You should allow an extra cushion of space:
When following a station wagon.
When following a driver who cannot see the rear of their vehicle.
When following a small passenger car.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: When following a driver who cannot see the rear of their vehicle.
Explanation:
When you’re driving and following another vehicle, it is important to adjust your following distance based on the type of vehicle you’re behind. The more visibility the driver has of their surroundings, the less distance you may need to keep. However, when following a driver who cannot see the rear of their vehicle (like a large van, truck, or a vehicle with a blocked rear view), it’s crucial to allow for extra space.
Here are the reasons why:
- Limited Visibility of the Driver: Drivers of large vehicles or those with limited rear visibility (like cargo vans, trucks, or vehicles with obstructed rear windows) often have difficulty seeing what’s happening behind them. They might not be aware of potential hazards or traffic changes behind them, such as a car slowing down or stopping abruptly. By leaving more space, you give them more time to react to situations in front of them and help prevent accidents.
- Increased Stopping Distance: Larger vehicles, especially those carrying heavy loads or having slower acceleration and braking capabilities, require more time and distance to stop compared to smaller cars. Maintaining a larger cushion of space allows you to avoid rear-ending them if they have to stop suddenly.
- Hazard Awareness: When you can see the road clearly and the vehicle ahead is obstructed, you have a better chance of anticipating potential problems. You can see brake lights, signals, and other indicators, giving you more time to react. However, a driver in a vehicle with poor rear visibility might not be able to react as quickly to the same issues.
For these reasons, it is always safer to increase your following distance when you are behind a vehicle with limited rear visibility, which also ensures that you can stop or maneuver safely if needed.