The seven-second following rule applies to speeds under what limit?

• A. 20 mph
• B. 25 mph
• C. 30 mph
• D. 35 mph

Answer: (C)

Seven-second following distance is a time-based safety buffer that gives you enough time to notice a hazard, react, and stop if the vehicle in front suddenly brakes. It’s designed for speeds under 30 mph, where a seven-second gap provides a comfortable margin in typical city driving and accounts for normal human reaction time and braking at these slower speeds. As speeds rise above 30 mph, stopping distance increases quickly, so seven seconds isn’t enough; you should extend the gap and adjust for conditions like rain or poor visibility, which require even more space. The takeaway is to keep about seven seconds of travel time behind the vehicle ahead when you’re under 30 mph, and increase that distance in faster or harsher conditions.