Tennessee Truck Following Distance
300 feet. A truck over 1.5 tons can't run within 300 feet of another truck of equal or greater capacity headed the same way outside city limits (Tenn. Code 55-8-124(d)) — except to pass, when one is stopped, or to help a disabled truck. In town, behind a car, or in traffic, the ticket is the general rule: reasonable and prudent (55-8-124(a)). Following too closely is a Class C misdemeanor, up to $50 plus 3 points.
How much room Tennessee makes you keep
300 feet. A truck over 1.5 tons can't run within 300 feet of another truck of equal or greater capacity headed the same way outside city limits (Tenn. Code 55-8-124(d)) — except to pass, when one is stopped, or to help a disabled truck. In town, behind a car, or in traffic, the ticket is the general rule: reasonable and prudent (55-8-124(a)). Following too closely is a Class C misdemeanor, up to $50 plus 3 points.
The required distance
- Rule: Fixed truck gap
- Gap: 300 feet behind another truck of equal or greater capacity, outside city limits (trucks over 1.5 tons); statute also carries a separate subsection (b) 'sufficient space for a passing car' convoy rule
- Fine: Class C misdemeanor, up to $50 fine plus court costs, 3 points on your record (Tenn. Code 55-8-124)
Tennessee Following Distance FAQ
How much following distance must a truck keep in Tennessee?
What is the required gap in Tennessee?
What is the following-too-closely fine in Tennessee?
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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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/tn/title-55-motor-and-other-vehicles/tn-code-sect-55-8-124/. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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