Montana: Speed and following distance
Montana speed limits, adjusting speed to the road and the weather, the three-second rule, space around your vehicle and seeing far enough ahead. Split into 5 shorter tests so you're not stuck in one long quiz.
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Speed and following distance — Part 1
Questions in this part include: “What is true about the speed limit in construction or work zones?”
StartSpeed and following distance — Part 2
Questions in this part include: “On a highway where the speed limit is 55 mph or more, what is the fastest a driver in a funeral procession may drive?”
StartSpeed and following distance — Part 3
Questions in this part include: “Through what part of your vehicle is its only contact with the road?”
StartSpeed and following distance — Part 4
Questions in this part include: “What often causes crashes involving two or more vehicles?”
StartSpeed and following distance — Part 5
Questions in this part include: “According to the manual, what are speed limits based on?”
StartAll 94 Speed and following distance questions with answers
Choose a part above to take a practice test, or study every question and answer here.
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Why may your speed be limited at night as well as by a posted limit?
- Visibility is limited at night
- Traffic signals are turned off at night
- Fuel use is higher at night
- Roads are narrower at night
Show answer
Correct answer: Visibility is limited at night
The manual says that since visibility is limited at night, your speed may be limited also.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 24
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What should you do about the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front on a Slippery When Wet pavement?
- Reduce it
- Keep it the same
- Ignore it
- Increase it
Show answer
Correct answer: Increase it
On pavement that is unusually slick when wet, the manual says to increase the distance between your vehicle and the one in front.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 26
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What is true about the speed limit in construction or work zones?
- It is always half of the normal limit on that road
- It is always the same as the normal limit on that road
- There is no standard limit; each zone has its own limit
- It is set by each driver’s own judgment alone
Show answer
Correct answer: There is no standard limit; each zone has its own limit
There is not a standard speed limit in work zones; a speed limit is set specific to each zone.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 28
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What habit does the manual tell you to develop near any school?
- Sounding your horn to warn children you are near
- Using your high beams so children can see you
- Checking your speed and slowing down at all hours
- Speeding up to clear the area quickly
Show answer
Correct answer: Checking your speed and slowing down at all hours
The manual says to develop the habit of checking your speed and slowing down near any school at all hours.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 29
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School zone speed limits may be as low as how many miles per hour?
- 5 mph
- 15 mph
- 8 mph
- 10 mph
Show answer
Correct answer: 15 mph
The manual says school zone speed limits may be as low as 15 mph.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 29
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What do school speed limit signs indicate?
- Posted speeds, or where local authorities have authorized reduced speeds
- That the limit is always 15 mph in every school zone
- That drivers must stop at every intersection near the school
- That only school buses may use the street
Show answer
Correct answer: Posted speeds, or where local authorities have authorized reduced speeds
School speed limit signs indicate posted speeds or where reduced speeds have been authorized by local authorities.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 29
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What may indicate speed limit changes near schools?
- Only the crossing guard’s whistle
- Only the color of nearby buildings
- Signs, markings, and flashing lights
- Only pavement cracks
Show answer
Correct answer: Signs, markings, and flashing lights
The manual says to watch for signs, markings, and/or flashing lights as indicators of speed limit changes near schools.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 29
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What happens to fines for speed violations in school zones in Montana?
- They are tripled
- They are the same as elsewhere
- They are halved the first time
- They are doubled
Show answer
Correct answer: They are doubled
Fines are doubled in all school zones throughout Montana.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 29
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According to the general driving rules in the manual, at what speed should you drive?
- A speed that is safe for conditions
- Always exactly the posted speed limit
- The same speed as the fastest traffic
- Five mph below any posted limit
Show answer
Correct answer: A speed that is safe for conditions
The general driving rules say to drive at a speed that is safe for conditions.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 37
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If the road or weather is bad, what does the manual say about your speed?
- You may need to drive below the speed limit
- You must keep exactly to the posted limit
- You should match the speed of other traffic
- You must turn on your emergency flashers
Show answer
Correct answer: You may need to drive below the speed limit
Always obey the posted speed limit and consider road conditions; if the road or weather is bad, you may need to drive below the speed limit.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 38
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In the speed limit table, what is the daytime speed limit for cars and light trucks on two-lane highways?
- 60 mph
- 75 mph
- 70 mph
- 80 mph
Show answer
Correct answer: 70 mph
The speed limit table lists 70 mph by day and 65 mph at night for cars and light trucks on two-lane highways.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 38
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In the speed limit table, what is the nighttime speed limit for cars and light trucks on two-lane highways?
