As a novice driver, how many seconds should you maintain as a safe following distance?

Maintaining a following distance of at least four seconds is crucial for novice drivers because it provides ample time to react to the vehicle in front in various conditions. This distance allows greater reaction time in case of sudden stops or emergencies. It is especially important for inexperienced drivers who may not yet have fully developed their skills in judging distances or responding quickly to changes in traffic. Additionally, a four-second gap helps to reduce the risk of rear-end collisions, which are common in heavy traffic. This standard is effective in most driving conditions, whether on highways or local roads, as it considers factors such as speed, road conditions, and visibility.