Colorado Truck Following Distance
No fixed feet. Behind another truck or a rig towing, outside a business or residence district, leave enough room for a passing car to merge (C.R.S. 42-4-1008(2)). That is a convoy gap that never blocks passing. Everywhere else (behind a car, in traffic, in town) it is reasonable and prudent (42-4-1008(1)), measured by the CDL seconds gap. Tailgating is a Class A traffic infraction: up to about $100 plus surcharges and 4 points.
How much room Colorado makes you keep
No fixed feet. Behind another truck or a rig towing, outside a business or residence district, leave enough room for a passing car to merge (C.R.S. 42-4-1008(2)). That is a convoy gap that never blocks passing. Everywhere else (behind a car, in traffic, in town) it is reasonable and prudent (42-4-1008(1)), measured by the CDL seconds gap. Tailgating is a Class A traffic infraction: up to about $100 plus surcharges and 4 points.
The required distance
- Rule: Gap between trucks
- Gap: No fixed feet — behind another truck outside town leave room for a passing car to merge; otherwise reasonable and prudent
- Fine: Class A traffic infraction, 4 points, up to about $100 plus surcharges (C.R.S. 42-4-1008; penalties 42-4-1701)
Colorado Following Distance FAQ
How much following distance must a truck keep in Colorado?
What is the required gap in Colorado?
What is the following-too-closely fine in Colorado?
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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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://law.justia.com/codes/colorado/title-42/regulation-of-vehicles-and-traffic/article-4/part-10/section-42-4-1008/. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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