CHAPTER 1: DRIVING SMART

The following section summarizes the concepts, practices, and techniques that are covered in more detail in later sections. It's the longest section for just that reason: because it introduces you to all the material. As you read it, think about how attitude, aptitude, anticipation and attention all work together to make for a safe, fun driving experience.

SECTION 1: DEFENSIVE DRIVING

All good drivers have learned the rules of the road, and have acquired the skills to adapt quickly to changing situations. They know how to use their common sense to anticipate problems. Their skills and their common sense work together to make them the safest drivers on the road. The marriage of learning and common sense to anticipate and avoid problems has a name: Defensive Driving.

A. Driving Courtesy and Attitude

1. Be as Courteous While Driving as in Other Social Contacts

Many of us think of driving as a solitary experience. We get in our vehicle and go, and feel wrapped in the solitude of 3000 lbs. of steel and upholstery. In fact, when we drive, we are a part of a huge community that includes other drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, etc. As in any community, rules of courtesy are the key to comfort and survival. Never underestimate the power of stupid people in groups. First, courtesy means that you are aware of those around you...and awareness is the basis for survival on crowded roadways filled with hurtling vehicles.

The other important fact is this: If you are courteous, you help create a more gentle and comfortable driving environment. It makes driving more fun.

2. Right-of-way

A lot of heated driving disputes occur over the simple question: 'Who gets to go first?' 'Right-of-way' rules help avoid these disputes by laying out the order that drivers can proceed through an intersection that has no stop signs or traffic signals (called an 'uncontrolled intersection') when two or more vehicles arrive at the intersection at the same time.

The right-of-way rule says that a driver that reaches an uncontrolled intersection first has the right-of-way to go through the intersection after making certain that it is safe to proceed.

If two vehicles arrive at the intersection simultaneously, the vehicle to the right proceeds first.

a. When to use it: Take the right-of-way when you have it under the rule, and when it is safe to proceed.

However, look at the other drivers first to make certain that they understand that you are proceeding. If another driver proceeds improperly as you are taking your right-of-way, you won't feel any better about a collision knowing that under the law, you were in the right.

b. When to give it up:

• To pedestrians in a crosswalk• At stop signs• To pedestrian and vehicle when you are emerging from an alley• To emergency vehicles• At four-way stops• When making a left turn

Vehicle #1 is to the right of vehicle #2 and proceeds first..

3. Stress, Anger, Emotion, and Fatigue

Stress, anger, and/or fatigue – if unchecked - impair your ability to think clearly and concentrate on the job at hand. Learn to identify and control these conditions.

a. How to recognize it: Before you start your vehicle, think about how you feel. Are you angry, exhilarated, or depressed? Has something made you edgy? If you do not feel relaxed, take time to clear your head.

b. How it affects driving: If you are distressed or fatigued, you are not clear-headed and you will be less apt to recognize danger as it develops. You will be less prepared to make critical, split-second decisions once the danger is apparent.

c. Collision potential: High or low emotional states affect your ability to concentrate, greatly increasing your chances of collision. Fatigue also affects your concentration, and is often a factor in mishaps on long trips.

 You are responsible for your emotions on

the road...and emotions kill if you don't control them.

B. Adjusting to the Driving Environment

The driving environment changes constantly. Your job is to adjust and adapt to changes.

1. Daytime vs. Nighttime

Driving during daylight hours, your biggest problem can be keeping your eye on the road rather than rubbernecking at the scenery. At night, you tend to lose depth perception. You also tend to unconsciously speed-up and 'overdrive' your headlights. Thus, driving in daylight tests your focus, while driving at night is a bigger test of your driving technique.

a. Visibility: Always concentrate on seeing and being seen. During the day, avoid being blinded by road glare. Make sure to keep your windshield clean. It is not a bad idea to drive with your lights on during the day to increase your visibility to others. At dawn and dusk you will find yourself driving through low-contrast 'white light.' This is an especially dangerous time, because low contrast ensures that you see less than you think you do. Avoid passing or driving too fast for conditions.

b. Speed: When the sun goes down, so should your speed, since your visibility is cut to approximately 500 ft…the distance your headlights cast their beams. You must be able to stop your vehicle within the range of your headlights.

c. Planning the route: If you are driving at night, plan a route that takes you along well-lighted streets. Business areas and urban freeways are better lighted than secondary roads and residential areas. Where do forest rangers go to 'get away from it all?'

Nighttime reduces your vision to the throw of your headlights. It is also primetime for intoxicated drivers.

2. Weather

In California, a leisurely day's drive can take you from hot, dry badlands to icy, snow-covered mountains to rainy coastal plains. Each of these climatic zones presents its own challenges, and their conditions can co-mingle to create wind, hail, rain, and fog…all within a few dozen miles.

a. Fog, Rain, and Snow: Driving in a fog is unlike any other driving condition. Fog slicks up the road. It makes it difficult to see. It makes it difficult to judge distance. It makes you lose sense of exactly where you are on the road, in which direction you are driving, and at what speed you are driving. To make matters worse, fog reflects your high-beam headlights back into your eyes turning the fog into a solid, impenetrable wall. So, only use low-beams when driving in the fog – never high-beams.

In one recent year in the U.S. there were 1,387 deaths due to foggy conditions. In November 2002 198 vehicles collided in a single chain reaction due to soupy fog on the Long Beach Freeway. According to Ted Eichman of the California Highway Patrol, the collision occurred because motorists badly misjudged their stopping distance in the fog, continuing to drive too

fast. In dense fog, drivers often steer their vehicles by following the taillights of the vehicle ahead…which is blind reliance on a stranger.

Roads become especially slippery during the first 15 to 20 minutes of precipitation (fog, rain, or snow), because moisture washes-up oil that has permeated the road surface. This mixture of old oil and water can be lethal to an unaware driver.

The same slippery conditions that hold in fog apply to light dustings of snow. Also, drifting snow obscures the road; high winds can blow your vehicle off a slippery road; deep snow reduces traction; and vehicle problems such as vapor lock can leave you stopped and stranded.

(1) braking distance: 'Braking distance' refers to the time it takes your brakes to stop your vehicle. In wet weather, this often increases as road moisture penetrates your tire-wells and makes your brakes slick, causing loss of traction. Leave plenty of braking distance. Avoid hard braking in bad weather, which leads to skidding.

(2) speed: Your total stopping distance (reaction time/ distance plus braking distance) is affected by your speed. On slippery roads, reduce your speed.

(3) wet roads: Wet roads affect all aspects of your vehicle's performance and control, including the effectiveness of your brakes and tires in stopping your vehicle. Increase your safety margin by heeding the following.

Your worst nightmare: driving in a snowstorm at night. Keep your headlights on low-beam to avoid reflection,

and SLOWDOWN!

Slippery: Below are tips for adjusting to slippery, wet roads.

• Get the 'feel' of the road and adjust your speed accordingly. • Be sure tires have plenty of tread and are properly inflated. • When slowing or stopping, gently apply the breaks.

Hydroplaning: When it rains, water collects on the roadway in a thin sheet. If your tires are bad, or you are driving too fast, your vehicle can actually lose contact with the road surface and ride up on top of this sheet. This condition is called 'hydroplaning.' Here's what you should do, when hydroplaning occurs.

• Avoid braking.• Reduce your speed by decelerating.• Steer smoothly in a straight line.• Follow in the tracks of the vehicle ahead of you.• Open up extra space between you and the traffic.• If conditions are ripe for hydroplaning, stay out of the fast lane where, if you spin-out, you can strike the center divider. 

b. See and Be Seen: Headlights are required to be activated during darkness, which is from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise. Darkness is also defined as any other time when visibility is not sufficient to render discernible a person or vehicle at a distance of 1000 feet. Turn on your low-beam headlights in rain, fog or snow The law (CVC 24400 a & b) now requires your headlights to be activated whenever your windshield wipers are in continuous operation and whenever visibility is such that you cannot clearly see another vehicle or a person from a distance of 1000 feet. In special circumstances – you are slowing down for safety, for instance - tap your brakes, thus activating your brake lights. Always keep your windshield, headlights, and taillights clean.

3. Road Conditions

a. Soft Shoulder: Often road shoulders are made of softer material and are lower than the paved portion of the roadway. Not only does this reduce your traction, but you can become trapped on the wrong side of an abrupt edge.

b. Drop-offs: A drop-off may be engineered next to the roadway to funnel rainwater, or rainwater can erode a deep gutter alongside the roadway.

c. Bad Pavement: Secondary or less traveled roads may be poorly maintained. Urban streets are often rutted by cracks and potholes. Poor road conditions not only cause collisions, they can cause damage to your vehicle's alignment and tires.

d. Seasonal Hazards: Each season presents its own hazards. Beware of fog and slippery roads in the winter, spring, and autumn. Summer heat is hard on your vehicle, and road glare is a problem.

This is a lethal combination of snow and fog...not uncommon in the mountains during winter, spring, and autumn. Drive with your lights on to see and be seen.

Rough road

4. Intersections

a. Controlled and Uncontrolled: A controlled intersection is an intersection protected by a signal light, traffic control officer or a stop or yield sign. Uncontrolled intersections have no such safeguards, leaving you to proceed through the intersection at your discretion. 'Discretion' can be defined here as your common sense about the rules of the road, combined with your anticipation of trouble given the situation.

(1) signaling distance: You must signal a change of direction, such as a turn or lane change, for 100 feet continuously before the maneuver. Regardless of your speed, it is recommend that you signal for 5 seconds before making any lane change.(2) speed: Since most collisions occur at intersections, be cautious as you approach. Cover your brake and be ready to stop.(3) stopping limits: Always stop at the limit line, if marked, or before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection. If there is no crosswalk, the driver shall stop at the entrance to the intersecting roadway or rail-grade crossing (Think of it as an imaginary line from curb to curb). Keep in mind there are

marked crosswalks (with painted lines) and unmarked crosswalks (no painted lines). In the absence of a posted sign prohibiting pedestrian crossing, you can assume a crosswalk at any intersection, even if there are no lines painted on the pavement.(4) signal controlled: These are intersections with signal lights controlling the flow of traffic.

Red Stop Red arrow Do not turn against this arrow

Flashing red Come to a full stop before proceeding with caution Yellow Proceed with caution and prepare to stop

Flashing yellow Proceed cautiously through the intersection Yellow arrow The 'protected' turning time is ending; prepare to stop

Green Go, after yielding to vehicles, pedestrians, or bicyclists in the intersection Green arrow Go in the direction of the arrow, after yielding to any vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist in the intersection Traffic signal

blackout When there is an electrical power failure, treat the intersection as a four-way stop

5. City, Freeway, Open Roadway, Mountains

Each of these driving environments presents challenges.

a. Speed: As you drive, read and follow the posted speed limit signs. Always be aware of the weather conditions, the type of road and the amount of traffic in determining your speed on the road. b. Following distance: You must be able to stop before striking the vehicle in front of you if it stops or slows unexpectedly. If a turtle doesn't have a shell, is he homeless or naked? c. Braking distance: Keep in mind that braking distance depends on a number of factors.

• How quickly you see and react to the hazard• Conditions of the road• Condition of your brakes• Condition of your tires• Gravity- up-/downhill

Less space on the roadway and more traffic considerably limits your reaction time when driving in the city. Always be looking ahead and anticipating trouble.

Remember: Braking distance increases exponentially with speed. Your braking distance at 60 mph will be four times your braking distance at 30. 

d. Signaling distance: The law requires that drivers signal at least 100 feet before turning. At higher speeds, signal sooner. For example, on open highways or at freeway speeds, signaling five seconds prior to a lane change is recommended. e. Traffic conditions: In larger cities, traffic can be congested during most daytime hours. Properly prepared drivers will listen to traffic reports on radio stations throughout the day to find whether traffic conditions on their intended route are good.

f. Passing: Below are some tips for passing.

(1) open roadway: Passing on a two-lane road requires you to travel into the oncoming traffic lane…a dangerous maneuver in any event.

Never pass:

• Over double yellow lines or against a 'No Passing' sign;• If the vehicle ahead of you is traveling at the speed limit;• When an oncoming traffic is too close;• Several vehicles in front of you at a time (pass only one vehicle at a time);• On a curve when your line of sight is limited;• On or near an underpass or bridge; and/or• Near an intersecting road, in the event that vehicle is making a right turn from cross-traffic into your line.(2) mountains: There are several dangers involved in passing in mountainous areas. Be prepared for: • An oncoming vehicle moving into your lane to pass;• Difficulty passing a slower moving vehicle on a narrow road;• Blocked field of vision on sharp curves and steep hills;• Loss of braking on a steep downgrade;• Extreme weather conditions such as heavy fog, rain, and snow.

6. Driving distractions

Collisions often occur when the driver of one or more vehicles is distracted. This is especially unfortunate, since most distractions are avoidable. Below are some distractions you do not want to fall prey to.

a. Inside vehicle

• Talking to passengers• Dialing, answering, and talking on cell phone• Pets roaming in the vehicle• Lighting a cigarette• Eating and driving• Insects such as bees• Changing radio stations, audio tapes, or compact discs

Adults are required to use a hands-free set-up when talking on a mobile phone, and may not use an electronic device to write, send, or read a text-based communication (e.g., text message, instant message, e-mail), when driving. Those under the age of 18 are prohibited at all times from using any wireless telephone or other mobile service device when driving. The law provides exemptions for using mobile communications devices to place an emergency call to law enforcement, the fire department, a health care provider, or other emergency services.

b. Outside vehicle

• The scene of a collision• Interesting sights• Looking too long at scenery• Finding a location and address.

C. Collision Causation

Driver error is the most common cause of traffic collisions. Below are some pitfalls to avoid.

1. Mental

The best defensive driving techniques and attitudes are compromised by mental errors. If you are unfocused, distracted, or unaware, you can't anticipate and respond effectively to dangerous situations. These types of mistakes are caused by stress or fatigue, or just plain sloppy mental habits.

