If you are driving a 30-foot vehicle at 55 mph, what is the recommended following distance?

The recommended following distance for a 30-foot vehicle traveling at 55 mph is 4 seconds. This guideline is based on the principle that larger and heavier vehicles require more time to stop compared to smaller vehicles. A 4-second interval provides a safety buffer that accounts for the longer stopping distances associated with larger trucks due to their size and weight. This additional time allows the driver to react to sudden stops or emergencies ahead without risking a collision.

A following distance of 4 seconds is particularly important in a heavy vehicle context because it also takes into consideration road conditions, weather, and the driver's ability to respond. It ensures that the driver has enough time to perceive a situation, make a decision, and execute the necessary maneuver safely.