What is the minimum required following distance under normal conditions?

The minimum required following distance under normal conditions is 3 seconds. This guideline is based on ensuring that drivers maintain a safe gap between their vehicle and the one in front to allow adequate reaction time in case the lead vehicle unexpectedly stops or slows down.

A following distance of 3 seconds provides enough time for a driver to assess road conditions, gauge the actions of leading vehicles, and react appropriately. Factors such as speed, road conditions, and visibility can all affect how much time is needed to stop safely. Therefore, maintaining a 3-second gap is recommended as a general rule that applies to various driving situations, promoting safety for both the driver and other road users.

Lesser distances, such as 1 or 2 seconds, might not provide sufficient reaction time, especially at higher speeds or in adverse conditions, which underscores the importance of the 3-second rule in defensive driving practices.