2. Physical

Fatigue, physical disability, illness, and/or being medicated all qualify as physical conditions that can compromise defensive driving. Aging is factor that sometimes affects vision, hearing, and mental alertness.

3. Environment

Adapt to your environment. Also, be prepared for changing environments. If you're driving from the mountains to the coast, you can drive through many different climate and weather conditions within several hours.

4. Visual Habits

Bad visual habits will lull you into complacency and reduce attentiveness. Train yourself to scan the driving environment...and then think about what you are seeing, so that you actually understand the meaning of what you are looking at.

5. Other Drivers

You can never really predict what other drivers will do. Protect yourself by anticipation and awareness.

6. Collision Types

Collision types tend to differ with road-type and terrain. Collisions on city streets often happen at intersections, whereas freeway collisions tend to be more varied and unpredictable.

a. Intersections Blind intersection

(1) blind: A 'blind' intersection is one in which you cannot see 100 feet to the left or right down the cross-street when you are within 100 feet of the intersection because of some natural or manmade obstacle. A blind intersection can be controlled (one that is protected by signals or signs) or uncontrolled (no signals or signs). By law, you must slow to 15 mph within 100 feet of a blind intersection that is uncontrolled. For your own protection, be prepared to stop at the corner before entering the intersection. You are allowed to drive at the speed limit (or safe speed) when approaching a controlled blind intersection as long as you obey all signs and controls. If the police arrest a mime, do they tell him he has the right to remain silent? (2) right-of-way: Watch for drivers careless about giving the legal right-of-way to others. Beware of pedestrians in the crosswalk when you are turning left. Anytime you are in a controlled or an uncontrolled intersection there is a chance that an emergency vehicle will beentering the intersection against traffic.

(3) turns: Turns are often the occasion of collisions in the city. Remember the following.

Left: Turning left requires that you judge the speed of oncoming traffic (traffic you are 'turning against'). Add to this the presence of pedestrians in crosswalks and/or changing lights, and you have many things to keep track of. As you move into the intersection, keep your wheels straight and cover the brake while waiting to turn, so that a rear-end impact could not push you into oncoming traffic. Right: Nowadays many urban streets have bicycle lanes to the right of the traffic lanes. Drivers must cross these lanes to turn right. In such cases, bicyclists going straight have the right-of-way. Meanwhile, watch for pedestrians in the crosswalk as you turn…crosswalks are prime spots for collisions involving pedestrians. The vehicle on the right misjudged the turning radius of this

commercial vehicle (tow truck towing vehicle) and ended upforced to the curb.

During simultaneous turns, stay in yourlane, and be wary of the other guydrifting out of his and into yours'.

Simultaneous: At some intersections, it is permissible for two vehicles side-by- side to turn in the same direction at the same time. If you are making such a turn, keep a close eye on any vehicle turning with you to make sure they stay in their lane. Be prepared to maneuver to get out of their way, should they – on completing their turn – drift into your lane. Wide turns - commercial vehicles: Large commercial vehicles (usually multi-wheeled, articulated tractor/trailers) must make wide turns – that is, turns that take up space in two lanes – in order to avoid turning into oncoming traffic. When you are side-by-side with one of these vehicles – if the driver does not see you - you can get run-over whether you're on the lane inside or outside of the vehicle. Remember: As long as a driver's face is visible to you in the vehicle's mirrors, he can see you. Otherwise, he may be unaware of you.

(4) pedestrians: According to the California Highway Patrol 2003 SWITRS (Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System) Annual Report, 712 pedestrians were killed and 13,991 pedestrians were injured in traffic crashes during 2003. Children under 15 accounted for 24.7% of all pedestrian victims. The most vulnerable age group for pedestrian victims (killed and injured) was 15-24 years. Overall, the majority of pedestrian victims tend to be male. These numbers are appalling! Pedestrians are the most vulnerable users of our roadways. One of your primary responsibilities as a driver is to do whatever possible to avoid a collision with a pedestrian.Pedestrians have a responsibility for their own safety as well. If you are a pedestrian, follow these rules:• Use sidewalks•Cross only at intersections and crosswalks•Look left, right, left for traffic before stepping off curb.•It is illegal to cross mid-block between 2 controlled intersections.•A pedestrian crossing illegally (i.e. outside of crosswalk) must yield to traffic.•Pedestrians walking in the road should walk opposing traffic, along the left-hand edge of the road.

b. freeways: Due to the higher speeds of freeway traffic, when a collision occurs it often involves a chain reaction as nearby vehicles swerve to avoid the collision. Beware of being caught in a collision not of your own making.

(1) merging: Two common causes of collisions as vehicles merge onto the freeway are slower moving vehicles being struck from behind, and drivers merging without adequate space. (2) exiting: Three prime causes of freeway-exiting collisions are: • An exiting vehicle slows too much and is hit from behind;• A driver fails to read the sign 'slow to 15 mph' and strikes the barrier;• An impaired or disoriented driver enters in the exit ramp.

(3) space cushion: Think of the space around your vehicle (front, rear, and both sides) as a cushion that protects you from contact with other vehicles. Obviously, - depending on the speeds you are traveling, as well as other factors – that cushion may need to change form or expand.

c. Lane Changes: Inattentive or sudden lane changes are a major cause of collisions on the freeway. Often these are caused by 'blind spot errors.' Stay out of the blind spot of other drivers, and do not let other drivers cruise in your blind spot. Before making a lane change, be sure to glance quickly in the corresponding blind spot to be sure there is no conflict. d. Passing: A major cause of collisions is one vehicle passing another and cutting that vehicle off while merging back into the line of traffic. Don't get out of your passing attitude until you have arrived at where you want to be. e. Head-on: Head-on collisions usually occur late at night when traffic is light. An intoxicated or disoriented driver enters the freeway on an exit ramp thinking it is an on-ramp. Watch for wrong-way drivers on one-way streets and

anticipate the possibility of a vehicle crossing the centerline on a curved roadway. f. Rear-end: Colliding with a vehicle in front of you should it stop or slow unexpectedly is a common and avoidable collision. Always drive at a safe following distance (you'll read about the 3 Second Rule later in the course) and be sure to eliminate distractions in your vehicle (like the cell phone) that might cause you to look away and miss the brake lights being activated on the vehicle(s) in front of you. g. Fixed objects: The major fixed objects on a freeway are the ends of the guardrails and trees at the bottom of the freeway embankment. There is the additional problem of debris and large items sitting in lanes - another reason to always scan up the road to anticipate your need to change lanes. h. Slippery surface skids: When the weather first begins to turn, road conditions and weather are often at their worst. Also, it takes time to shift focus from fair- to foul weather driving. When

conditions change, change focus with them. So always reduce speed, increase following distance and heighten\n your vigilance when driving on wet roads. i. Vehicle Failure:

(1) brakes: Brakes tend to fail when overused to slow or stop the vehicle on long, downhill stretches or in stop-and-go traffic. In stop-and-go traffic, this can be avoided by driving more slowly in a lower gear. On long, downhill stretches, drive in a lower gear. (2) tires: Tires with worn tread tend to blow out and skid easily.

D. Collision Avoidance

1. Defensive Driving Techniques: The Smith System and SIPDE

There are two defensive driving techniques that are especially helpful to know: The Smith System of Accident-free Driving; and the SIPDE process. Each is enumerated below. 

The Smith System

1. Aim high when steering: Look as far as a block ahead when driving.

2. Keep your eyes moving: Constantly move your eyes side walk to sidewalk near and far.3. Get the big picture: Take in everything in the driving scene, rather than merely other vehicles.4. Make sure they see you: Whether pedestrians, two-wheeled vehicles, or other automobiles, use horn and lights to be seen; make eye contact and yield right-of-way when necessary.5. Leave yourself an out: Continually visualize escape routes as you travel. Maintain your space cushion by adjusting your speed, which will give you the time to use your escape route.

Good anticipation...

...plus a good space cushionaround your vehicle ...makes

you a defensive driver.

Stay well behind the vehicle in front of you, especially in bad driving conditions. If you collide with the rear-end of

SIPDE process

1. Scan or search - for possible trouble.2. Identify - problems or conflicts on the roadway.3. Predict - signals will change; vehicles will turn; pedestrians will cross.4. Decide - which maneuver should be taken.5. Execute – the maneuver.

another vehicle, you will almost always be cited for driving too close for conditions.

  a. Be alert - don't assume: As you drive along, envision a plan for escaping trouble as you drive, and be committed to that plan. Although each situation is different, you are only going to get a few cues before you must commit to a maneuver. Many times, there are no advance cues at all. If a vehicle crosses the centerline, are you going to swerve left? Swerve right? If you know what you will do beforehand, and you commit early, you stand a better chance of avoiding trouble. b. Escape techniques: Learn escape techniques. Be prepared to commit to an escape technique. Most important, maintain a space cushion that will give you time to make decisions. c. Reaction time: Reaction time is the time you take to move your foot from the accelerator to the brake, once you see a hazard. The quickest among us can react to a hazard in a half second. Average reaction time is three-quarters of a second. One of the reasons that a defensive driver stays focused is that inattention can significantly increase reaction time.

d. 'Three Second Rule': The 'Three Second Rule' basically states that you should maintain a space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you that would take three seconds to travel at the posted speed limit. e. Think ahead: Pay attention at all times to the driving task and drive within your ability to handle your vehicle. f. Use of horn: Don't be afraid to use your horn, particularly to communicate your presence to other drivers or pedestrians that may be unaware of you.

2. Avoiding a Collision with the Car Ahead

a. Importance of vehicle lane placement: Because large vehicles such as sports utility vehicles (SUVs) and recreational vehicles (RVs) limit sight lines, it is up to you to make certain that they know where you are on the road. Remember a couple of things: • Do not drive in another's blind spot, and do not let others drive in yours' (speed up or slow down). If you have to be in a blind spot, make certain the driver sees you in his/her mirrors (if you can see the driver's face in the mirror, s/he can see you).• Increase your following distance when following a larger vehicle.• Momentary Distractions: If a distraction is serious, pull off the roadway to address it. b. How to establish a three-second gap: When the vehicle ahead of you passes a stationary reference point such as a sign, count, "one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, and one-thousand-three." If you pass that pre-established reference point before you are finished counting, then you are following too closely. c. When to increase the following distance to four (or more) seconds: • Following large trucks and vans• Driving in rain/fog• Driving on icy routes

• When being tailgated• When vision is blocked or visibility is poor• When speed is increased d. Momentary distractions – pick a safe time to look away: A momentary distraction is one that you can resolve quickly (less than a second or two). If you cannot resolve the distraction in this time, then pull off the roadway. If you can safely resolve it in this time, here are pointers:• Assess the situation ahead before reacting to the distraction. If you don't see a couple of seconds worth of clear sailing on the road ahead, don't attempt to resolve the situation. In other words, don't look away in busy traffic.• Take short looks: If you must look away from the road, do not do so until the road is straight and you have made certain that have enough room to stop. Only then can you look away. Then, take short looks, returning your eyes to the road constantly.• Have passengers help with navigation: Do not use time on the roadway to check maps for navigational information. If you are unfamiliar with where you are going, get good directions, a phone number, and check maps before you leave. If you have a passenger, let the passenger navigate. e. Look ahead for trouble: When you're driving in the city, look at least 12 to 15 seconds (about one block) ahead of your vehicle. On the freeway, extend the time/distance to 15 to 20 seconds ahead. • Look over and around the car around the car ahead.• Check ahead for speed on hilltops and curves: Remember that your line of sight is significantly shortened as you near the crest of a hill. Similarly, on a curved road, your vision will be blocked.• Watch for brake lights ahead or in adjacent lanes: If you see brake lights ahead of you or to your side, that usually means that something needs your attention.• Start braking early: Immediately check your mirrors and apply light brake pressure. This slows you down and warns drivers behind you that you might have to suddenly stop. If you're looking for trouble, pick on a truck. f. Locations to watch for trouble:• Traffic-controlled intersections: In the fluid conditions of a traffic-controlled intersection, anticipate that some drivers will accelerate to beat a light, change their minds, and slam on the brakes. Anticipate vehicles entering the intersection against the light.• Approaching crosswalks: Pedestrians often step off just before or just after the light changes. As you near an intersection, remember to cover your brakes…put your foot over – but do not ride – the brake pedal.• Lanes next to parked vehicles: Always scan lines of parked vehicles for people exiting by the driver's side, or vehicles pulling out into traffic. Position your vehicle so that the driver's side is close to the painted lane marker on your left.

Below are a few cues to look for:• Person in driver's seat• Pedestrian moving between cars• Exhaust from parked car• Front wheels turned outward• Opening doors

• Parking lot entrances: Don't assume that a vehicle signaling to turn into a parking entrance will turn immediately. Often the driver must wait to give right-of-way to pedestrians and/or vehicles.• Freeway interchanges: Freeway interchanges have marked lanes for acceleration and deceleration when entering or exiting, respectively. However, don't ever assume that other drivers will use them properly. The freeway is full of drivers speeding up across deceleration lanes to make an exit and/or braking in acceleration

lanes to merge.• Slippery or ice-covered streets: Particularly in shaded areas or on bridges and overpasses, streets will remain slippery longer.• Where children are at play: Be careful around schools, parks, playgrounds, and residential areas.

3. Avoid Being Rear-ended by Another Vehicle

a. Increase following distance: Check your mirrors frequently to gauge the following distance of the vehicles behind you. Try to open space between you and the vehicle following you, particularly if the vehicle is tailgating. Change lanes, if necessary.b. Signal early for stops and lane changes: Provide plenty of room for inattentive drivers to recognize your intentions.c. Brake smoothly and gradually: Smooth braking, along with signaling, is another cue to drivers behind you to slow.d. Keep pace with traffic, when possible: If you are keeping pace with traffic, you reduce the chances of being hit from the rear.e. Check your mirror for the following distance of other vehicles.f. Before changing lanes, check the direction of travel: On freeways and urban streets, make sure that the lane you are entering is not reserved for oncoming traffic.g. After stopping, keep your brake pedal depressed: If you are hit from the rear, this technique minimizes the chance of your being propelled into the intersection where a chain reaction can begin.h. Keep your taillights clean and working: Taillights are your first line of defense against being rear-ended if you must stop quickly. Make certain they are visible.

