What is the minimum following distance you should maintain on an unpaved road?

Maintaining a minimum following distance of three seconds on an unpaved road is essential for ensuring adequate reaction time and safety. Unpaved roads often present unique challenges, including loose or uneven surfaces that can affect vehicle stability and traction. By following the three-second rule, drivers allow themselves more time to respond to sudden changes in traffic, obstacles, or potential hazards that may arise in such driving conditions.

This distance provides a buffer that enables the driver to safely navigate, especially since stopping distances on unpaved surfaces can be longer due to reduced traction. The three-second interval accounts for both the driver's perception and reaction time, as well as the added delay due to the altered driving conditions that unpaved roads present.