- 50 mph
- 55 mph
- 60 mph
- 65 mph
Show answer
Correct answer: 65 mph
The speed limit table lists 65 mph at night for cars and light trucks on two-lane highways.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 38
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In the speed limit table, what is the daytime speed limit for heavy trucks on two-lane highways?
- 55 mph
- 60 mph
- 65 mph
- 70 mph
Show answer
Correct answer: 60 mph
The speed limit table lists 60 mph by day for heavy trucks on two-lane highways.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 38
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In the speed limit table, what is the nighttime speed limit for heavy trucks on two-lane highways?
- 50 mph
- 60 mph
- 55 mph
- 65 mph
Show answer
Correct answer: 55 mph
The speed limit table lists 55 mph at night for heavy trucks on two-lane highways.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 38
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In the speed limit table, what is the speed limit for heavy trucks on interstate highways, day and night?
- 65 mph
- 55 mph
- 70 mph
- 75 mph
Show answer
Correct answer: 65 mph
The speed limit table lists 65 mph both day and night for heavy trucks on interstate highways.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 38
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In the speed limit table, which speed limits are listed for cars and light trucks on interstate highways?
- 75/80 mph
- 65/70 mph
- 70/75 mph
- 80/85 mph
Show answer
Correct answer: 75/80 mph
The speed limit table lists 75/80 mph, day and night, for cars and light trucks on interstate highways.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 38
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In the speed limit table, what is the speed limit for cars and light trucks on urban area highways?
- 55 mph
- 70 mph
- 65 mph
- 75 mph
Show answer
Correct answer: 65 mph
The speed limit table lists 65 mph, day and night, for cars and light trucks on urban area highways.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 38
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In the speed limit table, which roads count as "urban area highways"?
- Interstates near Helena, Butte, and Bozeman
- Interstates near Billings, Great Falls, and Missoula
- Any two-lane highway inside city limits
- Interstates near Kalispell, Havre, and Miles City
Show answer
Correct answer: Interstates near Billings, Great Falls, and Missoula
The urban area highway limits apply to interstates within the Billings, Great Falls, and Missoula areas.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 38
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In the speed limit table, which trucks count as "heavy trucks"?
- Trucks with three or more axles or a trailer
- Any truck that carries a commercial load
- Any pickup or van used for business
- Trucks over one-ton manufacturer's rated capacity
Show answer
Correct answer: Trucks over one-ton manufacturer's rated capacity
Heavy trucks in the speed limit table are trucks in excess of one-ton manufacturer's rated capacity.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 38
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On a highway where the speed limit is 55 mph or more, what is the fastest a driver in a funeral procession may drive?
- 55 mph
- 45 mph
- 60 mph
- 65 mph
Show answer
Correct answer: 55 mph
A driver in a funeral procession may not drive faster than 55 miles per hour on a highway where the speed limit is 55 miles per hour or more.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 42
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On other streets or roads, how far below the posted speed limit may a driver in a funeral procession drive, at most?
- 10 mph
- 15 mph
- 5 mph
- 20 mph
Show answer
Correct answer: 5 mph
On streets or roads other than highways posted at 55 mph or more, a driver in a funeral procession may not drive more than 5 miles per hour below the posted speed limit.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 42
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Where should you look when steering, according to the manual?
- Well down the road, not just at the road in front of your vehicle
- Only at the road directly in front of your vehicle, to see hazards
- At the hands you have placed on the steering wheel
- At the vehicle directly ahead of you and nowhere else
Show answer
Correct answer: Well down the road, not just at the road in front of your vehicle
Looking well down the road lets you see where you will need to steer so you have time to steer smoothly and safely.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 50
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What does the manual say is the best way to control your speed?
- Know your speed by checking the speedometer often
- Follow the vehicle ahead at the same speed
- Judge your speed by the sound of the engine
- Keep the same speed on every kind of road
Show answer
Correct answer: Know your speed by checking the speedometer often
The best way to control your speed is to know how fast you are going, so you should check the speedometer often.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 51
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When does the manual say you may be going much faster than you think?
- When you drive uphill on a mountain road with little traffic
- When you drive in heavy traffic on a busy city street
- When you leave high-speed roads and drive on much slower local roads
- When you follow another vehicle at night on a highway
Show answer
Correct answer: When you leave high-speed roads and drive on much slower local roads
People are not very good at judging speed, especially when leaving high-speed roads for much slower local roads.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 51
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According to the manual, what does stopping suddenly usually point to?
