Watch the vehicle in front of you pass a landmark - such as a sign or tree at the side of the road. As it passes the landmark, start counting "one thousand and one, one thousand and two" or say "only a fool breaks the two-second rule".

If you pass the landmark before you finish saying all eight words, you are following too closely. Slow down, pick another landmark and repeat the words, to make sure you have increased your following distance.

The good thing about the '2-second rule' is it ensures you keep the correct following distance, no matter what speed you are travelling at.

When towing a trailer or the road surface is wet or slippery, increase your following distance by counting out to 4 seconds.

Play the 2 second rule driving game!
Test your driving skills on the motorway in wind, rain and snow!

You’re driving against the clock so you’ve got to be quick but still keeping to the speed limit. Remember to keep the 2 second rule distance between you and the other cars otherwise it'll be game over!

• 2 Second Rule Driving Game