Speed Limits and Following Distance Flashcards

What is the typical default speed limit in an urban/residential area in most U.S. states when no posted sign is present?

Answer: 25 mph

Most states set a default speed limit of 25 mph in residential and urban areas when no sign is posted.

What is the standard maximum speed limit on most interstate highways in the United States?

Answer: 70 mph

70 mph is the most common posted maximum on U.S. interstate highways, though it varies by state.

The 'two-second rule' is used to maintain a safe following distance. How is it applied?

Answer: Count two seconds from when the car ahead passes a fixed point until you pass it

You pick a fixed roadside marker, count two seconds after the car ahead passes it, and ensure you reach it no sooner.

Under wet or slippery road conditions, how should you adjust your following distance?

Answer: Double it to at least four seconds

Wet roads increase stopping distance, so doubling the following distance to four seconds provides a safe buffer.

In a school zone with children present, what speed limit is most commonly posted?

Answer: 25 mph

Most school zones require drivers to slow to 25 mph when children are present or during school hours.

What does 'prima facie' speed limit mean?

Answer: A presumed reasonable speed that can be challenged if conditions warranted a different speed

A prima facie speed limit is presumed safe but a driver may argue conditions justified a different speed in court.

If you are driving at 60 mph, approximately how many feet does your vehicle travel per second?

Answer: 88 feet

At 60 mph a vehicle travels roughly 88 feet per second, calculated by multiplying mph by 1.47.