Be in Shape to Drive
Driving is one of the riskiest tasks that anybody will do during their lifetime. The ability to drive safely depends on good health and making correct decisions.
Vision
Good vision is crucial for safe driving, as it helps drivers identify traffic, road conditions, and potential hazards.
Important aspects of vision for driving include:
· Side Vision: Necessary for spotting vehicles and dangers on the sides while looking ahead.
· Judging Distances and Speeds: Many people struggle with this, making it important for safe merging, passing, and crossing train tracks.
· Night Vision: Some drivers, especially those sensitive to glare, have difficulty seeing at night.
Regular eye check-ups are advised. If corrective lenses are required, they must always be worn while driving, and dark or tinted lenses should be avoided at night.
Hearing
Hearing is important for safe driving, as it allows you to detect warning sounds like horns, sirens, or screeching tires. Hearing problems can develop gradually, making them hard to notice. However, drivers with hearing impairments can still drive safely by relying more on their vision and staying alert. Studies show that hearing-impaired drivers have driving records as good as those with normal hearing.
Fatigue
Fatigue, whether physical or mental, can impair vision and slow decision-making, increasing the risk of accidents.
To prevent fatigue-related incidents, avoid driving when tired and take the following precautions before a trip:
· Get adequate sleep (7-8 hours) for proper alertness.
· Plan regular stops every 2 hours.
· Travel with a companion (co-driver) who can monitor your driving habits.
· Check medications for drowsiness effects.
· Avoid alcohol and drugs when driving.
To avoid fatigue while driving:
· Stop and rest if you feel tired, taking a short nap or finding a place to sleep.
· Consider caffeine before a nap to enhance alertness.
· Avoid late-night driving and prioritize getting enough rest.
Driving is one of the riskiest tasks that anybody will do during their lifetime. The ability to drive safely depends on good health and making correct decisions.
Vision
Good vision is crucial for safe driving, as it helps drivers identify traffic, road conditions, and potential hazards.
Important aspects of vision for driving include:
· Side Vision: Necessary for spotting vehicles and dangers on the sides while looking ahead.
· Judging Distances and Speeds: Many people struggle with this, making it important for safe merging, passing, and crossing train tracks.
· Night Vision: Some drivers, especially those sensitive to glare, have difficulty seeing at night.
Regular eye check-ups are advised. If corrective lenses are required, they must always be worn while driving, and dark or tinted lenses should be avoided at night.
Hearing
Hearing is important for safe driving, as it allows you to detect warning sounds like horns, sirens, or screeching tires. Hearing problems can develop gradually, making them hard to notice. However, drivers with hearing impairments can still drive safely by relying more on their vision and staying alert. Studies show that hearing-impaired drivers have driving records as good as those with normal hearing.
Fatigue
Fatigue, whether physical or mental, can impair vision and slow decision-making, increasing the risk of accidents.
To prevent fatigue-related incidents, avoid driving when tired and take the following precautions before a trip:
· Get adequate sleep (7-8 hours) for proper alertness.
· Plan regular stops every 2 hours.
· Travel with a companion (co-driver) who can monitor your driving habits.
· Check medications for drowsiness effects.
· Avoid alcohol and drugs when driving.
To avoid fatigue while driving:
· Stop and rest if you feel tired, taking a short nap or finding a place to sleep.
· Consider caffeine before a nap to enhance alertness.
· Avoid late-night driving and prioritize getting enough rest.
Driver Distractions
A distraction is anything that diverts your attention from driving, increasing the risk of crashes, injuries, or fatalities. Both physical distractions, like taking your eyes off the road or hands off the wheel, and mental distractions, such as letting your mind wander, are dangerous.
To minimize distractions while driving:
· Texting, reading texts, and using social media are prohibited.
· Avoid arguments and emotional conversations with passengers.
· Do not eat while driving.
· Ensure children are safely buckled up.
· Secure pets properly in a pet carrier or kennel.
· Secure loads.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving is when someone deliberately engages in actions that put others or property at risk. Common aggressive behaviors include speeding, tailgating (following other vehicle closely), unsafe lane changes, improper signaling, and ignoring traffic control devices like stop signs and signals.
To avoid aggressive driving:
· Focus on driving.
· Be patient and courteous to other road users.
Alcohol, Other Drugs, and Driving
Alcohol and other impairing drugs contribute to approximately 40% of fatal traffic crashes each year. Even small amounts of alcohol or drugs significantly increase the risk of being involved in a crash, especially for new drivers who are more affected due to their inexperience.
Key Effects of Alcohol and Drugs on Driving:
· Judgment: Impairs decision-making and quick thinking.
· Vision: Causes blurred vision, difficulty focusing, double vision, and poor distance and speed judgment impacting driving.
· Color Distinction: Reduces the ability to distinguish colors.
· Reaction Time: Slows down information processing and response times.
The best course of action is to avoid driving entirely after consuming alcohol or drugs. Even one drink can impair driving ability, and it's important to ensure friends and relatives do not drive if they have been drinking
Other Impairing Drugs and Driving
Many drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, can impair driving abilities, sometimes as severely as alcohol or worse.
Over-the-Counter Drugs: Medications for headaches, colds, allergies, and calming nerves can cause drowsiness, affecting driving. Stimulants like pep pills, “uppers,” and diet pills can cause nervousness, dizziness, and impaired concentration and vision. Always check the label for warnings and consult a doctor or pharmacist if unsure about the effects on driving.
Prescription Drugs: Certain prescription medications, such as antidepressants, pain relievers, sleep aids, and sedatives, can impair reflexes, judgment, vision, and alertness, similar to alcohol. Always review warnings on the prescription label and packaging, and consult a healthcare professional if unsure about their impact on driving.
Illegal Drugs
Illegal drugs can severely impair driving, affecting reflexes, judgment, vision, and alertness similar to alcohol. Studies have found that marijuana use leads to more driving mistakes, difficulties with glare, and a higher likelihood of traffic violations and arrests compared to other drivers.
Combining Alcohol and Other Impairing Drugs
Never mix alcohol with other drugs, as this can amplify the effects of alcohol or introduce additional impairments. Combining alcohol with other impairing substances significantly increases the risk of unsafe driving. Always avoid drinking alcohol or using other drugs if you need to operate a vehicle.
Emotions
Emotions can significantly impact driving safety by impairing focus, decision-making, and information processing. Negative emotions like anger, excitement, fear, or depression can make driving dangerous. It's important to calm down before driving if you're upset, and if necessary, take a walk or have someone else drive. If you experience road rage or impatience, give yourself extra time for your trip to avoid speeding or risky behavior. Staying calm and patient, especially when waiting for a train to pass, is crucial to prevent accidents.
Health
Health problems, even minor ones like a cold or stiff neck, can impair driving. It's safer to let someone else drive if you're unwell.
Certain conditions pose significant risks:
· Epilepsy: Generally safe if medically controlled.
· Diabetes: Diabetics should avoid driving during insulin reactions or dosage adjustments. Regular eye checks are crucial for potential vision issues.
· Heart Conditions: Those with heart diseases or related issues should consult their doctor about driving risks, especially if prone to blackouts or heart attacks.
Always prioritize safety by assessing your health before driving.
A distraction is anything that diverts your attention from driving, increasing the risk of crashes, injuries, or fatalities. Both physical distractions, like taking your eyes off the road or hands off the wheel, and mental distractions, such as letting your mind wander, are dangerous.
To minimize distractions while driving:
· Texting, reading texts, and using social media are prohibited.
· Avoid arguments and emotional conversations with passengers.
· Do not eat while driving.
· Ensure children are safely buckled up.
· Secure pets properly in a pet carrier or kennel.
· Secure loads.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving is when someone deliberately engages in actions that put others or property at risk. Common aggressive behaviors include speeding, tailgating (following other vehicle closely), unsafe lane changes, improper signaling, and ignoring traffic control devices like stop signs and signals.
To avoid aggressive driving:
· Focus on driving.
· Be patient and courteous to other road users.
Alcohol, Other Drugs, and Driving
Alcohol and other impairing drugs contribute to approximately 40% of fatal traffic crashes each year. Even small amounts of alcohol or drugs significantly increase the risk of being involved in a crash, especially for new drivers who are more affected due to their inexperience.
Key Effects of Alcohol and Drugs on Driving:
· Judgment: Impairs decision-making and quick thinking.
· Vision: Causes blurred vision, difficulty focusing, double vision, and poor distance and speed judgment impacting driving.
· Color Distinction: Reduces the ability to distinguish colors.
· Reaction Time: Slows down information processing and response times.
The best course of action is to avoid driving entirely after consuming alcohol or drugs. Even one drink can impair driving ability, and it's important to ensure friends and relatives do not drive if they have been drinking
Other Impairing Drugs and Driving
Many drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, can impair driving abilities, sometimes as severely as alcohol or worse.
Over-the-Counter Drugs: Medications for headaches, colds, allergies, and calming nerves can cause drowsiness, affecting driving. Stimulants like pep pills, “uppers,” and diet pills can cause nervousness, dizziness, and impaired concentration and vision. Always check the label for warnings and consult a doctor or pharmacist if unsure about the effects on driving.
Prescription Drugs: Certain prescription medications, such as antidepressants, pain relievers, sleep aids, and sedatives, can impair reflexes, judgment, vision, and alertness, similar to alcohol. Always review warnings on the prescription label and packaging, and consult a healthcare professional if unsure about their impact on driving.
Illegal Drugs
Illegal drugs can severely impair driving, affecting reflexes, judgment, vision, and alertness similar to alcohol. Studies have found that marijuana use leads to more driving mistakes, difficulties with glare, and a higher likelihood of traffic violations and arrests compared to other drivers.
Combining Alcohol and Other Impairing Drugs
Never mix alcohol with other drugs, as this can amplify the effects of alcohol or introduce additional impairments. Combining alcohol with other impairing substances significantly increases the risk of unsafe driving. Always avoid drinking alcohol or using other drugs if you need to operate a vehicle.
Emotions
Emotions can significantly impact driving safety by impairing focus, decision-making, and information processing. Negative emotions like anger, excitement, fear, or depression can make driving dangerous. It's important to calm down before driving if you're upset, and if necessary, take a walk or have someone else drive. If you experience road rage or impatience, give yourself extra time for your trip to avoid speeding or risky behavior. Staying calm and patient, especially when waiting for a train to pass, is crucial to prevent accidents.
Health
Health problems, even minor ones like a cold or stiff neck, can impair driving. It's safer to let someone else drive if you're unwell.
Certain conditions pose significant risks:
· Epilepsy: Generally safe if medically controlled.
· Diabetes: Diabetics should avoid driving during insulin reactions or dosage adjustments. Regular eye checks are crucial for potential vision issues.
· Heart Conditions: Those with heart diseases or related issues should consult their doctor about driving risks, especially if prone to blackouts or heart attacks.
Always prioritize safety by assessing your health before driving.
Before You Drive
Your safety and that of the public depends a lot on what you do before driving, including adjusting the seat and mirrors, using seatbelts, checking your vehicle, maintaining a clear view and securing items in and on the vehicle.
Inspecting Your Vehicle
When it comes to road safety, you cannot control other drivers or road conditions, but one thing you can control is proper maintenance of your vehicle and tires.
Crashes due to tire maintenance are preventable, and simple steps can save lives. Driving on underinflated or overinflated tires or tires with low tread can lead to safety issues on the road.
Check Tire Pressure Regularly
Tire pressure refers to the amount of air inside your tires. Proper tire pressure is crucial for safety, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity. Checking your tire pressure regularly ensures that your tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels.
Underinflated tires can cause poor handling, reduced fuel efficiency, and increased tire wear, while overinflated tires can lead to a harsher ride and a higher risk of tire blowouts. You can check tire pressure using a tire pressure gauge and adjust it accordingly, usually at least once a month or before long trips.
Check Tread Depth with a Coin
Tread depth is the measure of how deep the grooves in your tires are. Adequate tread depth is essential for maintaining traction, especially on wet or slippery roads. One simple way to check tread depth is by using a coin. Insert the coin into the tread groove with the head facing down. If the top of the head is visible, your tread depth is too low, indicating that it's time to replace the tires. This quick check helps ensure your tires have enough grip to safely navigate different road conditions.
Vehicle Maintenance
How safely you can drive starts with the vehicle you are driving. It is the duty of drivers to make certain that the vehicles they drive are safe to operate. A vehicle that is in bad shape is unsafe and costs more to run than one that is maintained. It can break down or cause a collision. If a vehicle is in bad shape, you might not be able to get out of an emergency. A vehicle in good shape can give you an extra safety margin when you need it, and you never know when you will need it.
You should follow your vehicle owner’s manual for routine maintenance. Some you can do yourself and some must be done by a qualified mechanic. A few simple checks will help prevent trouble on the road.
Braking system - Only your brakes can stop your vehicle. It is very dangerous if they are not working properly. If they do not seem to be working properly, are making a lot of noise, smell funny, or the brake pedal goes to the floor, have a mechanic check them out.
Lights - Make sure that turn signals, brake lights, taillights and headlights are operating properly. These should be checked from the outside of the vehicle. Brake lights tell other road users that you are stopping and turn signals tell them you are turning.
An out-of-line headlight can shine where it does not help you and may blind other drivers. If you are having trouble seeing at night or if other drivers are constantly flashing their headlights at you, have a mechanic check out the headlights.
Windshield and wipers - Damaged glass can break more easily in a minor collision or when something hits the windshield. Have a damaged windshield replaced.
Windshield wipers keep the rain and snow off the windshield. Some vehicles also have wipers for rear windows and headlights. Make sure all wipers are in good operating condition. If the blades are not clearing water well, replace them.
Tires - Worn or bald tires can increase the stopping distance and make turning more difficult when the road is wet. Unbalanced tires and low pressure cause faster tire wear, reduce fuel economy, and make the vehicle harder to steer or stop. If the vehicle bounces, the steering wheel shakes, or the vehicle pulls to one side, have a mechanic check it out. Worn tires can cause “hydroplaning” and increase the chance of having a flat tire.
Steering system - If the steering is not working properly, it is difficult to control the direction you want the vehicle to go. If the vehicle is hard to turn or does not turn when the steering wheel is first turned, have the steering checked out by a mechanic.
Suspension system - The suspension helps you control the vehicle and provides a comfortable ride over varying road surfaces. If the vehicle bounces a lot after a bump or a stop, or is hard to control, you may need new shocks or other suspension parts. Have a mechanic check it out.
Exhaust system - The exhaust system helps reduce the noise from the engine, helps cool the hot gases coming from running the engine, and moves these gases to the rear of the vehicle. Gases from a leaky exhaust can cause death inside of a vehicle in a very short time. Never run the motor in a closed garage. If sitting in a vehicle with the motor running for a long period of time, open a window. Some exhaust leaks are easily heard but many are not. Therefore, it is important to have the exhaust system checked periodically.
Engine - A poorly running engine may lose power that is needed for normal driving and emergencies, may not start, gets poor fuel economy, pollutes the air, and could die when driving on the road. This causes you and traffic a problem.
Your safety and that of the public depends a lot on what you do before driving, including adjusting the seat and mirrors, using seatbelts, checking your vehicle, maintaining a clear view and securing items in and on the vehicle.
Inspecting Your Vehicle
When it comes to road safety, you cannot control other drivers or road conditions, but one thing you can control is proper maintenance of your vehicle and tires.
Crashes due to tire maintenance are preventable, and simple steps can save lives. Driving on underinflated or overinflated tires or tires with low tread can lead to safety issues on the road.
Check Tire Pressure Regularly
Tire pressure refers to the amount of air inside your tires. Proper tire pressure is crucial for safety, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity. Checking your tire pressure regularly ensures that your tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels.
Underinflated tires can cause poor handling, reduced fuel efficiency, and increased tire wear, while overinflated tires can lead to a harsher ride and a higher risk of tire blowouts. You can check tire pressure using a tire pressure gauge and adjust it accordingly, usually at least once a month or before long trips.
Check Tread Depth with a Coin
Tread depth is the measure of how deep the grooves in your tires are. Adequate tread depth is essential for maintaining traction, especially on wet or slippery roads. One simple way to check tread depth is by using a coin. Insert the coin into the tread groove with the head facing down. If the top of the head is visible, your tread depth is too low, indicating that it's time to replace the tires. This quick check helps ensure your tires have enough grip to safely navigate different road conditions.
Vehicle Maintenance
How safely you can drive starts with the vehicle you are driving. It is the duty of drivers to make certain that the vehicles they drive are safe to operate. A vehicle that is in bad shape is unsafe and costs more to run than one that is maintained. It can break down or cause a collision. If a vehicle is in bad shape, you might not be able to get out of an emergency. A vehicle in good shape can give you an extra safety margin when you need it, and you never know when you will need it.
You should follow your vehicle owner’s manual for routine maintenance. Some you can do yourself and some must be done by a qualified mechanic. A few simple checks will help prevent trouble on the road.
Braking system - Only your brakes can stop your vehicle. It is very dangerous if they are not working properly. If they do not seem to be working properly, are making a lot of noise, smell funny, or the brake pedal goes to the floor, have a mechanic check them out.
