What distance should you maintain between your car and the vehicle in front of you?

Maintaining at least a two-second gap between your car and the vehicle in front is crucial for safe driving. This time-based distance gives you enough space to react appropriately to any sudden stops or emergencies that may occur in front of you. A two-second rule helps you gauge your following distance, taking into account factors like speed, road conditions, and visibility.

When driving at higher speeds, a greater distance is essential because it provides additional reaction time, allowing you to stop safely without the risk of rear-ending the vehicle ahead. This approach takes into consideration the need for adequate stopping distance based on your speed and can be varied in adverse weather conditions.

Other options do not adequately account for reaction times or the potential for sudden stops. A few meters might not be sufficient, especially at higher speeds, and relying on seeing the rear registration plate does not provide a safe distance for reacting to changes in traffic conditions. Maintaining a specific 'one car length' does not account for the varying speeds and braking distances required in different circumstances, which can lead to unsafe driving practices.