Ute and Truck Awareness: Safe Following Distances and Stopping Gaps

Tailgating a ute or truck is one of the quickest ways to turn a routine drive into a risky one. Bigger vehicles need more space to stop, and their blind spots are larger. Staying aware and giving them room can save you from accidents and stress on the road.

Why this matters
Understanding safe following distances isn’t just about obeying road rules. It’s about having enough time to react if the vehicle ahead slows suddenly. For utes and trucks, misjudging gaps can lead to collisions, especially on highways and in stop-start traffic.

Step-by-step method for safe following

  1. Use the two-second rule as a minimum – Pick a fixed point on the road. When the vehicle in front passes it, start counting. You should reach the same point no sooner than two seconds later.
  2. Adjust for vehicle size – For utes, vans, or trucks, add at least one extra second. These vehicles take longer to stop and can block your view of hazards.
  3. Factor in speed and conditions – Rain, gravel, or loose surfaces increase stopping distances. Slow down and add extra space whenever visibility or traction is reduced.
  4. Keep lateral awareness – Don’t sit in blind spots. Trucks and utes have large blind zones along both sides and directly behind. If you can’t see the driver’s mirrors, they can’t see you.
  5. Anticipate braking – Watch brake lights and traffic ahead, not just the vehicle directly in front. This gives you more reaction time to avoid sudden stops.
  6. Smooth speed changes – Avoid aggressive acceleration or braking. Gradual changes help maintain safe gaps and reduce the risk of collisions.
  7. Reassess constantly – Traffic is dynamic. Even if you’ve left a safe gap, conditions can change quickly, so adjust distances regularly.

Safe Following Checklist

  • Two-second minimum distance in normal conditions
  • Add extra second for utes/trucks
  • Increase distance in wet, gravelly, or low-visibility conditions
  • Avoid blind spots; stay visible in mirrors
  • Watch traffic ahead, not just the vehicle in front
  • Brake and accelerate smoothly
  • Recheck gaps frequently

Common mistakes

  • Following too closely in traffic
  • Sitting in a truck’s blind spot
  • Braking last minute rather than anticipating traffic flow
  • Not adjusting distance in poor weather
  • Assuming utes and trucks can stop as quickly as cars

Questions to ask a cleaning provider (included as an example of “questions to ask” for general safety or service audits in the vehicle context)

  1. Do you clean around mirrors and windows to maintain clear visibility?
  2. How do you handle cab or tray areas for commercial utes or trucks?
  3. What products do you use to avoid residue on windshields?
  4. Can you provide quick turnaround for fleet vehicles?
  5. Do you inspect for hazards like slippery mats or loose debris after cleaning?
  6. Are you trained to clean without interfering with vehicle electronics or cameras?

Quick wrap-up
Keeping a safe following distance behind utes and trucks isn’t negotiable—it’s about protecting yourself and others on the road. Small adjustments in distance and awareness can make a big difference. For a smoother and safer drive, start applying these tips today, and keep your vehicle’s dashcam ready for any unexpected moments.

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