Car permit · Following distance
What is the four-second rule meant to help you do?
Correct answer: Keep a safe gap when following another vehicle.
Answer options
- ADecide when to yield to other vehicles.
- BJudge when it is safe to cross an intersection.
- CKeep a safe gap when following another vehicle. Correct
Why
The rule sets your following distance: when the vehicle ahead passes a fixed marker such as a sign, you should reach that marker no sooner than four seconds later. On dry pavement, that gap gives you time to notice a problem and stop.
About this question
Topic: Following distance License: Car permit
Part of these practice sets:
Where it applies: Asked in every state. Compare permit tests by state
Practice the whole set
This question is part of Scanning, Space and Communication (20 questions). Take the full set and check your score.
Practice Scanning, Space and CommunicationMore questions from Scanning, Space and Communication
- Why does it matter to keep a cushion of space around your vehicle?
- When you travel at highway speed on dry pavement, what is the minimum safe following distance behind the vehicle ahead?
- Which of these habits is an example of driving defensively?
- A key principle of defensive driving is to:
- Looking far enough down the road helps you avoid abrupt maneuvers at the last second. What is the minimum number of seconds in front of your vehicle that you should be scanning?
- Drivers behind you may be caught off guard because you have to slow down or stop at an unexpected place. What should you do?
- Where around your vehicle should you try to maintain a cushion of space?
- What is one good way to reduce your chances of being in a crash?
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