Don’t Tailgate | Auto Insurance Tips

The Two-Second Rule

To keep a safe following distance, try this simple method:

• Pick a roadside object (like a sign or pole).
• When the car in front of you passes it, count “one thousand one, one thousand two.”
• You shouldn’t reach that object until you finish counting.

This works well on two-lane roads and under normal driving conditions. In bad weather, at higher speeds, or in heavy traffic, you may need even more space. It may feel uncomfortable at first, especially when other drivers try to fill the gap, but maintaining distance is still the safer choice.

Tailgating on the Highway

Highways amplify the dangers of tailgating. Higher speeds mean shorter reaction times, and a sudden brake can trigger a chain‑reaction crash in seconds. Stop‑and‑go traffic often tempts drivers to close the gap, but that only increases the likelihood of rear‑end collisions. Staying alert and leaving room gives you options. It allows you to slow down smoothly, avoid panic braking, and react safely when traffic suddenly changes.

The Price of Driving Too Close

• Rear-End Collisions – Tailgating is one of the top causes of rear-end crashes, and these are almost always considered the fault of the driver in back.
• Higher Insurance Premiums – Being found at-fault in a crash often leads to increased insurance rates, even if the damage seems minor at the time.
• More Stress Behind the Wheel – Riding someone’s bumper does not save time. It raises tension, fuels road rage, and makes driving more exhausting for everyone involved.

Give Yourself Space to Stay Safe

Keeping a safe following distance is about giving yourself time to react when traffic changes. In heavy traffic or busy moments, it is easy to drift closer than intended without realizing it. Staying aware and leaving a little extra space can reduce stress, prevent accidents, and help protect your driving record. Sometimes the safest move is simply creating more room ahead of you.