Car permit · Defensive driving
Why does it matter to keep a cushion of space around your vehicle?

Correct answer: It gives you time to react to surprises.
Answer options
- AIt gives you time to react to surprises. Correct
- BIt stops other vehicles from distracting you.
- CIt keeps the drivers around you more alert.
Why
Other drivers make mistakes, and open space around your car is what buys you the seconds needed to brake, steer, or otherwise avoid trouble.
About this question
Topic: Defensive driving 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
- Which of these habits is an example of driving defensively?
- What is the four-second rule meant to help you do?
- 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?
- When you travel at highway speed on dry pavement, what is the minimum safe following distance behind the vehicle ahead?
- Where around your vehicle should you try to maintain a cushion of space?
- A key principle of defensive driving is to:
- What is one good way to reduce your chances of being in a crash?
- Drivers behind you may be caught off guard because you have to slow down or stop at an unexpected place. What should you do?
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