Speed Limits and Following Distance Flashcards

When driving in a construction zone with workers present, what should you typically do with your speed?

Answer: Reduce speed and obey posted reduced speed limit signs

Construction zones post reduced speed limits to protect workers, and fines are often doubled for violations there.

What is the maximum speed limit typically posted in a school zone when children are present and the school zone is active?

Answer: 15 mph

Many states post 15 mph in active school zones, though 25 mph is common depending on the state.

Which factor does NOT affect a safe following distance?

Answer: Color of the vehicle ahead

The color of the vehicle ahead has no bearing on stopping distance or reaction time.

At highway speeds (65–70 mph), experts recommend increasing your following distance to at least how many seconds?

Answer: 3 seconds

At highway speeds, a 3-second minimum following distance is recommended because stopping distances are much greater.

What is the purpose of the 'three-second rule' in adverse weather?

Answer: To ensure enough braking distance in reduced traction conditions

The three-second rule in adverse weather gives extra braking distance because wet, icy, or slippery roads reduce tire grip.

Speeding through a residential neighborhood is particularly dangerous because:

Answer: Pedestrians, children, and pets may enter the road unexpectedly

Residential areas have high pedestrian activity and limited sight lines, making unexpected entry onto the road likely.

A driver is traveling at 30 mph. Approximately how many feet will the vehicle travel during the driver's average reaction time of 1.5 seconds before braking begins?

Answer: 66 feet

At 30 mph (44 ft/sec), in 1.5 seconds the car travels about 66 feet before the brakes are even applied.