Following too close

The Feds require new trucks to be able to stop in 335 feet at 60 mph. The fmvss sets standards for trucks.

 

Correction: The nhsta sets the the fmvss standards.

 

Yep if you drive a brand new truck you can stop a lot faster. And all of us go out and buy new trucks every time nhsta sets a new standard right?

Edit to add, and none of us ever pull an older trailer with less stopping power with that new truck correct?

 

I guess if you are driving an older truck you better add a couple more seconds to your following distance at 60 mph...agreed?

 

It's not based on vehicle length any more like x amount of vehicle lengths space to be legal.

It is based on time distance. We are taught that for every 10 feet of your vehicle follow behind the vehicle in front by 1 second. Over 40 miles per hour add 1 more second. Inclement weather, add 1 second. Night driving add 1 second.

So if your vehicle is 65 feet long, round up, that is 7 seconds. Going over 40 miles per hour? Now you're at 8 seconds. Driving at night in the rain? Now you are at 10 seconds following distance.

So when that vehicle up ahead passes that sign next to the road, or passes over that white broken line, start counting to yourself as you cross the plane of the landmark the vehicle in front crossed over, you should have counted about 8 seconds before crossing it yourself. Anything less, time to back off a little bit.\\

Some trucks have a front facing radar thing that will automatically keep the distance safe and legal to the vehicle ahead. All the driver has to do is hold onto the steering wheel.

 

that forward facing radar is on guard. it starts slowing at 300 ft out. they will be gripping the wheel for life's sake after it locks and smokes the trailer because it detected an errant blade of grass or a random warm and fuzzy on the road.