Virginia Truck Following Distance
No fixed truck number here. Virginia runs one rule: follow no closer than is reasonable and prudent for the speed and conditions (Va. Code 46.2-816). No 200- or 300-foot truck subsection, no convoy line - the general standard governs whether you're behind a car or a rig. That's what a trooper cites for tailgating: 4 demerit points, up to $250. Judge it by the CDL count - 7-plus seconds behind a loaded truck.
How much room Virginia makes you keep
No fixed truck number here. Virginia runs one rule: follow no closer than is reasonable and prudent for the speed and conditions (Va. Code 46.2-816). No 200- or 300-foot truck subsection, no convoy line - the general standard governs whether you're behind a car or a rig. That's what a trooper cites for tailgating: 4 demerit points, up to $250. Judge it by the CDL count - 7-plus seconds behind a loaded truck.
The required distance
- Rule: Reasonable & prudent
- Gap: No fixed distance - reasonable and prudent for the speed and conditions.
- Fine: Traffic infraction. Prepay about $30; up to $250 in court ($500 in a Highway Safety Corridor). 4 DMV demerit points.
Virginia Following Distance FAQ
How much following distance must a truck keep in Virginia?
What is the required gap in Virginia?
What is the following-too-closely fine in Virginia?
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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title46.2/chapter8/section46.2-816/. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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