At what distance is it safe to follow another vehicle if travelling at 64 km/h (40 m.p.h.)?

The correct distance to follow another vehicle when traveling at 64 km/h (approximately 40 mph) is about 36 meters. This distance is based on the common principle of maintaining a safe following distance, which allows for adequate response time in case the vehicle in front stops suddenly.

When a vehicle is traveling at that speed, stopping distance and reaction time play critical roles in ensuring safety. The ideal following distance can be calculated using the two-second rule, which suggests that a driver should stay at least two seconds behind the vehicle in front. This rule of thumb translates into a distance that increases with speed.

At 64 km/h, 36 meters provides enough space to react and maneuver if necessary, considering the average driver's reaction time and the braking distance required. It allows for a buffer that accommodates safe stopping should the vehicle ahead brake unexpectedly, reducing the risk of rear-end collisions.

While shorter distances, such as 20 meters or 30 meters, may seem acceptable, they do not offer the same level of safety and could lead to an increased risk of accidents under sudden braking scenarios. On the other hand, 50 meters may also be safe but could be regarded as excessively cautious for that speed, leading to unnecessary delays in traffic flow. Thus,