auto body repair shop blog

Safer Highway Driving- The 3 Second Rule

We all look forward to those summer road trips. Here is a tip to make them safer.

The 3 Second Rule

Following another car too closely is a common mistake made by many drivers. The three-second rule for following distance is still a good guideline for safe highway driving.

How to keep a safe following distance

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Watch the vehicle in front of you pass an object and then count the time (one thousand one, one thousand two and one thousand three) it takes for you to reach that object. If you’re closer than 3 seconds, then back off slightly to reach a three-second following distance.

If you’re traveling at speeds over 30 mph, in heavy traffic, bad weather, or following a motorcycle, truck or bus, try to maintain a following distance of 4 seconds or more.

It’s important to remember that the 3-second rule and 4-second rule are just guidelines. Drivers should use their best judgement in each driving situation. Safe travels everyone!