Distracted driving, speed management, and space management
This domain tests distraction control, speed choice, and following distance in a vehicle that is long, heavy, and full of people. The exam expects space and speed decisions that protect standing passengers and give you time to stop.
Distraction and speed
Do not text or use a handheld phone while driving a commercial motor vehicle. Keep the phone out of reach, preset the radio and climate controls, and avoid eating or navigation programming while moving. Obey posted limits and reduce speed for curves, work zones, rain, fog, heavy traffic, and passenger comfort. A bus does not stop like a car.
Space management
Use at least one second of following distance for each 10 feet of vehicle length below 40 mph, and add one second above 40 mph. A 40-foot bus therefore needs at least 4 seconds below 40 mph and 5 seconds above 40, plus more in poor weather. Keep an escape route, stay out of blind spots, and use mirrors before changing lanes.
Worked example
A 40-foot bus travels at 55 mph on a wet road. The base following distance is 5 seconds; wet pavement calls for additional space, so 7 or more seconds is safer. The bus then has room to stop if the car ahead brakes suddenly.
Traps
Using car-length following distances, watching only the vehicle directly ahead, and letting a passenger conversation pull your eyes off the road are common mark-losers. Distraction is not excused by traffic.