Alberta Class 7 License Practice Test

When driving behind another vehicle, what is the recommended following distance?

1. A minimum of one second

2. A minimum of two seconds

3. A minimum of three seconds

4. The same length as the vehicle in front

The correct answer is: A minimum of two seconds

When driving behind another vehicle, maintaining a following distance of a minimum of two seconds is crucial for safety. This time interval allows for adequate spacing to react to sudden stops or emergencies. The two-second rule helps drivers gauge their distance from the vehicle ahead, taking into account factors such as speed and road conditions. In this context, if the vehicle in front of you brakes unexpectedly, having this two-second buffer enables you to react appropriately without risking a rear-end collision. Additionally, this distance provides a safer cushion, especially in adverse weather conditions or during heavy traffic. Shorter following distances, like just one second, may not provide enough time to react in case of sudden changes. The option suggesting the same length as the vehicle in front does not account for the need for reaction time, which is less safe in comparison to the recommended two seconds.