Is one car length distance enough? – Yes, keep it simple.
FOLLOWING DISTANCE: Keep an adequate space "cushion" between your vehicle and those you are following. Use the "two second rule" described in the Driver's Manual. Be sure to increase your following distance in poor weather or visibility. Simply put, make sure you can see from the tire on up, the car ahead of you.
As long as you can see the entire car ahead of you, keep that distance as you drive, but make sure you stay in your lane and if you must change lanes, signal first, check, and double check again to make sure it’s safe to do so. All you need is enough space before you switch lanes.
Practice makes it permanent. Not so long ago, I applied this simple rule while headed North on I-95 during early morning rush hour. What spared me from an accident was when I looked over my shoulder and a second before I looked over my shoulder. I checked my left side mirror as usual, but the car was in my blind spot and not visible because the driver was following me too close. The next logical thing I did was look back over my shoulder before I switched into the left lane. No doubt it would have been a bad accident had I not looked over my shoulder, that’s how close my car and the other car were.
When it comes to safe driving, be alert at all times, stick to the two second rule and doing so will also help you pass the road test easily. Don’t make the mistakes of others. Following distance is as important as all the other skills necessary to master before you take the road test. Do you want to pass the road test? Keep this simple rule. Visit www.PaulinaAParker.com for more information.
