7D Defensive Driving and Speed Management

Question 1

What is the minimum recommended following distance for a school bus under normal driving conditions?

Accepted Answer

4 seconds

Answer

School buses require at least a 4-second following distance due to their size, weight, and longer stopping distances compared to passenger cars.

Question 2

What is the posted speed limit in a California school zone when children are present?

Accepted Answer

15 mph

Answer

California law sets the school zone speed limit at 15 mph when children are present or when the flashing lights are in operation.

Question 3

When approaching a curve while driving a school bus, the driver should:

Accepted Answer

Reduce speed before entering the curve

Answer

Speed must be reduced before entering a curve so the driver retains control and passengers are not thrown off balance.

Question 4

A pupil driver notices an oncoming car drifting into their lane. The BEST defensive response is to:

Accepted Answer

Reduce speed, move right if possible, and cover the brake

Answer

Reducing speed and creating space to the right while covering the brake gives the driver options and prepares for an emergency stop if needed.

Question 5

What does 'space management' mean in defensive driving for school buses?

Accepted Answer

Keeping adequate buffer space around the vehicle on all sides

Answer

Space management means maintaining safety cushions on all sides of the vehicle to provide adequate reaction time to any hazard.

(7D) 7D Pupil Driver Exam Practice Test