What is the legal following distance from an emergency vehicle?

The legal following distance from an emergency vehicle is 500 feet. This requirement is in place to ensure the safety of both the emergency responders and the general public. Maintaining this distance provides adequate space for the emergency vehicle to maneuver, respond to incidents, and allows other vehicles to adequately yield the right of way. It also helps prevent potential accidents that could arise from being too close, especially in situations where emergency vehicles may need to stop suddenly or change lanes without warning. By observing a 500-foot distance, drivers can ensure they are behaving responsibly and safely in the presence of emergency vehicles.