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Question 2461Question →

A motorist intends to make a right-hand turn at an intersection on a roadway featuring a marked bicycle lane along the right curb. What is the correct legal protocol for signaling and positioning the vehicle prior to making the turn?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Signal continuously for at least 100 feet before turning, check for bicyclists, yield right-of-way, and safely merge into the bicycle lane before reaching the corner.

Answer

Signal continuously for at least 100 feet before turning, check for bicyclists, yield right-of-way, and safely merge into the bicycle lane before reaching the corner.
The correct action requires activating the turn signal continuously for at least 100 feet, checking mirrors and blind spots for bicyclists, yielding right-of-way to any straight-moving cycle traffic, and safely merging into the bike lane before making the right turn to prevent right-hook conflicts.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Determine the minimum legal signaling distance requirement.
Driver must activate turn signals at least 100 feet continuously prior to reaching the intersection.
Advance signaling alerts trailing drivers and nearby cyclists of the intended maneuver in sufficient time to react.
2
Perform mirror and shoulder checks for vulnerable road users.
Driver checks blind spots for approaching cyclists traveling straight in the bicycle lane.
Straight-traveling cyclists in dedicated lanes hold right-of-way over turning motor vehicles.
3
Position the vehicle legally for the right turn.
Yield to any cyclists, then merge smoothly into the bicycle lane (where dashed or permitted near the corner) before making the right-hand turn.
Making right turns from the rightmost available space/lane prevents dangerous right-hook collisions.

Key Concept

Right Turn Procedures Across Bicycle Lanes and Advance Signaling Requirements
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 2462Question →

When driving in urban traffic, defensive driving principles dictate that a driver should focus their primary visual attention exclusively on the vehicle directly in front of them to react quickly to sudden stopping.

Show answer & explanation

Answer: False

Answer

False. Defensive driving requires looking 10 to 15 seconds ahead across the entire traffic scene rather than fixing visual attention solely on the vehicle directly in front.
The statement is false because proper defensive driving requires scanning the road 10 to 15 seconds ahead in urban environments to identify potential hazards early. Fixating primary vision solely on the lead vehicle reduces situational awareness and limits reaction time to broader traffic events.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the visual scanning requirement in defensive driving.
Defensive driving protocols specify establishing a 10 to 15 second visual lead time.
Looking well ahead allows drivers time to identify potential hazards, pedestrians, and changing signals before emergency action is necessary.
2
Evaluate the effect of fixating on the immediate lead vehicle.
Target fixation on the lead vehicle creates 'tunnel vision' and eliminates reaction buffer for downstream hazards.
Relying only on the lead vehicle's actions reduces a driver to a reactive state rather than an anticipatory state.
3
Determine the accuracy of the statement.
The statement contradicts established hazard anticipation techniques.
Continuous systematic scanning—including far ahead, side-to-side, and via mirrors—is required for safe spatial awareness.

Key Concept

Visual Scanning Horizon and Visual Lead Time
Estimated Time:45s
Question 2463Question →

When approaching an intersection where another driver is stopped at a stop sign, establishing direct eye contact with that driver guarantees that they will yield the right-of-way.

Show answer & explanation

Answer: False

Answer

False. Establishing eye contact with another driver does not guarantee that they will yield the right-of-way.
The correct response is False because defensive driving requires maintaining a space cushion and covering the brake rather than relying on non-verbal cues like eye contact. A driver may look in your direction without registering your presence or misjudging your approach speed.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the driving statement
The statement claims that establishing eye contact guarantees right-of-way compliance from another driver.
Evaluating whether non-verbal cues ensure traffic law compliance is essential for safe driving.
2
Apply defensive driving principles regarding hazard anticipation
Defensive drivers anticipate potential hazards by assuming other road users may fail to yield, misjudge speeds, or become distracted.
Eye contact can be misleading; a driver may look toward your vehicle without actively processing its approach or distance.
3
Determine statement accuracy
Because eye contact offers no absolute guarantee of driver behavior, relying on it as a guarantee is unsafe, making the statement False.
Never assume another driver will yield; cover your brake and monitor their movement until you have safely cleared the intersection.

Key Concept

Defensive Driving and Hazard Anticipation
Estimated Time:45s
Question 2464Question →

When approaching an intersection where traffic signals are completely unpowered and non-operational due to a power outage, drivers must treat the intersection as an all-way stop.

