When driving behind another vehicle, which method should you use to maintain a safe distance?

The two-second rule is a widely recommended method for maintaining a safe distance when driving behind another vehicle. This rule encourages drivers to choose a fixed point on the road, such as a sign or a tree, and begin counting seconds as the vehicle in front passes that point. If you reach that point before completing a two-second count, you are following too closely and should increase your distance.

This method allows for a buffer that can accommodate sudden stops or changes in speed by the vehicle ahead, giving you enough reaction time to avoid collisions. It's particularly effective in varied driving conditions, such as rain or heavy traffic, where stopping distances can be significantly longer.

While a one-second rule may not provide adequate time to react to sudden stops, and a three-second rule could be overly cautious in ideal conditions, the two-second rule strikes a balanced approach between safety and practicality for most everyday driving scenarios.