Lights - Make sure that turn signals, brake lights, taillights and headlights are operating properly. These should be checked from the outside of the vehicle. Brake lights tell other road users that you are stopping and turn signals tell them you are turning.
An out-of-line headlight can shine where it does not help you and may blind other drivers. If you are having trouble seeing at night or if other drivers are constantly flashing their headlights at you, have a mechanic check out the headlights.
Windshield and wipers - Damaged glass can break more easily in a minor collision or when something hits the windshield. Have a damaged windshield replaced.
Windshield wipers keep the rain and snow off the windshield. Some vehicles also have wipers for rear windows and headlights. Make sure all wipers are in good operating condition. If the blades are not clearing water well, replace them.
Tires - Worn or bald tires can increase the stopping distance and make turning more difficult when the road is wet. Unbalanced tires and low pressure cause faster tire wear, reduce fuel economy, and make the vehicle harder to steer or stop. If the vehicle bounces, the steering wheel shakes, or the vehicle pulls to one side, have a mechanic check it out. Worn tires can cause “hydroplaning” and increase the chance of having a flat tire.
Steering system - If the steering is not working properly, it is difficult to control the direction you want the vehicle to go. If the vehicle is hard to turn or does not turn when the steering wheel is first turned, have the steering checked out by a mechanic.
Suspension system - The suspension helps you control the vehicle and provides a comfortable ride over varying road surfaces. If the vehicle bounces a lot after a bump or a stop, or is hard to control, you may need new shocks or other suspension parts. Have a mechanic check it out.
Exhaust system - The exhaust system helps reduce the noise from the engine, helps cool the hot gases coming from running the engine, and moves these gases to the rear of the vehicle. Gases from a leaky exhaust can cause death inside of a vehicle in a very short time. Never run the motor in a closed garage. If sitting in a vehicle with the motor running for a long period of time, open a window. Some exhaust leaks are easily heard but many are not. Therefore, it is important to have the exhaust system checked periodically.
Engine - A poorly running engine may lose power that is needed for normal driving and emergencies, may not start, gets poor fuel economy, pollutes the air, and could die when driving on the road. This causes you and traffic a problem.
Windshield & Windows
It is important to clearly see through the windows, windshield and mirrors.
Here are some things you can do to help.
· Keep the windshield clean. Bright sun or headlights on a dirty windshield make it hard to see. Carry liquid cleaner and a paper or cloth towel so you can clean your windshield whenever it is necessary.
· Keep the window washer bottle full.
· Keep the inside of the windows clean, especially if anyone has been smoking in the vehicle. Smoking causes a film to build up on the inside glass.
· Clear snow, ice, or frost from all windows before driving. Make sure to clean the front, sides and back of the vehicle.
· Do not hang things from the mirror or clutter up the windshield with decals. They could block your view.
· Keep the headlights, backup, brake and taillights clean. Dirt on the lenses can reduce the light by 50%.
Adjusting Your Seat
You should be seated upright with your back against the seat and feet on the floor. Improper seating positions, such as slouching, can result in reduced effectiveness of the vehicle’s restraint system. Adjust the seat and mirrors before you start to drive so you can see clearly and have full control of the vehicle’s foot pedals and steering wheel with appropriate space for airbag deployment.
Adjusting Your Mirrors
The inside mirror is the primary mirror for view to the rear of the vehicle. Adjust the rearview mirror so that it frames the rear window. You should be able to see traffic flow to the rear of the vehicle with the rearview mirror. If you have a day/night mirror, make sure it is set for the time of day you are driving.
Outside mirrors should be adjusted to reduce blind spots and to provide maximum visibility to the sides and rear on both sides of the vehicle.
Using Seatbelts
Always fasten your seatbelt and make sure all passengers are using seatbelts or child restraints. Studies have shown that if you are in a crash while using seatbelts, your chances of injury or death are greatly reduced. Seatbelts keep you from being thrown from the vehicle and help you keep control. It is illegal to drive or to be a front-seat passenger without wearing seatbelts.
Seatbelts should be worn even if the vehicle is equipped with air bags. While air bags are good protection against hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield, they do not protect you if you are hit from the side or rear or if the vehicle rolls over. Besides, an air bag will not keep you behind the wheel in these situations.
Air Bags
Air bags are supplemental restraints and are designed to work best in combination with seatbelts. In a crash, air bags and seatbelts reduce the chance that your head and upper body will strike some part of the vehicle’s interior. Seatbelts help to properly position your body to maximize the air bag’s benefits and help restrain you during the initial and any after crashes. It is extremely important that seatbelts are always worn, even in air bag-equipped vehicles.
Secure Your Load
Driving with an unsecured load is both against the law and extremely dangerous. Drivers who fail to properly secure their load may face a costly fine and jail time if they cause a crash. A load must be securely fastened and is only considered secure when nothing can slide, shift, fall, or sift onto the roadway or become airborne.
To secure your load in your vehicle or trailer:
· Tie it down with rope, netting, or straps
· Tie large objects directly to your vehicle or trailer
· Consider covering the entire load with a sturdy tarp or netting
· Do not overload your vehicle or trailer
· Always double check your load to make sure it is secure
· Don’t forget that animals should also be properly secured
Trip Planning
There are ways you can help reduce your driving costs. First, determine your overall transportation needs. For each trip, determine if it is necessary. If so, there may be times you do not need to drive yourself. You might ride with someone else or you could take public transportation if it is available.
The best way to prolong the life of your car and save on fuel is to use it as little as possible.
Trip planning can make your life easier and help cut down on your driving.
· Take public transportation when it is available.
· Avoid driving during heavy traffic. It causes extra wear and tear on you and the vehicle.
· Use carpools or share rides whenever possible.
· Plan, and then combine your trips. Make a list of the things you need and the places you need to go. Go to as many places as possible on any one trip. Try to reduce the number of places you need to go. This will cut down on the number of trips you need to take.
· Call ahead to make sure that they have what you need or that what you are picking up is ready.
It is important to clearly see through the windows, windshield and mirrors.
Here are some things you can do to help.
· Keep the windshield clean. Bright sun or headlights on a dirty windshield make it hard to see. Carry liquid cleaner and a paper or cloth towel so you can clean your windshield whenever it is necessary.
· Keep the window washer bottle full.
· Keep the inside of the windows clean, especially if anyone has been smoking in the vehicle. Smoking causes a film to build up on the inside glass.
· Clear snow, ice, or frost from all windows before driving. Make sure to clean the front, sides and back of the vehicle.
· Do not hang things from the mirror or clutter up the windshield with decals. They could block your view.
· Keep the headlights, backup, brake and taillights clean. Dirt on the lenses can reduce the light by 50%.
Adjusting Your Seat
You should be seated upright with your back against the seat and feet on the floor. Improper seating positions, such as slouching, can result in reduced effectiveness of the vehicle’s restraint system. Adjust the seat and mirrors before you start to drive so you can see clearly and have full control of the vehicle’s foot pedals and steering wheel with appropriate space for airbag deployment.
Adjusting Your Mirrors
The inside mirror is the primary mirror for view to the rear of the vehicle. Adjust the rearview mirror so that it frames the rear window. You should be able to see traffic flow to the rear of the vehicle with the rearview mirror. If you have a day/night mirror, make sure it is set for the time of day you are driving.
Outside mirrors should be adjusted to reduce blind spots and to provide maximum visibility to the sides and rear on both sides of the vehicle.
Using Seatbelts
Always fasten your seatbelt and make sure all passengers are using seatbelts or child restraints. Studies have shown that if you are in a crash while using seatbelts, your chances of injury or death are greatly reduced. Seatbelts keep you from being thrown from the vehicle and help you keep control. It is illegal to drive or to be a front-seat passenger without wearing seatbelts.
Seatbelts should be worn even if the vehicle is equipped with air bags. While air bags are good protection against hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield, they do not protect you if you are hit from the side or rear or if the vehicle rolls over. Besides, an air bag will not keep you behind the wheel in these situations.
Air Bags
Air bags are supplemental restraints and are designed to work best in combination with seatbelts. In a crash, air bags and seatbelts reduce the chance that your head and upper body will strike some part of the vehicle’s interior. Seatbelts help to properly position your body to maximize the air bag’s benefits and help restrain you during the initial and any after crashes. It is extremely important that seatbelts are always worn, even in air bag-equipped vehicles.
Secure Your Load
Driving with an unsecured load is both against the law and extremely dangerous. Drivers who fail to properly secure their load may face a costly fine and jail time if they cause a crash. A load must be securely fastened and is only considered secure when nothing can slide, shift, fall, or sift onto the roadway or become airborne.
To secure your load in your vehicle or trailer:
· Tie it down with rope, netting, or straps
· Tie large objects directly to your vehicle or trailer
· Consider covering the entire load with a sturdy tarp or netting
· Do not overload your vehicle or trailer
· Always double check your load to make sure it is secure
· Don’t forget that animals should also be properly secured
Trip Planning
There are ways you can help reduce your driving costs. First, determine your overall transportation needs. For each trip, determine if it is necessary. If so, there may be times you do not need to drive yourself. You might ride with someone else or you could take public transportation if it is available.
The best way to prolong the life of your car and save on fuel is to use it as little as possible.
Trip planning can make your life easier and help cut down on your driving.
· Take public transportation when it is available.
· Avoid driving during heavy traffic. It causes extra wear and tear on you and the vehicle.
· Use carpools or share rides whenever possible.
· Plan, and then combine your trips. Make a list of the things you need and the places you need to go. Go to as many places as possible on any one trip. Try to reduce the number of places you need to go. This will cut down on the number of trips you need to take.
· Call ahead to make sure that they have what you need or that what you are picking up is ready.
Sharing the Road
Everybody has a right to the roadway. Remember to be courteous and communicate your presence and intentions to avoid crashes.
Everybody has a right to the roadway. Remember to be courteous and communicate your presence and intentions to avoid crashes.
Pedestrians
Pedestrians are difficult to see, and it is difficult to determine their intentions. As a driver:
· Always be prepared to yield to pedestrians even if they are not in a crosswalk.
· Yield to pedestrians crossing at intersections, even when a crosswalk is not marked.
· Always yield the right-of-way to persons who are visually impaired.
· Yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians in the intersection even if the traffic light is green.
· When making a right or left turn, be prepared to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians.
· When driving next to parked or stopped vehicles, pedestrians can walk out between these vehicles. Slow down and do not pass until you are sure there are no pedestrians crossing in front of it.
· Check for pedestrians in your path before backing/reversing, especially in parking lots or places where there are many pedestrians.
· Be careful in playground and residential areas where children could run out from between parked vehicles. It is a good idea to drive slower than the speed limit in these areas and be prepared to stop quickly.
· In a school zone when lights are flashing or children are present, obey a slower speed limit. At a school crossing where there is traffic patrol, stop and yield if signaled to do so.
Pedestrians are difficult to see, and it is difficult to determine their intentions. As a driver:
· Always be prepared to yield to pedestrians even if they are not in a crosswalk.
· Yield to pedestrians crossing at intersections, even when a crosswalk is not marked.
· Always yield the right-of-way to persons who are visually impaired.
· Yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians in the intersection even if the traffic light is green.
· When making a right or left turn, be prepared to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians.
· When driving next to parked or stopped vehicles, pedestrians can walk out between these vehicles. Slow down and do not pass until you are sure there are no pedestrians crossing in front of it.
· Check for pedestrians in your path before backing/reversing, especially in parking lots or places where there are many pedestrians.
· Be careful in playground and residential areas where children could run out from between parked vehicles. It is a good idea to drive slower than the speed limit in these areas and be prepared to stop quickly.
· In a school zone when lights are flashing or children are present, obey a slower speed limit. At a school crossing where there is traffic patrol, stop and yield if signaled to do so.
Bicyclists
Bicycles are considered vehicles when on roadways. Bicyclists are required and expected to follow the same rules of the road as motorized vehicles. As a motorist, know that a bicyclist has the same rights, privileges, and responsibilities as you. Respect for each other will aid in the smooth flow of traffic.
Bicyclists may not be easily seen in traffic. Be alert for bicyclists and be extra careful when approaching them. Just as motorists have different levels of skill, bicyclists also have varying levels of skills. A skillful bicyclist rides predictably and holds a steady line. An unskillful bicyclist may swerve unpredictably, ignore traffic signs and signals, and ride without a light at night. If you see an unskillful bicyclist, be ready for any sudden movements.
As a driver:
· Yield to bicyclists in intersections as you would for pedestrians and other vehicles.
· Yield the right-of-way when a bicycle path or bike lane intersects a road.
· Allow as much space as possible and slow down when approaching or passing a bicyclist. You should slow down and let the cyclist clear the intersection before making the turn.
· Avoid slowing down or stopping quickly. A motor vehicle’s brakes are more powerful than a bicycle’s and you could cause a crash.
· Avoid sounding the horn close to bicyclists unless there is a chance of a crash. Sounding the horn to alert your presence may startle bicyclists and cause them to steer into your path and crash.
· Watch carefully for bicyclists entering the lane. Be especially careful if you see children riding bikes on the sidewalk. They may come onto the road.
· Avoid turning sharply in front of a bicyclists and do not force a bicyclist off the road.
· Although bicyclists are required to ride in the direction of traffic, you should look for them riding anywhere on the roadway.
· Be particularly careful around bicyclists when the roadway is wet or covered with sand or gravel. These conditions affect bicycles much more so than vehicles.
· Cooperate with bicyclists.
· When parked on the street, check to the sides and rear for bicyclists before opening the vehicle door.
· Check for bicyclists in the path before backing. Be especially cautious near schools or residential areas where bicyclists may be present.
When passing or overtaking a bicyclist, make sure to leave them plenty of room.
Bicycles are considered vehicles when on roadways. Bicyclists are required and expected to follow the same rules of the road as motorized vehicles. As a motorist, know that a bicyclist has the same rights, privileges, and responsibilities as you. Respect for each other will aid in the smooth flow of traffic.
Bicyclists may not be easily seen in traffic. Be alert for bicyclists and be extra careful when approaching them. Just as motorists have different levels of skill, bicyclists also have varying levels of skills. A skillful bicyclist rides predictably and holds a steady line. An unskillful bicyclist may swerve unpredictably, ignore traffic signs and signals, and ride without a light at night. If you see an unskillful bicyclist, be ready for any sudden movements.
As a driver:
· Yield to bicyclists in intersections as you would for pedestrians and other vehicles.
· Yield the right-of-way when a bicycle path or bike lane intersects a road.
· Allow as much space as possible and slow down when approaching or passing a bicyclist. You should slow down and let the cyclist clear the intersection before making the turn.
· Avoid slowing down or stopping quickly. A motor vehicle’s brakes are more powerful than a bicycle’s and you could cause a crash.
· Avoid sounding the horn close to bicyclists unless there is a chance of a crash. Sounding the horn to alert your presence may startle bicyclists and cause them to steer into your path and crash.
· Watch carefully for bicyclists entering the lane. Be especially careful if you see children riding bikes on the sidewalk. They may come onto the road.
· Avoid turning sharply in front of a bicyclists and do not force a bicyclist off the road.
· Although bicyclists are required to ride in the direction of traffic, you should look for them riding anywhere on the roadway.
· Be particularly careful around bicyclists when the roadway is wet or covered with sand or gravel. These conditions affect bicycles much more so than vehicles.
· Cooperate with bicyclists.
· When parked on the street, check to the sides and rear for bicyclists before opening the vehicle door.
· Check for bicyclists in the path before backing. Be especially cautious near schools or residential areas where bicyclists may be present.
When passing or overtaking a bicyclist, make sure to leave them plenty of room.
Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other drivers. However, it may be more difficult to see them. There are special situations and conditions we need to be aware of so we can safely share the road with motorcycles:
· Allow a motorcyclist a full lane width. Do not share the lane. The motorcycle needs space for the motorcyclist to react to other traffic.
· Motorcycles are small and therefore more difficult to see. Be aware that motorcycles can be part of the traffic mix. Always check mirrors and blind spots for them.
· Before turning, be alert for motorcycles by looking carefully to the front and sides of the vehicle.
· Do not assume a motorcycle is turning when you see its turn signal flashing. Motorcycle turn signals may not self-cancel, and the motorcyclist may have forgotten to turn them off. Wait to be sure the rider is going to turn before proceeding.
· When following a motorcyclist, allow for a minimum 4-second following distance or more in wet conditions, otherwise you may not have enough time or space to avoid a crash. Motorcycle riders may suddenly need to change lane position to avoid hazards such as potholes, gravel, wet or slippery surfaces, pavement seams and grooved pavement, which can be deadly to a motorcyclist.
· Keep in mind that scooters and mopeds travel at much lower speeds than motorcycles.
Large Trucks and Buses
Many crashes occur between cars and commercial vehicles each year. Many of these crashes could be avoided by keeping these points in mind:
· Commercial vehicles are generally larger vehicles and less maneuverable than cars.
· These vehicles have much larger blind spots than cars.
· They take longer stopping and accelerating distances and need more room to turn.