- A driver whose brakes are worn
- A driver who is following the speed limit
- A driver who has good vision
- A driver who was not paying attention
Show answer
Correct answer: A driver who was not paying attention
Stopping suddenly is dangerous and usually points to a driver who was not paying attention.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 51
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What can happen when you brake quickly?
- You could skid and lose control, and make it harder for drivers behind to stop
- Your tires will grip better and you will stop in a shorter distance
- Your brakes will cool down faster and last longer after heavy use
- Drivers behind you will have more time to react to your vehicle
Show answer
Correct answer: You could skid and lose control, and make it harder for drivers behind to stop
Braking quickly could make you skid and lose control, and it makes it harder for drivers behind you to stop without hitting you.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 51
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How can you try to avoid panic stops?
- Follow the vehicle ahead more closely to react sooner
- Brake hard only when the vehicle ahead stops suddenly
- See events well in advance, then slow down or change lanes
- Stay in the left lane so that you can stop quickly
Show answer
Correct answer: See events well in advance, then slow down or change lanes
By seeing events well in advance and slowing down or changing lanes, you may not have to stop at all, or you can stop more gradually and safely.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 51
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According to the manual, what is the single biggest contributor to crashes?
- Driving above the speed limit
- Failing to see what is happening
- Driving with worn tires
- Driving at night
Show answer
Correct answer: Failing to see what is happening
The manual says the single biggest contributor to crashes is failing to see what is happening.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 51
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According to the manual, where must you look to know what is happening around your vehicle?
- Only straight ahead, at the road in front of your vehicle
- Only ahead and in the rearview mirror
- Only to the sides, at intersections
- Ahead, to the sides, and behind your vehicle
Show answer
Correct answer: Ahead, to the sides, and behind your vehicle
The manual says you must look ahead, to the sides, and behind your vehicle.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 52
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How many seconds of road ahead of your vehicle does the manual say you should scan?
- At least 10 seconds ahead
- At least 5 seconds ahead
- At least 20 seconds ahead
- At least 30 seconds ahead
Show answer
Correct answer: At least 10 seconds ahead
You should look down the road at least 10 seconds ahead of your vehicle.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 52
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In the city, how far ahead is 10 seconds, according to the manual?
- About two blocks
- About half a block
- About one block
- About three blocks
Show answer
Correct answer: About one block
In the city, 10 seconds is about one block, so in city traffic you should try to look at least one block ahead.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 52
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According to the manual, how can you figure out whether you are looking 10 seconds ahead?
- Count the number of vehicles you can see on the road ahead of you
- Pick a non-moving object, like a sign, and count the seconds to reach it
- Check how long the vehicle in front of you takes to reach a sign
- Count the seconds it takes you to see the next intersection ahead
Show answer
Correct answer: Pick a non-moving object, like a sign, and count the seconds to reach it
You find a non-moving object such as a sign or telephone pole and count until you reach it; the count is the number of seconds ahead you were looking.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 52
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Besides driving more safely, what does the manual say looking well ahead can save?
- Tire wear
- Engine oil
- Brake fluid
- Fuel
Show answer
Correct answer: Fuel
Looking well ahead lets you slow down gradually or change lanes and avoid the quick stops that take time and fuel to get back up to speed.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 52
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How does looking well down the road affect your steering?
- It helps you steer straighter with less weaving
- It lets you steer with only one hand
- It means you need to check mirrors less often
- It keeps you from having to signal
Show answer
Correct answer: It helps you steer straighter with less weaving
Looking well down the road helps you steer straighter with less weaving.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 52
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Why does the manual say traffic would flow more smoothly if everyone looked well ahead?
- Drivers would be able to use their horns less often in heavy traffic
- Everyone would be able to drive at a higher speed on every road
- Changes made before the last moment give drivers behind you more time to react
- Drivers would no longer need to use their turn signals to turn
Show answer
Correct answer: Changes made before the last moment give drivers behind you more time to react
Making driving changes before the last moment gives drivers behind you more time to react, which keeps traffic moving at a steady pace.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 52
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Because vision is reduced at night, what does the manual say you should do?
- Slow down
- Switch to parking lights
- Use only your high beams
- Follow other vehicles more closely
Show answer
Correct answer: Slow down
The manual says that because vision is reduced at night, drivers cannot see as well, so they should slow down.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 55
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How does the distance needed to stop at 60 mph compare with the distance needed at 30 mph?
