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What is the two-second rule in driving?
I keep hearing about it, but no one has explained what it actually means or how to apply it. How do you use the two-second rule when driving?
Tiffany Leung · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
The two-second rule in driving means having a following distance with a two-second gap between your car and the car in front of you. Keep in mind it’s a general guideline and different circumstances could require longer following distances.
Here are a few examples.
Poor weather conditions
Heavy rain, snow, fog, sleet—any inclement weather—leads to unfavorable driving conditions. The slippery roads and reduced visibility mean you should leave more space between you and the car in front to compensate for an increase in stopping distance. It also gives you more buffer space if you need to stop suddenly.
Heavy vehicles
Large, heavy vehicles have more momentum, which means they will need more space and time to stop. If you are driving a heavy vehicle, you will need to increase the two-second rule to four or more seconds (or a minimum distance of around 200 feet).
When in doubt or if you feel unsafe, increase your following distance so that you have more time to react.
Even if you are the most careful driver, there is still a chance of colliding with careless drivers. That’s why it’s important to make sure you have sufficient insurance.
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