Alberta Written Drivers Learners Test Practice

Maintaining a following distance of at least 2 seconds behind another vehicle under normal driving conditions is fundamental for ensuring safety on the road. This distance allows for adequate reaction time if the vehicle in front suddenly stops or slows down. A 2-second gap provides a buffer that helps drivers respond effectively to unexpected changes in traffic, which is crucial for preventing rear-end collisions.

The 2-second rule can be evaluated by picking a fixed point on the road, such as a sign or a tree. When the vehicle in front of you passes that point, you should be able to count "one thousand and one, one thousand and two" before your vehicle reaches the same point. If you reach the point before you finish counting, it indicates that you are too close and should increase your distance.

In adverse conditions, such as rain, fog, or snow, increasing the following distance even further—beyond 2 seconds—is advisable to account for reduced visibility and increased stopping distances. This 2-second guideline is widely recommended among driving safety organizations and serves as a baseline for safe driving practices.