I think most drivers have heard of “the 2-second rule”, but what does it really mean? It is a simple rule to help you maintain a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. When you stay at least 2-seconds behind the vehicle in front of you it helps reduce accidents.
But, what about when you are driving or towing an RV?
The way I was taught the 2-second rule is, it is 1-second for every 10-feet of vehicle length. The average length for a vehicle you drive is 20-feet, hence the 2 second rule. If we use this as a formula a 40-foot RV would need to stay at least 4 seconds behind the vehicle in front of them. Try to remember 1-second for every 10-feet of vehicle length.
During periods of adverse weather you need to increase this following distance based on road conditions. If the roads are wet multiply your safe following distance by 4, and if there is snow or ice multiply your safe following distance by 10.
Be safe and have a great camping season
Mark Polk
