What is recommended to ensure you maintain a proper following distance?

To maintain a proper following distance, it is essential to look well ahead and consistently monitor that distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This practice allows you to anticipate the actions of other drivers and adjust your speed accordingly. By focusing on the space between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead, you can effectively gauge how much distance is needed to react to sudden stops or potential hazards on the road.

Maintaining a safe following distance, commonly referred to as the "two-second rule," gives you ample time to respond to changes in traffic conditions, promoting safer driving that can reduce the risk of collisions. This approach is integral for defensive driving, as it emphasizes being aware of the overall traffic environment rather than concentrating solely on the vehicle directly ahead.

In contrast, only looking at the vehicle ahead can limit your awareness of the wider driving environment, and the urge to drive closely to the vehicle in front for better visibility can lead to increased risk and a higher likelihood of rear-end collisions. Continually checking the speedometer while driving may distract from maintaining safe distances and focusing on the movement of traffic. Thus, the recommended practice of looking well ahead and keeping track of maintaining an appropriate following distance ensures safer driving overall.