
When driving on the highway at speeds below 100 km/h, the distance between your vehicle and the one in front in the same lane can be appropriately reduced, but the minimum distance must not be less than 50 meters. Below is relevant information about following distances: Road speed limit requirements: According to traffic experts, speed limits are primarily set based on the road environment and traffic flow needs. For example, some suburban roads may only have two lanes in each direction but allow speeds up to 70 km/h; in urban areas, some roads may have eight wide lanes but are densely populated with inconvenient traffic, likely resulting in speed limits of 40 km/h or 60 km/h. Different speed limits for different road sections: Even on the same highway, speed limits can vary for different sections, especially on sharp curves, slopes, tunnels, bridges, ramps, and construction zones. These limits may be adjusted and can change based on actual conditions. Generally, the maximum speed limit for passenger cars on highways is 120 km/h, but due to factors like road environment in the actual design and construction of highways, speed limits can range from 80 km/h to 120 km/h.

The following distance at speeds below 100 km/h is crucial, as I've learned from 30 years of driving experience. For speeds between 80 to 100 km/h, I recommend maintaining at least a three-second time gap, which roughly translates to about 80 meters in simple terms. For example, pick a roadside marker and start counting 'one-thousand-and-one, one-thousand-and-two, one-thousand-and-three' as the car ahead passes it. If you haven't reached that point by the time you finish counting, you're at a safe distance. In rainy or foggy conditions, increase this to five seconds because braking distances are much longer. Also, avoid impatience when overtaking; a short distance can easily lead to a rear-end collision. Make it a habit to use navigation apps to assist in judging distances, which can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Smooth traffic flow on highways is ensured by good following distances, making the drive more comfortable for everyone.

After years of researching traffic safety, I believe following distance should be adjusted based on speed. When traveling below 100 km/h, the safest practice is maintaining a distance in meters equal to half your speed value – for example, 40+ meters at 80 km/h. However, the two-second rule proves more practical in real-world driving. Implementation method: Begin counting "one-thousand-and-two" when the lead vehicle passes a fixed point, then gently decelerate if you reach that point before finishing. Note: Increase spacing in heavy traffic to guard against sudden braking ahead. Also account for your vehicle's brake system condition – older cars may require greater buffer distances. Safety first: maintaining adequate space prevents 90% of collisions.

I commute about 60 kilometers on the highway every day, always maintaining a 50-meter following distance. The three-second rule is simplest: count three seconds to avoid tailgating. Below 100 km/h, 80 meters is actually sufficient—don't get provoked by other drivers. When driving on the highway, always monitor the vehicle ahead; if the gap shortens, ease off the throttle immediately. Distance alerts from apps are very helpful—try making it a habit. Safety comes first, and keeping your distance makes driving more relaxed.


