Why should a bus driver keep the time of travel in mind when maintaining distance?

Keeping the time of travel in mind is essential for a bus driver to prevent sudden braking. Awareness of travel time allows the driver to anticipate upcoming road conditions, traffic patterns, and stops along the route. By maintaining an appropriate following distance based on the estimated time to reach the next destination, the driver can brake progressively rather than abruptly, ensuring a smoother ride for passengers. This approach not only enhances safety but also prevents discomfort for passengers caused by sudden movements. A driver who effectively manages their distance relative to time can react calmly to changing conditions, allowing for a more controlled and safe driving experience.

The other factors—such as passenger comfort, fuel consumption, and adherence to speed limits—are important, but they are secondary to the critical need for preventing sudden stops, which directly impacts safety and stability during travel.