What is the recommended following distance behind another vehicle?

The recommended following distance behind another vehicle is at least two seconds. This guideline is based on the need for a safe buffer zone, allowing drivers enough time to react to sudden stops or emergencies from the vehicle ahead. The two-second rule helps ensure that drivers have adequate space to brake safely in various conditions, including different weather environments or when driving on unfamiliar roads.

When following another vehicle, calculating the two-second gap is simple: choose a fixed point along the road, such as a sign or a tree. When the vehicle in front of you passes that point, start counting "one thousand and one, one thousand and two." If you reach the same point before finishing your count, you are too close and should increase your following distance.

Having at least two seconds of following distance improves overall road safety, as it reduces the risk of rear-end collisions, especially during unpredictable situations such as sudden stops. It also encourages more attentive driving since maintaining a safer distance allows for better visibility and reaction time. In contrast, following distances less than two seconds can lead to accidents, especially in adverse weather conditions where stopping distances may need to be longer.