JJ Keller Entry Level Driver Training for CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) Practice Test

A common sign of a distracted driver is swerving and tailgating because these behaviors indicate a lack of full attention to the road and traffic conditions. When a driver is distracted, they may not be able to maintain a steady line, leading to noticeable weaving or drifting within their lane. Tailgating, or following too closely to another vehicle, suggests that the driver is not paying adequate attention to the proper following distance, which is crucial for safe driving.

Both behaviors can arise from distractions such as mobile phone use, adjusting controls in the vehicle, or engaging in conversation, which divert focus away from the primary task of driving. In contrast to these erratic behaviors, frequent signaling and maintaining a steady speed generally suggest a driver who is attentive and following the rules of the road. Sudden braking can occur for various reasons, including unexpected obstacles, but it is not exclusively indicative of distraction. Thus, swerving and tailgating serve as clearer signs of a driver who may not be fully focused on operating the vehicle safely.