What is the safe distance between two vehicles in meters?

[DiKevin]

The safe distance between two vehicles varies depending on the speed, as detailed below: High-speed driving: When the speed is above 100km/h, the safe distance should be more than 100 meters. Fast driving: When the speed is above 60km/h, the safe distance should be numerically equal to the speed; for example, at 80km/h, the safe distance is 80 meters. Medium-speed driving: When the speed is around 50km/h, the safe distance should not be less than 50 meters. Low-speed driving: When the speed is below 40km/h, the safe distance should not be less than 30 meters. Very slow driving: When the speed is below 20km/h, the safe distance should not be less than 10 meters.

[DiManuel]

I remember being particularly vigilant about safe distances when driving on highways. With over ten years of driving experience, I’ve learned that speed determines how far apart you should be. The basic rule is to divide your speed by two to get the minimum distance in meters—for example, 30 meters at 60 km/h. But in practice, I prefer the three-second rule: pick a road sign or tree ahead, start counting seconds after the car in front passes it, and if my car passes the same point after three seconds, that’s a safe gap. Weather plays a huge role—on a sunny, dry day at 60 km/h, the total distance should be about 60 meters, including one second for reaction and three seconds for braking. On wet, slippery roads, braking distance doubles, so you should extend it to over 90 meters. In city traffic during congestion, the gap can be shorter, roughly two car lengths, but at 120 km/h on the highway, you should leave at least 120 meters or more. In short, tailgating increases the risk of rear-end collisions, so leaving extra space ensures safety. Checking distance is simple: using seconds is easier to practice than memorizing meters.

[RowanAnn]

I always remind myself that safety comes first when driving, and maintaining proper distance is the golden rule. Calculating a safe distance based on speed is essential, and the three-second rule is the most practical method. Pick a reference point, count three seconds between your car and the one ahead, which roughly corresponds to the distance in meters at your speed. At 60 km/h, the safe distance is about 54 meters, while at 80 km/h, it increases to 72 meters. Weather conditions must not be ignored: on dry, sunny days, braking is quicker, but in rain, the stopping distance doubles, and in fog, reduced visibility requires even more space. Personally, I maintain a three-second gap on highways, shortening it to two seconds in city traffic. Reaction time typically takes one second, and combined with braking distance, this is the core—don’t just rely on fixed values. Dynamic adjustment is key! Regularly check your rearview mirror and speedometer to build good habits and avoid accidents. Balance safety and enjoyment—drive with confidence and caution.

[VanessaMarie]

When I was learning to drive, the instructor kept emphasizing the importance of a safe following distance. He said the basic rule is to divide your speed by two to get the distance in meters, like 25 meters at 50 km/h. But in reality, the pressure from other drivers cutting in makes it tough, so I often use the three-second rule: pick a point, and only reach it three seconds after the car in front passes. At 60 km/h, this distance is about 50 meters, including reaction and braking time. In rainy conditions, braking is slower, so you need to leave more space. Keep it shorter in the city and longer on the highway. Remember, the distance gives you time to react. This method has proven quite reliable.