Show answer & explanation

Answer: True

Answer

True. Non-operational traffic signals due to power outages must be treated as an all-way stop by all approaching drivers.
When a traffic control signal stops functioning completely due to a power failure, state DMV regulations specify that it defaults to an all-way stop rule. All drivers approaching the intersection must come to a full stop before entering and yield right-of-way according to standard stop-sign precedence.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the intersection control condition
The traffic signals are unpowered and completely dark due to a power outage.
Recognizing signal failure changes the standard right-of-way rules governing the signalized intersection.
2
Apply the statutory rule for signal failure
Drivers must treat the dark intersection as a four-way (all-way) stop.
Traffic safety codes establish this rule to ensure predictable stopping order and prevent broadside collisions when automated signal control fails.
3
Evaluate the statement's accuracy
The statement accurately describes the legal requirement for handling non-operational traffic lights.
Since the statement matches official DMV right-of-way standards, it is true.

Key Concept

Right-of-Way at Inoperative Traffic Signals
Question 2465Question →

A driver traveling on a roadway intends to turn left onto a side street using a shared center two-way left-turn lane. Place the following procedural actions in the correct sequential order from first to last.

Drag items to arrange them in the correct order

Show answer & explanation

Answer

The proper sequential order for executing a left turn using a center two-way left-turn lane is: 1) Check mirrors, inspect blind spots, and activate the left turn signal continuously; 2) Smoothly transition completely into the center two-way left-turn lane; 3) Decelerate or stop within the center turn lane while yielding to oncoming vehicles and pedestrians; 4) Complete the left turn into the proper receiving lane of the side street once traffic is clear.
The correct procedural order requires the driver to signal intent and check surroundings first, then transition into the center turn lane. Inside the turn lane, the vehicle slows down or stops to yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians before completing the left turn once the path is clear.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Signal and check surrounding traffic
Surrounding drivers are notified of the intended maneuver, and the driver verifies that the adjacent lane is clear.
Traffic laws mandate signaling intent at least 100 feet in advance and checking mirrors and blind spots prior to initiating lateral movement.
2
Enter the designated center turn lane
The vehicle merges safely into the center two-way left-turn lane without stopping in through traffic.
The center lane is specifically designated for deceleration and positioning prior to making a left turn.
3
Slow down and yield right-of-way
The vehicle waits safely inside the center turn lane for oncoming traffic and crosswalk pedestrians to clear.
Unprotected left turns require yielding to all oncoming vehicles proceeding straight or turning right.
4
Finalize the turn maneuver
The vehicle turns smoothly into the nearest lawful lane of the intersecting roadway.
The maneuver is safely completed when all opposing lanes are clear of hazards.

Key Concept

Two-Way Left-Turn Lane Execution Procedure
Question 2466Question →

You are driving through a suburban neighborhood and approaching an uncontrolled four-way intersection. Your view of the cross street to your left is obstructed by tall hedges, and another vehicle is approaching the intersection on the cross street from your right. Which of the following actions demonstrates proper defensive driving and hazard anticipation in this situation?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Cover your brake pedal, reduce speed, and scan the obstructed area to ensure the path is clear, yielding the right-of-way to the vehicle on your right if you arrive at the same time.

Answer

Cover your brake pedal, reduce speed, and scan the obstructed area to ensure the path is clear, yielding the right-of-way to the vehicle on your right if you arrive at the same time.
Defensive driving requires anticipating hidden hazards when visibility is limited. Covering the brake pedal reduces stopping distance if a vehicle unexpectedly appears from behind an obstruction. Furthermore, standard traffic laws require yielding to vehicles approaching from the right at an uncontrolled intersection when arriving simultaneously.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify sight obstructions and potential traffic conflicts.
Recognize that tall hedges obscure your view of traffic from the left and that a vehicle is approaching from your right.
Defensive driving requires early scanning to locate visual barriers and potential conflict points.
2
Adjust speed proactively by covering the brake pedal.
Take your foot off the accelerator and hover it over the brake pedal while slowing down.
Covering the brake eliminates reaction time delay if an unseen vehicle emerges from behind the obstruction.
3
Apply right-of-way rules before proceeding.
Yield to the vehicle approaching from the right if arriving simultaneously, proceeding only when the intersection is clear.
At uncontrolled intersections, drivers must yield to vehicles arriving first or approaching from the right.

Key Concept

Defensive Hazard Anticipation and Uncontrolled Intersection Right-of-Way
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 2467Question →

You are approaching a busy four-way intersection where the traffic signal light is steady red. A police officer directing traffic at the center of the intersection explicitly signals for your lane to proceed forward. Which of the following actions must you take?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Obey the police officer's hand directions and proceed through the intersection despite the red light.

