Minimum Distance
The sign indicates a prohibition against maintaining a shorter distance to the motor vehicle in front traveling in the same direction than specified on the sign.
When You See This Sign
When you see the sign you should immediately check and ensure that the distance to the motor vehicle ahead in the same direction is not shorter than the number of meters indicated. Adjust your speed and increase the distance so that you are safely above the stated minimum and maintain it until the sign is lifted.
Rules & Regulations
- The sign prohibits keeping a shorter distance than the number of meters shown on the sign to the motor vehicle in front traveling in the same direction.
- The prohibition applies to motor vehicles (cars, trucks, buses, etc.) and is mandatory, not merely a recommendation.
- The distance on the sign is given in meters and must be maintained under normal conditions; deviation is only allowed for brief, necessary maneuvers (for example during overtaking) if it is unavoidable.
- The prohibition remains in effect until it is lifted by an end-of-restriction sign or another road sign that explicitly indicates the end of the prohibition or changes the traffic rules at that location.
- Failing to keep the specified minimum distance can be judged as dangerous driving behavior and may lead to fines or other penalties at the discretion of the police.
Tips for Drivers
- Watch for the road sign and note the number in meters; use road markings or fixed reference points (e.g., posts) to estimate the distance if you are unsure.
- Use time-based spacing (e.g., the two-second rule) as a practical aid — if you pass the same point that the vehicle ahead passed in less time than corresponds to the required distance, increase your spacing.
- Increase your margin in poor road conditions, rain, fog, or nighttime driving because the nominal distance on the sign applies under normal conditions.
- Be especially alert at tunnel entrances, bridges, and hazardous road sections where the sign often appears — prepare your speed and distance in advance so you can avoid sudden braking.
Common Mistakes
- Believing the sign is only a recommendation — it is a prohibition and must be respected.
- Assuming the sign also applies to bicycles or pedestrians; it applies to motor vehicles in the same direction.
- Forgetting that the prohibition applies until it is officially lifted by road signage and therefore reducing the distance too early.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Minimum Distance
What should you consider here?
- A You must keep at least the specified distance to the vehicle in front.
- B You may not stop closer than the specified distance from the edge of the road.
- C Vehicles longer than the specified dimension are prohibited.
- D Overtaking is prohibited.
Exam Tip
On the theory exam you may get a question testing what the sign covers — emphasize that it applies to motor vehicles in the same direction, that the distance is given in meters, and that it is a prohibition, not a recommendation.
Did You Know?
The minimum distance sign is often used near tunnels, bridges, and accident-prone stretches to reduce the risk of rear-end collisions and was introduced to create clear, measurable spacing requirements in traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the sign apply to all vehicles, including bicycles?
No, the sign explicitly applies to motor vehicles traveling in the same direction. Bicycles and other non-motorized road users are normally not covered by this prohibition.
Can I be closer than the sign indicates in a traffic jam or stationary traffic?
The prohibition generally applies even in queues, but brief and unavoidable shorter distances during overtaking or tight queue situations can occur. Aim to restore the minimum distance as soon as possible.
How do I know when the prohibition ends?
The prohibition ends when you pass a sign that explicitly shows the end of the prohibition or another road sign that changes the traffic rules. The absence of the sign does not automatically mean the prohibition has ended until you see an end sign.
How do the police check if I violated the minimum distance?
The police usually assess the situation using observations, photos, or measurements to determine whether the distance was less than indicated and whether the behavior was dangerous. Therefore it is important to always keep the specified distance to avoid penalties.
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