How far should a driver maintain from the vehicle in front in normal conditions?

Maintaining at least a two-second gap from the vehicle in front is a fundamental principle of safe driving, particularly in normal conditions. This time-based following distance is essential because it provides an adequate buffer for reaction time, allowing drivers to gauge the speed of the vehicle ahead and react to sudden stops or emergencies. The two-second rule is designed to help ensure that drivers have enough time to respond to any unexpected actions by the vehicle in front, such as braking, without the risk of colliding.

In varied driving conditions, such as inclement weather or heavy traffic, increasing this gap is advisable to further enhance safety. By adopting this two-second rule, drivers create a safer driving environment for themselves and others on the road, reducing the chances of rear-end crashes.