What is the proper following distance for a large truck at highway speeds?

The proper following distance for a large truck at highway speeds is three seconds. This distance is recommended because large trucks need more time to react and stop due to their size and weight. The three-second rule ensures that truck drivers maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, allowing them adequate time to respond to sudden stops or emergencies. At higher speeds, the stopping distance increases significantly, so having this buffer is crucial for safe driving.

Maintaining a three-second following distance provides additional room for maneuvering should the situation demand, considering the longer braking distances required for large trucks compared to smaller vehicles. This practice also helps in reducing the risk of rear-end collisions and enhances overall safety for both the truck driver and other road users.