In wet or poor conditions, how should you adjust following distance?

• A. Keep at least a one-second following distance.
• B. Increase to more than three seconds as conditions require.
• C. Decrease to two seconds to maintain speed.
• D. Follow at tailgating distance.

Answer: (B)

In wet or poor conditions, your stopping distance increases because the tires have less grip and traction is reduced. To compensate, you extend the following distance so you have more time to react and stop safely. The best approach is to keep more than the usual three seconds of space, and increase further as conditions demand. This gives you a buffer for longer braking distances, potential hydroplaning, and any sudden moves by the vehicle ahead.

For practical timing, pick a fixed object on the road and count seconds as you pass it, aiming for more than three seconds and adjusting upward in heavier rain, slick roads, or reduced visibility. A one-second gap is far too short in wet conditions, and decreasing to two seconds is insufficient. Following at a tailgating distance leaves you with too little time to react.