Trucks and buses require more room than automobiles to execute turns, make lane changes, and for other driving maneuvers.
Trucks and buses have blind spots called No-Zones. No-Zones are the areas around trucks and buses where cars (1) "disappear" into blind spots or (2) are so close that they restrict the truck or bus driver's ability to stop or maneuver safely. Both types of No-Zones greatly increase the potential for a crash. Know the NO-ZONE.
The No-Zone
The No-Zone is the area around large trucks or buses where vehicles disappear from the commercial driver’s view into blind spots.
These blind spots are on the sides, rear, and front of the large vehicle.
Side No-Zones—Large trucks and buses have big No-Zones on both sides. They are much larger than your vehicle’s blind spots. If you cannot see the driver’s face in the side view mirror, they cannot see you. Avoid driving alongside a large vehicle for any longer than required under any circumstances. If the driver needs to swerve or change lanes, the chances of a crash are greatly increased.
Front No-Zones—Because of a large vehicle’s size and weight, they take longer to stop than cars. A loaded truck with good tires and properly adjusted brakes, take time and distance before coming to a complete stop, or greater than 1½ times the stopping distance of a car. Therefore, it is essential not to enter a roadway in front of a large vehicle or change lanes in front of a large vehicle. When passing a large vehicle, look for the whole front of the vehicle in the rear- view mirror before pulling in front and maintaining speed.
Rear No-Zones—Unlike cars, large vehicles have huge blind spots directly behind them that extend up to 50 metres. If you are too close, the large vehicle cannot see the car, and you cannot see what is ahead of you. If the large vehicle brakes or stops suddenly, you have no place to go and could run into the vehicle.
To prevent this, pay close attention when following a large vehicle. Avoid following the vehicle too closely (tailgating) and position your vehicle so the driver can see it in their side mirrors. When traveling up or down steep hills, large vehicles must drive slowly, and therefore use the right lane.
Turning
Pay close attention to large vehicles turn signals and give them plenty of room to maneuver. To avoid a crash, do not turn until the truck or bus has completed its turn.
Keep in mind:
· When you meet a truck coming from the opposite direction, keep as far as possible to the left side of the roadway to avoid a side-swipe crash and to reduce the wind turbulence between the two vehicles, which pushes the vehicles apart.
· Many crashes with large vehicles occur at intersections because motorists are unable to judge accurately the speed of a truck approaching. When in doubt about the speed of an oncoming truck or bus, do not turn in its path. The truck or bus may be going faster than you think and it takes longer for the truck or bus to stop than a car.
· Many intersections are marked with stop lines to show where you must come to a complete stop. These stop lines help to set you farther back at an intersection to give larger vehicles more turning space. Always stop behind stop lines.
· Do not cut off a large vehicle in traffic or on the highway to reach an exit, turn, or to beat a truck into a single-lane construction zone. The few seconds that might be saved are not worth a life.
Merging
Merging traffic should keep moving and enter highways at the same speed as the existing traffic flow. Do not merge in front of a truck or bus and then slow down. Remember, trucks and buses are unable to slow down as quickly as automobiles.
Trucks and buses do not accelerate at the same rate as automobiles. If a truck or bus must stop on an acceleration lane when entering a highway, it requires a long distance for the truck or bus to reach merging speed. Automobile drivers can assist the truck and bus drivers who are entering a highway by maintaining the proper speed for the flow of traffic. This enables trucks and buses to smoothly enter the highway. The truck or bus driver can then maintain speed and avoid having to stop. This would also assist other drivers who are merging, and not just the larger vehicles.
Construction Areas
Exercise extreme caution and courtesy in construction areas. Under normal conditions, roads are sign posted and the lanes are clearly marked. In construction areas, these items may not exist. Do not suddenly pull in front of a truck or bus and stop abruptly. The truck or bus driver may not see you or may not be able to stop in time.
Bus Related Issues
Inter-town buses make frequent stops. If you do not want to get caught behind a bus when they make a stop, then "Read the Road" ahead. If you see a bus ahead of you, move to another lane of traffic before the bus stops. Additionally, if you are passing a parked bus, do so with care as the bus may start to move out into the lane of traffic.
Another important consideration is to remember that as with school buses, children have been known to run in front of inter-town buses and in front of oncoming traffic. Drivers should also be alert for pedestrians running to catch a bus. In summary, be cautious when passing a parked bus and be on the lookout for pedestrians running in front of the vehicle.
Buses present an additional hazard due to tail swing, where the rear of the bus "swings" out into traffic. The swing on buses is approximately 1 metre. Allow enough room between the vehicle and the rear of bus to accommodate the tail swing.
The bigger the bus are:
· The bigger their blind spots
· The more room they need to maneuver
· The longer it takes them to stop
· The longer it takes them to accelerate
· The longer it takes to pass them
· The more likely you're going to be the loser in a collision.
· Remember, the smaller the vehicle being driven, the harder it is for truck and bus drivers to see you.
Emergency Vehicles
Emergency vehicles will be equipped with sirens, flashing lights, and special horns to help them move through traffic.
As a driver you must yield right-of-way to an emergency vehicle when the FLASHING LIGHTS AND SIRENS ARE ON by pulling over to the edge of the road so the emergency vehicle(s) may pass. Avoid blocking intersections.
Police and Traffic Stops
If pulled over by law enforcement:
· Move as safely and quickly off the travel portion of the road and make sure the spot selected will not interfere with the other vehicles on the road.
· Remain in the vehicle unless requested to get out.
· Turn off the engine.
· If at night, the interior lights to help the officer see that everything is in order inside the vehicle.
· Roll down the window so that you and the officer can communicate.
· Remain calm and keep your seatbelt fastened. Ask any passenger(s) to do so as well.
· Keep your hands on the steering wheel and limit movements so the officer does not think you are hiding or searching for something.
· When requested, locate and provide your driver’s license. If the officer asks for documents, tell the officer where they are located and reach for them slowly with one hand on the wheel. Remain in the vehicle unless requested to get out.
· Answer the officer’s questions fully and clearly.
· Never try to run from law enforcement. It is very dangerous, and many fatal crashes occur from police chases. The consequences of running from law enforcement are more severe than the initial traffic citation.
Special Driving Situations
Night Driving
Driving at night is more difficult and hazardous than daytime driving. The distance you can see to the front is limited by light provided by the headlights.
Here are some things that help when driving at night:
· Use high beams whenever there are no oncoming vehicles. High beams let you see twice as far as low beams.
· Dim the high beams for approaching traffic. If a vehicle comes toward you with their high beams on, look toward the left side of the road to keep from being distracted or momentarily blinded by their headlights.
· Use low beams when following another vehicle.
· In fog or rain, use low beams. Light from high beams may cause glare and make it more difficult to see ahead. Some vehicles have fog lights that can be used in fog or rain.
· Avoid looking directly into any oncoming headlights. Keep your eyes searching the road in front of the vehicle.
· Try to search well ahead of the headlight beams, looking for dark shapes on the roadway.
· Glance occasionally to the right and left to determine the location of the edge of the pavement and hazards that may come from the sides.
· Do not wear sunglasses or colored lenses when driving at night or on an overcast day. Tinted or colored lenses reduce vision.
· Increase the following distance by adding at least one additional second for night driving conditions and at least two additional seconds for driving on unfamiliar roadways at night.
Work Zones
A work zone is an area where roadwork takes place and may involve lane closures, detours, and moving equipment.
Work zones have become increasingly dangerous places for both workers and drivers. A good number of people are injured as a result of motor vehicle crashes in work zones.
When approaching a work zone, watch for signs, cones, barrels, large vehicles, and workers. Work zone signs have an orange background and black letters or symbols. Always reduce your speed in a work zone, even if there are no workers present. The narrower lanes and rough pavement can create a hazardous condition.
Speed limits may be reduced in work zones for the safety of the traveling public and workers. Pay attention to the speed limits shown in work zones. Fines for speeding in a work zone may be hefty.
As a driver in a work zone:
· Reduce your speed and increase the following distance.
· Watch the traffic around you and be prepared to stop.
· Use extreme caution when driving through a work zone at night whether workers are present or not.
· Adjust lane position to allow space for workers and construction vehicles.
· Observe the posted work zone signs until you see “End Road Work.”
· Expect delays, plan for them, and leave early to reach the destination on time.
· When you can, use alternate routes and avoid work zones.
Rural Road Driving
Driving on rural roads can be dangerous. Stay alert, watch your driving habits as there are no warning signs, and ensure your speed is low. Some road conditions and driving hazards are unique to rural roads. It is important to understand the different road conditions that you may experience on rural roads.
Gravel or dirt—Traction can be reduced on gravel or dirt roads. Reduce your speed and increase the following distance. Also, realize you may skid when trying to stop the vehicle.
Narrow roads—Rural roads are generally narrower and may have ditches or drop offs instead of shoulders. Reduce speed, center the vehicle in the lane, and watch for oncoming traffic that may attempt to share the lane.
Narrow and single-lane bridges—Look for warning signs identifying narrow or single-lane bridges. Take turns crossing the bridge. Generally, the first driver to the bridge has the right-of-way.
Open bridge gratings or steel bridges—These can reduce traction. Reduce speed and increase the following distance. Also, maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel.
Areas of reduced vision—Blind corners created by fenced areas, crops growing in fields, and steep hills can limit how far you can see. In areas with reduced vision always reduce speed and be prepared to stop.
Uncontrolled intersections— Intersections on rural roads are not controlled by yield or stop signs. These intersections can be very dangerous if you do not approach them with caution. When approaching an uncontrolled rural intersection, slow down and be prepared to stop for crossing or oncoming traffic.
Crashes
Do not stop at an accident unless you are involved or if emergency help has not yet arrived. Keep your attention on driving and keep moving, watching for people who might be in or near the road. Never drive to the scene of an accident, fire, or other disaster just to look. You may block the way for police, firefighters, ambulances, tow trucks, and other rescue vehicles.
No matter how good of a driver you are, there may be a time when you are involved in a crash. If you are involved in an accident, you must stop. If you are involved in an accident with a parked vehicle, you must try to locate the owner.
If any person is injured or killed, the police must be notified. It is a crime for you to leave a crash site where your vehicle was involved if there is an injury or death before police have talked to you and gotten all the information they need about the crash.
You may want to carry a basic vehicle emergency kit. These kits have emergency first aid supplies and basic tools.
Protect Yourself in Collisions
You may not always be able to avoid a collision. Try everything you can to keep from getting hit. If nothing works, try to lessen any injuries that could result from the crash. The most important thing you can do is to use the lap and shoulder belts. Besides the seatbelts, there are a couple of other things that could help prevent more serious injuries.
Hit from the Rear—If the vehicle is hit from the rear, your body will be thrown backwards. Press yourself against the back of the seat and put your head against the head restraint. Be ready to apply the brakes so that you will not be pushed into another vehicle.
Hit from the Side —If the vehicle is hit from the side, your body will be thrown towards the side that is hit. Front air bags will not help in this situation. The lap and shoulder belts are needed to help keep you behind the wheel. Get ready to steer or brake to prevent the vehicle from hitting something else.
Hit from the Front—If the vehicle is about to be hit from the front, it is important to try and have a “glancing blow” rather than being struck head on. This means that if a collision is going to happen, try to turn the vehicle. At worse, you hit with a glancing blow. You might miss it. If the vehicle has an air bag, it will inflate. It also will deflate following the crash, so be ready to prevent the vehicle from hitting something else. You must use the lap and shoulder belts to keep you behind the wheel and to protect you if the vehicle has a second crash.
At the Accident Scene
· Stop the vehicle at or near the accident site. If the vehicle can move, get it off the road so that it does not block traffic or cause another crash.
· Do not stand or walk in traffic lanes. You could be struck by another vehicle.
· Turn off the ignition of wrecked vehicles. Do not smoke around wrecked vehicles. Fuel could have spilled, and fire is a real danger.
· Make sure that other traffic will not be involved in the crash. Use flares warning devices (hazard) to alert traffic of the accident.
If someone is injured
· Get help. Make sure the police and emergency medical or rescue squad have been called.
· Do not move the injured unless they are in a burning vehicle or in other immediate danger of being hit by another vehicle. Moving a person can make their injuries worse.
· First help anyone who is not already walking and talking. Check for breathing then check for bleeding.
· If there is bleeding, apply pressure directly on the wound with your hand or with a cloth. Even severe bleeding can almost always be stopped or slowed by putting pressure on the wound.
· Do not give injured persons anything to drink, not even water.
· To help prevent an injured person from going into shock, cover them with a blanket or coat to keep them warm.
Report the Accident
· Get the names and addresses of all people involved in the accident, and any witnesses, including injured persons.
· Exchange information with other drivers involved in the crash. [Name, address, driver license number, vehicle information (license plate, make, model, and year of vehicle), and insurance company and policy number if available.]
· Record any damage to the vehicles involved in the crash.
· Provide information to the police or other emergency officials if requested.
· Should the accident involve a parked vehicle, try to find the owner. If you cannot, leave a note in a place where it can be seen with information on how the owner can reach you and the date and time of the accident.
· You must contact the police if there is an injury or a death. The law requires you to give the police information on the accident at the time of the accident. Notify your own insurance company as soon as possible. If you are injured and unable to complete the report, someone may file it for you.
Damaging Unattended Vehicles
If you damage an unattended vehicle or other property and you cannot locate the owner, contact the nearest law enforcement agency, and leave your contact information on a piece of paper where the owner can find it.
You should wait for law enforcement to arrive at the scene. It is against the law to leave the scene of an accident.
Emergency Situations and Avoiding Crashes
Emergencies and Avoiding Crashes
All drivers eventually will find themselves in an emergency. As careful as you are, there are situations that could cause a problem. If you are prepared, you may be able to prevent any serious outcomes. All drivers have the responsibility to prevent crashes. There are three options to avoid a crash or to reduce its impact. These options are braking, steering, or accelerating.
Braking
The first reaction for most drivers to avoid a crash is to stop the vehicle. Most new vehicles are equipped with ABS (anti-lock braking system). The ABS will allow you to stop the vehicle without skidding and keep steering control. The general guidelines for using ABS are:
· Press on the brake pedal as hard as you can and keep applying pressure.
· ABS will work only if you keep the pressure on the brake pedal. You may feel the pedal vibrate, and you may hear a clicking noise. This is normal.
· You can still steer the vehicle.
Steering
You may be able to avoid a crash by quickly steering around a problem. This is sometimes referred to as “swerving.” To quickly steer around a problem:
· Make sure to have a good grip with both hands on the steering wheel.
· Steer in the direction you want to go but try to avoid other traffic.
· When you have cleared the problem, steer in the opposite direction to straighten out the vehicle, gain control, and start slowing.
Accelerating
It may be necessary to accelerate to avoid a crash. This may happen when another vehicle is about to hit you from behind or on the side.
Dealing with Skids
Skids are caused when you are traveling too fast for conditions, when you stop too suddenly, or when the tires can no longer grip the roadway. When you begin to skid, you have little control of the vehicle. If the vehicle begins to skid:
· Release pressure from the brake or accelerator.
· Look where you want to go.
Uneven Surface Drop-Offs
Uneven surface drop-offs can cause serious crashes if you react improperly. Avoid panic steering in which you try to return to the pavement as soon as the wheels leave the pavement. If the vehicle leaves the paved road surface, slow down gradually, when safe to do so, and turn back onto the pavement.
Vehicle Malfunctions
There is always a chance of a vehicle problem while driving. Following these preventive measures greatly reduces the chance that the vehicle will have a problem.
Brake Failure
It is important to check warning lights to be sure the vehicle works correctly. A brake warning light will tell you the brakes are not working properly. Do not drive if you see this warning light.
Tire Blowout
Tire blowout is a rapid deflation of air from the tire. If a front tire blows out, the vehicle will pull sharply in the direction of the blowout. If a rear tire blows out, the vehicle will wobble, shake, and pull some in the direction of the blowout.
If a tire blows out or suddenly goes flat:
· Grip the steering wheel firmly and keep the vehicle going straight.
· Slow down gradually. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.
· Do not brake. Allow the vehicle to slow by itself or brake gently if necessary.
· Do not stop on the road if possible. Pull off the road in a safe place.
· Have the tire changed and replaced.
Power Failure
If the engine shuts off while you are driving:
· Keep a strong grip on the steering wheel. Be aware that the steering wheel may be difficult to turn, but you can still turn it.
· Look for an escape path. Do not brake hard. Instead, brake with steady pressure on the pedal to slow down, and then pull off the roadway.
· Stop and try to restart the engine. If unsuccessful, make sure the vehicle is repaired.
Stuck Accelerator
If the vehicle is accelerating out of control:
· Turn off the engine.
· Shift to neutral and search for an escape path.
· Steer smoothly, brake gently, and pull off the roadway.
· Have the pedal repaired before driving again.
Motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other drivers. However, it may be more difficult to see them. There are special situations and conditions we need to be aware of so we can safely share the road with motorcycles:
· Allow a motorcyclist a full lane width. Do not share the lane. The motorcycle needs space for the motorcyclist to react to other traffic.