4. How to Choose an Alternate Path of Travel Escape Route

A defensive driver is always looking for an escape route especially on a narrow curvy road.

a. Importance of adequate visual leads: A proper visual lead allows you to see trouble as it's developing. It also allows you more reaction time. I wish my brother would get a job, so I'd know what kind of work he's out of. Train your eyes to look 12 to 15 seconds ahead of your vehicles in city driving. On higher speed freeways or open highways, use a visual lead-time of 15 to 20 seconds. • Choosing a safe path of travel : Usually lanes #1 and #2 – the two left lanes - are used for higher speed thru-traffic. Use the right-hand lanes if you plan to drive more slowly, or are preparing to exit.• Possible speed or position adjustments : Be prepared to make quick – but not abrupt - adjustments, particularly if you come up on a vehicle that blocks your visual lead. Find a gap in another lane, signal, and change lanes. b. Positioning the vehicle laterally: Since you always want to keep your options open, avoid being trapped in clusters of vehicles. If you find yourself in a cluster, identify lateral spaces (spaces to your sides) that will be open in case you need to move.

Finding an alternate route oftravel can save you time and

aggravation. • Select speeds to position your vehicle between clusters of vehicles: First, position yourself using your speed in an area that gives you the most lateral options; then signal and move in either direction out of clusters.• Select lane position within traffic clusters to allow the greatest maneuverability: If you can't get out of a cluster (e.g., in rush hour traffic) opt for the position within the cluster that promises the most maneuverability. You can

then expand your space cushion to the front by allowing space to open up. c. Avoiding multiple hazards: Be alert and leave a space cushion.• Identify hazards early: Be scanning ahead 20 seconds.• Predict potential hazards: When you are approaching a school zone, expect children crossing the street. Anticipate vehicles turning in front of you if you are driving through an area with uncontrolled intersections.• Adjust speed and position to avoid potential hazards: Slow down or speed up and position yourself in the edge of the lane away from potential hazards.• Anticipate and plan possible escape route: Continually identify open spots around you for evasive maneuvers. d. Compromise to reduce the risk of hazards: Compromise is the basis of courtesy. • A long line of cars approaching from the opposite direction: Move to the right. Being the first driver facing a long line of approaching vehicles requires you to be prepared to slow, stop, or move to the shoulder.• An approaching vehicle drifts into the lane of travel: Sometimes an inattentive or distracted driver coming at you from the opposite direction will drift over the line into your lane of travel. Be prepared to:

• Slow down;• Pull to the right;• Sound your horn and flash your lights.

• On a curve: Going into a curve, remember to slow down on the way into it and stay toward the right of the lane.

5. Protecting Yourself When a Collision is Unavoidable

a. Being hit from the rear: There are things you can do to reduce the impacts. Leave enough space when following another vehicle so that you can pump your brakes (to alert a driver approaching from your rear) or swerve into an empty lane if you see an inattentive driver approaching you from behind.• When to apply the brakes: Try to release the brake at impact to reduce the force; then, brake hard to avoid being pushed into vehicles stopped or slowed in front of you.• Use of head restraints: Brace your head against the head restraint to minimize whiplash.b. Being hit from the side: If you see a vehicle approaching from the side, speed up or slow down if possible to protect the driver's-side door. Being stuck in the front wheel or rear trunk will reduce your chances of injury. • Preparing to steer : Steer sharply away from the other vehicle to reduce the impact of a collision from the side.• Brace against the steering wheel to avoid being thrown around in the vehicle . c. Being hit from the front: Avoid a head-on collision at all costs. If a head-on collision seems imminent: • Protect your face when wearing a shoulder strap: Use your arms and hands to protect your face if you are wearing a shoulder strap. The strap will act to keep you in the vehicle, and your priority should be protecting your head.• Protection when not wearing a shoulder strap: If you are not wearing as shoulder strap, throw yourself across the seat so you don't hit the steering wheel or the windshield.

6. Emergency Situations

Again, your most trusted resource should be your ability to anticipate hazards.a. Maintenance and construction areas : If you are in a construction zone, it will be well-marked with orange cones and/or signs. Watch for construction machinery and construction workers.

Stay cool despite the delays that can accompany construction work. A person convicted of the assault or battery of a highway maintenance or construction worker engaged in the performance of his or her duties may be punished with a fine of up to $2,000 and/or up to one year of imprisonment in a county jail for each offense! b. Children: Children are likely to be either in school zones or residential areas. Almost any maneuver is permissible to save the life of a child (or another adult), if you think you can walk away from the results alive. c. Animals: Animals can be almost anywhere and are always unpredictable. Anticipate pets if you are in a residential area. In rural areas, prepare to encounter domesticated farm animals such as cows and horses, especially if you see a 'livestock crossing' sign. If a collision with an animal is unavoidable, brace yourself and drive 'through' the animal at speed. Attempting to brake or drive around an animal at high speeds is more dangerous than driving straight and hitting the animal. How do they get the deer to cross at that yellow road sign?

 

BEWARE: THE CAR YOU ARE DRIVING MAY BE A “DEADLY WEAPON”

Many of us probably do not know this fact, but according to the United States Government collision crash test site, www.Safercar.gov many of the poorly rated cars for safety on the road today could result in its occupants becoming one of the horrific, 40,000 plus annual causalities (in the United States). This statistic should make us very uncomfortable, especially when we compare this figure to those killed in any major war. There is great news though… Now, every one of us can do something about this, and make an informed decision, by simply checking the US government site to see how safe our car really is. Even if you are a very safe and cautious driver, the fact remains that nearly all of us will someday get into a serious collision during our lifetime. Unfortunately, too few of us pay attention to the car safety features or ratings when buying a car. Please take this important moment to visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration government test site to see if your car (or that of a loved one) is basically safe. The data at www.safercar.gov covers over 14 years of new and used vehicle safety records and this information will surely surprise and enlighten you.  Indeed, some of the safest cars on the road today happen to be smaller makes and models, while many of the worst performers are the large family cars that most of us assume are the safest. Please help save the lives of your close friends and family by visiting www.safercar.gov and see if your car (or theirs) has mostly five star government crash safety ratings (the highest level). If it doesn’t…well we can’t advise you what to do, but can only ask that you use your imagination. Being safe usually will not cost you any extra money. However, picking the right car can mean the difference of surviving an accident. At Comedy School For

Less Money, we feel that 40,000 deaths in car collisions is 40,000 people too many and we hope this public service announcement will save one of our student’s lives. And we hope it’s yours!!!

FAQ | Student Center | Log Off

You missed the question marked as red.

Nr Question

1 To slow fatigue, stop driving your vehicle every four to five hours.

2 Roads become especially slippery _______.

3 Braking distance at 60 mph is _______________ farther than at 30 mph.

4 One pedestrian is killed every _______ minutes in the U.S.

5In the section on Defensive Driving, the author asks: Where do __________ go to "get away from it all"?

6 The "Three-second Rule" has to do with following distance behind another vehicle.

7 When driving on a freeway, drivers should look _______ down the road.

8When driving on city streets, drivers should look at least 12 to 15 seconds ahead of your vehicle.

9If your vehicle is about to be struck from the side, it is best to be hit _______ the driver's side door.

10 When being hit from the rear, brace your head against the _______________.

11 According to the DMV, a common cause of collisions is _______.

CHAPTER 2: DRIVER ATTITUDE AND APTITUDE

Your 'aptitude' is defined as your 'ability to learn.' Obviously, your ability to learn is affected by your attitude, or your willingness to learn. 

An awful lot of drivers don't care to know the fundamentals of driving. As long as they can operate the vehicle - turn it on and keep it on the road - that's all they are really willing to learn. These drivers may roll through stop signs; fail to signal before turning; drive in crowded areas at night with their high beam headlights on. These drivers don't care to learn the fine points of driving; they don't learn them; and they are, as a result, dangers not only to themselves but to the rest of us who must share the road with them.

You are expected to come out of this course with a new attitude: A desire to learn and improve your driving So let's start at thebeginning...with the fundamentals.

SECTION 2: THE COMMON SENSE OF DRIVING

A. Operating a Motor Vehicle is a Serious Responsibility

Driving, as we've said, is not a solitary experience. You will never be in a much larger, actively connected, mutually responsible community than when you are behind the wheel of an automobile. If a mute swears, does his mother wash his hands with soap? Take your responsibility to that community seriously.

1. Motor Vehicle is a Weapon

When you are behind the wheel, you are aiming some 3,000 lbs. of metal down a narrow ribbon of concrete at speeds between 25 mph and 70 mph. Even when you are in control, your vehicle is a weapon. When you are out of control - driving impaired; or driving too fast for conditions - your vehicle is a deadly weapon.

You don't have to be afraid of your vehicle...but you have to respect its

lethalness.

2. Dangerous as a Loaded Gun if Not Operated Properly

A single vehicle with passengers driven at moderate speed will take more casualties if it collides with something than even the most powerful gun, once its trigger is pulled. If multiple vehicles driven at high speeds are involved in a collision, the likelihood of casualties, including fatalities, could only be matched by long bursts from an automatic weapon in a crowded room. In short, you are handling a deadlier weapon than a firearm when you drive; and just as you must always assume that a weapon is loaded and dangerous in the absence of evidence otherwise, you must assume that your vehicle is always dangerous if handled improperly (or sometimes, even if it is handled properly).

3. Parking Responsibility (to Avoid Rollaways) Parallel parking on a hill demonstrates how quickly an innocent vehicle can become a weapon. If you do not park correctly, and the brake systems fail, your vehicle will become an out-of-control runaway. It will mow down anything and everything in its path. 

Turn your wheels away;

from the curb when parking on an uphill

slope.

When pulling into a curbed space, park with the wheels no farther than 18 inches from the curb. Set the parking brake immediately, even before taking your foot off the brake and putting the car in park. This ensures that the parking brake is engaged.  When parking on a slope – even a slight one – be sure that the front wheels are sharply turned in a direction that will guide the vehicle away from traffic, should the parking brake system fail. That means that on a downward slope, the wheels must be turned toward the curb. On an upward slope, the wheels must be turned away from the curb. If there is no curb, the wheels should always be turned toward the near-side of the road, no matter whether the slope is uphill or downhill.

B. Obey the Literal Interpretation of Everyday Laws

 

When you fudge the laws, you are not just using bad judgment and bad driving technique; you are violating the common understandings of the drivers around you. Isn't it a little scary that doctors call what they do "practice?" They are used to responding in a certain way to such things as stop signs and yield signs; and if you force them out of their patterns by violating the letter of the law, they can become unpredictable and confused.Common understandings keep things going smoothly; violating common understandings leads to chaos.

Turn your wheels toward the curb when parking on

a downhill slope.

Rolling through stop signs is illegal. Worse, odds go up for you making a mistake...and then it's only a

1. Why Stop Completely at Stop Signs

One of our most fundamental common understandings is that we are required to stop completely at stop signs. Just about every driver at an intersection makes his or her decisions about how to proceed based on their understanding that every other driver at or approaching the intersection will stop completely. When a driver 'rolls-through' the intersection – usually violating right-of-way – the driver shows confusion. And confusion increases the chances of collision.

2. What does 'Yield' Really Mean?Again, 'yielding' amounts to a shared understanding that is written into law. "Yield" means you are required to allow the other user (vehicle or pedestrian, for example) to use the roadway before you. Sounds like simple courtesy, right? Yielding might require you to stop, or merely to slow down – it depends on the circumstances. The law also says that when two or more drivers simultaneously arrive at an intersection, the driver on the left must allow the driver on the right to proceed first. The other drivers then proceed, one-at-a-time.

matter of time before you cause a collision.

C. Common Courtesy is the Key to Safety

The common thread of the two examples is that violating the literal interpretation of the law can bring traffic to a halt. Just as important is that, by rolling through a stop or not yielding right-of-way, the driver in violation is being rude to the rest of local the driving community. Courtesy often is the best guarantee of public safety. Be nice to others; they will be nice to you; and the number of collisions will go down. 1. Roadway is Shared by All Drivers  Even if it were true that roads were planned solely to move motor vehicles efficiently, the growing popularity of alternative modes of transportation forces us to rethink this goal. Really, it's good that we encourage bicycles, motorcycles, and public transportation, because the roadways become less congested and the air-shed becomes cleaner. And, after all, the users of alternative modes of transportation are taxpayers too, and have contributed to the building and upkeep of the nation's roads.

So, get used to sharing the roadway. 2. Courtesy Makes Order Out of Chaos  Common sense rules the roadway; but common courtesy makes common sense possible. That's because there are only so many laws to cover driving situations, and the rest of the situations that fall between the cracks of written law must be dealt with among human beings, face-to-face. Two drivers arrive at an intersection almost simultaneously...who proceeds first? One driver tells the other to go first, which is common courtesy. And that common courtesy enables common sense, because it's common sense that they proceed one-at-a-time, rather than trying to bowl one another over in the intersection.

A driver must interpret the edges of the law and make decisions on each and every trip. This leads to interaction among drivers; and when people interact, courtesy keeps the interaction from descending intochaos.  3. The Golden Rule: Treat Other Drivers the Way You Want to be Treated When you treat others the way you want to be treated, you are exercising courtesy, making the roadway safer and more orderly, and increasing your chances for a safe, pleasant, efficient trip.

