Don’t follow other cars too closely because:
Answers
You may not see the road between the cars.
You may not have time to stop if the vehicle in front of you slows or stops suddenly.
You may not see the vehicle’s turn signals.
You may not see the other vehicle’s brake lights.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: “You may not have time to stop if the vehicle in front of you slows or stops suddenly.”
Explanation:
Maintaining a safe following distance is crucial to prevent accidents and ensure a smooth flow of traffic. The primary reason not to follow other cars too closely is that you may not have enough time to react if the vehicle in front of you slows down or stops suddenly. This situation is commonly referred to as “tailgating” and is a leading cause of rear-end collisions.
When driving, your reaction time includes the time it takes to perceive a hazard and respond by braking. Following too closely reduces the margin of safety and increases the likelihood of a collision. Experts recommend maintaining a three-second rule under normal conditions. This means you should pass a fixed object three seconds after the car ahead of you passes it. In adverse weather or when towing, this gap should be increased.
Additionally, stopping distances depend on multiple factors, such as:
- Speed: The faster you drive, the longer it takes to stop.
- Road Conditions: Wet, icy, or uneven roads increase stopping distances.
- Vehicle Condition: Worn brakes or tires also extend stopping distances.
Tailgating not only puts you and other road users at risk but can also lead to traffic violations and fines. Defensive driving promotes safety by ensuring you have adequate time to assess and react to potential hazards.
In summary, keeping a safe following distance helps prevent accidents caused by sudden stops and gives you better control over your vehicle. It also reduces stress for the driver ahead and improves overall traffic safety.