Why should a bus driver maintain a longer following distance than a car driver?

A bus is large and heavy and needs a greater distance to stop than a passenger car, and sudden hard braking can throw standing passengers and unsecured riders forward. By keeping a generous following distance, the driver can brake smoothly and gradually, anticipate traffic changes, and avoid abrupt stops that endanger passengers. The cushion also gives more time to react to hazards. Because the driver is responsible for everyone aboard, defensive following distance is a core habit of safe passenger transport, and it should be increased further in poor weather or heavy traffic.