If you are following a motorcycle, what minimum following distance is recommended to help avoid a collision if the rider brakes suddenly?

• A. Two seconds
• B. Four-second following distance
• C. Six seconds
• D. Three seconds

Answer: (B)

The main idea is giving yourself enough time to react when the vehicle ahead brakes. When you’re following a motorcycle, you should allow a four-second gap because motorcycles can brake suddenly and may stop much quicker than a car. The extra space lets you notice the rider’s braking, decide what to do, and come to a stop without colliding, even if the motorcyclist slows down abruptly or has to swerve. A shorter gap, like two or three seconds, leaves too little time to react to sudden braking, while six seconds is more than the minimum you need in normal conditions. Four seconds is the safe, standard minimum behind a motorcycle.