Under normal driving conditions, what is the recommended safe following distance?

The recommended safe following distance under normal driving conditions is at least three seconds. This guideline is based on the principle that a driver should maintain enough space to react to sudden changes in traffic, such as a vehicle braking or stopping unexpectedly.

A following distance of three seconds allows drivers to gauge their speed and the speed of the vehicle in front of them effectively. By counting "one thousand and one, one thousand and two, one thousand and three" after the vehicle ahead passes a fixed point, a driver can ensure they are maintaining this safe distance. This margin provides critical time to react and reduces the risk of rear-end collisions, which are common in tailgating scenarios.

Maintaining a three-second gap is especially important in adverse weather conditions, heavy traffic, or when driving behind larger vehicles that might obstruct visibility. This practice also encourages more defensive driving habits, promoting overall road safety.