What is a safe practice for maintaining distance during highway driving?

Maintaining at least a two-second following distance during highway driving is crucial for safety. This practice allows enough time to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions, such as emergencies or the vehicle in front decelerating unexpectedly. The two-second rule gives drivers an adequate buffer to stop safely and avoid collisions, especially at highway speeds, where stopping distances are significantly longer due to higher velocities.

By adhering to this practice, drivers can better gauge their distance from the vehicle ahead and adjust their speed accordingly, taking into account factors like weather conditions and road surfaces that may affect stopping distances. This principle is part of defensive driving, promoting awareness and proactive measures to ensure safety on the road.