- Twice the distance
- About the same distance
- Exactly one and a half times
- Over three times the distance
Show answer
Correct answer: Over three times the distance
The manual says stopping at 60 mph does not take twice the distance it takes at 30 mph, but over three times the distance.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 59
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Which of these is a road condition where the manual says you must slow down to be safe?
- A dry, straight concrete road
- Standing water on the road
- A road with a wide shoulder
- A freshly paved, dry road
Show answer
Correct answer: Standing water on the road
The manual says you must slow down before a curve, when the roadway is slippery, and when there is standing water on the road.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 59
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Through what part of your vehicle is its only contact with the road?
- The tires
- The brakes
- The suspension
- The axles
Show answer
Correct answer: The tires
The only contact your vehicle has with the road is through the tires.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 59
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How do gravel and dirt roads differ from concrete and asphalt roads, according to the manual?
- Tires grip better, so you can turn at higher speeds
- Stopping takes much longer and skidding is easier when turning
- Stopping distances are shorter because of the loose material
- Traction is the same as on pavement when roads are dry
Show answer
Correct answer: Stopping takes much longer and skidding is easier when turning
There is less traction on gravel and dirt, so you must slow down, stopping takes much longer, and it is much easier to skid when turning.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 59
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What is the “washboard” effect that can occur on gravel roads?
- A raised ridge of gravel that runs down the center of the road
- A band of loose stones that builds up along the road shoulder
- A layer of thick dust that makes it hard to see ahead
- A series of potholes that can affect steering and vehicle control
Show answer
Correct answer: A series of potholes that can affect steering and vehicle control
A washboard effect is a series of potholes that can affect steering and vehicle control.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 59
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What does the manual recommend on extremely dusty gravel roads to make your vehicle more visible?
- Use high beam headlights
- Use only your parking lights
- Turn your headlights off to avoid glare
- Use low beam headlights
Show answer
Correct answer: Use low beam headlights
Dust can reduce vision, so the manual recommends using low beam headlights to make the vehicle more visible to others.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 59
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On gravel or dirt roads, what should you do when you see a narrow bridge sign?
- Speed up so you can cross before traffic arrives
- Be prepared to stop for oncoming traffic
- Honk and keep your speed to warn oncoming vehicles
- Assume oncoming vehicles will stop for you
Show answer
Correct answer: Be prepared to stop for oncoming traffic
Drivers should look for narrow bridge signs and be prepared to stop for oncoming traffic.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 59
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When should you slow down for a curve?
- Halfway through the curve
- Once the vehicle begins to skid
- Before you enter the curve
- As you leave the curve
Show answer
Correct answer: Before you enter the curve
Always slow down before you enter the curve so you do not have to brake in the curve, because braking in a curve can cause a skid.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 60
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At what point should you slow down for rain, snow, or sleet?
- At the first sign of it
- Once the road is covered with it
- When the vehicle starts to skid
- After it has fallen for an hour
Show answer
Correct answer: At the first sign of it
Rain, snow, and sleet all make the roadway slippery, so the manual says to slow down at the first sign of them.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 60
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On a wet road, by about how much does the manual say to reduce your speed?
- About 5 mph
- About 10 mph
- About 20 mph
- About 30 mph
Show answer
Correct answer: About 10 mph
The manual says that on a wet road you should reduce your speed about 10 mph.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 60
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How much should you reduce your speed on packed snow?
- By about 10 mph
- By about one quarter
- Slow to a crawl
- Cut it in half
Show answer
Correct answer: Cut it in half
The manual says that on packed snow you should cut your speed in half.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 60
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What does the manual say to use when the road has snow on it?
- Snow tires or chains
- Tires with extra air pressure
- Low-profile summer tires
- Only a heavier load in the trunk
Show answer
Correct answer: Snow tires or chains
The manual says to use snow tires or chains when the road has snow on it.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 60
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How much should you slow down when driving on ice?
- Cut your speed in half
- Reduce your speed by about 10 mph
- Slow to a crawl
- Slow to about 25 mph
Show answer
Correct answer: Slow to a crawl
On ice you must slow to a crawl, and driving on ice is very dangerous.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 60
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During which dates are studded tires not allowed?
- June 1 through September 30
- May 1 through August 31
- April 1 through October 31
- July 1 through October 15
Show answer
Correct answer: June 1 through September 30
The manual states that studded tires are not allowed June 1 through September 30.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 60
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Which of these spots does the manual say can be icy on cold, wet days?
