Arkansas Commercial Driver License (CDL) Practice Test

According to the text, what speed should you maintain in heavy traffic at speeds below 40 mph?

1. 1/2 second of vehicle length

2. 1 second of vehicle length

3. 1.5 seconds of vehicle length

4. 2 seconds of vehicle length

The correct answer is: 1 second of vehicle length

In heavy traffic conditions when speeds are below 40 mph, maintaining a following distance of 1 second of vehicle length is essential for ensuring safety. This distance helps provide enough reaction time to respond to sudden stops or emergencies ahead. Keeping this distance allows drivers to maintain control of their vehicles while being aware of the traffic dynamics around them, which is crucial in dense driving situations. As speeds decrease, the reaction time needed also decreases, making a 1-second rule practical for such environments. It helps mitigate risks of rear-end collisions, especially when vehicles may stop or slow unexpectedly. This approach reflects an understanding of how to navigate safely in heavy traffic scenarios.