What is one recommended practice for maintaining a proper following distance?

Maintaining a proper following distance is crucial for safety while driving, especially for truck drivers who need to account for their vehicle's size and weight. Using the 4-second rule is a recommended practice as it provides a practical method for ensuring that there is sufficient space between your vehicle and the one in front of you.

By measuring a distance of at least 4 seconds from the vehicle ahead, drivers can adapt to varying speeds and conditions. This method allows for adequate reaction time in case the vehicle in front suddenly stops or slows down, reducing the risk of collisions. The 4-second rule also accounts for factors like road conditions, visibility, and weather, ensuring that the following distance is adjusted appropriately based on circumstances.

In contrast, counting to 10 is not as reliable for establishing a safe following distance, as different speeds will require different spacing, which may not be effectively measured this way. Staying within a car length might lead to tailgating in slower traffic conditions, which is unsafe and can result in accidents. Following closely to save time undermines safety by decreasing the reaction time needed to respond to sudden changes in traffic. Hence, the 4-second rule is the most effective method for ensuring safety on the road.