Texas CDL General Knowledge Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Texas CDL General Knowledge Exam. Study with interactive quizzes, multiple choice questions, and detailed explanations to increase your chances of passing the exam.

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What is "tailgating" and why is it dangerous?

Following another vehicle too closely, reducing reaction time in an emergency
Pacing another vehicle to maintain speed
Driving slowly behind a vehicle to signal a lane change
Passing another vehicle in a no-passing zone

The correct answer is: Following another vehicle too closely, reducing reaction time in an emergency

Tailgating refers to the practice of following another vehicle too closely, which can significantly reduce the driver’s reaction time in case of an emergency. The danger of tailgating lies in the fact that if the leading vehicle suddenly stops or slows down, the tailgater may not have sufficient time or space to react appropriately. This can lead to rear-end collisions, which are among the most common types of accidents on the road. Maintaining a safe following distance is crucial for providing adequate reaction time, allowing the driver to assess road conditions and respond to any sudden changes in traffic. This spacing is particularly important for larger vehicles, which require greater stopping distances compared to standard passenger cars.