- Sunny spots
- Wide shoulders
- Dry gravel roads
- Shady spots
Show answer
Correct answer: Shady spots
On cold, wet days shady spots can be icy because they freeze first and dry out last.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 60
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Why can the pavement on bridges be icy even when other areas of pavement are not?
- Bridge surfaces are smoother and hold water longer than roads
- Bridges have no earth underneath to insulate them against the cold
- Bridges sit higher, so they get more rain than the road
- Bridges have too much earth underneath, which holds the cold
Show answer
Correct answer: Bridges have no earth underneath to insulate them against the cold
Bridges do not have earth underneath them to help insulate them against the cold.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 60
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How does ice near the freezing point compare with ice at temperatures well below freezing?
- It is more slippery because it can become wet
- It is less slippery because it is softer
- It is equally slippery at any temperature
- It is easier to grip because tires sink into it
Show answer
Correct answer: It is more slippery because it can become wet
Ice can become wet near the freezing point, which makes it more slippery than at temperatures well below freezing.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 60
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Why can the pavement be very slippery for the first few minutes when it starts to rain on a hot day?
- Hot pavement turns the rain into ice for a short time
- Rain cannot soak into pavement that is hot
- Heat brings oil in the asphalt to the surface
- Tires lose air pressure quickly on hot pavement
Show answer
Correct answer: Heat brings oil in the asphalt to the surface
Heat causes oil in the asphalt to come to the surface, making the road more slippery until the oil is washed off.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 60
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On a wet road, up to about what speed do most tires have good traction?
- About 25 mph
- About 35 mph
- About 45 mph
- About 60 mph
Show answer
Correct answer: About 35 mph
When the road is wet, most tires have good traction up to about 35 mph; above that they can start to float on water.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 60
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In heavy rain, at about what speed can your tires lose all traction with the road?
- About 20 mph
- About 30 mph
- About 70 mph
- About 50 mph
Show answer
Correct answer: About 50 mph
In heavy rain, tires can lose all traction at about 50 mph, and badly worn tires lose traction at much lower speeds.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 60
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What is the best way to keep from hydroplaning?
- Brake hard when the road first becomes wet
- Steer from side to side to clear water from the tires
- Drive faster to ride on top of the water
- Slow down in the rain or when the road is wet
Show answer
Correct answer: Slow down in the rain or when the road is wet
The manual says the best way to keep from hydroplaning is to slow down in the rain or when the road is otherwise wet.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 60
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In most cases, what causes skids?
- Brakes that are worn or out of adjustment
- Drivers traveling too fast for conditions
- Roads with too many curves and bridges
- Tires that have too much air pressure in them
Show answer
Correct answer: Drivers traveling too fast for conditions
In most cases, skids are caused by drivers traveling too fast for conditions.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 60
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What often causes crashes involving two or more vehicles?
- Drivers who travel at exactly the same speed as traffic
- Drivers going faster or slower than other vehicles on the road
- Drivers who keep a steady speed in the right lane
- Drivers who leave too much space around their vehicles
Show answer
Correct answer: Drivers going faster or slower than other vehicles on the road
Vehicles moving in the same direction at the same speed cannot hit one another; crashes often happen when drivers go faster or slower than other vehicles.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 61
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What does the manual say about the time you save by speeding?
- It can save an hour on a long trip
- It saves a lot of time on highways
- It saves time only on two-lane roads
- It does not save more than a few minutes
Show answer
Correct answer: It does not save more than a few minutes
The manual says speeding does not save more than a few minutes, so you should drive with the flow of traffic.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 61
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What can happen when you drive much slower than other vehicles?
- Traffic ahead of you speeds up to leave you more room
- Vehicles bunch up behind you and other traffic passes you
- Other drivers become more careful and keep more distance
- Your tires lose grip and the vehicle starts to skid
Show answer
Correct answer: Vehicles bunch up behind you and other traffic passes you
Going much slower than other vehicles can be as risky as speeding, because vehicles bunch up behind you and other traffic passes you.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 61
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If vehicles are piled up behind you, what should you do?
- Slow down more so they pass you at once
- Stay in your lane and brake lightly to warn them
- Pull over and let them pass when it is safe
- Move to the left lane and stay beside them
Show answer
Correct answer: Pull over and let them pass when it is safe
The manual says to pull over and let them pass when it is safe to do so.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 61
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What should you do when you turn from a high-speed, two-lane roadway with traffic following you?
