When following another vehicle, it is important to maintain a safe following distance to avoid collisions. The recommended following distance depends on several factors, including speed, road conditions, weather, and your vehicle's stopping distance. However, as a general rule, you should maintain a following distance of at least three seconds between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. You can calculate this distance by choosing a fixed object on the side of the road, such as a sign or tree, and counting the number of seconds it takes for the vehicle in front of you to pass that object. If it takes less than three seconds, you should increase your following distance.
This allows you enough time to react if the vehicle in front of you suddenly slows down or stops. In inclement weather or when road conditions are slippery, or driving at higher speeds, it is advisable to increase your following distance to five or even seven seconds, as it takes longer for your vehicle to come to a stop in such conditions. Maintaining a safe following distance not only reduces the risk of collisions but also gives you more time to respond to unexpected situations on the road.
