3 seconds
Keep your headlights on low beam.
You should always remain a safe distance when you are behind another vehicle. The recommended amount of space that you should leave is one and half car lengths.
You should dim your headlights when approaching another vehicle at least 500 feet away. This helps to prevent blinding the other driver and ensures safer driving conditions for both parties. If you're behind another vehicle, you should also dim your lights when you're within 300 feet.
If you were cited then you need to appear, if you have coverage on another vehicle then you should bring that proof with you as you should be technically covered for driving another persons vehicle.
the distance/time in which you should be following at behind a vehicle
The minimum following distance behind another vehicle that should be maintained is typically 3-4 seconds. This allows enough time to react in case the vehicle in front suddenly stops or slows down.
1
You should follow the two-second rule while driving to maintain a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you.
Your low beam lights should be on when driving after sunset (twilight) and when it is raining. Some states require headlights or daytime running lights to be on in various conditions or at various times.You should not use your high-beam lights when you are closely behind another vehicle, or when approaching another vehicle head-on on a two-way road.
2 second
Highbeam headlights should not be used within city limits when there is oncoming traffic or when driving behind another vehicle, as the bright lights can blind other drivers and create a safety hazard.
15 feet