How can you know if you are too close to the vehicle in front?

If you asked a group of drivers how many feet you should stay back from the vehicle in front, most would struggle to give you a straight answer – in terms of feet, at least. This is because the correct distance will change depending on how fast you travel.

A better option is to consider the distance in terms of time instead. That way, how far back you are will self-adjust for and with your speed. Road safety experts recommend that you should always stay at least three seconds back from anyone in front.

Another advantage of using time rather than distance is that it is far easier to count to three than to try to gauge a distance in feet. All you have to do is pick a point on the road ahead and start counting once the rear fender of the vehicle in front clears that point. If you reach the same point before you get to three, slow down and try counting again.

Will three seconds work for every situation?

You should regard three seconds as the absolute minimum. Often, you will need to be a few more seconds back. Examples include if there is snow or ice on the road or if the surface is greasy due to the first bit of rain after a long dry spell. Other examples include if you are feeling tired, have a head cold or are struggling to concentrate.

By allowing yourself more than three seconds, you increase the chance you can safely brake when required. Remember: as the following car, you will likely be faulted for failure to give the other driver an assured clear distance, so doing all you can to avoid a rear-end crash can protect your wallet as well as your safety.