Following distance
Also known as: gap distance, space cushion, trailing distance
The space between a vehicle and the one directly ahead, measured in seconds rather than feet. Pick a fixed roadside marker such as a sign post, count the seconds between the car ahead passing it and your own front bumper reaching it, then compare that count against the minimum this book sets for the state. Lengthen the gap in rain, snow, fog, or low light.
Where you'll see following distance on this site
Pages that reference this term so you can see it in context.
Practice questions
- Between opposing lanes, a double-solid yellow line means what about passing? · North Carolina practice question
- The manual says to avoid driving side-by-side with another vehicle. Why? · North Carolina practice question
- On wet pavement, how much following distance does the manual tell you to keep behind the v... · North Carolina practice question
- The manual warns that in a work zone, driving areas may be confined. What consequence does... · North Carolina practice question
- According to the manual, what should you do as soon as the road becomes wet? · Texas practice question
Articles
Road signs
- Be Prepared To Stop · Sign
- Be Prepared To Stop · Sign
- Expressway Ends 1 Mile · Sign
- Fog Area · Sign
- Fresh Oil · Sign
Studying for your test?
Pick your state for free practice questions, study guides, and a road-signs reference.