D. Road Rage

Why – with danger inherent in the task of driving itself - would some person voluntarily introduce the potential for more injury or death into the situation? This is exactly what 'road rage' does — it invites more mindless violence onto the nation's roadways. Road rage is not a fluke; it's not a bad habit. Road rage is a willful surrender to dangerous, sometimes deadly, whim. Road rage is irrational, and a driver suffering from road rage is dangerous. Such a person over-reacts to situations; s/he reacts in unpredictable ways; s/he loses sight of the task – driving; and s/he misrepresents the motives and actions of other persons. Because they lose sight of their task, they threaten the entire driving community. Because they lose sight of the person with whom they are angry, they threaten you as an individual (assuming you are the person). 

Road rage is different than aggressive driving. Aggressive drivers usually are not angry; just selfish or self-absorbed. Road rage is fury, and that fury is directed outwards at others.  Signs of road rage include drivers who veer into other 'offending' drivers or otherwise begin driving erratically; attempts by perpetrators to interact with the victims via speech or gestures, etc.  Why do they lock gas station bathrooms? Are they afraid somebody will clean them? If you are ever the target of such a person, do not interact with them. Attempt to drive away. If the person follows, use a cell phone to notify police, or drive until you see law enforcement on the roadway.   

ROAD RAGE AND AGGRESSIVE DRIVING FACTS  

• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines aggressive driving as "the operation of a motor vehicle in a manner that endangers or is likely to endanger persons or property"—a traffic and not a criminal offense like road rage. Examples include speeding or driving too fast for conditions, improper lane changing, tailgating and improper passing. • Approximately 6,800,000 crashes occur in the United States each year; a substantial number are estimated to be caused by aggressive driving. • An average of at least 1,500 men, women and children are injured or killed each year in the U.S. as a result of road rage. • More than half surveyed by NHTSA admitted to driving aggressively on occasion. • About 30 percent of respondents said they felt their safety was threatened in the last month, while 67 percent felt this threat during the last year. Weaving, tailgating, distracted drivers, and unsafe lane changes were some of the unsafe behaviors identified. • Aggressive driving can easily escalate into an incident of road rage. Motorists in all 50 states have killed or injured other motorists for seemingly trivial reasons. Motorists should keep their cool in traffic, be patient and courteous to other drivers, and correct unsafe driving habits that are likely to endanger, antagonize or provoke other motorists. • Only 14 percent felt it was "extremely dangerous" to drive 10 miles per hour over the speed limit.• 62 percent of those who frequently drive in an unsafe and illegal manner said they had not been stopped by police for traffic reasons in the past year. • The majority of those in the NHTSA survey (52 percent) said it was "very important" to do something about speeding. Ninety-eight percent of respondents thought it "important" that something be done to reduce speeding and unsafe driving. • Those surveyed ranked the following countermeasures, in order, as most likely to reduce aggressive and unsafe driving behaviors: (1) more police assigned to traffic control, (2) more frequent ticketing of traffic violations, (3) higher fines, and (4) increased insurance costs. Increased police enforcement was rated "Number 1," both for effectiveness and as a measure acceptable to the public to reduce unsafe and illegal driving. • According to a study released by AAA of Northern California, Sacramento-area motorists rank the roads with the meanest and most aggressive drivers as the Capital City Freeway, I-80 from Davis to Roseville, Highway 99 from Elk Grove to Marysville, Highway 50 from Sacramento to Placerville, and Highway 65 from Roseville to Marysville. • In areas with less public transportation, drivers tend to make several short, simple trips that can often add an element of frustration or anger to their driving experience, according to a recent survey. The study found that the Riverside/San Bernardino, Sacramento and Oakland/San Francisco metropolitan areas ranked in the top 20 nationwide for fatalities caused by aggressive driving.

Don't be like Butch and Sundance here. No perceived driving offense is worth risking injury or death.

 

FAQ | Student Center | Log Off

  Motorcycle Statistics

The effects of a crash involving a motorcycle can often be devastating. While 20 percent of passenger vehicle

SECTION 3:DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY

In this chapter, you will learn about some of your responsibilities as a driver.

crashes result in injury or death, an astounding 80 percent of motorcycle crashes result in injury or death. According to the California Highway Patrol 2003 SWITRS (Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System) Annual Report, of the 368 motorcyclists killed in California during 2003, 331 or 90% were male. Of the 9,681 motorcyclists injured, 8,481 or 88% were male. The most vulnerable age group for motorcycle fatalities was 35-44 and the most vulnerable age group for injuries was 25-34. Motorcycle riding is extremely dangerous, even with safety equipment. Of the 368 motorcyclists killed, 321 (88%) were using safety equipment. Of the 9,681 injured, 8145 (84%) were using safety equipment.

 Pedestrian Statistics

According to the California Highway Patrol 2003 SWITRS (Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System) Annual Report, 712 pedestrians were killed and 13,991 pedestrians were injured in traffic crashes during 2003. Children under 15 accounted for 24.7% of all pedestrian victims. The most vulnerable age group for pedestrian victims (killed and injured) was 15-24 years. Overall, the majority of pedestrian victims tend to be male. The most dangerous pedestrian activity in 2003 was crossing in the crosswalk (accounting for 5,369 victims) followed by crossing outside the crosswalk (4,309 victims) and walking on the road or shoulder (2,430 victims).

As an operator of a lethal weapon, you have a special responsibility to look out for the safety of those less protected than you. This includes pedestrians and operators of two-wheeled vehicles.

All drivers moving to California must have a valid California driver license within 10 calendar days of gaining residency. Also, when you move, the law requires you to report your new address to the DMV within 10 days. When applying to the DMV for a driver license, drivers can use their birth certificate to prove their identity.

Effective January 2006, the DMV no longer has the choice of canceling the registration of any vehicle when it is determined that the vehicle is not covered by a valid form of financial responsibility, but instead the DMV is mandated to cancel the registration by law. Additionally, the DMV may charge a reinstatement fee to cover the cost of reinstating the registration after cancellation.

 A. Pedestrian Safety 1. Pedestrian Responsibility Pedestrians must take responsibility for their own safety, by heeding the following:• Only cross streets at intersections.• Make eye contact with approaching drivers.• Never cross a street between parked vehicles.• Wear light-colored jackets, especially at night.• Always hold the hand of young children when crossing a street.• Stop, look, and listen before crossing a street. 2. Driver Responsibility • Come to a full stop at stop signs and red lights.• Always yield the right of way to a pedestrian inside a marked or unmarked crosswalk. (A marked crosswalk has painted pavement lines. An unmarked crosswalk has no such lines. There is an "implied" crosswalk at every intersection in the absence of any signs prohibiting pedestrian crossing).• Drivers must reduce speed and exercise due care when approaching a pedestrian inside a marked or unmarked crosswalk.• Drivers must yield to pedestrians approaching on the sidewalk when attempting a turn in or out of a driveway.•Do not pass a vehicle stopped at a marked or unmarked crosswalk.• Be especially careful in school zones where childrenare walking or playing.• Pay particular attention to the elderly, the very young,and disabled.B. Motorcycle Safety Motorcycles are smaller and quicker in traffic than cars and trucks. They can be hard to track, and often they pop-up in unexpected places. Be alert to them.

 1. Sharing the Roadway • When changing lanes or entering major streets, make a point to visually check for motorcycles.• Allow yourself extra space when following a motorcycle.• Avoid driving in the same lane with a motorcyclist.• At intersections, watch for quick-moving and turning motorcycles.• Motorcyclists have to contend with various road problems that do not significantly affect larger vehicles such as pot holes, gravel, slippery surfaces and uneven pavement . Be aware of this when you are driving near a motorcyclist.• A person is prohibited from operating a motorized scooter unless that person has a valid class C driver's license or an instruction permit. A person is also prohibited from altering or modifying the exhaust system of a motorized scooter in violation of specified noise restrictions and muffler requirements.

 

2. Protective Gear for Motorcyclists

Approved helmet to reduce head injury, with eye protector (drivers and passengers, as required by law) Heavy boots or shoes Good full leather gloves to help protect skin from scrapes

Reflective tape on clothing A luggage carrier (avoid hanging cord or straps that get

caught in motorcycle chains)

For their part, motorcyclists should not ride more than two abreast in the same lane. Motorcycle operators must be able to reach the ground with their feet when astride the seat, and handlebar grips should not be positioned more than six inches above the operator's shoulders. Passengers must ride on a securely fastened seat with footrests, or in a sidecar designed to carry a passenger. When parked, motorcycles should have one wheel or fender touching the curb; where no curbs or barriers are present, right-hand parallel parking is required unless otherwise indicated.

The law requires motorcycles to have at least one and not more than two headlamps, and motorcycles manufactured on or after January 1, 1978, should have headlamps that activate automatically whenever the motor is running. Motorcycles should also have one or more taillamps that are red in color and visible from a distance of 1000 ft. to the rear (500 ft. if the motorcycle was manufactured before 1969).

C. Bicycle Safety More and more cyclists share the roadway with automobiles to commute and recreate. Why don't sheep shrink when it rains? As their total numbers rise, so does their incidence as victims of traffic mishaps.

1. Cyclist Responsibility

Every person riding a bicycle upon a highway has all the rights and is subject to all the provisions applicable to the driver of a motor vehicle, including provisions concerning driving under the influence of alcoholic beverages or drugs.

• Ride in the same direction as other traffic. A common mistake made by many cyclists is riding in the street along the curb against the flow of traffic. This is dangerous and illegal! • Ride in a straight line and as near to the curb as you can safely. No unnecessary weaving and lane changes will help avoid conflicts with larger and faster motor vehicles. It is legal to ride to the left, however, when preparing to turn left (including entering a left turn only lane, or when riding on a one-way street, or when necessary to pass a slower bicycle or to avoid an obstruction in the roadway). • Follow the same rules as motor vehicles for turning left and right. Remember to always signal your intentions!

Article 4 of the California Vehicle Code deals with the Operation of Bicycles. Here are some of the more important cyclist responsibilities described there: As mentioned earlier, it is actually possible to be charged with a DUI while riding a bicycle. All cyclists under 18 must wear a helmet (cyclists 18 and over would be wise to wear a helmet, but it is not the law.) If you ride a bike at night, the bike must be equipped with a headlamp, as well as tail and side reflectors. It is illegal to lay a bicycle down on its side on the sidewalk. While it is not illegal to ride a bicycle on the sidewalk in California (as long as you yield right of way to pedestrians) some local jurisdictions (like San Diego) have prohibited it. So, if you ride a bicycle, it is your responsibility to know your local laws as well as all State laws that pertain to bicycles.

2. Driver Responsibility

• When making a right turn, watch for cyclists in designated bicycle lanes. • Always give bicyclists a wide berth when passing them or driving beside them.

3. Protective Gear for Bicyclist

• The law requires that riders under the age of 18 years wear approved bicycle helmets. • Wear heavy leather gloves to protect against falls. • Especially at night, wear light-colored clothing and/or reflective tape on back of the jacket.

D. Miscellaneous

1. Stereo Headphone

Under the law (27800 VC), you may not drive a motor vehicle wearing a headset or earplugs over both ears. Additionally, CVC 27602 prohibits a television screen positioned forward of the back of the drivers seat. Global positioning navigation screens are exempt.

2. Emergency Vehicles

• You must yield the right-of-way to police-, fire-, and/or emergency vehicles when those vehicles are approaching from either direction and using a siren and/or flashing red lights. You must pull your vehicle as close as possible to the right hand edge of the curb or roadway and stop. Important: all surrounding traffic (both sides of the roadway) must pull as far to the right as possible and stop. • Pull off onto the shoulder or to the right edge of the roadway if it is curbed; stop until the vehicle is completely passed. If you are stopped at an intersection, preparing to turn left in front of an approaching emergency vehicle, remain stationary. If you are proceeding through an intersection, do not stop in the intersection. Rather, pull through the intersection and stop on the other side.

• It is against the law to follow within 300 feet of any emergency vehicle running its emergency sirens/ light.

3. Cell Phones- (CA Vehicle Code Section 12810.3) Effective July 1, 2008

CVC 12810.3 prohibits a person from driving a vehicle while using a wireless telephone unless the person uses a system that allows hands-free listening and speaking.

4. Emergency Vehicles/Tow Trucks- (CA Vehicle Code Section 21706.5) Effective January 1, 2007

CVC 21706.5 requires drivers to take specific precautionary actions on a highway when passing a stopped emergency vehicle or tow truck when the emergency lights are activated. Drivers are directed to proceed with caution and to make a lane change into an available lane not immediately adjacent to the emergency vehicle or tow truck if practicable and not prohibited by law. If the driver cannot make a safe lane change, they are to slow to a reasonable and prudent speed that is safe for existing conditions

5. Trunking- (CA Vehicle Code Section 21712) Effective January 1, 2007

CVC 21712 states it is a misdemeanor violation for any driver to knowingly permit a person to ride in the trunk of a vehicle. Additionally, any passenger found guilty of riding in the trunk is guilty of an infraction.

6. Evading a Peace Officer

This new law enhances the penalty for evading a peace officer from imprisonment in the county jail for not more than six months to not more than one year. In addition, it also enhances the penalty for anybody who causes bodily injury while evading a peace officer to a minimum of 3, 5 or 7 years in the state prison and 4, 6 or 10 years should they cause a death.

E. Procedures When Involved In an Accident

If you are involved in a single-vehicle collision that causes property damage or in a collision with another vehicle or a pedestrian, you are required to stop. If necessary, you must render aid to the injured. If you do not stop, you can be charged with 'hit-and-run.' In any non-injury crash, if the vehicle is operational, you are required to move the vehicle out of the roadway so it does not impede traffic or jeopardize the safety of other motorists.

California Vehicle Code: Accidents and Accident Reports

Duty to Stop at the Scene of an Accident (20001 VC)

(a) The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to any person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of any person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident and shall fulfill the requirements of Sections 20003 and 20004. (d) As used in this section, "permanent, serious injury" means the loss or permanent impairment of function of any bodily member or organ.

