Oregon Truck Following Distance
No fixed feet. Oregon's truck rule only bites when you're behind another truck (or a rig towing) out on the open road or a city freeway: leave room for a passing car to merge (ORS 811.485). It doesn't stop you passing. Tailgating a car, or anytime you're in traffic, is the general 'reasonable and prudent' standard (ORS 811.485(1)) - a Class B violation, $265 presumptive fine. ODOT teaches the CDL seconds rule; run 7-plus seconds behind.
How much room Oregon makes you keep
No fixed feet. Oregon's truck rule only bites when you're behind another truck (or a rig towing) out on the open road or a city freeway: leave room for a passing car to merge (ORS 811.485). It doesn't stop you passing. Tailgating a car, or anytime you're in traffic, is the general 'reasonable and prudent' standard (ORS 811.485(1)) - a Class B violation, $265 presumptive fine. ODOT teaches the CDL seconds rule; run 7-plus seconds behind.
The required distance
- Rule: Gap between trucks
- Gap: Sufficient space for a passing car to merge, on the open road or a city freeway and behind another truck, commercial bus or vehicle in tow - no fixed feet.
- Fine: Class B traffic violation, $265 presumptive fine (ORS 811.485; ORS 153.019).
Oregon Following Distance FAQ
How much following distance must a truck keep in Oregon?
What is the required gap in Oregon?
What is the following-too-closely fine in Oregon?
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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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://oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_811.485. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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