What is the correct following distance for buses, commercial trucks, and other heavy vehicles?

The correct following distance for buses, commercial trucks, and other heavy vehicles is 5 seconds. This longer following distance is critical because heavier vehicles require more time to stop compared to standard passenger vehicles. The stopping distance for a heavy vehicle consists not only of the time it takes to react to a situation but also the increased distance needed to brake safely, especially when fully loaded.

In diverse driving conditions, such as when roads are slippery or visibility is poor, having an extended following distance allows for greater reaction time, reducing the risk of collisions. Additionally, this practice helps prevent the rear-end accidents that can occur when larger vehicles are too close to the vehicle in front of them, as they may not be able to stop as quickly.

While shorter following distances may be adequate for lighter vehicles, the nature and size of buses and trucks necessitate a minimum of 5 seconds to ensure safety and adequate reaction time in various driving conditions.