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What is the safest distance to travel behind a car?
This is somewhat of a silly question, but my cousin and I got in an argument about what’s considered a safe distance to travel behind a car. He claims it’s just whatever seems necessary, but I’ve always heard you should give at least 150 feet. So, what’s the safest distance to maintain when traveling behind a car?
Jack Walsh · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
This is certainly not a silly question! Part of being a safe and responsible driver is understanding and implementing safe driving practices whenever possible.
Overall, neither of you are necessarily wrong or right because driving conditions vary, and what’s right in one situation may be wrong in another. However, in general, you should follow the three-second rule.
To use the three-second rule:
- Locate a fixed object further down the road.
- Once the vehicle ahead of you passes the object, count three seconds.
- If less than three seconds pass before you crossed the same point, you are too close.
It’s important to remember that the three-second rule is a general guideline, and the further away you are, the safer you are. Maintaining more distance between vehicles is especially important if your stopping time is longer than usual, such as when:
- You are in a large vehicle
- You are towing a trailer
- You are driving faster, like on the highway
- The driving conditions are anything but clear
Remaining an observant and defensive driver is the best way to stay safe on the road, but in the unfortunate event you’re in an accident, you’ll want peace of mind knowing your
car insurance
has you covered.If you want to ensure you have all the coverage you need without overpaying, use
Jerry
, an insurance comparison app that shops for low prices with over 50 different insurance companies, including Nationwide and Travelers, for free. You will get quotes in seconds, can make changes at any time, and if you ever have any questions, agents are just a text away.View full answer
- Gregory R.
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