Under ideal conditions, maintain a following distance of at least: Do you currently have car insurance? Insurance is mandatory to drive in Ohio Yes I have insurance. But please show me your best quotes. No, please help me find the best insurance. Question Under ideal conditions, maintain a following distance of at least: Answers One second. Two seconds. Three seconds. Four seconds. Explanation Under ideal conditions, a rider should maintain a minimum four-second following distance. Open up to a larger cushion of space any time conditions are less than perfect.