When should you increase your following distance?

Increasing your following distance is crucial in poor weather conditions or heavy traffic because these situations increase the likelihood of needing more time to react to unexpected events. In adverse weather, such as rain, snow, or fog, road conditions can impair visibility and traction, making it more challenging to stop quickly. Similarly, heavy traffic can lead to sudden stops from other vehicles. By maintaining a greater following distance, you provide yourself with additional time to respond safely to any changes in the driving environment, ultimately reducing the risk of collisions.

In contrast, during daylight hours when conditions are clear, or when driving on highways where traffic flow can be more predictable, maintaining a standard following distance may be adequate. Moreover, if there are no cars in front of you, having an increased following distance is less critical because the need to react to other vehicles is diminished.