How should you determine the correct following distance behind another vehicle?

The three-second rule is a reliable method for determining a safe following distance behind another vehicle. By counting three seconds from the moment the vehicle in front of you passes a fixed point, you can assess whether you're maintaining an appropriate distance. This rule provides a buffer that allows sufficient time to react in case the vehicle ahead suddenly stops or encounters an obstacle.

This three-second guideline is especially useful in normal driving conditions, as it factors in both your speed and the stopping distance needed to safely halt your vehicle. Under adverse weather conditions, such as rain or snow, it's advisable to increase this following distance even further for added safety.

Other methods for gauging distance, like the one-second, two-second, or five-second rules, vary in terms of safety and practicality. The one-second rule is generally too short and doesn't provide enough reaction time. The two-second rule is better than one second but may still be inadequate in certain situations, especially at higher speeds. The five-second rule might be overly cautious for typical driving scenarios, leading to unnecessary gaps that can cause disruptions in traffic flow. Therefore, the three-second rule strikes a key balance between safety and practicality for everyday driving.