What rule helps determine if you are far enough behind the vehicle ahead of you?

The 2, 3, and 4 second rules are guidelines used to help drivers maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of them. By counting the seconds between when the vehicle ahead of you passes a stationary object and when you reach that same object, you can gauge whether you are following at a safe distance.

• The 2-second rule is generally adequate for good weather and road conditions.

• The 3-second rule is recommended when road conditions are less than ideal, such as in rain or during the night.

• The 4-second rule is advised in poor weather conditions or when you're driving a larger vehicle.

This variability allows drivers to adjust their following distance based on the conditions, promoting safety and reducing the risk of rear-end collisions. Each of these rules is easier to implement in real driving situations, making it a practical choice for maintaining an appropriate distance.