Hawaii Drivers Permit Practice Test

If two vehicles are driving side by side on a four-lane highway and you are in a hurry, what is the correct action?

1. Drive closely behind the vehicle in the left lane and flash your headlights.

2. Drive closely behind the vehicle in the right lane.

3. Drive in either lane with a two-second interval behind the vehicle ahead.

4. Change lanes frequently to get ahead.

The correct answer is: Drive in either lane with a two-second interval behind the vehicle ahead.

The correct action is to maintain a two-second interval behind the vehicle ahead, whether you are in the left lane or the right lane. This practice ensures that you are driving at a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, allowing adequate reaction time in case of sudden stops or emergencies. It promotes safety on the road by reducing the risk of rear-end collisions, especially in circumstances where traffic may be congested or unpredictable. While being in a hurry might tempt a driver to adopt more aggressive tactics—such as driving closely behind other vehicles or frequently changing lanes—these actions can lead to unsafe driving conditions. For example, tailgating by following another vehicle too closely can prevent you from reacting appropriately to any sudden changes in traffic. Additionally, constantly switching lanes can lead to confusion and increase the risk of accidents, as other drivers may not anticipate your movements. By choosing to maintain a safe following distance, you contribute to a safer driving environment for yourself and others on the road, even when time is a concern. This approach strikes a balance between efficiency and safety.