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Horizon Insight News

When driving around town how much of a space cushion should you keep?

Author

Emily Phillips

Updated on February 22, 2026

A typical space cushion in perfect conditions would be about 3 seconds between you and the car in front of you. Make sure there is at least a 3-second space cushion between you and the car in front of you.Click to see full answer. In this manner, where is it best to keep a space cushion?On all sides of the vehicle. To ensure that you will have time to react to hazards on the roadway, it is best to keep a cushion of space on all sides of your vehicle. Do not crowd vehicles to your left and right sides.Also, how long of a space cushion should you leave between yourself and the vehicles in front of you as you are entering a freeway? 3 seconds Simply so, why do you need to maintain open space cushions? Keeping enough distance from other vehicles will ensure you have enough room to maneuver when you are behind the wheel. A space cushion is a buffer around your vehicle that you maintain to allow room to maneuver, if necessary. Know what is in your space cushion, scan frequently and maintain awareness of other vehicles.Why should you create a space cushion between yourself and the driver in front of you when driving on the freeway?Space around your vehicle gives you distance to react in emergencies and avoid a crash. Create a space cushion around your vehicle by staying in the middle of your lane. Make sure there is enough room ahead of your vehicle and behind it for other vehicles to pass or stop safely.