How to Judge the Distance Between Cars
4 Answers
Car distance can be judged through the wiper and rearview mirror. Here are specific methods for different distances: 1. Judging the left car distance: The left car distance can be referenced by the protruding point of the left wiper. If this point coincides with the ground marking line or an object, it indicates the position where the wheel is about to travel. The lower left edge of the windshield can also be used for judgment. If it coincides with the marking line or an object, the distance between the vehicle and this position is about 60 centimeters. 2. Judging the right car distance: When the node of the right wiper coincides with the roadside, the distance is about ten centimeters. 3. Judging the front car distance: When viewing the front car from inside the vehicle, if you can just see the lower edge of the front car's bumper, the distance is about one meter. If only the upper edge of the front car's bumper can be seen from the lower edge of the windshield, the distance to the front car is only 0.5 meters.
I've been driving for over a decade, and the most reliable way to judge distance is by using reference points. For example, on the highway when you see the car ahead pass a certain road sign, count '1001, 1002, 1003' in your head. If you haven't reached that spot after three seconds, it means you're at a safe distance. In city driving, if the rear bumper of the car ahead just disappears below your hood, you're too close - you should be able to see the entire rear wheel of the vehicle in front. Double your following distance at least in rainy conditions when roads are slippery, and reduce speed when visibility is poor at night. It's best not to drive too fast in heavy fog. Developing the habit of checking mirrors is also crucial - if the car behind fills your rearview mirror, it means they're within 10 meters and you should be cautious.
Modern cars are equipped with reversing cameras and rearview cameras, but the most practical method is to judge the safe distance by counting seconds. Maintain a 4-second distance on highways, at least 2 seconds in urban traffic, and keep an even greater distance when encountering large trucks. Slow down in advance when approaching intersections, so you'll have enough space to react if the car in front suddenly stops. Before changing lanes, ensure you can see the entire front of the car in the side rearview mirror of the vehicle behind you; otherwise, the blind spot is significant and increases the risk of a collision. The visibility varies considerably between different car models, so it's advisable to familiarize yourself with the visibility range in a safe area when driving a new car.
The most fundamental aspect of safe driving is maintaining a safe distance. At a speed of 60 km/h, keep at least 50 meters of distance, and increase it to 80 meters on rainy days. It's crucial to observe the condition of the vehicle ahead; when you see its brake lights come on, gently apply your brakes, especially before descending a slope or entering a curve. On highways, following the green distance confirmation signs on the right side of the road is helpful, as they are placed every 50 meters, making it easy to estimate the distance. In tunnels, turn on your headlights in advance; the reflection of white lines and walls can help you gauge your position relative to the vehicle in front.
