Driving lesson

THE best driving instructors frequently repeat to their pupils the injunctions:

1. Always be able to stop within the distance that’s clear ahead.

2. Expect the unexpected and (in relation to following another vehicle):

3. Only a fool breaks the three-second rule.

Nobody, as far as I know, has been able to cast doubt on the wisdom of this teaching.

Also, some studies show that if drivers gave themselves an extra second to react, by creating space between themselves and other vehicles, about 80% of accidents could be averted.

Curiously, the National Safety Council seems to have very little to say publicly in support of this sound policy.

This is a pity since many drivers forget it once they have thrown away their L-plates.

Ian Downey

Waterford Institute of Technology

Waterford