At a speed of 40 mph, what is the recommended following distance?

The recommended following distance at a speed of 40 mph is four to five seconds. This guideline helps ensure that you can maintain a safe stopping distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you, providing ample time to react to sudden stops or emergencies.

At higher speeds, the required distance increases because it takes longer to stop your vehicle. A four to five-second following distance allows drivers to gauge the speed of their vehicle, as well as that of the leading vehicle, and helps to accommodate various driving conditions, such as weather changes or road surfaces.

It's important to note that this following distance can be adjusted based on factors like weather, road conditions, and the behavior of other drivers, which underscores the need for vigilance and adaptability while driving. Keeping a safe distance ultimately contributes to safer driving practices and helps prevent rear-end collisions.