What is the main purpose of the two-second rule in driving?

The primary purpose of the two-second rule is to maintain a safe following distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This rule is designed to provide a buffer of time that allows drivers to respond to sudden stops or changes in traffic conditions safely. By measuring a distance of two seconds from the vehicle ahead, drivers can adjust their speed accordingly to ensure they have adequate time to react without tailgating, which significantly reduces the risk of rear-end collisions.

A safe following distance is crucial as it takes time for a driver to react to the actions of others on the road. If the driver maintains this two-second interval, it gives them a better overview of the situation ahead and the time needed to slow down or stop if necessary. This practice contributes to overall road safety and helps in avoiding accidents caused by inadequate spacing.