When following another vehicle, how far should a moped rider ideally stay back?

The ideal distance for a moped rider to stay back when following another vehicle is based on a time-based assessment rather than a fixed physical distance. Maintaining at least three seconds of distance allows the rider to have an adequate reaction time to respond to sudden changes, such as the vehicle ahead braking or encountering obstacles. This three-second rule is a standard guideline in driving practices, as it allows for better visibility and enough space for maneuvering, which is especially important for lightweight vehicles like mopeds that have less stability compared to larger vehicles.

This time-based approach factors in the speed of both the rider and the vehicle being followed. As speed increases, the physical distance required to stop safely also increases. Therefore, the three-second rule adapts to different speeds and conditions, ensuring that a moped rider can maintain safety regardless of situational changes on the road.