Final answer:
Ideal following distance is maintained by using the 3-second rule, which helps ensure sufficient reaction time for the driver.
Step-by-step explanation:
Under ideal conditions, you should always remain at least 3 seconds behind the vehicle you are following. This is known as the 3-second rule and is considered a safe distance to allow the driver enough time to react to any sudden changes.
To determine if you are following this rule, when the rear of the vehicle ahead of you passes a stationary object, start counting. You should not reach the same object before you have counted to three.