Safe Following Distance on Vietnam Expressways (Table)

Tailgating on the expressway is an easy habit to slip into, especially after a few hours at the wheel when you just want to arrive.

Keeping a safe distance is the simplest way to avoid expressway accidents. This guide gives the distance table by speed, explains how rain and fog change the rule and offers a habit that works in any car.

Photo: Motorbike riders in city traffic by Vyacheslav Argenberg, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Distance by speed (dry, straight, good visibility)

These figures come from the national rule on speed and safe distance and are summarised by VietnamPlus and the consolidated text.

Rain, fog and slopes

In rain, fog, slippery or winding conditions, drivers must keep a larger distance than the values above (Logistics.gov.vn). Below 60 km/h in congestion, keep a distance suited to traffic.

Simple habit

Pick a fixed object and count the seconds after the car ahead passes it. If distance feels short, ease off. Our chauffeurs do this every day.

Practical scenario

At 100 km/h, a gap of 70 metres is only about two and a half seconds, so it is easy to underestimate. In rain, double your gap and reduce speed. If a truck cuts in, ease off quietly rather than braking hard, and rebuild the space.

Tip from Car Rental Vietnam: When driving with family, ask the front passenger to say something if the gap gets too short; a gentle reminder works better than you might expect.

Frequently asked questions

How far at 100 km/h?

At least 70 m for 80 to 100 km/h; 100 m above 100 km/h.

Does rain change it?

Yes, keep a larger distance.

Is there a simple habit?

Count seconds after the car ahead passes a fixed object.

Building the habit on long drives

Pick a fixed point such as a sign and count the seconds after the car ahead passes it. Add more time in rain or fog and when following trucks.

Take a break every two hours so focus stays high.

See night and rain driving and 10 expressway mistakes.

Quick answers

Does the table change in rain? Yes, leave more space.

Is there a minimum speed? Follow the posted signs.