Illinois CDL Practice Exam

What is the correct following distance when driving behind another vehicle?

1. One car length

2. Two seconds behind the vehicle

3. Three feet

4. Ten car lengths

The correct answer is: Two seconds behind the vehicle

The correct following distance when driving behind another vehicle is two seconds behind that vehicle. This time-based distance allows for a safer buffer, enabling the driver to respond appropriately to sudden stops or changes in traffic conditions. In varying driving situations, such as inclement weather, heavy traffic, or when towing a trailer, it is advisable to increase this following distance beyond two seconds to ensure adequate reaction time and prevent collisions. Measuring following distance in seconds rather than in car lengths accounts for varying speeds and can adapt to the vehicle size, as well as the conditions of the roadway. For instance, if a vehicle is traveling at a higher speed, the distance traveled in two seconds will be greater than at a lower speed, making this method flexible and practical for maintaining safety on the road.