What is a crucial factor to consider when determining your following distance as a bus driver?

When determining your following distance as a bus driver, it's essential to consider both the length of the bus and the speed at which you are traveling. The length of the bus is important because it affects how much space is needed to stop safely, especially in emergency situations. A longer vehicle requires a greater stopping distance, making it critical to factor this into your driving strategy.

Additionally, the speed at which you are driving plays a vital role in how far back you should position yourself from the vehicle ahead. The faster you are going, the more distance you need to maintain to react properly to sudden stops or emergencies. By combining these two considerations—length and speed—you can better gauge an appropriate following distance that ensures safety for you, your passengers, and other road users.