Distracted & Reckless Driving
Recognize distraction, aggression, and the point system behind them.
This lesson connects behavior to consequence. Learn what counts as distraction beyond the phone, how aggressive and reckless choices escalate, and how point systems track repeat behavior over time. The exam's angle is practical: it wants proof you can recognize dangerous patterns early, in yourself and other drivers, and know what the law does about them.
Read this in the handbook
Start with the handbook sections that match this module, then come back for sample questions and drills.
Practice distracted & reckless driving questions
Tailgating (following too closely) is dangerous primarily because:
- A. It is annoying to other drivers
- B. It makes it harder to see the road ahead
- C. It wastes fuel, a minor concern compared to the crash risk
- D. It does not give you enough stopping distance if the car ahead brakes
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D. It does not give you enough stopping distance if the car ahead brakes — Tailgating is dangerous because it dramatically reduces your stopping distance. If the vehicle ahead brakes suddenly, a rear-end collision is almost inevitable at close following distances.
Using a handheld cell phone while driving is:
- A. Legal in most states as long as you use speaker mode
- B. Illegal in most states regardless of speaker mode — handheld use is banned for all drivers in many states
- C. Only illegal for drivers under 18, with adults exempt from the ban
- D. Legal on residential streets but not on highways
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B. Illegal in most states regardless of speaker mode — handheld use is banned for all drivers in many states — Most states have enacted handheld phone bans for all drivers. Many states also ban all cell phone use (including hands-free) for novice drivers and bus drivers. Laws vary — check your state's specific requirements.
If you move to a new state, do points already on your driving record from your previous state transfer to your new license?
- A. The points themselves typically do not transfer, but the underlying convictions remain part of your driving history and can still be considered by insurers and the new state
- B. All points transfer exactly and reset your suspension count
- C. Moving states erases your entire driving record
- D. Points only transfer for CDL holders as applicable in your driving situation
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A. The points themselves typically do not transfer, but the underlying convictions remain part of your driving history and can still be considered by insurers and the new state — States generally don't import another state's point totals, but the conviction history itself follows you and can still be reviewed by your new state's DMV and by insurance companies.
If an aggressive driver is tailgating you, you should:
- A. Brake-check them to warn them back
- B. Speed up to create distance
- C. Move to the right and allow them to pass
- D. Make eye contact and signal your displeasure
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C. Move to the right and allow them to pass — When being tailgated, the safest response is to safely move right and let the aggressive driver pass. Engaging with aggressive drivers or brake-checking escalates the danger.
The safest place to use your phone or GPS is:
- A. At a red light — you are stopped so it is safe to check quickly
- B. While on a straight highway with no other cars visible nearby
- C. During slow stop-and-go traffic
- D. In a parking lot or other safe location where your vehicle is completely stopped and off the road
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D. In a parking lot or other safe location where your vehicle is completely stopped and off the road — The only completely safe way to use a phone or adjust GPS is when fully stopped off the roadway in a parking lot or other safe area. Even at red lights, looking down can cause you to miss a light change or a pedestrian.
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