Answer

Obey the police officer's hand directions and proceed through the intersection despite the red light.
When a police officer or designated emergency traffic controller is directing traffic, their signals overrule all existing traffic control devices, including red lights and stop signs. Drivers must follow the officer's directions to maintain safe and efficient traffic flow.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the primary traffic authority present at the intersection.
A police officer is actively directing traffic at the scene.
Under statutory traffic laws, manual signals from a uniformed officer or authorized flagger override all standard traffic control devices, including steady red lights.
2
Determine the required driver response to the officer's signal.
Proceed safely as directed by the officer.
Drivers are legally obligated to follow an officer's instructions above posted signs or active signal indications.

Key Concept

Traffic Officer Signal Priority
Question 2468Question →

You are driving along a residential street near a playground when you observe a rubber ball roll out into the roadway from between two parked vehicles ahead. Which of the following is the most appropriate defensive driving action to take?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Immediately ease off the accelerator, cover the brake pedal, and prepare to stop, anticipating a child may follow the ball.

Answer

Ease off the accelerator, cover the brake pedal, and prepare to bring the vehicle to a complete stop, anticipating that a child might run into the roadway after the ball.
Recognizing early clues—such as a ball rolling into the street—is a core principle of hazard anticipation. A defensive driver proactively covers the brake to eliminate reaction time lag and reduces vehicle speed in anticipation that a child or pet may run into the roadway.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the early hazard indicator.
Recognize that a ball rolling into the street strongly indicates an impending hazard, such as a child running out.
Defensive driving requires anticipating secondary risks before they fully materialize.
2
Reduce reaction time by covering the brake pedal.
Position the right foot over the brake pedal without depressing it completely, while releasing the accelerator.
Covering the brake eliminates perception-reaction delay, allowing faster stopping if an emergency brake is needed.
3
Assess surrounding traffic and prepare for a safe stop.
Check rearview mirrors to gauge following distance of rear vehicles while keeping focus on the roadway ahead.
Ensures you can stop safely without being rear-ended by tailgating vehicles.

Key Concept

Early Hazard Identification and Covering the Brake
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 2469Question →

You are stopped at a solid red light at an intersection and plan to make a right turn where right turns on red are legal. Across the intersection, an oncoming vehicle is making a left turn under a steady green left-turn arrow into the same street. Which driver must yield the right-of-way?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: You must yield to the oncoming left-turning vehicle, because a driver turning on red must yield to all traffic moving on a green signal.

Answer

You must yield to the oncoming left-turning vehicle, because a driver turning on red must yield to all traffic moving on a green signal.
When turning right on red, drivers are executing a permissive turn and must bring the vehicle to a full stop, yielding to all pedestrians and vehicles moving under a green signal or protected green arrow.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the traffic control signals governing each vehicle.
Your vehicle faces a solid red light; the oncoming vehicle faces a protected green left-turn arrow.
Traffic signal indication determines priority at signalized intersections.
2
Apply standard right-of-way rules for turning on a red signal.
Turning right on red is only permitted after stopping completely and yielding to all oncoming vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians proceeding on a green signal.
Traffic moving under a green arrow has a protected right-of-way over vehicles facing a red light.
3
Determine which driver must yield.
You must remain stopped and yield to the oncoming left-turning vehicle until the intersection is clear.
A protected green arrow supersedes permissive movements executed on a red signal.

Key Concept

Right-of-Way Rules when Making a Right Turn on Red vs Protected Green Arrow
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 2470Question →

When planning to make a U-turn near the crest of a hill or on a curve, a driver is legally permitted to execute the maneuver as long as they activate their turn signal at least 100 feet in advance, regardless of line-of-sight visibility.

Show answer & explanation

Answer: False

Answer

The statement is False. Activating a turn signal does not override safety laws that prohibit U-turns where line-of-sight visibility is obstructed by a hill crest or curve.
The statement is false because traffic laws strictly forbid U-turns on curves or hill crests where approaching drivers from either direction cannot see the vehicle within a safe threshold distance (typically 500 feet). Turn signals communicate driver intent but do not make an inherently unsafe or prohibited maneuver legal.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the key rules governing U-turn legality and signaling requirements.
Signaling is required before any turn, but legal execution also depends on road geometry and visibility conditions.
Turn signals inform other drivers of intent but do not grant right-of-way or permission to violate visibility rules.
2
Evaluate the visibility restrictions for U-turns on hill crests or curves.
U-turns are illegal wherever oncoming traffic cannot see the turning vehicle within a safe distance (usually 500 feet in most jurisdictions).
Approaching vehicles travelling at speed over a crest or around a blind curve cannot stop in time if a vehicle blocks the roadway.
3
Determine the truth value of the statement.
The statement claims U-turns are permitted 'regardless of line-of-sight visibility,' which is false.
Proper signaling cannot legalise a turn executed under obstructed visibility conditions.

