How much following distance should you maintain behind the vehicle in front of you?

Maintaining a following distance of at least 2 seconds behind the vehicle in front of you is considered a safe practice in driving. This time frame allows for adequate reaction time in case the vehicle ahead suddenly brakes or encounters an unexpected obstacle. The 2-second rule helps ensure that you have enough space to respond to sudden changes in traffic conditions, thereby reducing the risk of a rear-end collision.

To measure the 2-second rule, pick a fixed point along the road, such as a sign or a tree. When the rear end of the vehicle in front of you crosses that point, start counting. If you reach the same point before you count to 2 seconds, you're following too closely and should increase your distance. This basic guideline is beneficial under normal driving conditions; however, in adverse weather, or when driving at high speeds, increasing this distance is advised for added safety.