1. Stopping Requirements

• Property damage or unable to locate owner: If you are involved in a property damage only collision, you must move your vehicle (if it is drivable) to the nearest location that will not impede traffic or jeopardize the safety of other motorists. You must locate the owner or person in charge of the damaged property (this would be the other driver if you collided with another motor vehicle) and give that person your name and address as well as driver license number and vehicle registration information.

If you cause property damage and are unable to locate the owner of the damaged property, leave a note in a conspicuous place (for example, if you collide with a parked vehicle, leave the note under the windshield wiper). In it, include your name, address, and phone number. You can also leave your license numbers (driver's and car's) and your insurance carrier's phone number.

Duty Where Property Damaged (20002 VC)

(a) The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting only in damage to any property, including vehicles, shall immediately stop the vehicle at the nearest location that will not impede traffic or

otherwise jeopardize the safety of other motorists. …The driver shall also immediately do either of the following:

(1) Locate and notify the owner or person in charge of that property of the name and address of the driver and owner of the vehicle involved and, upon locating the driver of any other vehicle involved or the owner or person in charge of any damaged property, upon being requested, present his or her driver's license, and vehicle registration, to the other driver, property owner, or person in charge of that property. The information presented shall include the current residence address of the driver and of the registered owner. If the registered owner of an involved vehicle is present at the scene, he or she shall also, upon request, present his or her driver's license information, if available, or other valid identification to the other involved parties. (2) Leave in a conspicuous place on the vehicle or other property damaged a written notice giving the name and address of the driver and of the owner of the vehicle involved and a statement of the circumstances thereof and shall without unnecessary delay notify the police department of the city wherein the collision occurred or, if the collision occurred in unincorporated territory, the local headquarters of the Department of the California Highway Patrol.

(b) Any person who parks a vehicle which, prior to the vehicle again being driven, becomes a runaway vehicle and is involved in an accident resulting in damage to any property, attended or unattended, shall comply with the requirements of this section relating to notification and reporting…

• Injury collision: If you are involved in a collision resulting in the injury or death of another person, you must stop and render assistance to the injured person. (see below) You must also provide to any traffic or police officer at the scene the name, address, driver license numbers, registration numbers for yourself and all occupants and all other parties involved in the collision. If there are no police officers at the scene, you must report the incident to the police or Highway Patrol without delay.

• Victims at scene: You must render reasonable assistance to any person injured in the collision. The word 'reasonable' includes transporting the victim, arranging for transport or making arrangements for medical treatment. However, you are not required to do more than you are trained to do. Some guidelines are given below, in #2.

2. Aid to the Injured

• Sending for help: If there is no other person available, a quick assessment of the scene will tell you whether you can do more good by remaining and giving aid, or by going to call for emergency help. If

some victims require immediate attention – of the kind that you are qualified to give – you may want to stabilize them before going for help. If, however, the situation seems stable, go for help first. A When to move an injured person: You must move the victim if there is a chance of fire, water, or another collision. Otherwise, never move an injured person, since hidden injuries can easily be worsened in this way. Then, immediately call emergency 911. You may and should also give first aid (stopping bleeding, etc.) to the extent that you feel competent. Even a person without first aid training, using good judgment, can save a victim's life. Do not perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) unless you are trained in the technique.

• Be calm and reassuring to the victim.• Always treat the most seriously injured first.• If an injured person is not breathing, call for help and perform CPR if you are qualified.• If the victim is bleeding, apply direct pressure to the wound for as long as it takes for the bleeding to stop. Elevate the wound while applying pressure, if possible. Keep the victim warm and lying down.

3. Preventing Further Damage

• Reducing chances of fire: Shut off the engines of all vehicles involved in the collision to reduce the chance of fire.• Warning oncoming vehicles: Warn approaching vehicles of the collision. If you have flares, and you are absolutely certain that you know how to use them safely, place them approximately 20 to 50 feet away from the collision. Recruit available onlookers to control traffic until police arrive.

4. Reporting Requirements

• When a report must be filed: Any driver involved in a crash must submit to the DMV (either personally or through an insurance agent, broker, or legal representative) an SR-1 accident report within ten days of the incident. If there is injury or death, each driver must submit a report to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) or the local police within 24 hours. As stated above, a police report must be filed in the event of a property damage collision if you are unable to

locate the owner of the damaged property. Information must be surrendered to any police officers at the scene. Remember to submit an accident report if:

• More than $750.00 dollars in damage was done to the property of any person• Any person was injured (no matter how slightly) or killed

• Use of Reports: All police reports by law are confidential and are only to be used by the police. Reports may not be used as evidence in any trial. However, information may be released by law enforcement to any individuals with "proper interest," such as other drivers, injured parties, and parent of a minor driver.

Duty to Report Accidents (20008 VC)

(a) The driver of a vehicle, other than a common carrier vehicle, involved in any accident resulting in injuries to or death of any person shall within 24 hours after the accident make or cause to be made a written report of the accident to the Department of the California Highway Patrol or, if the accident occurred within a city, to either the Department of the California Highway Patrol or the police department of the city in which the accident occurred. If the agency which receives the report is not responsible for investigating the accident, it shall immediately forward the report to the law enforcement agency which is responsible for investigating the accident.On or before the fifth day of each month, every police department which received a report during the previous calendar month of an accident which it is responsible for investigating shall forward the report or a copy thereof to the main office of the Department of the California Highway Patrol at Sacramento.(b) The owner or driver of a common carrier vehicle involved in any such accident shall make a like report to the Department of California Highway Patrol on or before the 10th day of the month following the accident.

Reports Confidential (20012 VC)

All required accident reports, and supplemental reports, shall be without prejudice to the individual so reporting and shall be for the confidential use of the Department of Motor Vehicles and the Department of the California Highway Patrol, except that the Department of the California Highway Patrol or the law enforcement agency to whom the accident was reported shall disclose the entire contents of the reports…to the driver or drivers involved, or the guardian or conservator thereof, the parent of a minor driver, the authorized representative of a driver, or to any named person injured therein, the owners of vehicles or property damaged thereby, persons who may incur civil liability, including liability based upon a breach of warranty arising out of the accident, and any attorney who declares under penalty of perjury that he or she represents any of the above persons.

Reports as Evidence (20013 VC)

No such accident report shall be used as evidence in any trial, civil or criminal, arising out of an accident…

Use of Reports (20014 VC)

All required accident reports and supplemental reports…shall be immediately available for the confidential use of any division in the department needing the same, for confidential use of the Department of Transportation, and, with respect to accidents occurring on highways other than state highways, for the confidential use of the local authority having jurisdiction over the highway.

Counter Reports: No Determination of Fault (20015 VC)

No traffic or police officer shall include in any counter report of a property-damage accident…any determination by the peace officer of fault of the reporting person, including, but not limited to, inattentiveness. This section does not apply to a determination which is the result of an examination of the physical evidence of the accident at the site of the accident by the traffic or police officer or the result of an express, knowing admission of the reporting person if the basis for the determination is also included in the report.

(b) As used in this section, "counter report of a property-damage accident" means any report of an accident involving one or more vehicles which meets the following criteria:

(1) The accident reported caused damage to property, but did not cause personal injury to or the death of any person. (2) The report is prepared at an office of the California Highway Patrol or local law enforcement agency.

(3) The report is written or recorded by, or with the assistance of, a peace officer.

G. Financial Responsibility Requirements

1. When a Report is Required to the DMV

• Property damage amounts: An SR-1 form must be filed with the DMV if there is $750.00 or more in damage done to property. A Injury: When a person is injured, even slightly, you must file an accident report with the DMV. • Time frames for reporting: Any collision with damage of $750 or more or injury or death must be reported to the DMV within ten days.

2. Compulsory Injury and Property Damage Coverage

California has a compulsory financial responsibility law. If you are involved in a collision, and you are without some form of liability coverage (see below), you may lose your drivers' license for up to four years. You may fulfill this obligation through substitute methods outlined below.

• Minimum amounts of insurance coverage: • $15,000 for death or injury to one person A $30,000 for multiple injuries or deaths • $5,000 for property damage

• Additional forms of coverage: If a driver does not have automobile liability insurance, s/he can still meet the compulsory financial responsibility law. S/he can:

• Deposit cash of $35,000 with the DMV • Obtain a $35,000 security bond from a

California-licensed bonding company • Obtain a DMV-issued self-insurance certificate

3. Failure to Provide Proof of Coverage

In any case, you must carry written evidence of financial responsibility whenever you drive. If you are stopped by law enforcement for any reason and you cannot produce evidence of financial responsibility, you will be issued a citation and, if convicted, you will receive a fine from $100 to $200 plus penalty assessments.

• Period of suspension: If a driver fails, refuses or neglects to provide proof of financial responsibility (or file a required accident report) the DMV will suspend their driving privilege until the suspension is terminated by receipt of evidence of financial responsibility (or receipt of the accident report).

5. Exchanging Information

• Identifying information: Drivers involved in a collision should exchange the following of the other

driver:

name and addresslicense number

vehicle license plate number insurance company and policy number

• Noting damage and injuries: Exchange notes on damage and injury, including their extent of damage to each vehicle, and the extent of injuries to each person. If a camera and opportunity is available, take photographs of the collision.

6. Additional Steps

• Obtain names, addresses and phone numbers of all witnesses. • Record accurate facts for law enforcement and insurance companies, including the date, time, street, type of weather, and any other pertinent facts. • Even if you do not think you have been injured, see your doctor. • File necessary supplemental reports, including a report to your insurance company and to your employer, if you were driving a company vehicle.

This woman is exchanging information with the driver of a vehicle that rear-ended her.

H. California Vehicle Code: Financial Responsibility Laws

Report Required (16000 VC)

The driver of every motor vehicle who is in any manner involved in an accident originating from the operation of a motor vehicle on any street or highway or any reportable off-highway accident defined in Section 16000.1 that has resulted in damage to the property of any one person in excess of seven hundred fifty dollars ($750) or in bodily injury or in the death of any person shall, within 10 days after the accident, report the accident, either personally or through an insurance agent, broker, or legal representative, on a form approved by the department to the office of the department…

Mandatory Suspension of License (16004 VC)

The department shall suspend the driving privilege of any person who fails, refuses, or neglects to make a report of an accident as required.

Required Maintenance of Financial Responsibility (16020 VC)

Every driver and every owner of a motor vehicle shall at all times be able to establish financial responsibility pursuant to Section 16021, and shall at all times carry in the vehicle evidence of the form of financial responsibility in effect for the vehicle.

Requirements of Policy or Bond (16056 VC)

No policy or bond shall be effective…unless issued by an insurance company or surety company admitted to do business in this state by the Insurance Commissioner...nor unless the policy or bond is subject, if the accident has resulted in bodily injury or

death, to a limit, exclusive of interest and costs, of not less than fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) because of bodily injury to or death of one person in any one accident and, subject to that limit for one person, to a limit of not less than thirty thousand dollars ($30,000) because of bodily injury to or death of two or more persons in any one accident, and, if the accident has resulted in injury to, or destruction of property, to a limit of not less than five thousand dollars ($5,000) because of injury to or destruction of property of others in any one accident.

Suspension of Driving Privilege (16070 VC)

Whenever a driver involved in an accident…fails to provide evidence of financial responsibility, the department shall...suspend the privilege of the driver or owner to drive a motor vehicle, including the driving privilege of a nonresident in this state.

Period of Suspension (16072 VC)

The suspension of the driving privilege…shall not be terminated until one year has elapsed from the date of actual commencement of the suspension and until the person files proof of financial responsibility

COLLISION REPORTS: The following are some classics that have been collected and published from actual collisions.The first time I saw the old man was when he bounced off the hood of my car.

Coming home, I drove into the wrong house and collided with a tree I don't have.The other car collided with mine without giving me warning of it's intentions.

To avoid hitting the bumper of the car in front, I struck the pedestrian.I collided with a stationary truck coming the other way.

A truck backed though my windshield into my wife's face.A pedestrian hit me and went under my car.

The guy was all over the road. I had to swerve a number of times before I hit him.I pulled away from the side of the road, glanced at my mother-in-law, and headed over the embankment.

In my attempt to kill a fly, I drove into a telephone pole.I had been driving my car for forty years when I fell asleep at the wheel and had a collision.

The indirect cause of this collision was a little guy in a small car with a big mouth.I was thrown from my car as I left the road. I was found by some stray cows.

The pedestrian had no idea which direction to go, so I ran over him.As I approached the intersection, a stop sign appeared in a place where no stop sign had ever appeared before.

I was unable to stop in time to avoid the collision.I thought my window was down, but found it was up when I put my hand through it.

My car was legally parked as I backed into the other vehicles.An invisible car came out of nowhere, struck my vehicle, and vanished.

I told the police that I was not injured, but on removing my hat, I found I had a skull fracture.

    

 

Frequently Asked Questions | Close Window

SECTION 4: ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS

Driving while under the influence of alcohol (and other drugs) is a huge problem in California, just like it is for the rest of the country. The organization MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) recommends the following to reduce fatalities due to driving while impaired:

• Well-publicized sobriety check points• Tougher penalties against drivers who refuse alcohol tests• Tougher penalties for drivers convicted of DUI more than once• Tougher penalties for drivers with a blood alcohol level testing at more than .15 percent

California's 2003 Alcohol Fatality Rate (AFR) - alcohol involved fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled - is 0.49, much better than the national AFR of 0.59. Only sixteen states have a better AFR than California. These numbers are encouraging, but people continue die on California streets and highways because of DUI. So there is

still much work to be done.

A. Alcohol

As a Drug

Alcohol is a drug. It is categorized as a 'depressant,' and acts on the central nervous system. Can vegetarians eat animal crackers? It is absorbed directly into

the bloodstream through the digestive system, where it is quickly transported to the brain. There, it affects judgment, physical response time, and coordination first, followed by speech and vision.