· Motorcycles are small and therefore more difficult to see. Be aware that motorcycles can be part of the traffic mix. Always check mirrors and blind spots for them.
· Before turning, be alert for motorcycles by looking carefully to the front and sides of the vehicle.
· Do not assume a motorcycle is turning when you see its turn signal flashing. Motorcycle turn signals may not self-cancel, and the motorcyclist may have forgotten to turn them off. Wait to be sure the rider is going to turn before proceeding.
· When following a motorcyclist, allow for a minimum 4-second following distance or more in wet conditions, otherwise you may not have enough time or space to avoid a crash. Motorcycle riders may suddenly need to change lane position to avoid hazards such as potholes, gravel, wet or slippery surfaces, pavement seams and grooved pavement, which can be deadly to a motorcyclist.
· Keep in mind that scooters and mopeds travel at much lower speeds than motorcycles.
Large Trucks and Buses
Many crashes occur between cars and commercial vehicles each year. Many of these crashes could be avoided by keeping these points in mind:
· Commercial vehicles are generally larger vehicles and less maneuverable than cars.
· These vehicles have much larger blind spots than cars.
· They take longer stopping and accelerating distances and need more room to turn.
Trucks and buses require more room than automobiles to execute turns, make lane changes, and for other driving maneuvers.
Trucks and buses have blind spots called No-Zones. No-Zones are the areas around trucks and buses where cars (1) "disappear" into blind spots or (2) are so close that they restrict the truck or bus driver's ability to stop or maneuver safely. Both types of No-Zones greatly increase the potential for a crash. Know the NO-ZONE.
The No-Zone
The No-Zone is the area around large trucks or buses where vehicles disappear from the commercial driver’s view into blind spots.
These blind spots are on the sides, rear, and front of the large vehicle.
Side No-Zones—Large trucks and buses have big No-Zones on both sides. They are much larger than your vehicle’s blind spots. If you cannot see the driver’s face in the side view mirror, they cannot see you. Avoid driving alongside a large vehicle for any longer than required under any circumstances. If the driver needs to swerve or change lanes, the chances of a crash are greatly increased.
Front No-Zones—Because of a large vehicle’s size and weight, they take longer to stop than cars. A loaded truck with good tires and properly adjusted brakes, take time and distance before coming to a complete stop, or greater than 1½ times the stopping distance of a car. Therefore, it is essential not to enter a roadway in front of a large vehicle or change lanes in front of a large vehicle. When passing a large vehicle, look for the whole front of the vehicle in the rear- view mirror before pulling in front and maintaining speed.
Rear No-Zones—Unlike cars, large vehicles have huge blind spots directly behind them that extend up to 50 metres. If you are too close, the large vehicle cannot see the car, and you cannot see what is ahead of you. If the large vehicle brakes or stops suddenly, you have no place to go and could run into the vehicle.
To prevent this, pay close attention when following a large vehicle. Avoid following the vehicle too closely (tailgating) and position your vehicle so the driver can see it in their side mirrors. When traveling up or down steep hills, large vehicles must drive slowly, and therefore use the right lane.
Turning
Pay close attention to large vehicles turn signals and give them plenty of room to maneuver. To avoid a crash, do not turn until the truck or bus has completed its turn.
Keep in mind:
· When you meet a truck coming from the opposite direction, keep as far as possible to the left side of the roadway to avoid a side-swipe crash and to reduce the wind turbulence between the two vehicles, which pushes the vehicles apart.
· Many crashes with large vehicles occur at intersections because motorists are unable to judge accurately the speed of a truck approaching. When in doubt about the speed of an oncoming truck or bus, do not turn in its path. The truck or bus may be going faster than you think and it takes longer for the truck or bus to stop than a car.
· Many intersections are marked with stop lines to show where you must come to a complete stop. These stop lines help to set you farther back at an intersection to give larger vehicles more turning space. Always stop behind stop lines.
· Do not cut off a large vehicle in traffic or on the highway to reach an exit, turn, or to beat a truck into a single-lane construction zone. The few seconds that might be saved are not worth a life.
Merging
Merging traffic should keep moving and enter highways at the same speed as the existing traffic flow. Do not merge in front of a truck or bus and then slow down. Remember, trucks and buses are unable to slow down as quickly as automobiles.
Trucks and buses do not accelerate at the same rate as automobiles. If a truck or bus must stop on an acceleration lane when entering a highway, it requires a long distance for the truck or bus to reach merging speed. Automobile drivers can assist the truck and bus drivers who are entering a highway by maintaining the proper speed for the flow of traffic. This enables trucks and buses to smoothly enter the highway. The truck or bus driver can then maintain speed and avoid having to stop. This would also assist other drivers who are merging, and not just the larger vehicles.
Construction Areas
Exercise extreme caution and courtesy in construction areas. Under normal conditions, roads are sign posted and the lanes are clearly marked. In construction areas, these items may not exist. Do not suddenly pull in front of a truck or bus and stop abruptly. The truck or bus driver may not see you or may not be able to stop in time.
Bus Related Issues
Inter-town buses make frequent stops. If you do not want to get caught behind a bus when they make a stop, then "Read the Road" ahead. If you see a bus ahead of you, move to another lane of traffic before the bus stops. Additionally, if you are passing a parked bus, do so with care as the bus may start to move out into the lane of traffic.
Another important consideration is to remember that as with school buses, children have been known to run in front of inter-town buses and in front of oncoming traffic. Drivers should also be alert for pedestrians running to catch a bus. In summary, be cautious when passing a parked bus and be on the lookout for pedestrians running in front of the vehicle.
Buses present an additional hazard due to tail swing, where the rear of the bus "swings" out into traffic. The swing on buses is approximately 1 metre. Allow enough room between the vehicle and the rear of bus to accommodate the tail swing.
The bigger the bus are:
· The bigger their blind spots
· The more room they need to maneuver
· The longer it takes them to stop
· The longer it takes them to accelerate
· The longer it takes to pass them
· The more likely you're going to be the loser in a collision.
· Remember, the smaller the vehicle being driven, the harder it is for truck and bus drivers to see you.
Emergency Vehicles
Emergency vehicles will be equipped with sirens, flashing lights, and special horns to help them move through traffic.
As a driver you must yield right-of-way to an emergency vehicle when the FLASHING LIGHTS AND SIRENS ARE ON by pulling over to the edge of the road so the emergency vehicle(s) may pass. Avoid blocking intersections.
Police and Traffic Stops
If pulled over by law enforcement:
· Move as safely and quickly off the travel portion of the road and make sure the spot selected will not interfere with the other vehicles on the road.
· Remain in the vehicle unless requested to get out.
· Turn off the engine.
· If at night, the interior lights to help the officer see that everything is in order inside the vehicle.
· Roll down the window so that you and the officer can communicate.
· Remain calm and keep your seatbelt fastened. Ask any passenger(s) to do so as well.
· Keep your hands on the steering wheel and limit movements so the officer does not think you are hiding or searching for something.
· When requested, locate and provide your driver’s license. If the officer asks for documents, tell the officer where they are located and reach for them slowly with one hand on the wheel. Remain in the vehicle unless requested to get out.
· Answer the officer’s questions fully and clearly.
· Never try to run from law enforcement. It is very dangerous, and many fatal crashes occur from police chases. The consequences of running from law enforcement are more severe than the initial traffic citation.
Special Driving Situations
Night Driving
Driving at night is more difficult and hazardous than daytime driving. The distance you can see to the front is limited by light provided by the headlights.
Here are some things that help when driving at night:
· Use high beams whenever there are no oncoming vehicles. High beams let you see twice as far as low beams.
· Dim the high beams for approaching traffic. If a vehicle comes toward you with their high beams on, look toward the left side of the road to keep from being distracted or momentarily blinded by their headlights.
· Use low beams when following another vehicle.
· In fog or rain, use low beams. Light from high beams may cause glare and make it more difficult to see ahead. Some vehicles have fog lights that can be used in fog or rain.
· Avoid looking directly into any oncoming headlights. Keep your eyes searching the road in front of the vehicle.
· Try to search well ahead of the headlight beams, looking for dark shapes on the roadway.
· Glance occasionally to the right and left to determine the location of the edge of the pavement and hazards that may come from the sides.
· Do not wear sunglasses or colored lenses when driving at night or on an overcast day. Tinted or colored lenses reduce vision.
· Increase the following distance by adding at least one additional second for night driving conditions and at least two additional seconds for driving on unfamiliar roadways at night.
Work Zones
A work zone is an area where roadwork takes place and may involve lane closures, detours, and moving equipment.
Work zones have become increasingly dangerous places for both workers and drivers. A good number of people are injured as a result of motor vehicle crashes in work zones.
When approaching a work zone, watch for signs, cones, barrels, large vehicles, and workers. Work zone signs have an orange background and black letters or symbols. Always reduce your speed in a work zone, even if there are no workers present. The narrower lanes and rough pavement can create a hazardous condition.
Speed limits may be reduced in work zones for the safety of the traveling public and workers. Pay attention to the speed limits shown in work zones. Fines for speeding in a work zone may be hefty.
As a driver in a work zone:
· Reduce your speed and increase the following distance.
· Watch the traffic around you and be prepared to stop.
· Use extreme caution when driving through a work zone at night whether workers are present or not.
· Adjust lane position to allow space for workers and construction vehicles.
· Observe the posted work zone signs until you see “End Road Work.”
· Expect delays, plan for them, and leave early to reach the destination on time.
· When you can, use alternate routes and avoid work zones.
Rural Road Driving
Driving on rural roads can be dangerous. Stay alert, watch your driving habits as there are no warning signs, and ensure your speed is low. Some road conditions and driving hazards are unique to rural roads. It is important to understand the different road conditions that you may experience on rural roads.
Gravel or dirt—Traction can be reduced on gravel or dirt roads. Reduce your speed and increase the following distance. Also, realize you may skid when trying to stop the vehicle.
Narrow roads—Rural roads are generally narrower and may have ditches or drop offs instead of shoulders. Reduce speed, center the vehicle in the lane, and watch for oncoming traffic that may attempt to share the lane.
Narrow and single-lane bridges—Look for warning signs identifying narrow or single-lane bridges. Take turns crossing the bridge. Generally, the first driver to the bridge has the right-of-way.
Open bridge gratings or steel bridges—These can reduce traction. Reduce speed and increase the following distance. Also, maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel.
Areas of reduced vision—Blind corners created by fenced areas, crops growing in fields, and steep hills can limit how far you can see. In areas with reduced vision always reduce speed and be prepared to stop.
Uncontrolled intersections— Intersections on rural roads are not controlled by yield or stop signs. These intersections can be very dangerous if you do not approach them with caution. When approaching an uncontrolled rural intersection, slow down and be prepared to stop for crossing or oncoming traffic.
Crashes
Do not stop at an accident unless you are involved or if emergency help has not yet arrived. Keep your attention on driving and keep moving, watching for people who might be in or near the road. Never drive to the scene of an accident, fire, or other disaster just to look. You may block the way for police, firefighters, ambulances, tow trucks, and other rescue vehicles.
No matter how good of a driver you are, there may be a time when you are involved in a crash. If you are involved in an accident, you must stop. If you are involved in an accident with a parked vehicle, you must try to locate the owner.
If any person is injured or killed, the police must be notified. It is a crime for you to leave a crash site where your vehicle was involved if there is an injury or death before police have talked to you and gotten all the information they need about the crash.
You may want to carry a basic vehicle emergency kit. These kits have emergency first aid supplies and basic tools.
Protect Yourself in Collisions
You may not always be able to avoid a collision. Try everything you can to keep from getting hit. If nothing works, try to lessen any injuries that could result from the crash. The most important thing you can do is to use the lap and shoulder belts. Besides the seatbelts, there are a couple of other things that could help prevent more serious injuries.
Hit from the Rear—If the vehicle is hit from the rear, your body will be thrown backwards. Press yourself against the back of the seat and put your head against the head restraint. Be ready to apply the brakes so that you will not be pushed into another vehicle.
Hit from the Side —If the vehicle is hit from the side, your body will be thrown towards the side that is hit. Front air bags will not help in this situation. The lap and shoulder belts are needed to help keep you behind the wheel. Get ready to steer or brake to prevent the vehicle from hitting something else.
Hit from the Front—If the vehicle is about to be hit from the front, it is important to try and have a “glancing blow” rather than being struck head on. This means that if a collision is going to happen, try to turn the vehicle. At worse, you hit with a glancing blow. You might miss it. If the vehicle has an air bag, it will inflate. It also will deflate following the crash, so be ready to prevent the vehicle from hitting something else. You must use the lap and shoulder belts to keep you behind the wheel and to protect you if the vehicle has a second crash.
At the Accident Scene
· Stop the vehicle at or near the accident site. If the vehicle can move, get it off the road so that it does not block traffic or cause another crash.
· Do not stand or walk in traffic lanes. You could be struck by another vehicle.
· Turn off the ignition of wrecked vehicles. Do not smoke around wrecked vehicles. Fuel could have spilled, and fire is a real danger.
· Make sure that other traffic will not be involved in the crash. Use flares warning devices (hazard) to alert traffic of the accident.
If someone is injured
· Get help. Make sure the police and emergency medical or rescue squad have been called.
· Do not move the injured unless they are in a burning vehicle or in other immediate danger of being hit by another vehicle. Moving a person can make their injuries worse.
· First help anyone who is not already walking and talking. Check for breathing then check for bleeding.
· If there is bleeding, apply pressure directly on the wound with your hand or with a cloth. Even severe bleeding can almost always be stopped or slowed by putting pressure on the wound.
· Do not give injured persons anything to drink, not even water.
· To help prevent an injured person from going into shock, cover them with a blanket or coat to keep them warm.
Report the Accident
· Get the names and addresses of all people involved in the accident, and any witnesses, including injured persons.
· Exchange information with other drivers involved in the crash. [Name, address, driver license number, vehicle information (license plate, make, model, and year of vehicle), and insurance company and policy number if available.]
· Record any damage to the vehicles involved in the crash.
· Provide information to the police or other emergency officials if requested.
· Should the accident involve a parked vehicle, try to find the owner. If you cannot, leave a note in a place where it can be seen with information on how the owner can reach you and the date and time of the accident.
· You must contact the police if there is an injury or a death. The law requires you to give the police information on the accident at the time of the accident. Notify your own insurance company as soon as possible. If you are injured and unable to complete the report, someone may file it for you.
Damaging Unattended Vehicles
If you damage an unattended vehicle or other property and you cannot locate the owner, contact the nearest law enforcement agency, and leave your contact information on a piece of paper where the owner can find it.
You should wait for law enforcement to arrive at the scene. It is against the law to leave the scene of an accident.
Emergency Situations and Avoiding Crashes
Emergencies and Avoiding Crashes
All drivers eventually will find themselves in an emergency. As careful as you are, there are situations that could cause a problem. If you are prepared, you may be able to prevent any serious outcomes. All drivers have the responsibility to prevent crashes. There are three options to avoid a crash or to reduce its impact. These options are braking, steering, or accelerating.
Braking
The first reaction for most drivers to avoid a crash is to stop the vehicle. Most new vehicles are equipped with ABS (anti-lock braking system). The ABS will allow you to stop the vehicle without skidding and keep steering control. The general guidelines for using ABS are:
· Press on the brake pedal as hard as you can and keep applying pressure.
· ABS will work only if you keep the pressure on the brake pedal. You may feel the pedal vibrate, and you may hear a clicking noise. This is normal.
· You can still steer the vehicle.
Steering
You may be able to avoid a crash by quickly steering around a problem. This is sometimes referred to as “swerving.” To quickly steer around a problem:
· Make sure to have a good grip with both hands on the steering wheel.
· Steer in the direction you want to go but try to avoid other traffic.
· When you have cleared the problem, steer in the opposite direction to straighten out the vehicle, gain control, and start slowing.
Accelerating
It may be necessary to accelerate to avoid a crash. This may happen when another vehicle is about to hit you from behind or on the side.
Dealing with Skids
Skids are caused when you are traveling too fast for conditions, when you stop too suddenly, or when the tires can no longer grip the roadway. When you begin to skid, you have little control of the vehicle. If the vehicle begins to skid:
· Release pressure from the brake or accelerator.
· Look where you want to go.
Uneven Surface Drop-Offs
Uneven surface drop-offs can cause serious crashes if you react improperly. Avoid panic steering in which you try to return to the pavement as soon as the wheels leave the pavement. If the vehicle leaves the paved road surface, slow down gradually, when safe to do so, and turn back onto the pavement.
Vehicle Malfunctions
There is always a chance of a vehicle problem while driving. Following these preventive measures greatly reduces the chance that the vehicle will have a problem.
Brake Failure
It is important to check warning lights to be sure the vehicle works correctly. A brake warning light will tell you the brakes are not working properly. Do not drive if you see this warning light.
Tire Blowout
Tire blowout is a rapid deflation of air from the tire. If a front tire blows out, the vehicle will pull sharply in the direction of the blowout. If a rear tire blows out, the vehicle will wobble, shake, and pull some in the direction of the blowout.
