DGT Speed Management & Distance Control Flashcards

What is the effect of doubling your speed on your vehicle's kinetic energy and stopping distance?

Answer: Both quadruple

Kinetic energy increases with the square of speed, so doubling speed quadruples kinetic energy and approximately quadruples stopping distance.

Which driving behavior is most likely to cause a rear-end collision on a highway?

Answer: Following too closely at high speed

Tailgating at high speed drastically reduces reaction time, making rear-end collisions likely if traffic slows suddenly.

A posted speed limit of 65 mph means a driver may legally drive at any speed up to 65 mph. What additional consideration applies?

Answer: Drivers must also drive at a speed safe for current conditions, even below 65 mph

Speed limits set the maximum allowed speed, but drivers are legally required to adjust speed to current road, weather, and traffic conditions.

On a multi-lane highway, in which lane should a driver travel to maintain a steady speed without frequent lane changes?

Answer: The rightmost travel lane

Keeping right except to pass is standard practice; the right travel lane allows steady movement and reduces weaving conflicts.

What is the purpose of a 'variable speed limit' sign on a highway?

Answer: To display an electronically adjusted speed limit based on real-time traffic or weather conditions

Variable speed limit signs use real-time data to display appropriate speeds that improve safety and traffic flow in changing conditions.

When following a large truck on a highway, why is it important to maintain extra following distance beyond the standard rule?

Answer: Trucks create wind turbulence that can destabilize smaller vehicles, and their size limits your forward visibility

Large trucks create aerodynamic turbulence and block sightlines, requiring extra following distance for safety and visibility.