What is the recommended following distance when towing a heavy trailer?

The recommended following distance when towing a heavy trailer is one vehicle length for every 10 mph. This guideline is important because towing a heavy trailer affects the stopping distance and handling of the vehicle combination. When towing, the additional weight and momentum created by the trailer require more time and space to come to a complete stop.

Establishing a following distance that is proportional to your speed helps ensure that you have enough space to react to sudden changes in traffic, allowing for safe braking and maneuverability. By maintaining this distance, a driver can better accommodate for the greater stopping distances associated with towing, thus minimizing the risk of a collision. Additionally, this practice contributes to safer driving conditions for both the towing vehicle and the trailer on the road.