Seeing and Communicating
This domain tests how far ahead you look, how you judge following distance, how you use mirrors, and how you signal intentions. The exam rewards active scanning and early communication.
Scanning and following distance
Aim high and look 12 to 15 seconds ahead. For following distance, use one second for each 10 feet of vehicle length at speeds under 40 mph; add one second above 40 mph. A 60-foot vehicle therefore needs about 6 seconds below 40 mph and 7 seconds above 40 mph. Check mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds and before any lane change.
Communicating
Signal early, brake early, and use headlights, brake lights, and emergency flashers to be seen. Use the horn only to warn of danger, not to express frustration. Avoid lingering in another driver's blind spot. Before changing lanes, check mirrors, signal, check the blind spot, and then move smoothly.
Worked example
You drive a 70-foot combination at 55 mph. The base following time is 7 seconds (70 feet ÷ 10), and because 55 mph is above 40 mph, add 1 second for 8 seconds. At 55 mph, you travel about 81 feet per second, so 8 seconds is roughly 648 feet. That is the gap to maintain in good conditions-more in rain, darkness, or heavy traffic.
Traps that cost marks
Counting car lengths instead of seconds; using the base following time at highway speed without adding a second; signaling after starting the lane change; and checking mirrors only when something feels wrong. Also do not assume a vehicle with a camera system has no blind spots.