Final answer:
In extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain, fog, or snow, it is important to increase your following distance to ensure safety. Triple the three-second rule to leave a following distance of 9 seconds. In icy conditions, it is advisable to leave a following distance of 12 to 15 seconds.
Step-by-step explanation:
In extreme weather conditions with poor visibility, such as heavy rain, fog, or snow, it is important to increase your following distance to ensure safety. The three-second rule is a guideline for maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, but in these conditions, it should be tripled. This means that you should leave a following distance of 9 seconds instead of the usual 3 seconds.
Ice on the road can greatly increase your stopping distance, so it is necessary to leave even more space if you encounter icy conditions. In such situations, a following distance of 12 to 15 seconds is not unreasonable. This provides a safety net for the potential loss of traction and increased braking distance.