Keeping a safe distance while driving is one of the most effective ways to keep other road users and yourself safe. In good weather conditions, you should leave at least a 3-second gap, (Remember in wet conditions your stopping distance is 2 times greater and 10 times greater in icy conditions). This should provide you with time to react and avoid any potential hazards.
Stopping distance is dependent on several factors while driving, these can include:
· The speed that you are traveling at.
· The weather and road conditions.
· The conditions of your vehicle’s brakes
As a defensive driver you should always look as far ahead of you as possible, not just the car in front of you. This will help you see any hazards earlier or developing hazards before they occur. What is the car 3 in front of you doing? Is there a traffic light ahead? Can I see brake lights? These are the things you should be asking yourself while driving.