Traffic Tip: Follow a safe distance
June 11, 2011 at 1:11 a.m.
This week's traffic law is found in The Texas Transportation Code,
Sec. 545.062. FOLLOWING DISTANCE. (a) An operator shall, if following another vehicle, maintain an assured clear distance between the two vehicles so that, considering the speed of the vehicles, traffic, and the conditions of the highway, the operator can safely stop without colliding with the preceding vehicle or veering into another vehicle, object, or person on or near the highway.
(b) An operator of a truck or of a motor vehicle drawing another vehicle who is on a roadway outside a business or residential district and who is following another truck or motor vehicle drawing another vehicle shall, if conditions permit, leave sufficient space between the vehicles so that a vehicle passing the operator can safely enter and occupy the space. This subsection does not prohibit a truck or a motor vehicle drawing another vehicle from passing another vehicle.
(c) An operator on a roadway outside a business or residential district driving in a caravan of other vehicles or a motorcade shall allow sufficient space between the operator and the vehicle preceding the operator so that another vehicle can safely enter and occupy the space. This subsection does not apply to a funeral procession.
Why the emphasis on this particular traffic law?
This is the most common driving error in Victoria that leads to crashes; people following too close to the vehicle in front of them. A general rule of thumb to follow when you are stopped behind a vehicle in traffic is to be able to clearly see the rear tires of the vehicle in front of you on the roadway. If you can't see the rear tires clearly on the ground, you are too close, and if someone runs into the back of your vehicle, you most likely will be pushed into the vehicle in front of you.
Drive defensively, not aggressively.
The Victoria Police Department Traffic Safety Unit reminds you to drive safe. The life you save may be your own.
For more information, contact Sgt. Julian Huerta, Traffic Safety Unit 361-485-3700.