What is a recommended way to manage a space cushion while driving?

Maintaining a space cushion while driving is essential for safety, as it provides room to maneuver in case of sudden stops, changes in traffic conditions, or the actions of other drivers. Keeping extra space for larger vehicles and pedestrians is crucial because these larger vehicles require more time and distance to stop and may have blind spots that make it difficult for their drivers to see smaller vehicles and pedestrians nearby.

By ensuring that there is extra space, you can respond more effectively to any potential hazards. For instance, if a larger vehicle suddenly brakes, having that additional cushion allows you to react with sufficient time to avoid a collision. Similarly, when driving near pedestrians, maintaining a safe distance helps ensure that you can stop or slow down if they unexpectedly enter the roadway.

The other options do not promote effective space management: following too closely increases the risk of accidents, crowding the lane can create tension with other drivers and restrict their ability to safely merge, and driving faster to maintain distance can lead to reckless behaviors and reduce overall road safety.