Stages of Alcohol Influence

Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC): Blood Alcohol Concentration is a number that refers to the levels of (the active ingredient of) alcohol in your bloodstream. The number is used by law enforcement simply as a measure of whether you are more

or less intoxicated. (If your alcohol content is .08, you are more intoxicated than .06 and less intoxicated than .10.)

Remember though, your level of your intoxication is not necessarily the same as your level of impairment, which is your ability to control your vehicle. Your level of your impairment depends on many factors besides just the level of alcohol in your bloodstream, such as your body weight, the type of alcoholic drinks you've consumed, the length of time between drinks, how accustomed you are to drinking, etc. Thus, your BAC may test under the legal limit, but if you can't walk a straight line on the roadside (or you flunk any of the 'field sobriety tests') you will probably be arrested.

In other words, the real issue when it comes to drinking is not in the numbers. It is: Am I safe to drive? The answer is always: No!

The following stages of intoxication may appear at lower or higher BACs than cited below, again depending on such factors as body weight, etc.

a. Blood Alcohol Level (refer to chart below) Number of Drinks BAC Symptoms

One (.01%-.04%) No loss of coordination; slightly euphoric; no apparent depressant effects

Two (.05%-.07%) Slight Impairment of balance, speech, vision, reaction time, and hearing; euphoria; judgment and self-control are reduced; caution, reason, and memory are impaired

Four (0.08% -UP) Significant impairment of motor coordination and loss of good judgment; speech may be slurred; balance, vision, reaction time, and hearing impaired

b. The limits of knowing your limits: There is no safe way to drive while under the influence. The paradox of 'knowing your limits' is that your judgment goes first if you are drinking, so you probably are in no state after even a beer or two to 'know' anything, much less your limits.

c. Reaction time: Reaction time is slowed greatly by the use of alcohol. Drivers must be able to identify, predict, decide and execute all driving maneuvers. When vision, coordination and judgment are affected by alcohol, a driver's ability to react is sharply reduced.

d. Collision potential/statistics: Collision potential/statistics: According to the California Highway Patrol 2003 SWITRS (Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System) Annual Report, in California during 2003, 1,445 people were killed in alcohol related crashes (34% of total fatalities) and 31,340 people were injured in alcohol-related crashes (10% of total injuries). In California during 2003, November was the deadliest month for alcohol related fatalities and Los Angeles was the deadliest County, Statewide, intoxicated drivers killed 711 innocent drivers, 222 innocent pedestrians and 322 innocent passengers. In California during 2003, the deadliest time on the road as regard intoxicated drivers was midnight to 3 AM, Saturday and Sunday. This statistic remains constant, year after year after year. So be very careful when driving late night/early

morning on the weekend.

Effects of Alcohol on the Body

Heavy long-term alcohol abuse can cause serious mental and physical illnesses. Eventually, it will kill the user.

a. Organs: : Brain-, heart-, and liver-function are all degraded by long-term abuse of alcohol. The brain soaks up alcohol (hence the medical term 'wetbrain' as a symptom of long-term alcohol abuse), interfering with oxygen absorption, which over the long-term begins strangling brain function. Since alcohol is a depressant, it slows the heart, which can lead to heart disease and blood disorders. Also, blood pressure increases as the heart compensates for the initially reduced blood pressure caused by alcohol.

Here are some of the long- term effects of alcohol on the body.

• Skin problems• Vitamin deficiencies• Inflammation of the pancreas• Heart and blood disorder• Sexual impotence• Birth defects (if mother uses)• Cirrhosis of the liver• Brain damage plus other complications

b. Vision: The immediate short-term effect on the eyes is blurred vision, the reduced ability to see at night, fixed eye stare, and increased sensitivity to bright lights.

c. Brain/psychological effects

• Affects emotional reaction• Alters moods• Impairs memory• Develops a false sense of confidence

4. How to Identify and Avoid An Impaired Driver

One sure way to tell if someone has been drinking is to smell his breath. Other cues are listed below.

• Stopping for no reason • Stopping short of the limit line at an intersection • Driving with headlight off • Swerving• Straddling lane lines• Driving on wrong side of the road (following headlights of oncoming vehicle)• Driving below the speed limit• Drifting out of lane• Illegal turns• Tailgates

SAFETY TIP: If you are stopped on the freeway shoulder at night, do not activate your emergency flashers. Impaired drivers have the tendency to focus in on flashing lights and to steer towards them. You do not want to be "followed" by a speeding, impaired driver when you are sitting still.

5. Alternatives to Drinking and Driving

A responsible drinker always plans an alternative to driving. Make arrangements before you go out to do any of the following:

A responsible drinker always plans an alternative to driving. Make arrangements before you go out to do any of the following:

Designate a non-drinking driver for the evening.The State's Designated Driver Program specifies that:

o The non-drinker should be at least 21 years of age and possess a valid driver's license.

There is no good reason to drive when you've been drinking.

o The designated driver must be part of a group of two or more persons and verbally identify him/herself to the server as the designated driver.

o The designated driver must abstain from consuming alcoholic beverages and be otherwise free from impairment for the duration of the outing.

o The designated driver must understand that management reserves the right to refuse service to anyone at any time.

Stay at a motel. Stay at friends home. Take a taxi. Call a relative or friend to come for you.

6. Synergistic Effects

Alcohol mixed with other drugs tends to intensify the effects of both. This working together is called 'synergy,' and it occurs not just between alcohol and illegal drugs, but between alcohol and some prescription medications. Why do they put Braille on the drive-through bank machines? Check the labels on your medication to find out whether they react with alcohol.

B. Other Drugs

Drugs are classified according to their effect on the central nervous system and the body. It is important to read the labels on all drugs before using them, especially when driving a vehicle.

1. Types/effects of Other Drugs

a. Prescription: Prescription drugs can only be prescribed by a licensed physician because of their potency and the possibility of addiction. Usually a prescription is prescribed for a limited time and may not be reordered.b. Non-prescription: Some non-prescription drugs are sold over-the-counter at pharmacies or in supermarkets. Many over-the–counter drugs cause drowsiness. Read the label of any drug especially before driving. Others non-prescription drugs are not available legally, and are sold on the black market..

(1) depressants: Depressants are drugs that depress or slow down the central nervous system. Barbiturates, sedatives, and tranquilizers are depressants. The physical symptoms of depressant drugs are drowsiness, depressed breathing, and heartbeat.(2) stimulants: Stimulants are drugs that stimulate the central nervous systems. Caffeine, nicotine, cocaine, and amphetamines are commonly used stimulants. Stimulants can increase tension, affect eyesight, compromise judgment, and skew reaction time.(3) narcotics: Drugs such as heroin, morphine, codeine and Demerol are mainly taken to dull or deaden pain. These are strong drugs, and can lead to extreme drowsiness.(4) hallucinogens: The most used hallucinogens are marijuana, LSD, PCP, ecstasy, and peyote. Hallucinogens are mind-altering drugs that may cause unpredictable behavior and visual and/or auditory hallucinations.

2. Effect on the Driving Task

Depressant drugs cause drowsiness, poor judgment, faulty and blurred vision, and stupor. Stimulants cause hyperactivity, irritability, anxiety, and nervousness. The parts of the brain first affected by alcohol are the most critical to judgment and reasoning, which are the most critical to the driving task.

3. Synergistic Effects

When two drugs combine to alter mental states in a way that intensifies the affects that either drug would cause individually, this is called 'synergy.' If, for

instance, you take an antihistamine for hay fever, this can make you slightly drowsy. If you then take an over-the-counter migraine medication, the combination of the two drugs will likely put you to sleep.

C. Penalties

Over the past few years, penalties for driving while impaired have become more severe than ever before. All DUI violations are considered crimes and adjudicated in the criminal division. Even a misdemeanor DUI conviction carries mandatory jail time.

1. Implied Consent (13353 VC) and ADMIN PER SE (13353.2 VC)

'Implied Consent' means that when you get your drivers license, you agree to specific conditions even if they are not explicitly stated to you. One thing you agree to is that you will take certain tests if you are arrested by law enforcement for DUI. You do not have the right to consult with an attorney before taking these tests.

a. Testing concept: To determine whether a person is driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, and to remove the intoxicated driver from the road.

b. Purpose of testing: To determine alcohol and drug concentrations in the bloodstream.

c. Consequences of refusal

First Offense Suspended for 1 year Second Offense within a 10-year Period Revoked for 2 yearsThree or more offenses within a 10-year Period Revoked for 3 years

d. Types of Tests

• Alcohol : If a law enforcement official arrests you for driving under the influence of alcohol, you will be required to take a blood or breath test to determine your BAC.• Drugs: If you are arrested for driving under the influence of drugs, you will be required to take a blood or urine test.

2. Fines and Penalties - DUI

Remember that any container of liquor, beer, or wine carried inside your vehicle must be full, sealed, and unopened. Open containers must be placed in an area that is not accessible to the driver or the passengers, such as in a locked trunk. What do you call a song sung in an automobile? A cartoon! It is against the law to keep an open container of alcohol in the glove compartment, whether or not the compartment is locked, because it is still accessible. Likewise, do not place open containers in such areas as the hatchback where - though they might be difficult to get to - they are nonetheless accessible. The following penalties are for drivers 21 years of age and older.

IMPLIED CONSENT

When you signed and accepted your California Drivers License you legally consented to submit to a Preliminary Alcohol Screening test (breath, blood or urine) if requested. If you refuse this chemical test of your sobriety, under the "Implied Consent Law" (CVC 13353.1) your license will be suspended for one year.

ADMIN PER SE SUSPENSION

When a driver suspected of DUI does submit to the required chemical test, and that test shows a BAC of 0.08 or greater, that individual's driving privilege will be suspended immediately, on the spot. This is "Admin Per Se Suspension" (CVC 13353.2).

DRIVERS UNDER 21

If the driver is under 21 years of age, his/her license will be suspended if the Preliminary Alcohol Screening test shows a BAC of only 0.01. This is the "Zero Tolerance Law." (CVC 23136) An individual under 21 may have have their license reinstated on a restricted basis if they can demonstrate a "critical need to drive" (i.e. to and from school when there is no other mode of transportation or to and from employment that is critical to the support of the family) It is illegal for a driver under 21 to operate a motor vehicle with a BAC of 0.05 and the driver can be found in violation regardless of whether a chemical test is made. In other words, if the traffic officer merely observes that the driver has consumed alcohol and is under the influence, the arrest may be made (CVC 23140). Additionally, it is illegal for a driver or passenger under 21 to transport alcoholic beverages in a vehicle unless accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, adult relative or individual designated by a parent or guardian. Exceptions would be a driver under 21 alone but under employment (making deliveries) or following instructions of a parent or guardian in a timely manner.

a. First and second conviction requirements:

• First conviction: A First conviction: The punishment for a first DUI violation is imprisonment in the county jail for between 96 hours (at least 48 hours of which shall be continuous) and six months, and a fine of between $390 and $1,000. You may also lose your license for six months and the court may take your vehicle for up to six months (10 months if BAC was 0.20% or higher).• Second conviction: If you are convicted of a DUI twice within a ten-year period, the court is required under sentencing guidelines to have you incarcerated for not less than 90 days or for not more than 1 year. You will also be fined between $390 and $1,000 plus penalty assessments and you will lose your vehicle for up to twelve months. You will lose your license for two years. After completion of your suspension period, you may obtain a restricted license if you enroll in a DUI program, have an ignition interlock device placed on your vehicle, and pay the required fees. A person who is on probation for a DUI offense may not operate a motor vehicle at any time with 0.01% BAC or greater, as determined by a preliminary alcohol screening test or other chemical test. This violation of probation carries immediate administrative per se license suspension, and drivers who refuse or fail to complete a lawfully requested test face the suspension or revocation of their driving privilege for one to three years.

A person convicted of multiple DUIs within 10 years of a prior conviction, can have his or her privilege reinstated, if he or she shows proof of completing the initial 12 months of either the 18-month or 30-month drinking driver treatment program, installs an ignition interlock device, and establishes proof of financial liability. Completion of a DUI program is required for all DUI convictions. What do you call a pig that does karate? A pork chop! Persons convicted of their first DUI with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.20% or higher, or who refuse a chemical test, are required to complete an alcohol treatment program of at least 60 hours over at least 9 months.

b. Misdemeanor vs. felony:

• Misdemeanor: If you are stopped for DUI before you cause property loss, injury, or death, you will most likely be charged with a misdemeanor count of DUI. This is punishable by fines and/or jail time.• Felony: When injury or death occurs from your DUI, the charge will be felony DUI. A DUI felony is treated as harshly as any other felony. You can spend years in prison, depending on the severity of the results. In recent years, people have been convicted of second-degree murder for felony DUI.

c. Other Effects

• Personal: On a personal level, if you are convicted of DUI, your life will never be the same. For one thing, you will now have a criminal conviction on your record. You will have to report this conviction on most employment applications and loan applications. In the short-term, you will spend a great deal of time, energy, money, and emotion fulfilling the requirements imposed on you by the court. If you have a full schedule, think about cutting it by 1/3rd or so for the time you will need to take public transportation or catch rides when you need to go out. Obviously, work and school days will be extended by hours as you work around not having a vehicle. If you are a single mother or father, forget about taking the children on vacation for awhile if you plan driving. Forget about much dating, as well, since you won't have

wheels. This is just the beginning. If you are convicted again, and you do jail time, many of those job and loan applications you submit will not even be considered• Financial:

The Cost of a Drink

(Prepared by DMV in cooperation with the CHP, Office of Traffic Safety, Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs, and Department of Justice.)

TOTAL FEES, FINES, AND ASSESSMENTS $5,238

If you use an attorney, add $2,000 - $4,000.

