What does the '2-second rule' refer to?

The '2-second rule' is a guideline that helps drivers maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of them. This rule states that a driver should ensure there is at least a two-second gap between their vehicle and the one ahead. To apply this rule, a driver can pick a fixed point on the road, such as a sign or a tree, and when the vehicle in front passes that point, the driver should count two seconds before they reach the same point. If they reach it sooner than two seconds, they are following too closely and should increase the distance. This practice helps prevent collisions by providing enough time to react in case the vehicle ahead suddenly stops or slows down.

While other options touch on important aspects of driving, they do not specifically address the concept of maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle you are following, which is the primary purpose of the '2-second rule'.