When should you increase your following distance on an expressway?

Increasing your following distance on an expressway is essential when weather conditions are bad. Adverse weather such as rain, snow, fog, or ice can significantly reduce visibility and traction, leading to longer stopping distances. By increasing the space between your vehicle and the one ahead, you provide yourself with more time to react to unexpected situations, such as sudden stops or loss of vehicle control. This additional distance allows for a safer driving experience in conditions where the road may be slippery or visibility compromised.

In clear conditions, maintaining a standard following distance is typically sufficient because the dynamics of driving are more predictable. Following a sports car doesn't inherently require greater distance; rather, safe following practices apply irrespective of the vehicle type. The presence or absence of trucks does not directly impact the need for an increased following distance either; it is the road and weather conditions that play the more critical role in determining safe following distances.