What should drivers maintain around their vehicle to enhance safety?

Maintaining a space cushion around a vehicle is essential for enhancing safety on the road. This concept refers to the area around your vehicle that you keep clear of other vehicles and obstacles, allowing you time to react in case of emergencies. A space cushion provides a buffer zone that enables drivers to safely navigate their surroundings and respond to sudden changes, such as other drivers braking, merging, or unexpected obstacles on the road.

Having a proper space cushion promotes safe driving practices by minimizing the risk of accidents. When drivers have adequate space around their vehicles, they can better avoid collisions and make safer decisions, such as changing lanes or stopping. This cushion typically varies depending on the speed of travel and the conditions of the road, but it's crucial for drivers to consistently assess their surroundings to ensure they maintain this safe distance.

In contrast, maintaining a tight grip on the steering wheel may be important for controlling the vehicle, but it does not directly contribute to road safety in the same proactive manner as a space cushion. Similarly, an empty lane beside the vehicle or maintaining a constant speed may not always be feasible or necessary for safety, as road conditions and traffic patterns constantly change. Hence, the focus should be on keeping a safe distance from other vehicles rather than solely on these other aspects