When should you increase your following distance to 6 seconds?

Increasing your following distance to 6 seconds is important for ensuring safety in certain driving conditions. When roads are slippery, such as during rain, ice, or snow, the traction between your vehicle's tires and the road is significantly reduced. A greater following distance gives you more time to react if the vehicle in front of you suddenly stops or loses control.

Following large vehicles also necessitates more distance. Large trucks and buses can block your view of the road ahead and make it difficult to see what lies beyond them. By increasing your following distance, you can better anticipate potential hazards and have a clearer view of the roadway, allowing you to react appropriately.

Therefore, both slippery roads and following large vehicles are situations where increasing your following distance helps maintain safety and control on the road.