When you are being tailgated, how much following space should you maintain?

When you are being tailgated, maintaining a following distance of 5-8 seconds is important for safety. This distance allows for ample space to react and brake in case of sudden stops or emergencies. A longer following time provides you with the opportunity to slow down smoothly or even change lanes if necessary to alleviate the pressure from the tailgating driver.

By ensuring you have this adequate cushion of space, you reduce the likelihood of a collision and give yourself more time to assess road conditions and make driving decisions. This strategy can help prevent accidents that might occur if the tailgater misjudges your braking distance or attempts to pass unsafely. Overall, the 5-8 second rule is a well-established guideline that reinforces safe driving practices, particularly in situations involving aggressive or impatient drivers behind you.