What is the 'three-second rule'?

The three-second rule refers to a driving guideline that helps maintain a safe following distance between vehicles. This rule suggests that a driver should ideally keep at least three seconds of space between their vehicle and the one in front. This time buffer allows enough reaction time to respond to sudden stops or emergencies.

By counting "one thousand one, one thousand two, one thousand three" as the vehicle ahead passes a static object, the driver can determine if they are following at a safe distance. If they reach the object before finishing the count, they are too close and should increase their following distance. This practice can significantly reduce the likelihood of rear-end collisions, as it provides drivers with the necessary time to react safely to unexpected changes in traffic conditions.