Key Concept

U-Turn Restrictions and Visibility Requirements
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 2471Question →

When driving past a public transit bus stopped at the roadside, defensive driving principles require you to cover the brake and reduce speed because pedestrians frequently step into the street from directly in front of the vehicle where sightlines are blocked.

Show answer & explanation

Answer: True

Answer

True. Defensive driving dictates reducing speed and covering the brake when passing a stopped bus because exiting pedestrians frequently cross from in front of the bus where visibility is severely restricted.
The statement is accurate because large stopped vehicles create blind zones where pedestrians may unexpectedly emerge. Proactively slowing down and covering the brake prepares the driver to stop safely.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the visual obstruction created by the stopped transit vehicle.
Recognize that the size of the bus completely blocks the view of the roadway directly in front of it.
Pedestrians who exit the bus often cross the street immediately in front of the bus rather than walking to an intersection.
2
Execute defensive driving hazard management.
Ease off the accelerator, position your foot over the brake pedal (covering the brake), and reduce vehicle speed.
Covering the brake eliminates reaction delay, enabling an immediate stopping response if a hidden hazard enters your travel path.

Key Concept

Hazard Anticipation Near Stopped Transit Vehicles
Estimated Time:45s
Question 2472Question →

At an uncontrolled T-intersection, where a terminating road meets a continuing through road without any traffic signs or signals, the driver on the terminating road has the right-of-way and may proceed without yielding.

Show answer & explanation

Answer: False

Answer

False. At an uncontrolled T-intersection, the driver traveling on the road that ends (terminating road) must yield the right-of-way to all vehicles and pedestrians on the continuing through road.
The statement is false. According to standard DMV traffic rules, drivers on a road that terminates at a T-intersection must yield the right-of-way to vehicles traveling on the continuing through street.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the intersection layout and control type
The scenario describes a T-intersection with no traffic control signs or signals (uncontrolled T-intersection).
Determining the road hierarchy establishes which standard statutory right-of-way rule applies.
2
Apply statutory right-of-way rules for T-intersections
Under state DMV standards, traffic on a terminating road does not have priority over traffic on a through road.
Vehicles on the continuing through road have the continuous right-of-way, requiring vehicles approaching from the street that ends to stop or yield until safe.
3
Evaluate the truth value of the stem statement
The statement claims the driver on the terminating road has right-of-way, which contradicts statutory rules.
Since the driver on the terminating road must yield, the statement is false.

Key Concept

Right-of-way precedence at T-intersections
Estimated Time:45s
Question 2473Question →

When an oncoming vehicle unexpectedly drifts across the center line into your travel lane on a two-lane road, defensive driving protocols require steering to the left into the opposing lane if the right shoulder appears narrow.

Show answer & explanation

Answer: False

Answer

False. Defensive driving rules dictate that if an oncoming vehicle enters your lane, you must steer to the right toward the shoulder or off-road area, never to the left into opposing traffic.
The statement is false because defensive driving standards require drivers to steer toward the right shoulder or off-road area when avoiding an oncoming vehicle. Steering to the left into the opposing lane significantly increases the risk of a head-on impact if the oncoming driver suddenly corrects their path.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the head-on collision threat presented by the drifting vehicle.
An oncoming vehicle has crossed into your lane, creating an immediate conflict.
Recognizing severe hazards early allows time to execute safe evasive actions.
2
Evaluate potential escape paths and risks of steering left versus right.
Steering left risks a head-on crash if the drifting driver attempts to return to their proper lane or if trailing traffic is present.
Drifting drivers typically react by swerving back to their right (your left).
3
Select the proper defensive evasive maneuver.
Brake firmly and steer to the right shoulder or off the road.
Steering right keeps your vehicle away from the oncoming vehicle's natural recovery path and off-road objects are generally less severe than a head-on impact.

