New Jersey Truck Following Distance
100 feet is the New Jersey truck number, and it only applies behind ANOTHER truck, out on a highway past the business or residence district (N.J.S.A. 39:4-89). It does not stop you from passing. Behind a car or in traffic, the rule that governs is the same statute's reasonable-and-prudent standard. That's the tailgating ticket a trooper writes: $50 to $200, 5 points, even up to 15 days jail. Hold the CDL 7-second gap.
How much room New Jersey makes you keep
100 feet is the New Jersey truck number, and it only applies behind ANOTHER truck, out on a highway past the business or residence district (N.J.S.A. 39:4-89). It does not stop you from passing. Behind a car or in traffic, the rule that governs is the same statute's reasonable-and-prudent standard. That's the tailgating ticket a trooper writes: $50 to $200, 5 points, even up to 15 days jail. Hold the CDL 7-second gap.
The required distance
- Rule: Fixed truck gap
- Gap: 100 feet behind another truck, outside a business or residence district; does not stop you from overtaking and passing
- Fine: $50 to $200, 5 license points, and up to 15 days in jail possible (N.J.S.A. 39:4-89)
New Jersey Following Distance FAQ
How much following distance must a truck keep in New Jersey?
What is the required gap in New Jersey?
What is the following-too-closely fine in New Jersey?
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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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/new-jersey/title-39/section-39-4-89/. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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