There is always risk associated when operating a motor vehicle. Every time you get behind the wheel, you’re putting the safety of yourself and others in your vehicle—as well as other drivers and pedestrians—at risk.

Even if you’re confident in your own driving ability, you can’t control outside factors like the behavior of other drivers, adverse road and weather conditions, or other unexpected hazards.

To reduce the risk of collision, it’s safest to stay 3-4 seconds behind the car in front of you. To measure this, pick a stationary object on the side of the road. Note when the car in front of you passes it, then count the seconds until you do.

Add one second for each adverse condition: