Saskatchewan Driver Education GDL Class 7 Learner Practice Test

Maintaining a proper distance behind the vehicle in front of you is crucial for safe driving. Two seconds is recommended as a safe following distance under normal conditions. This time frame gives you adequate space to react should the vehicle in front of you suddenly stop or slow down.

When you adopt a two-second rule, you can gauge this distance by picking a stationary object on the side of the road. When the rear of the vehicle in front of you passes that object, you should be able to count "one thousand and one, one thousand and two" before your vehicle's front reaches the same object. This practice allows for a reasonable buffer zone, especially important in maintaining control and avoiding collisions.

In addition to providing time for reaction, a two-second gap allows for sufficient braking distance and time to assess the road ahead, which can be crucial in various traffic situations. On the other hand, shorter distances, such as one second, are often inadequate to ensure proper stopping time. While longer distances, like three or four seconds, may enhance safety, under normal driving circumstances, two seconds strikes a sensible balance between safety and practicality.