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Difficulty: EasySeparation Distances and the Two-Second Rule

You are following another vehicle on a dry road. How can you use a fixed roadside marker to check that you are maintaining a safe separation distance?

  1. A
    Watch the vehicle ahead pass the marker and ensure your vehicle reaches it within one second
  2. B
    Count at least four seconds from when the vehicle ahead passes the marker until your vehicle reaches it
  3. Count at least two seconds from when the vehicle ahead passes the marker until your vehicle reaches itAnswer
  4. D
    Keep your eyes fixed on the vehicle ahead and ignore the roadside marker once you spot it

Answer

Count at least two seconds from when the vehicle ahead passes the marker until your vehicle reaches it
In good, dry conditions, drivers should maintain a separation gap of at least two seconds from the vehicle ahead. To check this, note when the vehicle in front passes a fixed roadside object such as a bridge or road sign, then count two seconds. If your vehicle reaches the object before you finish counting, you are following too closely and should drop back.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify a stationary reference point ahead, such as an overhead bridge, signpost, or lamp post.
A fixed marker is selected along the road.
A stationary object is required to measure the time gap between two moving vehicles.
2
Start counting seconds the moment the rear of the vehicle ahead passes the reference point.
Begin counting at a steady pace (for example, saying 'Only a fool breaks the two-second rule').
Timing must start precisely when the lead vehicle passes the chosen marker.
3
Verify whether your vehicle reaches the marker after at least two seconds have elapsed.
If you reach the marker before two seconds have passed, increase your following distance.
The Highway Code sets a minimum safe separation distance of two seconds on dry roads.

Key Concept

The Two-Second Rule for Safe Separation Distances
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Separation Distances and the Two-Second Rule

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