Final answer:
Drivers can prevent emergency stops by maintaining a safe following distance, allowing ample time to respond to traffic changes, and reducing the need for sudden braking.
Step-by-step explanation:
To avoid having to make an emergency stop while driving in traffic, drivers should look ahead and maintain a safe following distance. This proactive driving approach affords the driver more time to react to unexpected changes and ensures better control over the vehicle's ability to stop safely. Rather than focusing on driving slower or staying in the right lane, which may not always be practical or safe, keeping a safe following distance is universally recommended as best practice for defensive driving.