How far should a driver maintain their following distance from the vehicle in front?

Maintaining a following distance of at least 3 seconds from the vehicle in front is deemed safe because it provides enough time to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions. This distance helps ensure that a driver has a cushion of space to respond if the vehicle ahead makes an abrupt stop or slows down unexpectedly.

The 3-second rule is an effective method for estimating a safe following distance: you choose a fixed point on the road, like a sign or a tree, and when the vehicle in front of you passes that point, begin counting. If you reach that fixed point before you finish counting to three, you are too close and should increase your distance. This technique accounts for factors like speed, road conditions, and the driver's reaction time, making it a practical guideline for maintaining safety on the road.

Longer following distances, such as 4 seconds or more, are advisable in adverse conditions like rain or fog. However, under normal circumstances, 3 seconds provides a balance between safety and practical driving.