Safe Distance Following Policy

SAFE DISTANCE FOLLOWING POLICY

Tailgating (following at an unsafe distance), whether done negligently or unconsciously, is responsible for one-third of rear-end collisions each year. Rear-end collisions can cost thousands of dollars and in the worst case scenario, fatalities.

DAYLIGHT with DRY ROADS and LOW TRAFFIC VOLUME

Follow the SIX SECOND RULE:

  • Select a fixed object on the road ahead such as a sign, tree, or overpass
  • When the vehicle ahead passes the object, slowly count "one one thousand, two one thousand, . . . and so on up to six one thousand"
  • If you reach the object before finishing the count, you're following too closely

By making sure there are six seconds between you and the car ahead, you will have given yourself a better time and distance to respond to any unforeseen problems.


NIGHT TIME or POOR WEATHER CONDITIONS or HEAVY TRAFFIC

Double the SIX SECOND RULE.

Keep in mind that weight and speed also play a significant role in determining your ability to stop and should be taken into account accordingly..