When you’re driving every day, it’s easy to fall into habits, especially in traffic. One of the most common (and dangerous) habits Australian drivers develop is following too closely. Tailgating reduces your reaction time, increases stress behind the wheel, and is a leading cause of rear-end collisions. Understanding and keeping a safe following distance is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself, your passengers, and everyone else on the road.

So how much space should you really leave?

The basic rule: the three-second gap

In good driving conditions, the general guideline is to keep at least a three-second following distance between your car and the vehicle in front.

Here’s an easy way to measure it:

• Pick a fixed point the car in front passes (a sign, pole, or overpass).
• When their vehicle passes it, start counting: “one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one-thousand-three.”
• If you reach the point before you finish counting, you’re too close and need to slow down.

This method automatically adjusts for speed, making it more reliable than judging distance in metres.

When three seconds isn’t enough

The three-second rule is a minimum. In many situations, you should be leaving four to six seconds or more, including when:

• It’s raining or the road is wet
• Visibility is poor (fog, dusk, heavy traffic spray)
• You’re behind a large vehicle that blocks your view
• You’re towing, carrying a heavy load, or driving a larger vehicle
• You’re on highways or freeways at higher speeds

Wet or dirty roads can double your stopping distance. Worn tyres or tired reactions make it even worse. Increasing your gap gives you time to brake smoothly instead of slamming on the brakes and hoping for the best.

Why following distance really matters

Most rear-end crashes don’t happen because drivers are reckless—they happen because there simply wasn’t enough time to react.

A safe following distance:

• Reduces the chance of collisions
• Gives you time to spot hazards early
• Improves fuel efficiency through smoother driving
• Lowers stress and road rage triggers
• Protects your brakes and tyres from excessive wear

It also gives you an “escape zone,” allowing you to steer around trouble instead of being forced into a panic stop.

A small habit that makes a big difference

Leaving space doesn’t mean you’re a slow or hesitant driver, it means you’re a smart one. A few extra seconds can be the difference between a close call and an insurance claim.

At Auto Leaders, we see the results of preventable accidents every day. Maintaining a safe following distance is one of the easiest ways to extend the life of your vehicle, avoid costly repairs, and arrive safely.

Next time you’re on the road, ease back, count it out, and give yourself the space you deserve.