<P> The two - second rule is useful as it can be applied to any speed . It is equivalent to one vehicle - length for every 8 km / h (5 mph) of the current speed, but drivers can find it difficult to estimate the correct distance from the car in front, let alone to remember the stopping distances that are required for a given speed, or to compute the linear equation on the fly . The two - second rule gets around these problems, and provides a simple and common - sense way of improving road safety . </P> <P> The practice has been shown to considerably reduce risk of collision, and also the severity of an accident, if an accident occurs . It also helps to avoid tailgating and road rage for all drivers . </P> <P> The risk of tailgating is largely caused by the accident avoidance time being much less than the driver reaction time . Driving instructors advocate that drivers always use the "two - second rule" regardless of speed or the type of road . During adverse weather, downhill slopes, or hazardous conditions such as black ice, it is important to maintain an even greater distance . </P> <P> The two - second rule tells a defensive driver the minimum distance needed to reduce the risk of collision under ideal driving conditions . The allotted two - seconds is a safety buffer, to allow the following driver time to respond . </P>

Where does the three second rule help you avoid accidents