What is the minimum following distance you should maintain when driving behind another vehicle?

Maintaining a minimum following distance of two seconds behind another vehicle is crucial for safe driving. This distance allows drivers adequate time to react in case the vehicle in front suddenly stops or slows down. The two-second rule is a guideline based on a simple observation: if the vehicle in front passes a fixed point (like a sign or tree), you should be able to count two full seconds before your vehicle reaches that same point.

This two-second buffer provides a reasonable reaction time under normal driving conditions. It enables you to adjust your speed or take evasive actions if necessary. In adverse weather conditions, such as rain or snow, it is advisable to increase this distance to account for reduced visibility and longer stopping distances.

The other options suggest shorter or longer distances that do not adequately balance safety and practicality for most driving situations. While one second may not provide enough time to react effectively, four or five seconds could be unnecessarily excessive in good conditions, potentially leading to inefficient road use and increased congestion. Therefore, two seconds strikes a good balance for maintaining a safe following distance.