(29/200) When a driver stops behind another vehicle in a traffic queue, they should:

Accuracy: 53.6% AI Difficulty: 3

Stay at least 10 metres from the vehicle ahead Leave enough space to move to another lane without reversing Maintain spacing as defined by the 2-second rule Stay approximately 1 metre from the rear bumper of the vehicle ahead

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Explanation

AI Difficulty Assessment

Question Analysis

In Alberta, when stopped in traffic, drivers must maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. The official Driver's Guide emphasizes leaving enough space to see the rear tires of the vehicle in front and to be able to move around it if necessary. This allows for maneuvering out of the lane if the vehicle ahead stalls or if an emergency vehicle approaches, and it prevents being boxed in.

Correct Answer Analysis

Correct Answer: Leave enough space to move to another lane without reversing

The correct answer is to leave enough space to move to another lane without reversing. This is a practical application of the 'space cushion' concept: when stopped, you should be able to see the rear tires of the vehicle ahead touching the pavement, which gives you room to steer around it if needed. This also helps avoid rear-end collisions and allows for evasive action.

Wrong Options Analysis

Option: Stay at least 10 metres from the vehicle ahead

This is not a specific legal requirement in Alberta for stopped traffic. Ten metres is excessive and would encourage other drivers to cut in front of you, creating a hazard. The rule is to leave enough space to maneuver, not a fixed distance.

Option: Maintain spacing as defined by the 2-second rule

The 2-second rule is for following a moving vehicle at a safe distance. When stopped, the rule does not apply because you are not moving. The appropriate stopped distance is based on being able to see the rear tires of the vehicle ahead and having room to move around it.

Option: Stay approximately 1 metre from the rear bumper of the vehicle ahead

This is too close. It does not provide enough space to maneuver around the vehicle if needed, and it increases the risk of a collision if you are hit from behind, pushing you into the vehicle ahead. It also makes it difficult to see the road ahead and to react to changes in traffic.

About this Alberta Class 7 License question

This question is part of the Canada Alberta (AB) Class 7 License knowledge test question bank. Read the explanation above, then browse more questions on the same topic below.

Confirm the rule in the official source: Alberta driver guides

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