When should You allow a four-second or more cushion?

You should allow a four-second or more cushion in situations where visibility is reduced, such as in fog, rain, or snow, as this gives you more time to react to unexpected events. Additionally, maintain this cushion when following large vehicles, which can obstruct your view of the road ahead, or when driving in heavy traffic where sudden stops are likely. This extra distance enhances safety by providing ample time to respond to hazards and reduces the likelihood of collisions.