How can a driver reduce the vehicle's braking distance?

Maintaining an adequate following distance is essential for reducing the vehicle's braking distance. When a driver keeps a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, it allows for greater reaction time when braking becomes necessary. This distance provides the driver with more time to assess the situation and respond appropriately, reducing the risk of rear-end collisions and enabling a smoother stop.

Additionally, having a sufficient following distance means that if the vehicle in front suddenly brakes or encounters an obstacle, the driver can respond without having to make a sudden or abrupt stop, which could lead to longer stopping distances due to inertia. By maintaining this distance, drivers are less likely to need to brake abruptly, contributing to shorter overall braking distances because the vehicle is able to slow down in a more controlled manner.

The other options do not contribute positively to reducing braking distance. Accelerating before applying brakes would actually increase the distance required to stop, while using brakes intermittently might lead to inefficient stopping power. Driving at higher speeds clearly increases the stopping distance needed, as the momentum of the vehicle is greater.