Key Concept

Evasive Steering and Head-On Hazard Response
Question 2474Question →

While driving through a commercial area, you notice a delivery truck parked at the right curb ahead with its hazard lights flashing, creating a sightline obstruction near an active storefront entrance. Which defensive driving action should you take as you approach the vehicle?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Reduce speed, cover the brake, scan beneath and around the truck for pedestrians or exiting traffic, and verify your blind spot before changing lanes or passing.

Answer

The correct action is to slow down, cover the brake, scan the area around and beneath the delivery truck for hidden hazards, and check blind spots before safely maneuvering around it.
When a large vehicle obscures your vision near foot traffic or driveways, defensive driving principles dictate lowering speed, covering the brake to eliminate reaction lag, and checking mirrors and blind spots prior to altering your path.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the visual hazard obstruction ahead
Recognize that the delivery vehicle blocks sightlines to pedestrians and exiting traffic.
Defensive driving requires anticipating hazards that cannot be fully seen.
2
Adjust speed and prepare for potential emergency braking
Easing off the accelerator and covering the brake reduces total stopping distance.
Lowering vehicle speed increases reaction time if a pedestrian steps into the road.
3
Perform spatial scanning and blind spot verification
Confirm surrounding lanes are clear via mirrors and head check before executing a lateral adjustment.
Lane changes around obstacles must never compromise adjacent traffic safety.

Key Concept

Hazard Anticipation and Visual Obstruction Management
Question 2475Question →

You are driving down a residential two-lane road at 25 mph. Up ahead, you notice a driver inside a parked vehicle along the right curb opening their door, while an oncoming vehicle approaches from the opposite direction. What is the safest defensive driving response to manage these potential hazards?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Reduce speed, cover the brake, and remain centered in your lane until the oncoming vehicle passes before giving the parked vehicle extra clearance.

Answer

Reduce speed, cover the brake, and remain centered in your lane until the oncoming vehicle passes before giving the parked vehicle extra clearance.
When encountering multiple hazards (a car door opening on the right and oncoming traffic on the left), a defensive driver reduces speed and covers the brake to gain reaction time. Remaining in your lane avoids a collision with oncoming traffic, and giving extra clearance after traffic clears ensures safety around the parked vehicle.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify potential hazards
Recognize a dual hazard: a door opening into your travel path on the right and an oncoming vehicle on the left.
Defensive driving requires early identification of multiple conflicting hazards.
2
Prioritize hazard management and control speed
Cover the brake and reduce speed to give yourself time to stop if the door opens fully into your lane.
Slowing down increases reaction time and reduces stopping distance without entering oncoming traffic.
3
Execute spatial positioning safety
Wait until oncoming traffic clears before shifting lateral position away from the parked car.
Splitting hazards sequentially minimizes the risk of a head-on collision.

Key Concept

Defensive Driving and Hazard Anticipation
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 2476Question →

You are driving at 40 mph on an urban arterial road and approaching an intersection where the traffic signal has been green for a long distance ahead (a stale green light). As you near the point of decision, what is the most effective defensive driving procedure to anticipate potential hazards?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Ease off the accelerator, cover the brake pedal, and scan the intersection for cross-traffic and potential signal changes.

Answer

Ease off the accelerator, cover the brake pedal, and scan the intersection for cross-traffic and potential signal changes.
Easing off the accelerator, covering the brake, and actively scanning the intersection is the proper defensive driving response to a stale green light. This prepares the driver to stop safely if the light changes while keeping total control of the vehicle.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the hazard type
Recognize that a green light which has been green for a long time (a stale green) is highly likely to change to yellow soon.
Anticipating signal changes prevents emergency braking or running red lights.
2
Adjust vehicle control and speed profile
Remove your foot from the accelerator and place it hovering over the brake pedal (covering the brake).
Covering the brake eliminates reaction time delay if a stop becomes necessary.
3
Scan the environment
Check left, center, right, and rear-view mirrors for pedestrians, turning vehicles, or trailing drivers.
Scanning ensures total visual awareness of potential conflict points before entering the intersection.

Key Concept

Stale Green Light Response and Covering the Brake
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 2477Question →

When approaching a sharp, blind curve on a narrow two-lane roadway, defensive driving principles recommend positioning your vehicle close to the center line to improve your visual range around the bend.

