Alabama Truck Following Distance
300 feet. If your rig or combination runs 25 feet or longer and you're behind another truck that long, outside a city, leave at least 300 feet so a car can pass and pull in (Ala. Code 32-5A-89(b)). It doesn't apply in town, never stops you from passing, and drops the trailing platoon truck. For everyday tailgating a trooper cites the general rule: reasonable and prudent, at least 20 feet per 10 mph of speed (32-5A-89(a)).
How much room Alabama makes you keep
300 feet. If your rig or combination runs 25 feet or longer and you're behind another truck that long, outside a city, leave at least 300 feet so a car can pass and pull in (Ala. Code 32-5A-89(b)). It doesn't apply in town, never stops you from passing, and drops the trailing platoon truck. For everyday tailgating a trooper cites the general rule: reasonable and prudent, at least 20 feet per 10 mph of speed (32-5A-89(a)).
The required distance
- Rule: Fixed truck gap
- Gap: 300 feet behind another truck or combination when both are 25 feet or longer, outside a business or residence district; separate general rule of 20 feet per 10 mph for all drivers
- Fine: 3 points on your license, plus fine and court costs; amount set by the court (Ala. Code 32-5A-89)
Alabama Following Distance FAQ
How much following distance must a truck keep in Alabama?
What is the required gap in Alabama?
What is the following-too-closely fine in Alabama?
Reference information for planning, not legal advice. Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it. Last reviewed July 2026. Source: https://codes.findlaw.com/al/title-32-motor-vehicles-and-traffic/al-code-sect-32-5a-89/. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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