In the 1960's I worked in the CPD traffic division as a traffic accident investigator. The leading causes of most accidents were driver not paying attention and following too close.
I believe this is true today. As I drive on the freeway or watch news video of freeway traffic, most drivers are guilty of following too close or tailgating.
The recommended distance is at 30 mph is three seconds or 132 feet. At 60+ mph is three-plus seconds or 264+ feet.
If drivers were following at a safe distance we would have a lot less deaths, but it would also take police enforcing following close.
N.D. Kennedy Sr.
Ooltewah