Speed Limits and Following Distance Flashcards

Which of the following best describes 'tailgating'?

Answer: Following another vehicle too closely without adequate stopping distance

Tailgating means following another vehicle so closely that you would not have enough room to stop if they brake suddenly.

On a rural two-lane highway with no posted speed limit, what speed is generally considered the legal maximum in most states?

Answer: 55 mph

Most states set a default rural highway limit of 55 mph where no signs are posted.

What is the main reason following distance should increase as vehicle speed increases?

Answer: Stopping distance increases with speed, requiring more room to brake safely

Braking distance increases significantly with speed; more following distance gives drivers time and space to stop safely.

When a vehicle is being passed on a two-lane road, what should the driver of the slower vehicle do?

Answer: Maintain speed or slow slightly to help the passing driver complete the maneuver

Maintaining or slightly reducing speed makes it easier and safer for the passing driver to complete the pass quickly.

What is the minimum safe following distance recommended for motorcycles following a car?

Answer: 2 seconds

Motorcycles should maintain at least a 2-second following distance, though 3-4 seconds is recommended for greater safety.

Which of the following is a likely consequence of driving significantly below the posted minimum speed on a highway?

Answer: Creating a hazard by disrupting normal traffic flow

Driving far below the posted minimum speed disrupts traffic flow and can cause rear-end collisions from faster-moving drivers.

Under ideal conditions, from the moment a driver decides to stop, what are the two distances that make up total stopping distance?

Answer: Reaction distance and braking distance

Total stopping distance is the sum of reaction distance (time to respond and begin braking) and braking distance (distance traveled while brakes are applied).