How far must a commercial vehicle follow another vehicle under ideal conditions?

Following distance is crucial for safety, especially in commercial vehicles that are larger and have longer stopping distances compared to smaller vehicles. The recommended following distance under ideal conditions is generally two to three seconds, but because of the size and weight considerations of trucks, maintaining at least a four-second gap is better practice. This allows the driver ample time to react to sudden stops or emergencies ahead.

Choosing a five-second following distance is particularly appropriate because it provides additional safety margin. It allows for a safer buffer since trucks require more time and space to stop due to their weight and the inertia involved. A five-second following distance enables drivers of large vehicles to observe road conditions ahead more effectively and respond adequately, promoting safer roadways for everyone.

Thus, while a four-second distance is often cited for standard vehicles, five seconds is more suitable for commercial trucks under ideal conditions, allowing for adequate response time even if unexpected conditions arise.