What is the recommended distance to follow behind a vehicle at highway speeds?

Following the correct distance behind another vehicle at highway speeds is crucial for safe driving. The recommended distance of 4 seconds provides ample time to react to the vehicle in front of you if it suddenly slows down or comes to a stop. This measure accounts for various factors that can affect stopping distances, such as speed, road conditions, and weather.

A 4-second following distance allows drivers to maintain control over their vehicle, especially in high-speed situations where abrupt stops can happen. This time-based method helps assess distance more accurately than just relying on car lengths, since vehicle sizes can differ widely.

Other recommendations, such as a shorter 1-car length or the 2-second rule, may not provide a sufficient buffer, especially at higher speeds where stopping distances increase significantly. The 5-second rule, while it may offer even more room, can be excessive in most highway circumstances, potentially encouraging tailgating from drivers behind. Thus, the 4-second rule balances safety with practicality, making it the optimal choice at highway speeds.