- Slow down gradually over a long distance before the turn
- Stop in the lane and wait until traffic has passed you
- Turn on your hazard lights and slow down early
- Tap your brakes and reduce your speed quickly but safely
Show answer
Correct answer: Tap your brakes and reduce your speed quickly but safely
Try not to slow down too early with traffic following; tap your brakes and reduce your speed quickly, but safely.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 62
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Why do you need to lower your speed wherever people or traffic gathers?
- Other drivers expect you to drive below the speed limit
- Your room to maneuver is limited, so you need time to react
- The road surface is usually slippery in crowded places
- Brakes work less well when many vehicles are nearby
Show answer
Correct answer: Your room to maneuver is limited, so you need time to react
Wherever people or traffic gathers, your room to maneuver is limited and you need to lower your speed to have time to react in a crowded space.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 62
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What do rush hours often involve?
- Light traffic with many drivers going very slowly
- Long stretches of road with few other vehicles
- Heavy traffic and drivers that always seem to be in a hurry
- Few vehicles but many pedestrians crossing at random
Show answer
Correct answer: Heavy traffic and drivers that always seem to be in a hurry
The manual lists rush hours as a place to slow down because they often involve heavy traffic and drivers that always seem to be in a hurry.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 62
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Why should you slow down at narrow bridges and tunnels?
- Vehicles approaching each other are closer together
- Headlights are less visible to oncoming drivers there
- Vehicles in tunnels must stop for oncoming traffic
- Narrow bridges and tunnels have no speed limit
Show answer
Correct answer: Vehicles approaching each other are closer together
On narrow bridges and tunnels, vehicles approaching each other are closer together.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 62
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What is happening at a toll plaza that is a reason to slow down?
- Vehicles must come to a complete stop and stay in one lane
- Vehicles are changing lanes and preparing to stop, then speeding up again
- Most drivers there are going much faster than the speed limit
- The lanes always merge into one lane before the plaza
Show answer
Correct answer: Vehicles are changing lanes and preparing to stop, then speeding up again
At toll plazas vehicles change lanes, prepare to stop and then speed up as they leave, and the number of lanes could change before and after the plaza.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 62
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Why should you be alert in school zones, playgrounds, and residential streets?
- Children there always stop at the curb before crossing
- Vehicles must stop completely at every driveway there
- Traffic signals there are timed to stop all vehicles together
- Children may cross the street, run, or ride into it without looking
Show answer
Correct answer: Children may cross the street, run, or ride into it without looking
These areas often have children present, so you should always be alert for children crossing the street, running, or riding into the street without looking.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 62
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At night, within what distance must you be able to stop?
- The distance you can see ahead with your headlights
- The distance to the next intersection or sign ahead
- The distance shown on the posted speed limit sign
- Half of the distance you can see with high beams
Show answer
Correct answer: The distance you can see ahead with your headlights
You must be able to stop within the distance you can see ahead with your headlights, so you should drive at a speed that allows it.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 63
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How does seeing an object at night compare with seeing it in the daytime?
- You can see objects from farther away at night
- You can see objects at the same distance as in daylight
- You need to be closer to the object to see it at night
- You can see dark objects better than light objects
Show answer
Correct answer: You need to be closer to the object to see it at night
It is harder to see at night: you need to be closer to an object to see it than during the day.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 63
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What should you do with your headlights when you drive in rain, fog, or snow?
- Turn them off to avoid glare reflecting in the fog
- Use them only when you cannot see anything ahead
- Drive with them on so other vehicles can see you
- Use them only after the sun has gone down
Show answer
Correct answer: Drive with them on so other vehicles can see you
The manual says to drive with headlights on in rain, fog, or snow so other vehicles can see you.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 63
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What should you do when you come to a hill or curve where you cannot see over or around it?
- Keep your speed because you know the road well
- Stay in the center of the road for the best view
- Sound your horn and keep your normal speed
- Adjust your speed so you can stop if necessary
Show answer
Correct answer: Adjust your speed so you can stop if necessary
A car could be stalled just over a hill or around a curve, so you must be able to stop and should adjust your speed accordingly.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 63
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Vehicles parked along the side of the road can block your view. What should you give them?