Frequently Asked Questions | Close Window

SECTION 5: LICENSING CONTROL MEASURES

The Department of Motor Vehicles is responsible for the safety of the driving public. One of the DMV's many functions is maintaining the driving records of their clients (you and the rest of the driving community). The driving records are public and can be accessed for legitimate reasons by police agencies as well as insurance companiesA. The Driving Privilege 1.Privilege vs. Right The DMV is not compelled constitutionally or legally to issue any particular person a license to drive. In fact, one of the department's main responsibilities is refusing to issue licenses to persons unqualified to drive, or disqualified from driving. Thus, driving is a privilege rather than a right. Like all privileges, it must be earned and – once earned – it must be preserved through the safe and conscientious actions of the driver.

2.License Refusal

The Department of Motor Vehicles takes the strongest action possible against anyone who alters or otherwise attempts to falsify a driver license. The department may furthermore refuse to issue you a license if you:

Have a history of alcohol or drug abuse Have used the license illegally

Have lied on your application Do not understand traffic laws or signs Do not have the skills to drive Have a health problem that makes your driving unsafe Have an outstanding traffic citation because you failed to appear (FTA) in court

or failed to pay (FTP) a court-ordered fine Have not complied with a judgment or order for family support payments Use a crib sheet for any license examination Impersonate an applicant or allow someone else to impersonate you to

fraudulently qualify for a license; Refuse to give a thumb print Refuse to sign the certification on the application Submit a fraudulent birth date/ legal presence document or social security

document

As a condition of obtaining or renewing a driver's license, applicants must sign a declaration acknowledging that they may be charged with murder if a person is killed as a result of their driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.

3. Violation of License Restriction

Some drivers are issued licenses with restrictions placed on their use. Types of restrictions include, but aren't limited to:• Using special mechanical control devices• Driving only to and from work or school• Using corrective lenses• Driving only during daytime hours• Using special mirrors

If you are restricted in any way, and the DMV receives satisfactory evidence of a violation of the restriction, the DMV may suspend or revoke your license. Is it true that cannibals don't eat clowns because they taste funny?

4. Provisional Licenses

A provisional license is issued to drivers under the age of 18. During the first twelve months of provisional licensing, drivers may not drive between 11 pm and 5 am and may not transport passengers under the age of 20 unless accompanied by a parent or guardian, a licensed driver who is at least 25 years old, or a licensed or certified driving instructor. Exceptions are made for such things as school (requires a note from the school principle/dean/designee), work (requires proof of employment), medical necessity (requires a doctor's note), your or a family member's necessity (requires a note from parent/guardian), and emancipated minors.

If a provisional driver fails to appear in court or fails to pay a fine for a traffic violation, their license will be suspended until they appear before a judge or pay. What do you get if you cross a chicken and a cement mixer? A brick layer.

If a provisional driver has one traffic conviction or an "at fault" collision (or both) within 12 months, they will receive a warning a letter. A second such occurrence within 12 months and the person will be forbidden to drive for 30 days unless accompanied by a parent or other licensed adult at least 25 years of age. A third such occurrence will result in a 6-month suspension and one year's probation. An additional occurrence during the probationary period will result in suspension.

If you are between the ages of 13 and 21 and convicted of using a controlled substance, your license will be suspended for one year. If you don't yet have a license, the age at which you can be licensed is pushed back one year. You may also be required to complete a DUI program.

Actions against your provisional license will continue past your 18th birthday for their full term.

B. Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS)

'Negligent operators (drivers),' according to the DMV definition, are drivers who have repeatedly or egregiously violated the CVC and traffic safety standards. These negligent operators "…have subsequent crash rates that are significantly higher than those of drivers without traffic violations…." More to the point, these 'scofflaws' display a pattern of behavior that suggests they will re-offend. The DMV has designed a numerical system for assessing and responding to negligent drivers. The system is called 'Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS).' Under the system, specific numbers of points are assessed for specific violations, and an accumulation of points results in penalties.

1. Effects of Convictions/Collisions

The NOTS system is a way to both identify habitual offenders, and to intervene and get them off the road before they re-offend, perhaps killing or maiming another driver. There are three levels of intervention.

Level 1: A warning letter is generated based on the following:

Point Count Time Period

2 Within 12 months

4 Within 24 months

6 Within 36 months

Level 2: A Notice of Intent to Suspend letter is sent to a driver when the following occurs:

Point Count Time Period

3 Within 12 months

5 Within 24 months

7 Within 36 months

Level 3: The driving privilege will be suspended and an ORDER OF PROBATION/SUSPENSION will be sent to the driver under the following conditions

Point Count Time Period

4 Within 12 months

6 Within 24 months

8 Within 36 months

The Negligent Operator Treatment System has resulted in:

• Intervening with offenders sooner• Increasing the number of drivers targeted for intervention• Increasing the number of suspensions at level 2 and 3 (see below)

2. Point Count Determination

The DMV keeps a public record of all your traffic convictions and collisions. Each occurrence stays on your record for 36 months or longer depending on the type of conviction. What do you get if you cross an elephant and a kangaroo? Big holes all over Australia. You are considered a negligent operator of a motor vehicle when your driving record shows any one of the following 'point counts,' regardless of your license class.

• Non-commercial drivers

• 4 points in 12 months• 6 points in 24 month

• 8 points in 36 months

• Commercial Driver

• 6 points in 12 months• 8 points in 24 months• 10 points in 36 months

Class A and Class B drivers are charged with 1.5 points for infractions while driving their rigs or buses.

a. Violations: Examples of one point violations would be:

• A traffic conviction• An at-fault collision

Examples of two point violations would be:

• Reckless driving• Driving under the influence of alcohol/ drugs• Hit-and-run driving• Evading a peace officer• Driving while suspended or revoked

b. Collisions: In a collision where one of the drivers is determined to be at fault the DMV will add one point to the fault driver's record.

3. Action

The DMV may take such action as to suspend or revoke a person's driver's license for such offenses as felony driving under the influence, grand theft and other offenses used while driving a motor vehicle.

a. Probation (14250 VC): The DMV may in lieu of suspension or revocation place a person on probation.b. Suspension (13102 VC): Suspension means that the privilege to drive a motor vehicle is temporarily withdrawn, usually dependent on the examination of the physical or mental condition of the licensee.c. Revocation (13101 VC): Revocation means that the privilege to drive a motor vehicle is terminated and a new driver's license may be obtained after a period of revocation.

 

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FAQ | Student Center | Log Off

You missed the questions marked as red.

Nr Question

1 Only ten-thousand people were killed in traffic collisions in 2001

2 When parking uphill you should turn the steering wheel __________ the curb.

3 Pedestrians should _______ approaching drivers.

4 Drivers should pay particular attention to _______ .

5 In California during 2002, only 706 people were killed in alcohol-involved collisions.

6 _____ is a possible effect of long-term alcohol consumption.

7 Most traffic convictions stay on your driving record _______ .

8 You are considered a negligent operator if you receive 4 points within 12 months.

9 In a collision, drivers must file a SRI report within 10 days if _______ .

10 Any injury or death must be reported within _____________ .

11In the section of Driver Responsibility, the author asks: Why don't ____________ when it rains?

CHAPTER 3: WHERE THE RUBBER MEETS THE ROAD

SECTION 6: USE AND MAINTENANCE OF SAFETY EQUIPMENT

Everyone has a safety stake in maintaining their vehicle. But did you know you have a financial stake as well? Most new-vehicle warrantees are voided if maintenance schedules are not kept, potentially costing you hundreds in lost maintenance fees that you must now pay yourself. Plus, older, un-maintained vehicles break down far more often and catastrophically than maintained vehicles, costing you potentially thousands of dollars in repairs and towing expenses. So consider yourself lucky that the State of California requires that you maintain and operate a safe vehicle. To be intoxicated is to feel sophisticated but not be able to say it.The State sets the standards for that safety, and you must abide by the standards.

A. Lighting

1. Purpose – See and Be Seen

The first condition of safe driving is that you can see. The second condition – equally important – is that your fellow drivers can see you. Never underestimate the value of having others see you; because turn signals, brake lights, back-up lights, and emergency flashers communicate to others what you intend to do. Notice that 'community' and 'communication' come from the same root word. To maintain a safe community of drivers, you must have the means to communicate.

    • High Beam-Low Beam: Your headlights are composed of a high beam lamp and a low beam

lamp, which refers to their intensity and the direction in which they are aimed at the roadway. You toggle back-and-forth between high beam and low beam by a variety of methods particular to your vehicle (learn them). High beams are excellent for driving at night on deserted or semi-deserted roadways that are not otherwise lighted by external sources

Simple Maintenance Keeps You SafeTires: If your vehicle tends to drift or dive to one side of the road or the other, you may need to fill or align your tires. If you have trouble holding the road, you may need to check them for wear or tire pressure.• Keep your tires inflated to the

pressure specified on the sidewall of the tire.• Check tires frequently for cuts, punctures, sidewall- and tread-wear.• Replace your tires when the tread is less the 1/32nd of an inch deep.• Rotate your tires four times a year. Belts: If you hear a whining coming from the engine compartment, or your vehicle begins to overheat, your fan belt could be loose or broken. If your dash lights begin to dim, your generator belt could be loose or broken. • Your belts should be tight...they should not deflect more than a half-inch when you press on them.• Check belts for cuts or wear. Oil• Check oil dipstick when gassing your vehicle to make certain your oil level is proper.• The oil on the dipstick should be yellow-to-brown in color. Change your oil if it is black-colored or smells burned.• Check under and around your vehicle for oil, which could indicate an oil leak. Brakes: Be aware of changes in the pressure or distance required when you depress your brake pedal to the floor. If the brakes feel 'spongy,' or the pedal seems to travel farther than usual, you may be leaking brake fluid. • Check the brake fluid reservoir, usually in a plastic bottle on the side of the engine compartment.• Be aware of uneven braking, or of the brakes 'grabbing'

(e.g., streetlamps). Because high beams cast their light higher and farther on the roadway, however, they tend to create glare for other drivers. Use high beams sparingly. (See CVC below.) Low beams cast down and to the right to illuminate the roadway adequately for normal nighttime driving. High beam-low beam lights are white. • Taillights: Taillights are red. They alert drivers behind you to your presence. When the headlights are turned on, the taillights automatically light as well. • Brake Lights: Brake lights communicate to drivers behind you that you are slowing and/or stopping. They are red, and activate when you depress the brake pedal. • Back-up Lights: Back-up lights are activated when your vehicle is in reverse gear. They are white, and usually found beneath the taillights on the rear of your vehicle. These lights illuminate the area behind you when you back, and alert others to your intention. • Turn Signals: Turn signals are found on the front and rear corners of your vehicle as an element of your head- and taillight assemblies. They may be amber or white on the front and amber or red on the rear of the vehicle. When activated by the turn-signal stem on your vehicle's steering column, they indicate that you intend to turn or merge, as well as the direction of the intended maneuver. • Emergency Flashers: Emergency flashing lights are also an element in your head- and taillight assemblies. They are essentially all 4 turn signals blinking together. These lights are activated by a switch located on your steering column or, alternately, on the dashboard. These flashers should be activated to warn others that you have an unusual situation (mechanical failure or collision ahead). You can also activate them if you are impeding traffic or in very hazardous weather conditions. However, beware of confusing others by activating them for situations that are not truly emergencies. • Parking Lights: Parking Lights are defined as "side, cowl, or fender lamps" or any lamps mounted on the front of the vehicle designed to be displayed primarily when the vehicle is parked. It is illegal to drive with only the parking lights lighted. Parking lights may only be on if they are being utilized as turn signal lamps or when headlights are also lighted.

2. Hours of Use

when you depress the pedal. Have your brakes checked by your mechanic for wear on the pads every 10,000 miles or so.

Fluids and Hoses: Top-off battery fluid levels, anti-freeze levels, and transmission fluid levels at least twice a year at the onset of winter and the onset of summer. Check any hoses for cuts or wear.

Headlights (and taillights) are required to be activated during "darkness," which is defined as any time from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise and any other time when visibility is not sufficient to render clearly discernible any person or vehicle on the highway at a distance of 1000 feet. You can also use head- and taillights during daytime to allow others to see you better. However, keep them on low-beam.

3. Visibility Requirements

When you are driving with your high beam headlights, dim them within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle; dim them at least 300 feet behind another vehicle when approaching it from the rear. Note, new for 2005: Headlamps must be operated during darkness or whenever weather conditions prevent a driver from clearly discerning a person or other motor vehicle on the highway from a distance of 1000 feet, or when driving in conditions that require windshield wipers to be in continuous use..

4. Maintenance and Precautionary Measures

Again, some maintenance and precautionary measures are not just a good idea; they are the law. Begin your driving task by walking around your vehicle.• Clean head- and taillights, since dirt and film reduce overall visibility. Check your head- and taillights, and turn signals, brake lights, back-up lights, and emergency flashers to make sure they are working. Also, check the small light that illuminates your license plates to make sure that it is in working order.• Behind the wheel, check your instrument panel for warning lights that indicate that a headlamp is burned out or a wire broken.• Periodically have your headlight 'throw' (the distance and angle at which your lights illuminate the roadway) checked and adjusted.

 

California Vehicle Code (CVC or VC): Lighting - Lighting During Darkness (24250 VC)

During darkness, a vehicle shall be equipped with lighted lighting equipment…

Lighting Distance Requirements (24251 VC)

…any lighting equipment shall render a person or vehicle visible...during darkness, directly ahead upon a straight, level unlighted highway, and under normal atmospheric conditions…

Lighting Equipment Requirements (24252 VC)

All lighting equipment of a required type installed on a vehicle shall at all times be maintained in good working order.