If a tire blows out or suddenly goes flat:
· Grip the steering wheel firmly and keep the vehicle going straight.
· Slow down gradually. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.
· Do not brake. Allow the vehicle to slow by itself or brake gently if necessary.
· Do not stop on the road if possible. Pull off the road in a safe place.
· Have the tire changed and replaced.
Power Failure
If the engine shuts off while you are driving:
· Keep a strong grip on the steering wheel. Be aware that the steering wheel may be difficult to turn, but you can still turn it.
· Look for an escape path. Do not brake hard. Instead, brake with steady pressure on the pedal to slow down, and then pull off the roadway.
· Stop and try to restart the engine. If unsuccessful, make sure the vehicle is repaired.
Stuck Accelerator
If the vehicle is accelerating out of control:
· Turn off the engine.
· Shift to neutral and search for an escape path.
· Steer smoothly, brake gently, and pull off the roadway.
· Have the pedal repaired before driving again.
Vehicle Breakdown
If the vehicle breaks down on the highway, make sure that other roadway users can see the disabled vehicle. All too often, crashes occur because a driver did not see a disabled vehicle until it was too late to stop.
If you are having vehicle trouble and must stop:
· Get the vehicle off the road and away from traffic.
· Turn on the emergency lights to show the vehicle is disabled.
· Try to warn other roadway users that the vehicle is there. Place emergency signs about 60 metres behind and Infront the vehicle, giving other drivers some time to change lanes if necessary.
Headlight Failure
If the headlights suddenly go out:
· Try the headlight switch a few times.
· If that does not work, put on the emergency hazard lights, turn signals, or fog lights if possible.
· Pull off the road as soon as possible.
Communicating
It is important to let other roadway users know where you are and what you plan to do.
Letting Others Know You Are There
It is your responsibility to make sure the vehicle is visible to other roadway users.
Use headlights—Besides helping to see at night, headlights help other people see you at any time. Remember to turn on the headlights whenever you have trouble seeing others. If you have trouble seeing them, they will have trouble seeing you.
On rainy, snowy, or foggy days it is sometimes hard for other drivers to see other vehicles. In these conditions, headlights make vehicles easier to see.
A good rule to follow is if you turn on the wipers, turn on the headlights.
Turn on the headlights when it begins to get dark. Even if you turn them on a little early, it will help other drivers to see you.
Whenever it’s necessary to drive with the lights on, use the headlights. Parking lights are for parked vehicles only.
When driving away from a rising or setting sun, turn on the headlights. Drivers coming toward you may have trouble seeing the vehicle because of the glare. The headlights will help them to see you.
It is much harder to see at night.
Here are some things to do that will help you see better:
· Use high beams whenever there are no oncoming vehicles. High beams let you see twice as far as low beams. It is important to use high beams on unfamiliar roads, in construction areas, or where there may be people along the side of the road.
· Dim the high beams whenever you come within 50 metres(about a one block distance) of an oncoming vehicle.
· Use the low beams when you are closer than 50 metres behind another vehicle or when in heavy traffic.
· Use the low beams in fog, when it is snowing, or when it is raining hard. Light from high beams will reflect, causing glare and making it more difficult to see ahead. Some vehicles have fog lights that should also be used under these conditions.
· Do not drive at any time with only the parking lights on. Parking lights are for parking only.
· If a driver approaching fails to dim their headlights, flash the high beams to let them know. If they still don’t dim the lights, look toward the left side of the road. This will keep you from being blinded by the other vehicle’s headlights and will allow you to see enough of the edge of the road to stay on course until the other vehicle has passed.
Daytime running lights—Some newer vehicles have headlights that are on anytime the vehicle is running. They are called daytime running lights. These lights make it easier for others to see the vehicle, even in daylight. It helps to reduce the chance of a crash. However, daytime running lights are not meant to replace the use of headlights for night driving or when it is foggy, raining or snowing. If the vehicle does not have daytime running lights, you can get the same effect by manually turning the headlights on. Just remember to turn them off when turning the engine off.
Using the horn—People cannot see you unless they are looking your way. The horn can get their attention. Use it whenever it will help prevent a crash. If there is no immediate danger, a light tap on the horn should be all that’s needed.
Give the horn a light tap:
· When a person on foot or on a bicycle appears to be moving into your lane of travel. However, pedestrians and bicyclists crossing at an intersection have the right-of-way. Do not use the horn in these instances but do yield the right-of-way.
· When passing a driver who starts to turn into your lane.
· When a driver is not paying attention or may have trouble seeing you.
· When coming to a place where you cannot see what is ahead: a steep hill, a sharp curve, or exiting a narrow alley.
If there is danger, do not be afraid to sound a SHARP BLAST on the horn.
Give the horn a SHARP BLAST:
· When another vehicle is in danger of hitting you
· When you have lost control of the vehicle and are moving toward someone.
Not using the horn—You should only use the horn when you need to communicate with other road users. Using the horn inappropriately could scare or anger another road user.
Do not use the horn in the following circumstances:
· Encouraging someone to drive faster or get out of the way
· Informing other drivers of an error
· Greeting a friend
· Around blind pedestrians
· Around animal-drawn vehicles or animals being herded on the roadway
Use emergency signals—If the vehicle breaks down on a highway, make sure other drivers can see it. All too often, crashes occur because a driver did not see a stalled vehicle until it was too late to stop.
Try to warn other road users that your vehicle is there. Place emergency flares or triangles behind it. This allows other drivers to change lanes if necessary.
If having vehicle trouble and you must stop:
· Get the vehicle off the road and away from traffic if possible.
· Turn on the (4-way) emergency flashers to show you are having trouble.
· Try to stop where other drivers have a clear view of the vehicle if you cannot get completely off the road. (Do not stop just over a hill or just around a curve.)
· Stand off the road where you are safe from traffic. Use emergency flares or other warning devices if you have them.
· Never stand in the roadway. Do not try to change a tire if it means you will be in a traffic lane.
· Raise the hood to signal an emergency.
Stay out of blind spots—Drive the vehicle where others can see you. Do not drive in another vehicle’s blind spot. Try to avoid driving in the area on either side of and slightly to the rear of another vehicle where you will be in their blind spot. Either speed up or drop back so the other driver can see your vehicle more easily. When passing another vehicle, get through the other driver’s blind spot as quickly as possible. The longer you stay in a blind spot, the longer you are in danger because they may not see you.
Never stay alongside or right behind a large vehicle such as a truck or bus. Many drivers think truck drivers can see the road better because they sit twice as high as the driver of a car. While truckers can see ahead better, and trucks have bigger mirrors, they have very serious blind spots.
These areas are all part of what is called the “No Zone”. Drivers who travel in the “No Zone” restrict a trucker’s ability to act to avoid a dangerous situation—and the possibility of a crash is increased. A good rule of thumb for drivers sharing the road with a truck or bus is, if you can’t see the truck or bus driver in their side mirror, they can’t see you.
Signaling Movements
Generally other drivers expect you to keep doing what you are doing. You must warn them when you are going to change direction or slow down. This will give them time to react, if needed, or at least to not be surprised by what you do.
Signal before changing direction—Signaling gives other drivers time to react to your moves. You should use turn signals before you change lanes, turn right or left, merge into traffic, or park.
Get into the habit of signaling every time you change direction. This includes signaling before beginning to pass another vehicle, and before completing the pass. Signal even when you do not see anyone else around. It is easy to miss someone who needs to know what you are doing.
After you have made a turn or lane change, make sure the turn signal shuts off. If you don’t, others might think you plan to turn again.
Signal when reducing speeds—Brake lights let people know that you are slowing down. Always slow down as early as it is safe to do so. If you are going to stop or slow down at a place where another driver may not expect it, quickly tap the brake pedal 3 or 4 times to let those behind you know you are about to slow down.
Signal when you slow down:
· To turn off a roadway which does not have separate turn or exit lanes.
· To park or turn just before an intersection. Traffic following you may expect you to continue to the intersection.
· To avoid something in the road, or for stopped or slowing traffic that a driver behind you cannot see.
Speed Management
Driving safely means adjusting the vehicle speed for roadway and traffic conditions, providing an adequate following interval, and obeying the appropriate speed limits.
Adjusting to Roadway Conditions
Curves—Always reduce speed before entering the curve to a safe speed (a speed that allows you to apply slight and constant acceleration through the curve). Reduce speed more when traction is poor, when following other vehicles, and when you cannot see the end of the curve.
Hard braking after entry to a curve could cause the vehicle tires to lose traction.
Slippery roads—Reduce speed at the first sign of rain, snow, sleet, or ice. When the roadway is slippery, the tires do not grip as well. It will take longer to stop, and it will be harder to turn without skidding.
Always reduce your speed if the road is wet or covered with snow and/or ice.
Hydroplaning—Hydroplaning occurs when the steering tires start to ride up on any pooled water, like the action of water skis. The best way to avoid traction loss from hydroplaning is to slow down in the rain or when the road is wet with pooled water or water puddles.
Flooded roadways—Do not drive through large bodies of standing water on a road. If you see a flooded roadway, find another route to get to your destination.
Stopping Distance
Total stopping distance is the distance the vehicle travels, in ideal conditions, from the time you realize you must stop until the vehicle stops.
Several things may affect stopping distance:
If the vehicle breaks down on the highway, make sure that other roadway users can see the disabled vehicle. All too often, crashes occur because a driver did not see a disabled vehicle until it was too late to stop.
If you are having vehicle trouble and must stop:
· Get the vehicle off the road and away from traffic.
· Turn on the emergency lights to show the vehicle is disabled.
· Try to warn other roadway users that the vehicle is there. Place emergency signs about 60 metres behind and Infront the vehicle, giving other drivers some time to change lanes if necessary.
Headlight Failure
If the headlights suddenly go out:
· Try the headlight switch a few times.
· If that does not work, put on the emergency hazard lights, turn signals, or fog lights if possible.
· Pull off the road as soon as possible.
Communicating
It is important to let other roadway users know where you are and what you plan to do.
Letting Others Know You Are There
It is your responsibility to make sure the vehicle is visible to other roadway users.
Use headlights—Besides helping to see at night, headlights help other people see you at any time. Remember to turn on the headlights whenever you have trouble seeing others. If you have trouble seeing them, they will have trouble seeing you.
On rainy, snowy, or foggy days it is sometimes hard for other drivers to see other vehicles. In these conditions, headlights make vehicles easier to see.
A good rule to follow is if you turn on the wipers, turn on the headlights.
Turn on the headlights when it begins to get dark. Even if you turn them on a little early, it will help other drivers to see you.
Whenever it’s necessary to drive with the lights on, use the headlights. Parking lights are for parked vehicles only.
When driving away from a rising or setting sun, turn on the headlights. Drivers coming toward you may have trouble seeing the vehicle because of the glare. The headlights will help them to see you.
It is much harder to see at night.
Here are some things to do that will help you see better:
· Use high beams whenever there are no oncoming vehicles. High beams let you see twice as far as low beams. It is important to use high beams on unfamiliar roads, in construction areas, or where there may be people along the side of the road.
· Dim the high beams whenever you come within 50 metres(about a one block distance) of an oncoming vehicle.
· Use the low beams when you are closer than 50 metres behind another vehicle or when in heavy traffic.
· Use the low beams in fog, when it is snowing, or when it is raining hard. Light from high beams will reflect, causing glare and making it more difficult to see ahead. Some vehicles have fog lights that should also be used under these conditions.
· Do not drive at any time with only the parking lights on. Parking lights are for parking only.
· If a driver approaching fails to dim their headlights, flash the high beams to let them know. If they still don’t dim the lights, look toward the left side of the road. This will keep you from being blinded by the other vehicle’s headlights and will allow you to see enough of the edge of the road to stay on course until the other vehicle has passed.
Daytime running lights—Some newer vehicles have headlights that are on anytime the vehicle is running. They are called daytime running lights. These lights make it easier for others to see the vehicle, even in daylight. It helps to reduce the chance of a crash. However, daytime running lights are not meant to replace the use of headlights for night driving or when it is foggy, raining or snowing. If the vehicle does not have daytime running lights, you can get the same effect by manually turning the headlights on. Just remember to turn them off when turning the engine off.
Using the horn—People cannot see you unless they are looking your way. The horn can get their attention. Use it whenever it will help prevent a crash. If there is no immediate danger, a light tap on the horn should be all that’s needed.
Give the horn a light tap:
· When a person on foot or on a bicycle appears to be moving into your lane of travel. However, pedestrians and bicyclists crossing at an intersection have the right-of-way. Do not use the horn in these instances but do yield the right-of-way.
· When passing a driver who starts to turn into your lane.
· When a driver is not paying attention or may have trouble seeing you.
· When coming to a place where you cannot see what is ahead: a steep hill, a sharp curve, or exiting a narrow alley.
If there is danger, do not be afraid to sound a SHARP BLAST on the horn.
Give the horn a SHARP BLAST:
· When another vehicle is in danger of hitting you
· When you have lost control of the vehicle and are moving toward someone.
Not using the horn—You should only use the horn when you need to communicate with other road users. Using the horn inappropriately could scare or anger another road user.
Do not use the horn in the following circumstances:
· Encouraging someone to drive faster or get out of the way
· Informing other drivers of an error
· Greeting a friend
· Around blind pedestrians
· Around animal-drawn vehicles or animals being herded on the roadway
Use emergency signals—If the vehicle breaks down on a highway, make sure other drivers can see it. All too often, crashes occur because a driver did not see a stalled vehicle until it was too late to stop.
Try to warn other road users that your vehicle is there. Place emergency flares or triangles behind it. This allows other drivers to change lanes if necessary.
If having vehicle trouble and you must stop:
· Get the vehicle off the road and away from traffic if possible.
· Turn on the (4-way) emergency flashers to show you are having trouble.
· Try to stop where other drivers have a clear view of the vehicle if you cannot get completely off the road. (Do not stop just over a hill or just around a curve.)
· Stand off the road where you are safe from traffic. Use emergency flares or other warning devices if you have them.
· Never stand in the roadway. Do not try to change a tire if it means you will be in a traffic lane.
· Raise the hood to signal an emergency.
Stay out of blind spots—Drive the vehicle where others can see you. Do not drive in another vehicle’s blind spot. Try to avoid driving in the area on either side of and slightly to the rear of another vehicle where you will be in their blind spot. Either speed up or drop back so the other driver can see your vehicle more easily. When passing another vehicle, get through the other driver’s blind spot as quickly as possible. The longer you stay in a blind spot, the longer you are in danger because they may not see you.
Never stay alongside or right behind a large vehicle such as a truck or bus. Many drivers think truck drivers can see the road better because they sit twice as high as the driver of a car. While truckers can see ahead better, and trucks have bigger mirrors, they have very serious blind spots.
These areas are all part of what is called the “No Zone”. Drivers who travel in the “No Zone” restrict a trucker’s ability to act to avoid a dangerous situation—and the possibility of a crash is increased. A good rule of thumb for drivers sharing the road with a truck or bus is, if you can’t see the truck or bus driver in their side mirror, they can’t see you.
Signaling Movements
Generally other drivers expect you to keep doing what you are doing. You must warn them when you are going to change direction or slow down. This will give them time to react, if needed, or at least to not be surprised by what you do.
Signal before changing direction—Signaling gives other drivers time to react to your moves. You should use turn signals before you change lanes, turn right or left, merge into traffic, or park.
Get into the habit of signaling every time you change direction. This includes signaling before beginning to pass another vehicle, and before completing the pass. Signal even when you do not see anyone else around. It is easy to miss someone who needs to know what you are doing.
After you have made a turn or lane change, make sure the turn signal shuts off. If you don’t, others might think you plan to turn again.
Signal when reducing speeds—Brake lights let people know that you are slowing down. Always slow down as early as it is safe to do so. If you are going to stop or slow down at a place where another driver may not expect it, quickly tap the brake pedal 3 or 4 times to let those behind you know you are about to slow down.
Signal when you slow down:
· To turn off a roadway which does not have separate turn or exit lanes.
· To park or turn just before an intersection. Traffic following you may expect you to continue to the intersection.
· To avoid something in the road, or for stopped or slowing traffic that a driver behind you cannot see.
Speed Management
Driving safely means adjusting the vehicle speed for roadway and traffic conditions, providing an adequate following interval, and obeying the appropriate speed limits.
Adjusting to Roadway Conditions
Curves—Always reduce speed before entering the curve to a safe speed (a speed that allows you to apply slight and constant acceleration through the curve). Reduce speed more when traction is poor, when following other vehicles, and when you cannot see the end of the curve.
Hard braking after entry to a curve could cause the vehicle tires to lose traction.
Slippery roads—Reduce speed at the first sign of rain, snow, sleet, or ice. When the roadway is slippery, the tires do not grip as well. It will take longer to stop, and it will be harder to turn without skidding.
Always reduce your speed if the road is wet or covered with snow and/or ice.
Hydroplaning—Hydroplaning occurs when the steering tires start to ride up on any pooled water, like the action of water skis. The best way to avoid traction loss from hydroplaning is to slow down in the rain or when the road is wet with pooled water or water puddles.
