Defensive Driving Techniques Flashcards

Under normal driving conditions, what minimum following distance should you keep behind the vehicle ahead?

Answer: At least a 4-second gap

Vermont recommends keeping at least a four-second following distance under normal conditions to allow time to react and stop.

You are driving on a two-lane road and an oncoming vehicle drifts into your lane. What is the best defensive action?

Answer: Slow down, steer right toward the shoulder, and honk

Slowing down, moving right toward the shoulder, and sounding your horn gives the drifting driver space and alerts them without risking a head-on collision.

How far ahead should you scan the road when driving in an urban area?

Answer: About one block, or 10-15 seconds ahead

Scanning 10 to 15 seconds ahead, roughly one city block, lets you spot hazards early enough to respond smoothly.

What should you do when another driver is tailgating you?

Answer: Slow down gradually or move over to let them pass

Easing off the accelerator or changing lanes encourages the tailgater to pass and reduces the risk of a rear-end crash.

When driving on a wet road, your stopping distance can increase. How should you adjust your following distance?

Answer: Increase it beyond the normal 4-second minimum

Wet pavement reduces traction, so you should add extra seconds to your normal following distance to allow for longer stopping distances.

Which of these is the best way to manage a blind spot before changing lanes?

Answer: Check mirrors, then glance over your shoulder in the direction of the lane change

Mirrors do not cover blind spots, so a quick head check over your shoulder is required before every lane change.

You notice a driver ahead weaving between lanes and varying speed erratically. What is the safest response?

Answer: Increase your distance and avoid passing; report them if safe to do so

A weaving driver may be impaired, so keeping well back and avoiding a pass minimizes your exposure to their unpredictable moves.