What might signal a driver’s inability to effectively manage their vehicle in traffic?

The reasoning behind identifying the inability to manage a vehicle effectively as shown by not following at a safe distance hinges on the fundamental principles of safe driving. A driver who does not maintain an appropriate distance from the vehicle ahead may exhibit poor judgment regarding their ability to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic conditions. This lack of safe following distance can lead to increased risk of rear-end collisions and indicates that the driver may not be fully in control of their situational awareness or vehicle dynamics.

Maintaining a safe distance allows sufficient time to react to potential hazards and ensures that a driver can safely brake without colliding with the vehicle in front. Observing such behavior—tailgating or keeping too short a distance—often points to a lack of experience, attention, or understanding of defensive driving techniques. Therefore, this choice aptly signals a potential inability to manage driving responsibilities effectively amidst traffic.