Flooded roadways—Do not drive through large bodies of standing water on a road. If you see a flooded roadway, find another route to get to your destination.
Stopping Distance
Total stopping distance is the distance the vehicle travels, in ideal conditions, from the time you realize you must stop until the vehicle stops.
Several things may affect stopping distance:
· Speed—The faster you are traveling; the more time and distance is needed to stop.
· Your perception time—This is the time and distance it takes you to recognize you must stop. The average perception time for an alert driver is ¾ second to 1 second.
· Your reaction time—This is the time and distance it takes for you to react and move your foot from the gas pedal and begin applying the brakes. The average driver has a reaction time of ¾ second to 1 second.
· Braking distance—This is the time and distance it takes for the brakes to slow and stop the vehicle.
Cushion of Space (Space Management)
Providing an Adequate Following Distance
You will share the road with a variety of other roadway users. You will need time and space to adjust and react to these other road users. The more space you allow between your vehicle and other roadway users, the more time you must react. This space is usually referred to as a space cushion. Always try to maintain a safe space cushion around the vehicle.
Space in Front
Following the vehicle in front of you closely limits your vision of the road and does not allow enough time to react to avoid a crash. Always try to keep a minimum following distance of 4 seconds between your car and the vehicle in front.
To determine the following distance:
Watch when the rear of the vehicle ahead passes a sign, pole, or any other stationary point. Count the seconds it takes to reach the same sign, pole, or any other stationary point (You can count “One thousand one, one thousand two, one thousand three, one thousand four”). You are following too closely if you pass the stationary point before counting to one thousand four. Reduce speed and then count again at another stationary point to check the new following interval. Repeat until you are following no closer than “four seconds.” After practicing, guess how many seconds away you are from an object and then count the seconds it takes to reach the object to see how accurate you are.
There are certain situations when you would need more space in front of the vehicle.
Increase following distance:
· On slippery roads. Because you need more distance to stop the vehicle on slippery roads, you must leave more space in front of you.
· If the vehicle ahead suddenly stops, you will need the extra distance to stop safely.
· When the driver behind wants to pass. Slow down to allow room in front of the vehicle. Slowing will also allow the pass to be completed sooner.
· When following motorcycles or bicyclists. If the cycle should fall, you need extra distance to avoid hitting the rider. The chances of a fall are greatest on wet roads, icy roads, gravel roads, metal surfaces such as bridges, gratings, or railroad tracks.
· When following drivers who cannot see you. The drivers of trucks, buses, vans or vehicles pulling campers or trailers may not be able to see you when directly behind them. This “blind spot” to the rear of large trucks can extend for 50 metres! They could stop suddenly without knowing you are there. Large vehicles also block the view of the road ahead. Falling back allows more room to see ahead.
· When hauling a heavy load or pulling a trailer. The extra weight increases the stopping distance.
· When it is hard to see because of darkness or bad weather. You need to increase the following distance so you can see ahead or have time to stop if it’s necessary.
· When being followed closely. Allow extra room so you will be able to stop without being hit from behind.
· When following emergency vehicles. Police vehicles, ambulances, and fire trucks need more room to operate.
· When approaching railroad crossings.
· When stopped on a hill or incline. Leave extra space because the vehicle ahead may roll back when it starts moving.
Space to the Side
A space cushion on the sides of the vehicle allows movement to the right or left.
· Avoid driving next to other vehicles for long periods of time. You may be in their blind spot, and it reduces the space you may need to avoid a crash.
· Avoid crowding the center line marking. Try to keep as much space as possible between you and oncoming traffic.
· Make space for vehicles entering a multi-lane or limited access roadway by moving over a lane or adjusting your speed.
· Give extra space to bicyclists and pedestrians, especially children. They can move into your path quickly and without warning. Do not drive alongside a pedestrian or bicyclist. Wait until it is safe to pass in the adjoining lane.
· When a passing vehicle is a tractor trailer or a large vehicle, leave a little more space by moving to the outside portion of the lane space away from the tractor trailer as it passes.
· Avoid driving next to other vehicles on multi-lane roads. Someone may crowd the lane or try to change lanes and pull into you. Move ahead or drop back of the other vehicle.
· Keep extra space between the vehicle and parked cars. Someone could step out from a parked vehicle, from between vehicles, or a parked vehicle could pull out.
· “Split the difference.” Split the difference between two hazards. For example, steer a middle course between oncoming and parked vehicles. However, if one is more dangerous than the other, leave a little more space on the dangerous side. In this example, if the oncoming vehicle is a large vehicle, leave a little more room on the side that the truck will pass.
· When possible, take potential hazards one at a time. For example, if overtaking a bicycle and an oncoming vehicle is approaching, slow down and let the vehicle pass first so that you can give extra room to the bicycle.
Space Behind
It is not always easy to maintain a safe distance behind the vehicle. However, you can help a driver behind maintain a safe distance by keeping a steady speed and signaling in advance when you must slow down or turn.
Try to find a safe place out of traffic if you need to stop to pick up or let off passengers.
If wanting to parallel park and there is traffic coming from behind, put on the turn signal, pull next to the space, and allow vehicles behind to pass before parking.
If driving more slowly than other traffic on a multi-lane road, drive in the left most travel lane. When you must drive so slowly that you slow down other vehicles, pull to the side of the road when safe to do so and let them pass. There are “turnout” areas on some two-lane roads you can use. Other two-lane roads sometimes have “passing lanes.”
Every now and then you may find yourself being followed too closely or being “tailgated” by another driver. If you are being followed too closely and there is a left lane, move over to the left. If there is no left lane, wait until the road ahead is clear and passing is legal, then slowly reduce speed. This will encourage the tailgater to pass. Never slow down quickly to discourage a tailgater. All that does is increase the risk of being hit from behind.
The increased risk of being hit from behind is especially true if being followed by a large truck or bus, neither of which can stop as quickly as a car. Give large vehicles extra room to move.
Space to Pass
Whenever signs or road markings permit passing, judge whether you have enough room to safely pass or not. Do not count on having enough time to pass several vehicles at once. Be safe. As a rule, pass only one vehicle at a time and pass on the right side. Do not linger in the passing lane. Get around the vehicles as quickly as possible and move safely back into your lane.
Oncoming vehicles–At a speed of 80km/hr, you need about 10 seconds to pass. That means you need a 10 second gap in oncoming traffic and sight-distance to pass. You must judge whether you will have enough space to pass safely. At 80km/hr you will travel over 200 metres in 10 seconds. So will an oncoming vehicle. That means you need over 400 metres to pass safely. It is hard to judge the speed of oncoming vehicles at this distance. They do not seem to be coming as fast as they really are. A vehicle that is far away generally appears to be standing still. In fact, if you can see that it is coming closer, it may be too close for you to pass. If unsure, wait to pass until you are sure that there is enough space.
Hills and curves – You must be able to see at least one-third of a mile or about 10 seconds ahead. Anytime the view is blocked by a curve or a hill, assume that there is an oncoming vehicle just out of sight. Therefore, treat a curve or a hill as you would an oncoming vehicle. This means you should not start to pass if you are within one-third of a mile of a hill or curve.
Intersections – It is dangerous and unlawful to pass where a vehicle is likely to enter or cross the road. Such places include intersections, railroad crossings, and shopping center entrances. While passing, your view of people, vehicles, or trains can be blocked by the vehicle you are passing. Also, drivers turning right into the approaching lane will not expect to find you approaching in their lane. They may not even look your way before turning.
Passing large trucks – A typical car is 4 metres long. A multiple-trailer truck can be 20 metres long or longer. It can take much longer to pass a truck than it would have to pass a car. Therefore, you must have a clear road ahead before you can safely pass.
Lane restrictions – Before passing, look ahead for road conditions and traffic that may cause other vehicles to move into your lane. You might lose space for passing because of:
· people or bicyclists near the road
· a narrow bridge or other situation that causes reduced lane width
· patch of ice, pothole, or something on the road
Space to return–Do not pass unless you have enough space to return to the driving lane. Do not count on other drivers to make room for you.
Railroad grade crossing–Do not pass if there is a railroad grade crossing ahead.
Before you return to the driving lane, be sure to leave enough room between yourself and the vehicle you have passed. When you can see both headlights of the vehicle you have just passed in your rearview mirror, it is safe to return to the driving lane.
Space for Dangerous Situations
There are certain drivers and other road users you should give extra room to. Some are listed here.
Those who cannot see you – Anyone who cannot see you may enter your path without knowing you are there. Those who could have trouble seeing you include:
· Drivers at intersections or driveways whose view is blocked by buildings, trees, or other vehicles
· Drivers backing (reversing) into the roadway or backing into/pulling out of parking spaces
· Drivers whose windows are covered with snow/ice or are steamed-up
· Pedestrians with umbrellas in front of their faces or with their hats pulled down
· Pedestrians with white canes and/or dog guides (the blind/visually impaired).
People who are distracted – Even when others can see you, allow extra room or be extra cautious if you think they may be distracted. People who may be distracted include:
· Delivery persons
· Construction workers
· Children
· Drivers who are not paying attention to their driving
People who may be confused – People who are confused may cause an unsafe situation. People who may be confused include:
· Persons driving cars with out of state plates (especially at complicated intersection)
· Tourists
· Drivers who slow down for what seems like no reason
· Drivers looking for street signs or house numbers
· Pedestrians who have been drinking
Large vehicles and wide loads – Large trucks and buses cannot accelerate, stop, or change direction as quickly as smaller vehicles. Give large vehicles extra room to move on the road, including in roundabouts where they are making turns or going through the roundabout. Sometimes extra-wide loads are transported on highways. Give vehicles transporting wide loads as much room as possible.
Drivers in trouble – If another driver makes a mistake, do not make it worse. An example would be drivers who pass when they do not have enough room. Slow down and let them return to the driving lane safely. If another driver needs to suddenly change lanes, slow down and let them merge. These gestures will keep traffic moving smoothly and safely.
Separate Risks
Another defensive driving technique is to separate risks. Take risks one at a time whenever possible. For example, suppose that you see some joggers running on the edge of the road and an oncoming truck. You predict that you, the oncoming vehicle, and the joggers will all meet at about the same time. To separate risks, decide to speed up or slowdown in order to pass the joggers before or after the truck. Finally, perform your decision and pass the truck and the joggers one at a time. You controlled the space to the sides by separating the risks. This gives space to move in case of an emergency.
Compromise Space
A final defensive driving technique is compromise. When you cannot separate risks and must deal with two or more at the same time, compromise by giving the most room to the worst danger.
· Your perception time—This is the time and distance it takes you to recognize you must stop. The average perception time for an alert driver is ¾ second to 1 second.
· Your reaction time—This is the time and distance it takes for you to react and move your foot from the gas pedal and begin applying the brakes. The average driver has a reaction time of ¾ second to 1 second.
· Braking distance—This is the time and distance it takes for the brakes to slow and stop the vehicle.
Cushion of Space (Space Management)
Providing an Adequate Following Distance
You will share the road with a variety of other roadway users. You will need time and space to adjust and react to these other road users. The more space you allow between your vehicle and other roadway users, the more time you must react. This space is usually referred to as a space cushion. Always try to maintain a safe space cushion around the vehicle.
Space in Front
Following the vehicle in front of you closely limits your vision of the road and does not allow enough time to react to avoid a crash. Always try to keep a minimum following distance of 4 seconds between your car and the vehicle in front.
To determine the following distance:
Watch when the rear of the vehicle ahead passes a sign, pole, or any other stationary point. Count the seconds it takes to reach the same sign, pole, or any other stationary point (You can count “One thousand one, one thousand two, one thousand three, one thousand four”). You are following too closely if you pass the stationary point before counting to one thousand four. Reduce speed and then count again at another stationary point to check the new following interval. Repeat until you are following no closer than “four seconds.” After practicing, guess how many seconds away you are from an object and then count the seconds it takes to reach the object to see how accurate you are.
There are certain situations when you would need more space in front of the vehicle.
Increase following distance:
· On slippery roads. Because you need more distance to stop the vehicle on slippery roads, you must leave more space in front of you.
· If the vehicle ahead suddenly stops, you will need the extra distance to stop safely.
· When the driver behind wants to pass. Slow down to allow room in front of the vehicle. Slowing will also allow the pass to be completed sooner.
· When following motorcycles or bicyclists. If the cycle should fall, you need extra distance to avoid hitting the rider. The chances of a fall are greatest on wet roads, icy roads, gravel roads, metal surfaces such as bridges, gratings, or railroad tracks.
· When following drivers who cannot see you. The drivers of trucks, buses, vans or vehicles pulling campers or trailers may not be able to see you when directly behind them. This “blind spot” to the rear of large trucks can extend for 50 metres! They could stop suddenly without knowing you are there. Large vehicles also block the view of the road ahead. Falling back allows more room to see ahead.
· When hauling a heavy load or pulling a trailer. The extra weight increases the stopping distance.
· When it is hard to see because of darkness or bad weather. You need to increase the following distance so you can see ahead or have time to stop if it’s necessary.
· When being followed closely. Allow extra room so you will be able to stop without being hit from behind.
· When following emergency vehicles. Police vehicles, ambulances, and fire trucks need more room to operate.
· When approaching railroad crossings.
· When stopped on a hill or incline. Leave extra space because the vehicle ahead may roll back when it starts moving.
Space to the Side
A space cushion on the sides of the vehicle allows movement to the right or left.
· Avoid driving next to other vehicles for long periods of time. You may be in their blind spot, and it reduces the space you may need to avoid a crash.
· Avoid crowding the center line marking. Try to keep as much space as possible between you and oncoming traffic.
· Make space for vehicles entering a multi-lane or limited access roadway by moving over a lane or adjusting your speed.
· Give extra space to bicyclists and pedestrians, especially children. They can move into your path quickly and without warning. Do not drive alongside a pedestrian or bicyclist. Wait until it is safe to pass in the adjoining lane.
· When a passing vehicle is a tractor trailer or a large vehicle, leave a little more space by moving to the outside portion of the lane space away from the tractor trailer as it passes.
· Avoid driving next to other vehicles on multi-lane roads. Someone may crowd the lane or try to change lanes and pull into you. Move ahead or drop back of the other vehicle.
· Keep extra space between the vehicle and parked cars. Someone could step out from a parked vehicle, from between vehicles, or a parked vehicle could pull out.
· “Split the difference.” Split the difference between two hazards. For example, steer a middle course between oncoming and parked vehicles. However, if one is more dangerous than the other, leave a little more space on the dangerous side. In this example, if the oncoming vehicle is a large vehicle, leave a little more room on the side that the truck will pass.
· When possible, take potential hazards one at a time. For example, if overtaking a bicycle and an oncoming vehicle is approaching, slow down and let the vehicle pass first so that you can give extra room to the bicycle.
Space Behind
It is not always easy to maintain a safe distance behind the vehicle. However, you can help a driver behind maintain a safe distance by keeping a steady speed and signaling in advance when you must slow down or turn.
Try to find a safe place out of traffic if you need to stop to pick up or let off passengers.
If wanting to parallel park and there is traffic coming from behind, put on the turn signal, pull next to the space, and allow vehicles behind to pass before parking.
If driving more slowly than other traffic on a multi-lane road, drive in the left most travel lane. When you must drive so slowly that you slow down other vehicles, pull to the side of the road when safe to do so and let them pass. There are “turnout” areas on some two-lane roads you can use. Other two-lane roads sometimes have “passing lanes.”
Every now and then you may find yourself being followed too closely or being “tailgated” by another driver. If you are being followed too closely and there is a left lane, move over to the left. If there is no left lane, wait until the road ahead is clear and passing is legal, then slowly reduce speed. This will encourage the tailgater to pass. Never slow down quickly to discourage a tailgater. All that does is increase the risk of being hit from behind.
The increased risk of being hit from behind is especially true if being followed by a large truck or bus, neither of which can stop as quickly as a car. Give large vehicles extra room to move.
Space to Pass
Whenever signs or road markings permit passing, judge whether you have enough room to safely pass or not. Do not count on having enough time to pass several vehicles at once. Be safe. As a rule, pass only one vehicle at a time and pass on the right side. Do not linger in the passing lane. Get around the vehicles as quickly as possible and move safely back into your lane.
Oncoming vehicles–At a speed of 80km/hr, you need about 10 seconds to pass. That means you need a 10 second gap in oncoming traffic and sight-distance to pass. You must judge whether you will have enough space to pass safely. At 80km/hr you will travel over 200 metres in 10 seconds. So will an oncoming vehicle. That means you need over 400 metres to pass safely. It is hard to judge the speed of oncoming vehicles at this distance. They do not seem to be coming as fast as they really are. A vehicle that is far away generally appears to be standing still. In fact, if you can see that it is coming closer, it may be too close for you to pass. If unsure, wait to pass until you are sure that there is enough space.
Hills and curves – You must be able to see at least one-third of a mile or about 10 seconds ahead. Anytime the view is blocked by a curve or a hill, assume that there is an oncoming vehicle just out of sight. Therefore, treat a curve or a hill as you would an oncoming vehicle. This means you should not start to pass if you are within one-third of a mile of a hill or curve.
