When is it not advisable to increase your following distance?

Increasing your following distance is generally a good safety practice, particularly in conditions that can affect traction or visibility, such as wet roads or fog. When riding in a group, however, maintaining a consistent distance among riders is essential for safety and cohesion.

If a rider increases their following distance significantly while others maintain a shorter distance, it can create unpredictable gaps that might lead to confusion or unsafe maneuvers. Group riding relies on a coordinated effort, so a sudden change in following distance could disrupt the flow and communication among the group. Therefore, in this context, it is advisable to maintain a consistent following distance rather than increasing it.

In contrast, during other conditions like wet roads or fog, increasing following distance is crucial for allowing adequate reaction time and stopping distance.