- Only enough room to pass
- As much room as you can
- No extra room if the shoulder is wide
- Room only when you are driving at night
Show answer
Correct answer: As much room as you can
People may be ready to get out of a car or walk out from between parked vehicles, so give parked vehicles as much room as you can.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 63
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When you use the Four Second Sight Distance Rule, you reach the object you picked out before you finish saying “four-one-thousand.” What does that tell you?
- You are going too fast for your sight distance and need to slow down
- You are driving at a safe speed for your sight distance
- You are following the vehicle ahead too closely and must brake
- You should switch to your high beams to see farther
Show answer
Correct answer: You are going too fast for your sight distance and need to slow down
If you reach the object before you finish saying “four-one-thousand,” you are going too fast for your sight distance and need to slow down.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 64
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In the Four Second Sight Distance Rule, which object do you pick out and count from?
- A moving vehicle as far ahead as you can clearly see
- The nearest sign or pole beside your vehicle
- A stationary object as far ahead as you can clearly see
- The center line at the front of your vehicle
Show answer
Correct answer: A stationary object as far ahead as you can clearly see
You pick out a stationary object, such as a sign or telephone pole, as far ahead as you can clearly see and start counting.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 64
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What can you use the “Four Second Sight Distance Rule” for at night?
- To decide when to switch to your high beams
- To make sure you are not “over driving” your headlights
- To measure how far away oncoming headlights are
- To check that your headlights are aimed correctly
Show answer
Correct answer: To make sure you are not “over driving” your headlights
The rule can also be used at night to make sure you are not “over driving” your headlights.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 64
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According to the manual, what are speed limits based on?
- The age of the drivers, the weather, and the time of day on the road
- The number of crashes on the road in the last year and its repair cost
- How well the road is lit and how many drivers were ticketed there
- The road's design, the types of vehicles using it, and its location
Show answer
Correct answer: The road's design, the types of vehicles using it, and its location
Speed limits are based on the design of the road, the type of vehicles that use them, and where they are located.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 64
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Posted speed limits are set for which conditions?
- Ideal conditions
- Wet-road conditions
- Average conditions
- Night-time conditions
Show answer
Correct answer: Ideal conditions
Speed limits are posted for ideal conditions, so you must slow down when the road is wet or icy, when you cannot see well, or when traffic is heavy.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 64
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You drive under the posted speed limit on a wet or icy road, but too fast for the conditions. What can happen?
- Nothing, because you did not go over the posted speed limit
- You can be ticketed only if your driving causes a crash
- You can still get a ticket for traveling too fast for conditions
- You receive a warning but you cannot legally be ticketed
Show answer
Correct answer: You can still get a ticket for traveling too fast for conditions
Even if you are driving under the posted speed limit, you can get a ticket for traveling too fast for wet, icy, low-visibility or heavy-traffic conditions.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 64
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What causes rear-end crashes, according to the manual?
- Drivers leaving too much space between their vehicle and the one ahead
- Drivers braking too early when the vehicle ahead is still far away
- Drivers who signal well ahead of time before slowing down for a stop
- Drivers following too closely to stop when the vehicle ahead suddenly stops
Show answer
Correct answer: Drivers following too closely to stop when the vehicle ahead suddenly stops
Rear-end crashes are caused by drivers following too closely to stop before hitting the vehicle ahead when that vehicle suddenly stops.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 64
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The “Three-Second Rule” for checking whether you are following too closely works at which speeds?
- At any speed
- Only at city speeds
- Only on dry roads
- Only below 30 mph
Show answer
Correct answer: At any speed
The manual says the “Three-Second Rule” works at any speed.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 64
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When you use the Three-Second Rule, how do you know you are following too closely?
- You pass the mark after you finish counting
- The vehicle ahead is out of sight before you finish counting
- You pass the mark before you finish counting
- You can still see the vehicle’s license plate when you finish counting
Show answer
Correct answer: You pass the mark before you finish counting
You are following too closely if you pass the mark before you finish counting.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 64
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If the Three-Second Rule shows you are following too closely, what should you do?
- Speed up and pass the vehicle ahead as soon as the way is clear
- Drop back, then count again at another spot to check the new distance
- Stay where you are and keep counting at the same spot until it passes
- Tap your brakes repeatedly to warn the vehicle ahead of you
Show answer
Correct answer: Drop back, then count again at another spot to check the new distance
You drop back and count again at another spot to check the new following distance, repeating until you are no closer than three seconds away.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 64
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In some situations you need more space in front of your vehicle. What following distance may you need to be safe?