Intersections – It is dangerous and unlawful to pass where a vehicle is likely to enter or cross the road. Such places include intersections, railroad crossings, and shopping center entrances. While passing, your view of people, vehicles, or trains can be blocked by the vehicle you are passing. Also, drivers turning right into the approaching lane will not expect to find you approaching in their lane. They may not even look your way before turning.
Passing large trucks – A typical car is 4 metres long. A multiple-trailer truck can be 20 metres long or longer. It can take much longer to pass a truck than it would have to pass a car. Therefore, you must have a clear road ahead before you can safely pass.
Lane restrictions – Before passing, look ahead for road conditions and traffic that may cause other vehicles to move into your lane. You might lose space for passing because of:
· people or bicyclists near the road
· a narrow bridge or other situation that causes reduced lane width
· patch of ice, pothole, or something on the road
Space to return–Do not pass unless you have enough space to return to the driving lane. Do not count on other drivers to make room for you.
Railroad grade crossing–Do not pass if there is a railroad grade crossing ahead.
Before you return to the driving lane, be sure to leave enough room between yourself and the vehicle you have passed. When you can see both headlights of the vehicle you have just passed in your rearview mirror, it is safe to return to the driving lane.
Space for Dangerous Situations
There are certain drivers and other road users you should give extra room to. Some are listed here.
Those who cannot see you – Anyone who cannot see you may enter your path without knowing you are there. Those who could have trouble seeing you include:
· Drivers at intersections or driveways whose view is blocked by buildings, trees, or other vehicles
· Drivers backing (reversing) into the roadway or backing into/pulling out of parking spaces
· Drivers whose windows are covered with snow/ice or are steamed-up
· Pedestrians with umbrellas in front of their faces or with their hats pulled down
· Pedestrians with white canes and/or dog guides (the blind/visually impaired).
People who are distracted – Even when others can see you, allow extra room or be extra cautious if you think they may be distracted. People who may be distracted include:
· Delivery persons
· Construction workers
· Children
· Drivers who are not paying attention to their driving
People who may be confused – People who are confused may cause an unsafe situation. People who may be confused include:
· Persons driving cars with out of state plates (especially at complicated intersection)
· Tourists
· Drivers who slow down for what seems like no reason
· Drivers looking for street signs or house numbers
· Pedestrians who have been drinking
Large vehicles and wide loads – Large trucks and buses cannot accelerate, stop, or change direction as quickly as smaller vehicles. Give large vehicles extra room to move on the road, including in roundabouts where they are making turns or going through the roundabout. Sometimes extra-wide loads are transported on highways. Give vehicles transporting wide loads as much room as possible.
Drivers in trouble – If another driver makes a mistake, do not make it worse. An example would be drivers who pass when they do not have enough room. Slow down and let them return to the driving lane safely. If another driver needs to suddenly change lanes, slow down and let them merge. These gestures will keep traffic moving smoothly and safely.
Separate Risks
Another defensive driving technique is to separate risks. Take risks one at a time whenever possible. For example, suppose that you see some joggers running on the edge of the road and an oncoming truck. You predict that you, the oncoming vehicle, and the joggers will all meet at about the same time. To separate risks, decide to speed up or slowdown in order to pass the joggers before or after the truck. Finally, perform your decision and pass the truck and the joggers one at a time. You controlled the space to the sides by separating the risks. This gives space to move in case of an emergency.
Compromise Space
A final defensive driving technique is compromise. When you cannot separate risks and must deal with two or more at the same time, compromise by giving the most room to the worst danger.
General Driving
Turning and Turnabouts
When turning:
· Search all corners for traffic controls, pedestrians, other vehicles, and signal your intentions.
· Enter and maintain proper position in the lane that is closest to the direction you want to go.
· Look through the turn to the farthest point possible along the intended path.
· Accelerate smoothly to an appropriate speed, make sure your turn signal is cancelled, and check traffic to the rear.
Turning and Turnabouts
When turning:
· Search all corners for traffic controls, pedestrians, other vehicles, and signal your intentions.
· Enter and maintain proper position in the lane that is closest to the direction you want to go.
· Look through the turn to the farthest point possible along the intended path.
· Accelerate smoothly to an appropriate speed, make sure your turn signal is cancelled, and check traffic to the rear.
Steps for driving a roundabout
· Slow down and obey traffic signs
· Yield to pedestrians and bicyclists
· Yield to traffic on your right already in the roundabout
· Enter the roundabout when there is a safe gap in traffic
· Keep your speed low within the roundabout
· As you approach the exit, turn on your left turn signal
· Yield to pedestrians and bicycles when exiting
· Slow down and obey traffic signs
· Yield to pedestrians and bicyclists
· Yield to traffic on your right already in the roundabout
· Enter the roundabout when there is a safe gap in traffic
· Keep your speed low within the roundabout
· As you approach the exit, turn on your left turn signal
· Yield to pedestrians and bicycles when exiting
Emergency vehicles in a roundabout;
· Always yield to emergency vehicles
· If you have not entered the roundabout, pull over and allow emergency vehicles to pass
· If you have entered the roundabout, continue to your exit, then pull over and allow emergency vehicles to pass
· Avoid stopping in the roundabout
Changing Lanes
When changing lanes:
· Check any mirrors
· Check any blind spots
· Identify a gap in traffic, signal, and then look again in the direction of the lane change. Adjust speed and steer into lane.
Blind spots are areas around the vehicle where your view is obstructed. You cannot see pedestrians or other vehicles in the rearview or side mirrors when they are in these locations. The design of the vehicle and the position of the “pillars” that support the roof will determine the location of the blind spots. Factors such as dirty windshields and glaring lights can also create temporary blind spots. It is important to know the location of any blind spots. Before making lane changes or turns, quickly turn your head to look for any hidden pedestrians or vehicles. Avoid driving in other driver’s blind spots. Be particularly conscious of blind spots when driving near commercial vehicles.
Adjusting to Traffic
On a roadway with multiple lanes going in the same direction, crashes involving two or more vehicles often happen when drivers go faster or slower than other vehicles.
Keep pace with traffic
If you are driving faster than other traffic, you will need to keep passing other drivers. Each time you pass someone, there is a greater chance of a collision. The vehicle you are passing may change lanes or, on a two-lane road, an oncoming vehicle may suddenly appear. Slow down and keep pace with other traffic. Speeding does not save more than a few minutes for each hour of driving.
Going much slower than other vehicles can be just as bad as speeding. It tends to make vehicles bunch up behind you and causes other traffic to pass you. If vehicles are lined up behind you, pull over when safe to do so and let them pass. You should either drive faster or consider using a road with slower speeds.
Entering traffic
When merging with traffic, try to enter at the same speed that traffic is currently moving. High-speed roadways generally have an acceleration lane with the entrance ramp to give time to build up speed. Use the lane to reach the speed of other vehicles before merging into traffic. Do not drive to the end of the lane and stop or there will not be enough room to get up to speed of traffic. Also, drivers behind you will not expect a sudden stop. If they are watching traffic on the main road, you may be hit from the rear. If you must wait for a space to enter the roadway, slow down on the ramp so you have some room to speed up before you must merge. You must yield to traffic already moving on the roadway.
Leaving traffic
Keep up with the speed of traffic if you are on the main road. If the road on which you are traveling has exit ramps, do not slow down until you move onto the exit ramp. When you turn from a high speed, two-lane roadway, try not to slow down too early if you have traffic following you. Tap the brakes quickly but safely and reduce speed.
Slow moving traffic
Some vehicles cannot travel very fast or they have trouble keeping up with the speed of traffic. If you spot these vehicles early, you have time to change lanes or safely slow down. Slowing suddenly can cause a crash. Watch for large trucks and small cars on steep grades or when they are entering traffic. They can lose speed on long or steep uphill climbs and it takes longer for them to get up to speed when they enter traffic.
Farm tractors, animal-drawn vehicles, and roadway maintenance vehicles usually go 40km/hr or less. Generally, these vehicles should have a slow-moving vehicle sign on the back. Slow down when approaching a slow-moving vehicle and, if possible, move over to the right to pass it. Never pass on the left.
Bicyclists should have reflectors or lights on their bikes. However, some bikes may not have this equipment. Be especially careful and watchful for bikes and bicyclists.
Trouble spots
Wherever people gather or traffic is heavy, room to move is limited. You need to lower your speed to have time to react in a crowded space.
Here are some of the places where you may need to slow down:
· Shopping centers, parking lots and downtown areas are busy areas with vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists stopping, starting, and moving in different directions.
· Rush hours often have heavy traffic and drivers may be in a hurry.
· Narrow bridges and tunnels force vehicles approaching from opposite sides closer together.
· Schools, playgrounds, and residential streets often have children present. Always watch for children crossing the street, running, or riding into the street without looking.
· Railroad crossings require you to make sure there are no trains coming and that you have enough room to cross. Some crossings are bumpy so you should slow down to cross safely.
Passing
On multi-lane roads, the right-most lane is intended to be used for passing slower vehicles. Never pass on the shoulder, whether it is paved or not. When passing another vehicle, pass the vehicle as quickly and safely as possible. The longer your vehicle stays alongside the other vehicle, the longer you are in danger of the other vehicle moving toward your lane.
To pass:
· Check for oncoming traffic
· Check mirrors and over your shoulder for following or passing vehicles
· Signal your intentions when it is safe to pass
· Steer smoothly into the passing lane
· Maintain or adjust speed as necessary
· Continue to pass until the complete front of the passed vehicles is visible in the rearview mirror
· Signal your intention to return to the lane
· Steer smoothly into the lane, maintaining or adjusting speed as necessary
When being passed:
· Stay in your lane
· Maintain a constant speed to allow the driver to pass you
Do not attempt to pass when an oncoming vehicle is approaching, your view is blocked by a curve or a hill, at intersections, before a highway-railroad crossing, or before a bridge. When passing a bicyclist, slow down and allow as much space as possible and consider the bicyclist’s speed when passing.
Safe Driving Tips
Driving requires skills that can only be gained through practice and experience. The following section offers some driving tips that you can practice helping you become a safer and more skillful driver.
Visual Search
You must know what is happening around the vehicle. You must look ahead, to the sides, and behind the vehicle. You should develop a searching pattern that you can use every time when driving. Searching helps to see situations that could cause a problem and gives you time to change speed or roadway position. Avoid staring and keep your eyes moving and searching for possible problems.
Look ahead
Looking well down the planned path of travel will help you see the road, other road users, traffic conditions, and gives you time to adjust and plan your driving movements. This additional time will allow you to make better decisions and possibly avoid being forced to use emergency braking and steering. Ideally, you should try to look at what is occurring 20 to 30 seconds in front of the car.
How far you look down the road depends on where you are driving. In cities and urban areas, you may not be able to see as far as when driving on a highway. Avoid getting into situations that could limit how far you can see such as following too close to a larger vehicle. Adjust your speed and road position so you can see.
By looking well ahead you can save on fuel. Every time you must stop quickly, it takes time and fuel to get the vehicle back up to speed. Drivers who look ahead can slow down gradually or change lanes and avoid unnecessary braking that leads to lower kilometres- per-litre.
Traffic would flow more smoothly if everyone looked well ahead. Making driving changes before the last moment gives drivers behind you more time to react. The earlier you act, the less often someone behind you must react quickly to your vehicle. By seeing needed driving changes early, you can drive more safely and that helps drivers behind you drive more safely too. It also keeps traffic moving at a steady pace.
Look to the sides
As other vehicles or pedestrians cross or enter your path, you should look to the sides to make sure that no one is coming. This is especially true at intersections and railroad crossings.
Intersections are any place where traffic merges or crosses. They include side streets, driveways, shopping centers or parking lot entrances. Before entering an intersection, look to both the left and right for approaching vehicles and/or crossing pedestrians. If stopped, look to both the left and right just before you start moving. Look across the intersection before you start to move to make sure the path is clear all the way through the intersection and that you will not block it if you must stop.
Before turning right across oncoming traffic, look for a safe gap in the traffic. Look to the street you are turning onto to make sure that no vehicles or pedestrians are in the path, leaving you stranded in the path of oncoming traffic. Look one more time in the direction of oncoming traffic before turning.
Before turning left, make sure that there is no traffic approaching from the left and no oncoming traffic turning right into your path. Do not begin the turn without checking for pedestrians crossing where you will be turning. You may turn left on red unless prohibited.
Do not rely on traffic signals or signs to tell you that no one will be crossing in front of you. Some drivers do not obey traffic signals or signs. At an intersection, look left and right, even if other traffic has a red light or a stop sign. This is especially important just after the light has turned green. This is when people on the cross street are most likely to hurry through the intersection before the light changes to red. Others who may not stop are individuals who have been drinking or other reckless drivers.
Make sure you can clearly see crossing traffic before entering an intersection. If you were stopped and your view of a cross street is blocked, edge forward slowly until you can see. By moving forward slowly, crossing drivers can see the front of your vehicle before you can see them. This gives them a chance to slow down and warn you if needed.
Look to the rear
You need to be aware of traffic behind the vehicle. Use the mirrors to check this traffic. It is very important to check traffic behind you when changing lanes, slowing down, stopping, or entering an intersection.
Besides watching traffic ahead of you, you must also check traffic behind you. You will need to check more often when traffic is heavy. This is the only way to know if someone is following too you closely or coming up too fast. Checking traffic behind you will give you time to do something about it. It is very important to look for vehicles behind you when you change lanes, slow down, back up (reverse) or are driving down a long or steep hill.
When changing lanes
When changing lanes, you must check that there are no vehicles in the lane you want to enter. This means you must check for traffic to the side and behind your vehicle before you change lanes. Changing lanes includes changing from one lane to another, merging onto a roadway from an entrance ramp and entering the roadway from the curb or shoulder.
When changing lanes:
· Look in the rear-view and side mirrors. Make sure there are no vehicles in the lane you want to enter. Also make sure that nobody is about to pass you.
· Look over your shoulder in the direction you plan to move. Be sure no one is near the rear corners of the vehicle. These areas are called “blind spots” because you cannot see them through the mirrors. You must physically turn your head and look to see vehicles in your blind spots.
All drivers must signal:
· When turning or changing lanes
· At least 30 metres from an intersection. (Signaling at least 4 to 5 seconds BEFORE you wish to turn is better at higher speeds)
The signal must be given with:
· An electric signal light or
· With a hand
When you slow down
When you slow down you must check behind the vehicle. This is very important when you slow down quickly or at points where a following driver would not expect you to slow down, such as private driveways or parking spaces.
When you back up (reverse)
It is hard to see behind the vehicle. Try to do as little backing as possible. In a shopping center, try to find a parking space you can drive through, so you can drive forward when you leave.
Where backing is necessary, here are some hints that will help you back the vehicle safely.
· Check behind the vehicle before you get in. Children or small objects cannot be seen from the driver’s seat.
· Place your right arm on the back of the passenger seat and turn around so that you can look directly through the rear window. Do not depend on the rearview or side mirrors.
· Back slowly. The vehicle is much harder to steer while you are backing.
· Whenever possible use a person outside the vehicle to help you backup
Basic Driving
Starting the Engine
To start the engine, place your right foot on the brake pedal and check the gear selector lever for park. Place the key in the ignition and turn the ignition switch to the on position. Check indicator lights and gauges (fuel level, ABS, air bags, and so on). Make sure the parking brake is on before you start the vehicle.
Moving the Vehicle
Move the gear selector lever to “D” (drive). Check ahead for a safe path and check for traffic to the sides and behind the vehicle. Signal and if safe, move your foot to the accelerator and press gently. Accelerate gradually and smoothly with the top of your foot on the pedal and the heel of your foot on the floor. Trying to start too fast can cause the drive wheels to spin, particularly on slippery surfaces, and cause the vehicle to slide.
Stopping the Vehicle
Check your mirrors for traffic to the rear of the vehicle. Move your foot from the accelerator to the brake pedal. Press with steady pressure until the vehicle comes to a stop.
Be alert so that you know when you will have to stop well ahead of time. Stopping suddenly is dangerous and usually points to a driver who was not paying attention. When you brake quickly, you could skid and lose control of your vehicle. You also make it harder for drivers behind you to stop without hitting you.
Try to avoid panic stops by seeing events well in advance. By slowing down or changing lanes, you may not have to stop at all and if you do, you can make a more gradual and safer stop.
Steering
The steering wheel is always turned in the direction you want the vehicle to move, whether moving forward or in reverse. Look well down the road and on both sides of the road, not at the road just in front of your vehicle. Look for traffic situations where you will need to steer before you get to them. This way, you have time to steer smoothly and safely.
Hand Position
Both hands should be placed on the outside of the steering wheel on opposite sides, at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions, to maintain control of the vehicle.
NB: Placing your hands at the 2 and 10 o’clock positions is no longer recommended because it can be dangerous in a vehicle equipped with air bags.
This position is comfortable and on high-speed roads it allows turns without taking the hands off the wheel. Your grip on the steering wheel should be firm but gentle. Use your fingers instead of the palms of your hands and keep your thumbs up along the face of the steering wheel. Never turn the wheel while gripping it from the inside of the steering wheel.
