Montana Truck Following Distance
No fixed feet, and no truck-only number. The general rule is reasonable and prudent (MCA 61-8-329(1)), which is what a trooper writes for tailgating. Outside a business or residence district, every vehicle in a line (trucks included) must leave enough room for a passing car to merge (61-8-329(2)). That is convoy spacing, not a set gap behind the car in front. Measured on the road by the CDL seconds rule. Fine runs up to about $50.
A detail here is flagged medium confidence — confirm with the state statute before you rely on it.
How much room Montana makes you keep
No fixed feet, and no truck-only number. The general rule is reasonable and prudent (MCA 61-8-329(1)), which is what a trooper writes for tailgating. Outside a business or residence district, every vehicle in a line (trucks included) must leave enough room for a passing car to merge (61-8-329(2)). That is convoy spacing, not a set gap behind the car in front. Measured on the road by the CDL seconds rule. Fine runs up to about $50.
The required distance
- Rule: Gap between trucks
- Gap: No fixed feet — reasonable and prudent, plus leave room for a passing car between vehicles in a line outside town
- Fine: Misdemeanor, fine up to about $50
Montana Following Distance FAQ
How much following distance must a truck keep in Montana?
What is the required gap in Montana?
What is the following-too-closely fine in Montana?
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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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://mca.legmt.gov/bills/mca/title_0610/chapter_0080/part_0030/section_0290/0610-0080-0030-0290.html. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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