What is the "two-second rule" related to driving?

The "two-second rule" is a critical safety guideline that helps drivers maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of them. This rule suggests that a driver should stay at least two seconds behind the car ahead, allowing sufficient time to react in case the lead vehicle suddenly stops or slows down. This distance provides a buffer that helps prevent rear-end collisions, especially in situations where road conditions may be less than ideal, such as wet or icy roads, or during heavy traffic.

To apply the two-second rule, a driver can choose a fixed point on the road, such as a sign or a tree, and count the seconds it takes for their own vehicle to reach that point after the car in front of them passes it. If it takes less than two seconds, the driver should increase their following distance. By adhering to this guideline, drivers can significantly enhance their safety and that of other road users.

The other options, while related to driving, do not accurately represent the purpose or concept of the "two-second rule." For instance, establishing safe highway merging or parking techniques involves different rules and considerations, while preventing speeding largely pertains to adherence to posted speed limits rather than maintaining safe distances between vehicles.