When turning sharp corners, turn the steering wheel using the “hand-over-hand” technique.
When you complete a turn, straighten out the steering wheel by hand. Letting it slip through your fingers could be dangerous.
Note: Steering Wheel Locking Device – Never turn your vehicle’s ignition to the “lock” position while it is still in motion. This will cause the steering to lock if you try to turn the steering wheel and you will lose control of the vehicle.
Controlling Speed
The best way not to speed is to know how fast you are going. Check the speedometer often. People are not very good at judging how fast they are going. It is easy to be traveling much faster than you think. This is especially true when you leave high speed roads and are driving on much slower local roads. Follow the speed limit signs. They are there for safety.
Backing Up (Reverse)
To safely back up the vehicle, you should:
· Check behind the vehicle before you get in. Children and small objects cannot be seen from the driver’s seat.
· Place your foot on the brake and shift to reverse. Grasp the steering wheel at the 12 o’clock position with your right hand. Place your left arm on the back of the passenger seat and look directly through the rear window. Use your mirrors for backing up but keep in mind that these mirrors do not show the area immediately behind the vehicle.
· Accelerate gently and smoothly, keeping your speed slow. The vehicle is much harder to steer while you are backing up. Steer slightly in the direction the rear of the vehicle should move. If backing up while turning, make quick checks to the front and sides. Continue looking to the rear until coming to a complete stop.
Rules of the Road
Keep left unless overtaking.
Yielding Right-of-Way
Yielding right-of-way rules provide drivers with guidance for situations when other drivers or pedestrians are present. These rules determine which driver should yield the right-of-way and the sequence for entering and driving through an intersection or other driving scenarios.
Although yielding right-of-way rules provide a guide to determine who should yield the right-of-way, no one should assume he or she automatically has the right-of-way. The situation and circumstances at the intersection must always be considered.
You should yield the right-of-way to:
· The driver who is at or arrives before you at the intersection
· Drivers in the opposing traffic lane when you are making a right turn
· The driver on your left at an all-way stop intersection if both of you arrive at the intersection at the same time
· Drivers on a public highway if you are entering the highway from a driveway or a private road
· Drivers already on a limited access or interstate highway if you are on the entrance or acceleration ramp
· Pedestrians, bicyclists, and other drivers who are still in the intersection
Traffic Control Devices
Traffic control devices include traffic signals, signs, pavement markings, and directions provided by law enforcement, highway personnel, and school crossing guards.
· Always yield to emergency vehicles
· If you have not entered the roundabout, pull over and allow emergency vehicles to pass
· If you have entered the roundabout, continue to your exit, then pull over and allow emergency vehicles to pass
· Avoid stopping in the roundabout
Changing Lanes
When changing lanes:
· Check any mirrors
· Check any blind spots
· Identify a gap in traffic, signal, and then look again in the direction of the lane change. Adjust speed and steer into lane.
Blind spots are areas around the vehicle where your view is obstructed. You cannot see pedestrians or other vehicles in the rearview or side mirrors when they are in these locations. The design of the vehicle and the position of the “pillars” that support the roof will determine the location of the blind spots. Factors such as dirty windshields and glaring lights can also create temporary blind spots. It is important to know the location of any blind spots. Before making lane changes or turns, quickly turn your head to look for any hidden pedestrians or vehicles. Avoid driving in other driver’s blind spots. Be particularly conscious of blind spots when driving near commercial vehicles.
Adjusting to Traffic
On a roadway with multiple lanes going in the same direction, crashes involving two or more vehicles often happen when drivers go faster or slower than other vehicles.
Keep pace with traffic
If you are driving faster than other traffic, you will need to keep passing other drivers. Each time you pass someone, there is a greater chance of a collision. The vehicle you are passing may change lanes or, on a two-lane road, an oncoming vehicle may suddenly appear. Slow down and keep pace with other traffic. Speeding does not save more than a few minutes for each hour of driving.
Going much slower than other vehicles can be just as bad as speeding. It tends to make vehicles bunch up behind you and causes other traffic to pass you. If vehicles are lined up behind you, pull over when safe to do so and let them pass. You should either drive faster or consider using a road with slower speeds.
Entering traffic
When merging with traffic, try to enter at the same speed that traffic is currently moving. High-speed roadways generally have an acceleration lane with the entrance ramp to give time to build up speed. Use the lane to reach the speed of other vehicles before merging into traffic. Do not drive to the end of the lane and stop or there will not be enough room to get up to speed of traffic. Also, drivers behind you will not expect a sudden stop. If they are watching traffic on the main road, you may be hit from the rear. If you must wait for a space to enter the roadway, slow down on the ramp so you have some room to speed up before you must merge. You must yield to traffic already moving on the roadway.
Leaving traffic
Keep up with the speed of traffic if you are on the main road. If the road on which you are traveling has exit ramps, do not slow down until you move onto the exit ramp. When you turn from a high speed, two-lane roadway, try not to slow down too early if you have traffic following you. Tap the brakes quickly but safely and reduce speed.
Slow moving traffic
Some vehicles cannot travel very fast or they have trouble keeping up with the speed of traffic. If you spot these vehicles early, you have time to change lanes or safely slow down. Slowing suddenly can cause a crash. Watch for large trucks and small cars on steep grades or when they are entering traffic. They can lose speed on long or steep uphill climbs and it takes longer for them to get up to speed when they enter traffic.
Farm tractors, animal-drawn vehicles, and roadway maintenance vehicles usually go 40km/hr or less. Generally, these vehicles should have a slow-moving vehicle sign on the back. Slow down when approaching a slow-moving vehicle and, if possible, move over to the right to pass it. Never pass on the left.
Bicyclists should have reflectors or lights on their bikes. However, some bikes may not have this equipment. Be especially careful and watchful for bikes and bicyclists.
Trouble spots
Wherever people gather or traffic is heavy, room to move is limited. You need to lower your speed to have time to react in a crowded space.
Here are some of the places where you may need to slow down:
· Shopping centers, parking lots and downtown areas are busy areas with vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists stopping, starting, and moving in different directions.
· Rush hours often have heavy traffic and drivers may be in a hurry.
· Narrow bridges and tunnels force vehicles approaching from opposite sides closer together.
· Schools, playgrounds, and residential streets often have children present. Always watch for children crossing the street, running, or riding into the street without looking.
· Railroad crossings require you to make sure there are no trains coming and that you have enough room to cross. Some crossings are bumpy so you should slow down to cross safely.
Passing
On multi-lane roads, the right-most lane is intended to be used for passing slower vehicles. Never pass on the shoulder, whether it is paved or not. When passing another vehicle, pass the vehicle as quickly and safely as possible. The longer your vehicle stays alongside the other vehicle, the longer you are in danger of the other vehicle moving toward your lane.
To pass:
· Check for oncoming traffic
· Check mirrors and over your shoulder for following or passing vehicles
· Signal your intentions when it is safe to pass
· Steer smoothly into the passing lane
· Maintain or adjust speed as necessary
· Continue to pass until the complete front of the passed vehicles is visible in the rearview mirror
· Signal your intention to return to the lane
· Steer smoothly into the lane, maintaining or adjusting speed as necessary
When being passed:
· Stay in your lane
· Maintain a constant speed to allow the driver to pass you
Do not attempt to pass when an oncoming vehicle is approaching, your view is blocked by a curve or a hill, at intersections, before a highway-railroad crossing, or before a bridge. When passing a bicyclist, slow down and allow as much space as possible and consider the bicyclist’s speed when passing.
Safe Driving Tips
Driving requires skills that can only be gained through practice and experience. The following section offers some driving tips that you can practice helping you become a safer and more skillful driver.
Visual Search
You must know what is happening around the vehicle. You must look ahead, to the sides, and behind the vehicle. You should develop a searching pattern that you can use every time when driving. Searching helps to see situations that could cause a problem and gives you time to change speed or roadway position. Avoid staring and keep your eyes moving and searching for possible problems.
Look ahead
Looking well down the planned path of travel will help you see the road, other road users, traffic conditions, and gives you time to adjust and plan your driving movements. This additional time will allow you to make better decisions and possibly avoid being forced to use emergency braking and steering. Ideally, you should try to look at what is occurring 20 to 30 seconds in front of the car.
How far you look down the road depends on where you are driving. In cities and urban areas, you may not be able to see as far as when driving on a highway. Avoid getting into situations that could limit how far you can see such as following too close to a larger vehicle. Adjust your speed and road position so you can see.
By looking well ahead you can save on fuel. Every time you must stop quickly, it takes time and fuel to get the vehicle back up to speed. Drivers who look ahead can slow down gradually or change lanes and avoid unnecessary braking that leads to lower kilometres- per-litre.
Traffic would flow more smoothly if everyone looked well ahead. Making driving changes before the last moment gives drivers behind you more time to react. The earlier you act, the less often someone behind you must react quickly to your vehicle. By seeing needed driving changes early, you can drive more safely and that helps drivers behind you drive more safely too. It also keeps traffic moving at a steady pace.
Look to the sides
As other vehicles or pedestrians cross or enter your path, you should look to the sides to make sure that no one is coming. This is especially true at intersections and railroad crossings.
Intersections are any place where traffic merges or crosses. They include side streets, driveways, shopping centers or parking lot entrances. Before entering an intersection, look to both the left and right for approaching vehicles and/or crossing pedestrians. If stopped, look to both the left and right just before you start moving. Look across the intersection before you start to move to make sure the path is clear all the way through the intersection and that you will not block it if you must stop.
Before turning right across oncoming traffic, look for a safe gap in the traffic. Look to the street you are turning onto to make sure that no vehicles or pedestrians are in the path, leaving you stranded in the path of oncoming traffic. Look one more time in the direction of oncoming traffic before turning.
Before turning left, make sure that there is no traffic approaching from the left and no oncoming traffic turning right into your path. Do not begin the turn without checking for pedestrians crossing where you will be turning. You may turn left on red unless prohibited.
Do not rely on traffic signals or signs to tell you that no one will be crossing in front of you. Some drivers do not obey traffic signals or signs. At an intersection, look left and right, even if other traffic has a red light or a stop sign. This is especially important just after the light has turned green. This is when people on the cross street are most likely to hurry through the intersection before the light changes to red. Others who may not stop are individuals who have been drinking or other reckless drivers.
Make sure you can clearly see crossing traffic before entering an intersection. If you were stopped and your view of a cross street is blocked, edge forward slowly until you can see. By moving forward slowly, crossing drivers can see the front of your vehicle before you can see them. This gives them a chance to slow down and warn you if needed.
Look to the rear
You need to be aware of traffic behind the vehicle. Use the mirrors to check this traffic. It is very important to check traffic behind you when changing lanes, slowing down, stopping, or entering an intersection.
Besides watching traffic ahead of you, you must also check traffic behind you. You will need to check more often when traffic is heavy. This is the only way to know if someone is following too you closely or coming up too fast. Checking traffic behind you will give you time to do something about it. It is very important to look for vehicles behind you when you change lanes, slow down, back up (reverse) or are driving down a long or steep hill.
When changing lanes
When changing lanes, you must check that there are no vehicles in the lane you want to enter. This means you must check for traffic to the side and behind your vehicle before you change lanes. Changing lanes includes changing from one lane to another, merging onto a roadway from an entrance ramp and entering the roadway from the curb or shoulder.
When changing lanes:
· Look in the rear-view and side mirrors. Make sure there are no vehicles in the lane you want to enter. Also make sure that nobody is about to pass you.
· Look over your shoulder in the direction you plan to move. Be sure no one is near the rear corners of the vehicle. These areas are called “blind spots” because you cannot see them through the mirrors. You must physically turn your head and look to see vehicles in your blind spots.
All drivers must signal:
· When turning or changing lanes
· At least 30 metres from an intersection. (Signaling at least 4 to 5 seconds BEFORE you wish to turn is better at higher speeds)
The signal must be given with:
· An electric signal light or
· With a hand
When you slow down
When you slow down you must check behind the vehicle. This is very important when you slow down quickly or at points where a following driver would not expect you to slow down, such as private driveways or parking spaces.
When you back up (reverse)
It is hard to see behind the vehicle. Try to do as little backing as possible. In a shopping center, try to find a parking space you can drive through, so you can drive forward when you leave.
Where backing is necessary, here are some hints that will help you back the vehicle safely.
· Check behind the vehicle before you get in. Children or small objects cannot be seen from the driver’s seat.
· Place your right arm on the back of the passenger seat and turn around so that you can look directly through the rear window. Do not depend on the rearview or side mirrors.
· Back slowly. The vehicle is much harder to steer while you are backing.
· Whenever possible use a person outside the vehicle to help you backup
Basic Driving
Starting the Engine
To start the engine, place your right foot on the brake pedal and check the gear selector lever for park. Place the key in the ignition and turn the ignition switch to the on position. Check indicator lights and gauges (fuel level, ABS, air bags, and so on). Make sure the parking brake is on before you start the vehicle.
Moving the Vehicle
Move the gear selector lever to “D” (drive). Check ahead for a safe path and check for traffic to the sides and behind the vehicle. Signal and if safe, move your foot to the accelerator and press gently. Accelerate gradually and smoothly with the top of your foot on the pedal and the heel of your foot on the floor. Trying to start too fast can cause the drive wheels to spin, particularly on slippery surfaces, and cause the vehicle to slide.
Stopping the Vehicle
Check your mirrors for traffic to the rear of the vehicle. Move your foot from the accelerator to the brake pedal. Press with steady pressure until the vehicle comes to a stop.
Be alert so that you know when you will have to stop well ahead of time. Stopping suddenly is dangerous and usually points to a driver who was not paying attention. When you brake quickly, you could skid and lose control of your vehicle. You also make it harder for drivers behind you to stop without hitting you.
Try to avoid panic stops by seeing events well in advance. By slowing down or changing lanes, you may not have to stop at all and if you do, you can make a more gradual and safer stop.
Steering
The steering wheel is always turned in the direction you want the vehicle to move, whether moving forward or in reverse. Look well down the road and on both sides of the road, not at the road just in front of your vehicle. Look for traffic situations where you will need to steer before you get to them. This way, you have time to steer smoothly and safely.
Hand Position
Both hands should be placed on the outside of the steering wheel on opposite sides, at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions, to maintain control of the vehicle.
NB: Placing your hands at the 2 and 10 o’clock positions is no longer recommended because it can be dangerous in a vehicle equipped with air bags.
This position is comfortable and on high-speed roads it allows turns without taking the hands off the wheel. Your grip on the steering wheel should be firm but gentle. Use your fingers instead of the palms of your hands and keep your thumbs up along the face of the steering wheel. Never turn the wheel while gripping it from the inside of the steering wheel.
When turning sharp corners, turn the steering wheel using the “hand-over-hand” technique.
When you complete a turn, straighten out the steering wheel by hand. Letting it slip through your fingers could be dangerous.
Note: Steering Wheel Locking Device – Never turn your vehicle’s ignition to the “lock” position while it is still in motion. This will cause the steering to lock if you try to turn the steering wheel and you will lose control of the vehicle.
Controlling Speed
The best way not to speed is to know how fast you are going. Check the speedometer often. People are not very good at judging how fast they are going. It is easy to be traveling much faster than you think. This is especially true when you leave high speed roads and are driving on much slower local roads. Follow the speed limit signs. They are there for safety.
Backing Up (Reverse)
To safely back up the vehicle, you should:
· Check behind the vehicle before you get in. Children and small objects cannot be seen from the driver’s seat.
· Place your foot on the brake and shift to reverse. Grasp the steering wheel at the 12 o’clock position with your right hand. Place your left arm on the back of the passenger seat and look directly through the rear window. Use your mirrors for backing up but keep in mind that these mirrors do not show the area immediately behind the vehicle.
· Accelerate gently and smoothly, keeping your speed slow. The vehicle is much harder to steer while you are backing up. Steer slightly in the direction the rear of the vehicle should move. If backing up while turning, make quick checks to the front and sides. Continue looking to the rear until coming to a complete stop.
Rules of the Road
Keep left unless overtaking.
Yielding Right-of-Way
Yielding right-of-way rules provide drivers with guidance for situations when other drivers or pedestrians are present. These rules determine which driver should yield the right-of-way and the sequence for entering and driving through an intersection or other driving scenarios.
Although yielding right-of-way rules provide a guide to determine who should yield the right-of-way, no one should assume he or she automatically has the right-of-way. The situation and circumstances at the intersection must always be considered.
You should yield the right-of-way to:
· The driver who is at or arrives before you at the intersection
· Drivers in the opposing traffic lane when you are making a right turn
· The driver on your left at an all-way stop intersection if both of you arrive at the intersection at the same time
· Drivers on a public highway if you are entering the highway from a driveway or a private road
· Drivers already on a limited access or interstate highway if you are on the entrance or acceleration ramp
· Pedestrians, bicyclists, and other drivers who are still in the intersection
Traffic Control Devices
Traffic control devices include traffic signals, signs, pavement markings, and directions provided by law enforcement, highway personnel, and school crossing guards.
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