- One second
- Two seconds
- Six seconds
- Four seconds
Show answer
Correct answer: Four seconds
In situations that call for more space in front of your vehicle, you may need a four-second following distance.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 65
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The driver behind you wants to pass. What should you do?
- Slow down to allow room in front of your vehicle
- Speed up so the pass can be completed sooner
- Hold your speed and stay close to the center line
- Move onto the shoulder and stop until it passes
Show answer
Correct answer: Slow down to allow room in front of your vehicle
You slow down to allow room in front of your vehicle, and slowing also lets the pass be completed sooner.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 65
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Why do you need extra following distance behind a motorcycle?
- Motorcycle riders are required to drive well below the speed limit
- So you can share the lane with the motorcycle when it slows down
- If the motorcycle should fall, you need room to avoid the rider
- Motorcycle signals cancel by themselves, so you must wait longer
Show answer
Correct answer: If the motorcycle should fall, you need room to avoid the rider
If the motorcycle should fall, you need extra distance to avoid the rider.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 65
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Where are the chances of a motorcycle fall greatest?
- On dry, smooth asphalt roads with no curves in full daylight
- On wet or icy roads, gravel roads, or metal surfaces such as bridges
- On newly paved city streets with light traffic at midday
- On wide, straight highways with a smooth concrete surface
Show answer
Correct answer: On wet or icy roads, gravel roads, or metal surfaces such as bridges
The chances of a motorcycle falling are greatest on wet or icy roads, gravel roads, and metal surfaces such as bridges, gratings, or streetcar or railroad tracks.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 65
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Why should you leave extra room when following a truck, bus, van, or vehicle pulling a camper or trailer?
- Their brake lights are not required to work when they are loaded
- Their drivers must signal several seconds before every stop
- They are required to pull over when a vehicle follows too closely
- The driver may not see you directly behind and could stop suddenly
Show answer
Correct answer: The driver may not see you directly behind and could stop suddenly
These drivers may not be able to see you directly behind them and could stop suddenly without knowing you are there; falling back also gives you more room to see ahead.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 65
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Why do you need more space ahead when you have a heavy load or are pulling a trailer?
- The extra weight increases your stopping distance
- The extra weight makes your brake lights harder to see
- The extra weight reduces the distance you need to stop
- The load can block the view of drivers ahead of you
Show answer
Correct answer: The extra weight increases your stopping distance
The extra weight of a heavy load or trailer increases your stopping distance.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 65
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When darkness or bad weather makes it hard to see ahead, what should you do with your following distance?
- Shorten it so you can see the vehicle ahead
- Keep it the same as in clear daylight
- Increase it
- Reduce it to under two seconds
Show answer
Correct answer: Increase it
When it is hard to see ahead because of darkness or bad weather, you need to increase your following distance.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 65
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If you are being followed closely, you should slow down to encourage the vehicle behind you to pass, or you can:
- Brake sharply to make the driver back off
- Pull off on a turnout and allow them to pass
- Speed up to keep a gap behind your vehicle
- Stop in your lane until the driver passes
Show answer
Correct answer: Pull off on a turnout and allow them to pass
When you are being followed closely, you should slow down to encourage the vehicle behind to pass, or pull off on a turnout and allow it to pass.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 65
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Why should you leave extra space when you are stopped on a hill?
- Your own brake lights are harder to see on a hill
- Vehicles on a hill may not be passed by other drivers
- The vehicle ahead may roll back when it starts up
- The vehicle ahead must stop for at least three seconds
Show answer
Correct answer: The vehicle ahead may roll back when it starts up
You leave extra space when stopped on a hill because the vehicle ahead may roll back when it starts up.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 65
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How can you help keep the driver behind you at a safe distance?
- Drive a few miles below the speed limit at all times
- Keep a steady speed and signal in advance when you must slow down
- Move to the center line so the driver can see you better
- Slow down often so the driver learns to stay back
Show answer
Correct answer: Keep a steady speed and signal in advance when you must slow down
You can help keep the driver behind at a safe distance by keeping a steady speed and signaling in advance when you must slow down.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 65
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Why should you never slow down quickly to discourage a tailgater?
- It only increases your risk of being hit from behind
- It makes the tailgater follow even more closely
- It is illegal to slow down when someone is behind you
- It wastes fuel and wears out your brake pads
Show answer
Correct answer: It only increases your risk of being hit from behind
Slowing down quickly to discourage a tailgater does nothing but increase your risk of being hit from behind.
Source: Montana Driver Manual (Revised April 2024), page 65