Show answer & explanation

Answer: False

Answer

The statement is False. Defensive drivers maintain speed control and keep centered or slightly right within their lane when approaching blind curves to preserve a lateral space buffer against oncoming traffic.
Evaluating the statement as False is correct because proper defensive driving prioritizes keeping a lateral cushion away from oncoming traffic when vision around a curve is obstructed.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the primary hazard in the scenario
On blind curves, oncoming drivers may inadvertently drift over the center line due to sightline limitations or centrifugal force.
Hazard anticipation requires assuming limited sight distance conceals opposing traffic.
2
Evaluate lane positioning strategy
Hugging the center line reduces the lateral buffer to zero, elevating collision risk.
Proper spatial management dictates preserving maximum distance from potential head-on hazards.
3
Determine correct defensive driving action
Slow down before entering the curve and maintain a centered lane position.
This preserves control and safety cushions on both sides of the vehicle.

Key Concept

Spatial Management and Blind Curve Line Positioning
Question 2478Question →

You are driving in the center lane of a three-lane city street. Ahead in the right lane, a public transit bus is stopped at a bus stop, and you observe a bicyclist rapidly approaching the rear of the bus. Recognizing the potential hazard ahead, what is the most appropriate defensive driving action to take?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Reduce your speed, cover the brake, and prepare for the bicyclist to potentially merge into your lane to bypass the stopped bus.

Answer

Reduce your speed, cover the brake, and prepare for the bicyclist to potentially merge into your lane to bypass the stopped bus.
Defensive driving emphasizes predicting potential conflicts before they occur. Since the stopped bus obstructs the bicyclist's forward movement, a defensive driver anticipates that the bicyclist may swerve left into the center lane. Slowing down and covering the brake preserves reaction time and provides a safety cushion.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Scan the road visual field ahead and identify potential hazards.
Recognize that the stopped bus blocks the bicyclist's lane, creating an impending hazard if the bicyclist decides to pass the bus.
Hazard anticipation requires predicting the logical actions of other road users when their path of travel is obstructed.
2
Adjust vehicle speed and position proactively before reaching the potential conflict point.
Covering the brake and slowing down creates a safe space cushion and reduces total stopping distance.
Proactive speed control ensures adequate time to react if the bicyclist swerves into your lane.

Key Concept

Defensive Driving and Hazard Anticipation
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 2479Question →

When followed closely by a tailgating vehicle on a two-lane highway, defensive driving principles advise increasing the following distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead.

Show answer & explanation

Answer: True

Answer

True
The statement is True because when a tailgater compromises your rear space cushion, defensive driving strategy dictates increasing your front space cushion. By giving yourself extra following distance from the vehicle ahead, you can observe hazards earlier and brake smoothly, giving the driver behind you sufficient time to stop safely.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the hazard presented by a tailgating vehicle behind you.
A tailgater eliminates your rear safety cushion, leaving little to no stopping distance if you brake suddenly.
Tailgaters cannot react in time to unexpected deceleration.
2
Determine the defensive driving technique to compensate for reduced rear space.
Increase your following distance behind the vehicle in front of you to 4 seconds or more.
Expanding your front space cushion allows for gradual, gentle braking when reacting to road hazards ahead.
3
Evaluate the statement.
The statement accurately reflects defensive driving hazard management.
Gentle braking prevents the tailgater from colliding with the rear of your vehicle.

Key Concept

Tailgater Management and Space Cushioning
Question 2480Question →

When following a large commercial vehicle or high-profile truck in city traffic, decreasing your following distance allows you to anticipate potential hazards ahead by giving you a clearer view through the truck's side mirrors.

Show answer & explanation

Answer: False

Answer

The statement is false. Defensive driving principles dictate that drivers should increase their following distance when trailing large vehicles to maintain proper forward visibility and hazard perception.
The statement is false. Following closely behind a large vehicle creates a visual obstruction that conceals upcoming road hazards, traffic lights, and sudden stops ahead. To practice effective hazard anticipation, defensive drivers increase their following distance behind large vehicles, establishing a larger visual field to see around the truck and react in time.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the spatial relationship and visual lead time when following a large vehicle.
Following too closely behind a high-profile vehicle blocks the driver's sight line to traffic ahead, traffic signals, and potential road hazards.
Defensive driving relies on early hazard anticipation, which requires an unobstructed view of the road ahead.
2
Determine the appropriate defensive driving adjustment for trailing large vehicles.
Increasing following distance (to at least 4 seconds or more) opens up the field of vision around the truck.
A larger safety cushion allows the driver to see around the vehicle, anticipate slowing traffic or hazards, and react safely.

Key Concept

Following Distance and Visual Lead Time behind Large Vehicles
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