What should your following distance be during poor weather conditions?

In poor weather conditions, increasing your following distance is crucial for maintaining safety on the road. A following distance of at least six seconds provides a greater buffer between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This longer distance is necessary because adverse weather, such as rain, snow, or fog, can significantly reduce visibility and traction, causing longer stopping distances.

When conditions are slippery or visibility is compromised, the risk of sudden stops increases, and having that extra time to react can be the difference between avoiding an accident and colliding with another vehicle. A six-second distance allows drivers to account for the unpredictability that poor weather may bring, including potential skidding or the actions of other drivers who might not be adhering to safe driving practices themselves.

In contrast, shorter following distances such as three, four, or even five seconds may not provide sufficient time for reaction, particularly when the road is wet or icy. This underlines the importance of adjusting your following distance based on driving conditions to ensure a safe travel experience.