What is the recommended following distance at speeds greater than 30 mph?

The recommended following distance at speeds greater than 30 mph is four seconds. This guideline is based on the principle that the faster you are traveling, the longer it will take to stop your motorcycle safely in the event of an emergency. A four-second following distance allows for adequate reaction time and space to maneuver, which is essential for maintaining safety on the road.

At higher speeds, factors such as reaction time, stopping distance, and the time it takes to perceive a potential hazard play crucial roles in overall safety. A two-second following distance may be sufficient at lower speeds, but as speed increases, so does the need for more space to respond to sudden changes in traffic, road conditions, or obstacles. A four-second cushion provides a safer buffer in which to react, thus reducing the risk of accidents.