In situations with limited visibility, how far behind should you follow another vehicle?

In situations with limited visibility, maintaining a following distance of 4-5 seconds is essential for ensuring safer driving. This longer following distance gives you more time to react to the vehicle in front of you, especially when visibility is compromised by factors such as fog, rain, or nighttime conditions.

A distance of at least 4-5 seconds allows for increased braking distance and reaction time. It provides a buffer that can help prevent collisions, as uncertainties in visibility can lead to unexpected stops or movement from the vehicle ahead. It’s a crucial practice that enhances safety for both the driver following and anyone traveling on the road. Keeping this increased space is especially important in adverse weather or low light, where stopping quickly could be challenging.

More brief distances, such as 1-2 seconds or 2-3 seconds, can be inadequate in these situations, leading to a greater risk of accidents. When visibility is poor, it’s best to err on the side of caution and ensure that you have ample time to respond to any sudden changes in traffic conditions.