What is the effect of inadequate following distance?

A short following distance can significantly increase the risk of rear-end collisions. When a driver does not maintain a safe distance behind the vehicle in front, they have less time to react to sudden stops or slowdowns. If the lead vehicle brakes unexpectedly, a driver who is too close may not have enough time to stop safely, leading to a collision from behind.

Maintaining an adequate following distance is a critical aspect of defensive driving. It provides the necessary space to respond appropriately to the actions of other drivers, road conditions, and unexpected obstacles. This buffer enables a driver to react effectively and helps avoid crashes, particularly in situations where sudden stops are required.

In contrast, closer following distances might be seen as allowing for quicker maneuverability or promoting faster stopping, but these advantages are outweighed by the increased danger of colliding with the vehicle ahead.