Drivers should maintain a minimum following distance to have enough space and time to react if something happens unexpectedly. The minimum recommended distance in Pennsylvania is four seconds. This means if the driver ahead passes a stationary object, such as a road sign or tree, it should take the driver behind four seconds to pass the same object.
However, in some instances, drivers need to increase their following distance. Below are three of those instances:
When travelling on roads with poor conditions
When driving in poor road conditions, such as on roads that are wet, slippery or unpaved, you should increase your minimum following distance because poor traction significantly increases a car’s stopping distance.
When following a driver with a large blindspot directly behind
If you are behind a driver who lacks rear vision, such as a driver of a truck, bus or car pulling a trailer, increase the following distance. Since the driver has a large blind spot directly behind them, they may not notice you. In turn, they can make a decision that causes you to run into them.
Further, large vehicles can block your view ahead. When you are far behind, you can see what’s happening on the road.
When following a vehicle carrying hazardous substances
Increase your minimum following distance when behind a car carrying hazardous substances. These vehicles usually have warning signs notifying other road users that they have this type of cargo. If an accident involving this vehicle, even a minor one, happens, you may be at risk of exposure to dangerous materials if you are too close.
If a driver injures you in a situation where they should have increased their following distance, you need to learn more about how to get fair compensation.