Distance between vehicles at a red light

[Buggs67]

I like to leave enough room to be able to, without having to back up, turn out around the vehicle in front of me if it happens to break down just at that time or as happens much more often, if they decide to put their signal light on after they've stopped.

I think this is the most reasonable answer. I was taught to be able to see their license plate, which back then was usually below the bumper.

 

[Winmac]

I was taught the same in divers Ed as well but with all general rules there are exceptions with extreme vehicle size differences it may not be appropriate. So depending on what you drive you and the coworker may both be correct.

 

[Buggs67]

I also think how you drive will be determined by where you live. A car length will work in the country; not in Boston or NYC

 

[RobertN]

Was around the local Fire Department for a number of years. We always left room, so if we got a call we could maneuver around traffic and respond. It is not unusual to be dispatched on a call while out doing inspections, returning from a call, or moving to another station for coverage.

I still leave room. That, and I have been rear-ended and pushed in to the car in front of me.

 

[Jstpssng]

I can see a car length; I leave that much. But 40+ feet between you and the car in front?

 

[mx1alex]

I can see a car length; I leave that much. But 40+ feet between you and the car in front?

What the heck you driving that it requires 40' to see the back tires of the car in front of you? It's about car length for me.

 

[Bird]

we were also taught to use turn signals [ or hand signals ]...

Wonder how many are old enough to even remember the hand signals?:laughing: After the manufacturers started putting turn signals on the new cars we used to sell an after market kit to install turn signals on cars that came without them. I installed a couple of those myself.

 

[George2615]

Wonder how many are old enough to even remember the hand signals?:laughing: After the manufacturers started putting turn signals on the new cars we used to sell an after market kit to install turn signals on cars that came without them. I installed a couple of those myself.

I remember and they still sell Signal Stat aftermarket kits. Many guys who built their own street / rat rods still use them.
I have one in my 1949 1 1/2T truck.

 

[bcp]

Wonder how many are old enough to even remember the hand signals?:laughing: .

Remember the mechanical arm that would extend from the post behind the driver? Trucks had large ones that didn't hide in the bodywork like some cars. You didn't have to roll down the window to signal a turn.

Bruce

 

[AaronS]

I remember being taught hand signals and even used them a few times, and I'm not what I consider old. I wonder how many kids today would know what to do with a vehicle that had the light dimmer switch on the floor board.