Driver Safety – Following Distance

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In the rush and anxiety of everyday driving, following distance is often sacrificed for the feeling that we are getting somewhere more quickly. It is easy to forget that when we don’t allow enough following distance, we not only take an unnecessary risk, but we also fail to save time, and in many cases we contribute to the slowing of traffic.

Creating a cushion of space between you and the car you are following will help you stay safe on the road, and keep traffic moving along. Following distance is important because…

  • It provides drivers with time to react in case of an emergency.
  • It allows other cars to change lanes and make turns without having to interrupt the flow of traffic.
  • It gives the driver more control over the situation of the road.
  • It puts the driver in a defensive position, where they are able to ensure that all hazards are recognized.

The common rule for safe following distance is ensuring that you are 4 seconds behind the person you are following; however, this standard was created based on driver reactions on the ideal road. You must always remember to adjust your following distance to suit the driving conditions.

Following distance should always be observed, but special care should be taken when driving around…

  • Drivers who cannot see well because their view is blocked by buildings, trees, or other cars.
  • Drivers backing out of driveways or parking spaces with windows covered by snow or ice.
  • Drivers about to be forced into your lane by a vehicle, a pedestrian, a bicyclist, an obstruction, or fewer lanes ahead.
  • Pedestrians with umbrellas in front of their faces or hats pulled down over their eyes.
  • Distracted people such as: 
    • delivery persons.
    • construction workers.
    • children, who often run into the street without looking.
    • drivers talking on cellular telephones or to their passengers.
    • drivers taking care of children, or looking at maps while driving.
  • Confused people such as: 
    • tourists, often at complicated intersections.
    • drivers who are looking for a house number or who slow down for no apparent reason.