To what minimum following distance should you adhere when behind vehicles that frequently stop?

In situations where you are driving behind vehicles that frequently stop, such as buses, delivery trucks, or other vehicles that regularly pick up or drop off passengers, maintaining a following distance of 3 or 4 seconds is advisable. This distance provides a safe buffer that allows for adequate reaction time if the vehicle in front of you suddenly stops or slows down.

At 3 to 4 seconds, you have a better chance of avoiding a collision by giving yourself enough time to assess the situation ahead and react appropriately. This is particularly important in urban environments or areas with high pedestrian traffic where unpredictable stops are more common. Maintaining this longer following distance not only enhances safety but also allows for smoother traffic flow, as it helps prevent sudden braking and frequent adjustments in speed.

Overall, this recommended following distance is designed to promote safe driving practices and is especially relevant when driving near vehicles that are known to stop frequently.