Two-Second Rule (Following Distance)
The two-second rule is a simple way to keep a safe following distance by staying at least two seconds behind the vehicle in front.
What is Two-Second Rule (Following Distance)?
Pick a fixed point; when the car ahead passes it, you should not reach it within two seconds. In rain, the gap should at least double. On ice or snow, a much larger gap is needed. Adaptive cruise control lets you set a time gap that works in a similar way.
How it works
The time gap automatically grows with speed and gives you time to react and brake.
Why it matters for your car
Large vehicles and motorcycles may need more distance. Some countries have legal minimum distances or tailgating fines.
Other terms
- Alternator Pulley (Overrunning Pulley)
- Connector Corrosion
- Cylinder Honing
- Door Seal (Weatherstrip)
- Driving In Hot Weather
- EU Tyre Label
- EV Purchase Incentives
- Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF/OPF)
- Idler Pulley
- Kilowatt (kW)
- Knock Control
- Low-Profile Tyre
- Lumbar Support
- Rotary Engine (Wankel Engine)
- Six-Volt Electrical System
- Throttle Adaptation (Throttle Relearn)
- Towing Electrics (Trailer Socket)
- Transmission Control Module (TCM)
- Two-Post Lift (Vehicle Lift)
- Water-in-fuel Sensor