What is the 'three-second rule' in driving?

The three-second rule is an essential guideline in driving that helps determine a safe following distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. To apply this rule, you choose a stationary object along the road, such as a sign or a tree. When the vehicle ahead of you passes that object, you begin counting seconds. You should take at least three seconds to reach the same object. This method allows you to maintain a safe distance that gives you enough time to react to sudden stops or emergencies in front of you.

This rule is particularly important because it accounts for various factors such as your speed, road conditions, and the reaction time of the driver behind the wheel. By ensuring that there is enough distance based on time, drivers can reduce the likelihood of rear-end collisions and enhance overall road safety.

In contrast, the other options provided do not accurately capture the essence of the three-second rule. Counting the time spent waiting at a signal, estimating time left before a stop sign, or measuring the time it takes to turn at an intersection do not focus on maintaining a safe following distance, which is the primary purpose of the three-second rule.