The following interval between passenger-type vehicles under normal conditions is how many seconds?

• A. 1 second
• B. 2 seconds
• C. 3 seconds
• D. 4 seconds

Answer: (B)

Two seconds is the standard following distance for passenger vehicles under normal conditions. This uses the two-second rule: pick a fixed point ahead, and as the lead vehicle passes it, start counting seconds. If you reach the point before you finish counting two, you’re too close and should increase the gap. This interval gives you enough time to perceive a hazard, react, and brake to avoid a collision, accounting for typical reaction time and stopping distance.

In adverse conditions, such as rain, snow, or poor visibility, or when following large or heavy vehicles, you should increase the gap to three or four seconds. At higher speeds, the distance covered in two seconds becomes much larger, which is why maintaining the two-second rule is especially important for safe stopping.