Final answer:
To execute a safe lane change under normal conditions, there should be a gap of about three to four seconds between vehicles. This time converts to a distance that provides a safety cushion to allow for reaction and stopping to avoid collisions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The gap between vehicles when planning a safe lane change should typically be about three to four seconds long under normal driving conditions. To execute a safe lane change under normal conditions, there should be a gap of about three to four seconds between vehicles. This time converts to a distance that provides a safety cushion to allow for reaction and stopping to avoid collisions.
This time gap allows for a safety cushion to react and to stop if necessary to avoid a collision. If you are traveling at 60 km/hr, each second you travel equates to approximately 16.7 meters, and over three seconds, this will amount to 50.1 meters. This distance represents a gap that gives ample time and space for a safe lane change. It is important to adjust this gap based on road conditions, visibility, and speed.