Tennessee Permit Practice Test

What is the safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you?

1. At least one second

2. At least two seconds

3. At least three seconds

4. At least five seconds

The correct answer is: At least three seconds

A safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you is at least three seconds under normal driving conditions. This guideline allows ample time to react to sudden stops or emergencies. By maintaining a following distance of three seconds, you create a buffer zone that gives you sufficient time to evaluate the situation and respond accordingly, which is critical in reducing the risk of collisions. This three-second rule accounts for various factors such as your speed, traffic conditions, and road surface. When the road is slippery or visibility is reduced, increasing your following distance becomes even more essential. By observing the vehicle ahead and counting until you pass a fixed point on the road, you can accurately measure this interval and adjust your distance as needed. Other options suggest shorter following distances, which may not provide enough time to react in emergency situations, potentially leading to accidents. This practice of maintaining an appropriate following distance is a foundational principle in defensive driving, aimed at enhancing safety for all road users.