Nevada permit test: following distance & space

Following-distance rules, stopping distance and keeping a space cushion. 4 questions.

Question 1 of 4
Following distance & spaceNevada rule

When driving 40 mph or less, what minimum following distance does the Nevada handbook recommend?

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Sample following distance & space questions

  1. Two cars in the same lane passing a fixed marker
    View diagram
    Two cars in the same lane passing a fixed markerYou

    When driving 40 mph or less, what minimum following distance does the Nevada handbook recommend?

    • A One second
    • B One car length
    • C Five seconds
    • D Two seconds
    Show answer

    D. Two seconds

    At 40 mph or less, stay at least two seconds behind the vehicle ahead; many instructors recommend up to four. At higher speeds or on slippery roads, leave more.

    Source: Nevada Official Driver Handbook (DMV 700), page 42

  2. How far ahead should you look while driving in town?

    • A At least 12 seconds ahead
    • B Just past the car in front
    • C About 3 seconds ahead
    • D About 1 block, at any speed
    Show answer

    A. At least 12 seconds ahead

    Look ahead to where you will be in at least 12 seconds; at 30 mph that is a bit more than a block. On freeways, look at least 20 to 30 seconds ahead.

    Source: Nevada Official Driver Handbook (DMV 700), page 42

  3. According to the Nevada handbook, what are normal driver reaction times?

    • A 4 to 5 seconds
    • B About half a second
    • C 2 to 2.5 seconds
    • D About 1 second
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    C. 2 to 2.5 seconds

    Highway safety studies show normal reaction times of 2 to 2.5 seconds, and they grow when decisions are complex. During that time your car keeps moving at full speed, which is why following distance matters.

    Source: Nevada Official Driver Handbook (DMV 700), page 41

  4. What is the number one type of crash on Nevada's streets and highways?

    • A Single-vehicle rollovers
    • B Rear-end collisions
    • C Head-on collisions
    • D Side-impact collisions at intersections
    Show answer

    B. Rear-end collisions

    Rear-end collisions are the most common crash type in Nevada. Keeping a safe following distance and looking well ahead is the best way to avoid them.

    Source: Nevada Official Driver Handbook (DMV 700), page 41