What distance should a driver maintain for every 10 feet of bus length while traveling under 40 mph?

The correct answer is based on the recommended following distance that drivers should maintain behind the vehicle in front of them to ensure safety. It is well-established that for every 10 feet of bus length, a driver should maintain a following distance of one second when traveling under 40 mph.

This one-second rule helps drivers account for their reaction time and the stopping distance needed to respond to sudden changes in traffic. Considering that school buses can be longer and heavier than typical vehicles, it is crucial to give enough space to stop safely without risking an accident.

In contrast, the other options suggest longer following distances that may not be necessary for speeds below 40 mph, especially since the one-second rule is adequate for maintaining control and preventing collisions in typical driving conditions. Following distances may need to be increased under adverse conditions like rain or snow, but under normal circumstances at lower speeds, one second is deemed sufficient.