What is the best way to determine if you are following too closely?

The best way to determine if you are following too closely is to count to three after the vehicle in front of you passes an object. This method utilizes the "three-second rule," which is a widely accepted guideline that helps ensure you maintain a safe following distance. The principle behind this rule is that by allowing a three-second gap after the vehicle ahead passes a fixed point, you provide yourself with enough time to react to any sudden stops or emergencies, which can significantly reduce the likelihood of a rear-end collision.

This technique takes into account not only your reaction time but also factors like road conditions and vehicle speed, which can vary. If you find that you cannot count to three before you reach the same object, that usually indicates you are too close to the vehicle in front of you, suggesting that you should increase your following distance for safety.