Nova Scotia Driving Test Practice: Ace your driving test

What is the recommended following distance behind another vehicle?

1. 1 second

2. 2 seconds

3. 3 seconds

4. 4 seconds

The correct answer is: 3 seconds

The recommended following distance behind another vehicle is typically considered to be 3 seconds. This guideline is rooted in providing drivers with enough time to react to unexpected events, such as sudden stops or emergencies from the vehicle in front. A 3-second following distance allows for ample reaction time, especially in varying weather conditions or during heavy traffic. To measure this distance, you can choose a fixed point on the road, such as a sign or a tree. Once the vehicle in front of you passes that point, you should be able to count "one thousand one, one thousand two, one thousand three" before your vehicle reaches the same point. This technique ensures that you maintain a safe distance, reducing the risk of rear-end collisions. Other options like 1 second or 2 seconds are generally considered too short, especially at higher speeds, as they do not provide sufficient time to respond to potential hazards. A following distance of 4 seconds is more cautious but may be excessive in many driving conditions, leading to unnecessary traffic congestion.