Here's how to measure following distance:
1. Pick an object: When traffic conditions permit, select a fixed point on the side of the road.
2. Count: Start counting when the car in front of you reaches that point.
3. Wait: You should reach that point no sooner than two seconds after the vehicle in front of you.
Why is following distance important?
A two-second following distance gives you enough time to react to hazards without having to slam on your brakes. This is especially important in heavy traffic or when driving at high speeds.
What affects the following distance?
The following distance you should maintain depends on several factors, including:
- Speed: The faster you are driving, the more following distance you need to give yourself.
- Weather conditions: In bad weather, such as rain or snow, you should increase the following distance between your car and the car ahead of you. This is because it takes longer to stop on slippery roads.
- Visibility: If you have poor visibility, such as at night or in fog, you should also increase the following distance between your car and the car ahead of you. This is because you may not be able to see hazards as far ahead of time.
How can I maintain a safe following distance?
There are a few things you can do to maintain a safe following distance:
- Use the two-second rule: Count two seconds between the time the vehicle ahead of you passes a fixed object and when you pass the same object.
- Use cruise control: If you have cruise control, you can set it to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead of you.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to the traffic around you and be ready to react to hazards.
By following these tips, you can help to reduce your risk of accidents and keep yourself and your passengers safe.
