How far behind a vehicle should you stay when driving?

Staying at least three seconds behind the vehicle in front of you is a fundamental safety practice while driving. This time distance helps ensure that you maintain a safe following distance to react appropriately to sudden stops or emergencies. The three-second rule serves as a guideline to give you enough time to stop safely without colliding with the vehicle ahead.

This rule allows for variability in speed, road conditions, and vehicle performance. For instance, if the road is slick or if you're driving a larger vehicle that may take longer to stop, it would be wise to increase your following distance beyond three seconds. Observing this practice significantly reduces the chances of rear-end collisions and enhances overall road safety. Always remember that the goal is to provide yourself ample time to react, which is crucial for safe driving.