Why distance matters
A vehicle does not stop the instant its driver sees brake lights. There is a period of perception and reaction before braking starts, followed by the distance travelled while the brakes slow the car. Higher speeds increase both the distance covered during reaction and the braking distance. Tailgating removes the margin that protects you when the traffic ahead slows unexpectedly.
Use a time gap as a starting point
On suitable dry roads, a gap of at least two seconds is a widely taught minimum reference in some road codes, including the United Kingdom's Highway Code. Watch the rear of the vehicle ahead pass a fixed point, then count how long it takes your vehicle to reach that point. Do not treat two seconds as a guarantee: heavy vehicles, slippery roads, darkness, fatigue or reduced visibility may require a substantially greater gap. Follow any stricter local guidance.
Adjust for the real conditions
In wet weather, tyres have less grip, so increase the distance considerably. In dense fog, you may need to slow enough to stop within what you can actually see. If you are carrying a heavy load or towing, allow more room. Avoid focusing only on the car directly in front: look further ahead for traffic lights, brake lights, curves and hazards.
If somebody follows too closely
Do not brake-check or accelerate recklessly to escape a tailgater. Keep your movements smooth and increase the room ahead so you can brake more gradually if needed. Where safe and legal, let the impatient vehicle pass. Your aim is to reduce the consequences of another person's bad spacing without adding danger.
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