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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drive-three-second-gap

In good conditions, what minimum following gap do many state manuals recommend?

Many state manuals say at least three seconds; check your state.

  1. Half a second
  2. One second
  3. Three seconds ✔

Why: A three-second gap gives more time to see and react than tailgating. Add more space for poor visibility, slippery roads, or other hazards.

Huh, didn't know that: Time works better than a fixed number of feet because the gap grows as speed increases.

The dad joke
The three-second gap counted slowly because it valued personal space.
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References

Answer: Three seconds. A three-second gap gives more time to see and react than tailgating. Add more space for poor visibility, slippery roads, or other hazards.

  1. California Driver's Handbook, Tailgating www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/safe-driving
    Use the three-second rule to ensure a safe following distance
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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