards include but are not limited to heavy traffic, rain, snow, fog, driving into the sun, etc. In some cases you might have to allow six, seven, or even eight seconds (or more) to be safe because of existing hazards.

Learn how to recognize any kind of hazard while you are driving out there, and practice the 3-second (plus) following rule. We get many complaints of trucks following too closely. Contrary to popular belief, crash facts show a much larger number of cars and pickup trucks being involved in fatal rear end crashes than semi truck-tractors pulling trailers!

If someone is following you too closely, you can pull over and let them by. Tapping your brake lights may not always be a safe option, but in certain cases might help temporarily. Not everyone who follows other vehicles real closely wants to pass you. Check in your mirrors every 3 to 5 seconds so you know what is going around you. While we cannot control the vehicles around us, we can control our own. We can choose to drive safely in all conditions.

The law does state that you shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicles and the traffic upon and the conditions of the highway. This needs to be heeded by all of us!