Headlamps and Auxiliary Lamps

• Headlamps on motor vehicles (24400 VC): During darkness, every motor vehicle other than a motorcycle, shall be equipped with at least two lighted headlamps, with at least one on each side of the front of the vehicle, and…they shall be located directly above or in advance of the front axle of the vehicle. The headlamps and every light source in any headlamp unit shall be located at a

height of not more than 54 inches nor less than 22 inches.  • Auxiliary driving and passing lamps (24402 VC): Any motor vehicle may be equipped with not to exceed two auxiliary driving lamps mounted on the front at a height of not less than 16 inches nor more than 42 inches. Driving lamps are lamps designed for supplementing the upper beam from headlamps and may not be lighted with the lower beam…Any motor vehicle may be equipped with not to exceed two auxiliary passing lamps mounted on the front at a height of not less than 24 inches nor more than 42 inches. Passing lamps are lamps designed for supplementing the lower beam from headlamps and may also be lighted with the upper beam. • Fog lamps (24403 VC): Any motor vehicle may be equipped with not to exceed two fog lamps which may be used with, but shall not be used in substitution of, headlamps. Fog lamps shall be mounted on the front at a height of not less than 12 inches nor more than 30 inches… • Multiple beams (24406 VC): …the headlamps, or other auxiliary driving lamps, or a combination thereof, on a motor vehicle during darkness shall be so arranged that the driver may select at will between distributions of light projected to different elevations, and the lamps may, in addition, be so arranged that the selection can be made automatically. • Upper and lower beams (24407 VC): Multiple-beam road lighting equipment shall be designed and aimed as follows:

(a) There shall be an uppermost distribution of light, or composite beam, so aimed and of such intensity as to reveal persons and vehicles at a distance of at least 350 feet ahead for all conditions of loading.(b) There shall be a lowermost distribution of light, or composite beam so aimed and of sufficient intensity to reveal a person or vehicle at a distance of at least 100 feet ahead. On a straight level road under any condition of loading none of the high intensity portion of the beam shall be directed to strike the eyes of an approaching driver.

• Use of multiple beams (24409 VC): Whenever a motor vehicle is being operated during darkness, the driver shall use a distribution of light, or composite beam, directed high enough and of sufficient intensity to reveal persons and vehicles at a safe distance in advance of the vehicle, subject to the following requirements and limitations:

(a) Whenever the driver of a vehicle approaches an oncoming vehicle within 500 feet, he shall use a distribution of light or composite beam so aimed that the glaring rays are not projected into the eyes of the oncoming driver. The lowermost distribution of light specified in this article shall be deemed to avoid glare at all times regardless of road contour. (b) Whenever the driver of a vehicle follows another vehicle within 300 feet to the rear, he shall use the lowermost distribution of light specified in this article.

• Single beams (24410 VC): Headlamps arranged to provide a single distribution of light not supplemented by auxiliary driving lamps are permitted on motor vehicles manufactured and sold prior to September 19, 1940, in lieu of multiple-beam road lighting equipment if the single distribution of light

complies with the following requirements and limitations: (a) The headlamps shall be so aimed that when the vehicle is not loaded none of the high-intensity portion of the light shall at a distance of 25 feet ahead project higher than a level of five inches below the level of the center of the lamp from which it comes, and in no case higher than 42 inches above the level on which the vehicle stands at a distance of 75 feet ahead. (b) The intensity shall be sufficient to reveal persons and vehicles at a distance of at least 200 feet.

Rear Lighting Equipment

• Tail lamps (24600 VC): During darkness every motor vehicle…shall be equipped with lighted tail lamps mounted on the rear as follows:

(a) Every vehicle shall be equipped with one or more tail lamps. (b) Every vehicle, other than a motorcycle, manufactured and first registered on or after January 1, 1958, shall be equipped with not less than two tail lamps,… (d) When two tail lamps are required, at least one shall be mounted at the left and one at the right side respectively at the

same level. (e) Tail lamps shall be red in color and shall be plainly visible from all distances within 500 feet to the rear except that tail lamps on

vehicles manufactured after January 1, 1969, shall be plainly visible from all distances within 1,000 feet to the rear. (f) Tail lamps on vehicles manufactured on or after January 1, 1969, shall be mounted not lower than 15 inches nor higher than 72 inches…

• Stop lamps (24603 VC): Every motor vehicle…shall at all times be equipped with stop lamps

mounted on the rear as follows:(a) Every such vehicle shall be equipped with one or more stop lamps.(b) Every such vehicle, other than a motorcycle, manufactured and first registered on or after January 1, 1958, shall be equipped with two stop lamps…(c)…stop lamps on vehicles manufactured on or after January 1, 1969, shall be mounted not lower than 15 inches nor higher than 72 inches...(e) Stop lamps on vehicles manufactured on or after January 1, 1979, shall emit a red light. Stop lamps on vehicles manufactured before January 1, 1979, shall emit a red or yellow light. All stop lamps shall be plainly visible and understandable from a distance of 300 feet to the rear both during normal sunlight and at nighttime…

(f) Stop lamps shall be activated upon application of the service (foot) brake and the hand control…brakes. In addition, all stop lamps may be activated by a mechanical device designed to function only upon sudden release of the accelerator while the vehicle is in motion.

• Back-up lamps (24606 VC): (a) Every motor vehicle, other than a motorcycle…shall be equipped with one or more backup lamps... (b) Backup lamps shall be so directed as to project a white light illuminating the highway to the rear of the vehicle for a distance not to exceed 75 feet…• Red Fog Tail Lamps (Amendment to CVC 26402): This bill amends the minimum height requirement for red fog tail lamps to not lower than 12 inches (previously 15 inches) or higher than 60 inches.

Signal Lamps and Devices

• Turn signal system required (24950 VC): Whenever any motor vehicle is towing a trailer coach or a camp trailer the combination of vehicles shall be equipped with a lamp-type turn signal system. • Turn signal system (24951 VC): (b) The following vehicles shall be equipped with a lamp-type turn signal system [capable of clearly indicating any intention to turn either to the right or to the left].

(1) Motortrucks, truck tractors, buses and passenger vehicles, other than motorcycles, manufactured and first registered on or after January 1, 1958. (4) Motorcycles manufactured and first registered on or after January 1, 1973, except motor-driven cycles whose speed attainable in one mile is 30 miles per hour or less.

(c) Turn signal lamps on vehicles manufactured on or after January 1, 1969, shall be mounted not lower than 15 inches. • Visibility requirements of signals (24952 VC): A lamp-type turn signal shall be plainly visible and understandable in normal sunlight and at nighttime from a distance of at least 300 feet to the front and rear of the vehicle… • Turn signal lamps (24953 VC): (a) Any turn signal system used to give a signal of intention to turn right or left shall project a flashing white or amber light visible to the front and a flashing red or amber light visible to the rear.  

B. Brakes

1. Purpose

• Vehicular Control: Brakes do not control your vehicle. Rather, they control your tires…making them rotate more slowly or stop rotating altogether. Keep in mind that the extent to which your brakes and tires work together to control your vehicle depends on several factors, including: tire condition; road condition; road grade; vehicle speed; vehicle size and weight; and stopping time (see below), etc. • Stopping Requirements: If you are driving at 20 mph, your brakes must be able to stop your vehicle within 25 feet.

2. Required Systems

All vehicles are required by law to have two separate braking systems: 1.) the hydraulic brake - or foot-brake - system that applies braking to all four wheels, and; 2.) the parking or emergency brake system that controls only the rear two brakes. The emergency brake system is usually cable-operated independently of the foot-brake.

3. Maintenance and Precautionary Measures

Brakes must be kept in top condition and should be checked when your vehicle is being serviced and when tires are being replaced or rotated. Remember that the size and weight of your vehicle determine brake wear. Large sport utility vehicles (SUVs) may need new brakes after 8,000 miles of driving, whereas smaller vehicles may travel 30,000 miles or more on a set of brakes. One indicator of brake fluid loss is a 'spongy' feel to the brake pedal when you press on it, or the pedal traveling more than an inch or so toward the floorboard. Check for fluid leaks. The brake fluid receptacle is usually a small plastic container mounted on or near the top of the engine. Brake fluid is bluish. Keep this fluid topped-off. If the fluid needs frequent topping off, it could indicate a leak in the system. The older you get, the better you realize you were. Meanwhile, if your vehicle tends to slide to a stop rather than stopping crisply, or if you hear what sounds like a 'metal-on-metal' screeching when you apply your brakes, you definitely need new brake pads. Check the brake pads when changing or rotating tires.

 Your brakes and your tires work together to keep yourvehicle on the road, and slowing and stopping under

control. If any element of the brake system or your tiresfail, you might as well be flying an airplane.

California Vehicle Code: Brakes - Required Brake System (26450 VC) 

Every motor vehicle shall be equipped with a service brake system and every motor vehicle, other than a motorcycle, shall be equipped with a parking brake system. Both the service brake and parking brake shall be separately applied. Parking Brake System (26451 VC) The parking brake system of every motor vehicle shall comply with the following requirements:

(a) The parking brake shall be adequate to hold the vehicle or combination of vehicles stationary on any grade on which it is operated under all conditions of loading on a surface free from snow, ice or loose material. In any event the parking brake shall be capable of locking the braked wheels to the limit of traction.(b) The parking brake shall be applied either by the driver's muscular efforts, by spring action, or by other energy which is isolated and used exclusively for the operation of the parking brake or the combination parking brake and emergency stopping system. (c) The parking brake shall be held in the applied position solely by mechanical means.

Condition of Brakes (26453 VC)

All brakes and component parts thereof shall be maintained in good condition and in good working order. The brakes shall be so adjusted as to operate as equally as practicable with respect to the wheels on opposite sides of the vehicle.

Control and Stopping Distance (26454)

(a) The service brakes of every motor vehicle or combination of vehicles shall be adequate to control the movement of and to stop and hold such vehicle or combination of vehicles under all conditions of loading on any grade on which it is operated. (b) Every motor vehicle or combination of vehicles, at any time and under all conditions of loading, shall, upon application of the service

brake, be capable of stopping from an initial speed of 20 miles per hour according to the following requirements:

Maximum Stopping Distance                                                      (feet)

(1) Any passenger vehicle 25

(2) Any single motor vehicle with a manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating of less than 10,000 lbs.

30

(3) Any combination of vehicles consisting of a passenger vehicle or any motor vehicle with a manufacturer's  gross vehicle weight rating of less than 10,000 lbs. in combination with any trailer, semi trailer or trailer coach 40

(4) Any single motor vehicle with a manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 lbs. or more or any bus

40

(5) All other combinations of vehicles 50

C. Windshields and Mirrors

Your windshield and mirrors are your lenses on the driving environment. Calibrate and care for these lenses as well as you would a pair of eyeglasses.

1. Purpose

• Visibility: Your windshield allows you to see and make assessments about the driving environment outside your vehicle. If you fail to maintain a clean windshield both inside and out, you limit your ability to identify important traffic clues. • Screening: Your windshield also screens you from weather and road debris.

2. Requirements to Aid Vision

Windshields should:  • Be free from cracks and holes • Be installed with safety glazing or shatter proof glass • Have two windshield wipers that are self-operating and are in good condition • Be free from hanging objects on the rear view mirror • Have two mirrors with a view to the rear • Have decals located only in the lower corners of the windshield

3. Prohibited Equipment or Devices

• It is illegal to place any transparent material on a windshield, side, or rear window that alters the color or reduces light into the windshield. • A driver may not have any object on the rear view mirror or anywhere that may affect a driver's vision. This includes handicap placards. • Decals can only be placed in a limited area on the windshield

4. Maintenance

The windshield should be free from damage such as cracks and holes. Both the outside and inside of the windshield should be cleaned regularly.

California Vehicle Code: Windshields (26700 VC)

...a passenger vehicle, other than a motorcycle, and every…motor truck...shall be equipped with an adequate windshield.

Windshield Wipers (26706 VC)

(a) Every motor vehicle, except motorcycles, equipped with a windshield shall also be equipped with a self-operating windshield wiper.(b) Every new motor vehicle first registered after December 31, 1949, except motorcycles, shall be equipped with two such windshield wipers, except that any motor vehicle may be equipped with a single wiper so long as it meets the wiped area requirements in Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards Governing Windshield Wiping and Washing Systems.

Condition and Use of Windshield Wipers (26707 VC)

Windshield wipers…shall be maintained in good operating condition and shall provide clear vision through the windshield for the driver. Wipers shall be operated under conditions of fog, snow, or rain and shall be capable of effectively clearing the windshield under all ordinary storm or load conditions while the vehicle is in operation.

Materials Obstructing or Reducing Driver's View (26708 VC)

(a)...(1) No person shall drive any motor vehicle with any object or material placed, displayed, installed, affixed, or applied upon the windshield or side or rear windows.

(2) No person shall drive any motor vehicle with any object or material placed, displayed, installed, affixed, or applied in or upon the vehicle which obstructs or reduces the driver's clear view through the windshield or side windows.

 Watch what you put in your windshield and where you put it. If you are obstructing your view under the law, you will be

cited.(b) This section does not apply to any of the following:

(1) Rearview mirrors.(2) Adjustable nontransparent sun visors which are mounted forward of the side windows and are not attached to the glass.(3) Signs, stickers, or other materials which are displayed in a 7-inch square in the lower corner of the windshield farthest removed from the driver, signs, stickers, or other materials which are displayed in a 7-inch square in the lower corner of the rear window farthest removed from the driver, or signs, stickers, or other materials which are displayed in a 5-inch square in the lower corner of the windshield nearest the driver.(4) Side windows which are to the rear of the driver....(6) Rear window wiper motor....(10) Sun screening devices installed on the side windows on either side of the vehicle's front seat, if the driver or a passenger in the front seat has in his or her possession a letter or other document signed by a licensed physician and surgeon certifying that the person must be shaded from the sun due to a medical condition, or has in his or her possession a letter or other document signed by a licensed optometrist certifying that the person must be shaded from the sun due to a visual condition. The devices authorized by this paragraph shall not be used during darkness.

(c)…transparent material may be installed, affixed, or applied to the topmost portion of the windshield if the following conditions apply:

(1) The bottom edge of the material is at least 29 inches above the undepressed driver's seat when measured from a point 5 inches in front of the bottom of the backrest with the driver's seat in its rearmost and lowermost position with the vehicle on a level surface.(2) The material is not red or amber in color.(3) There is no opaque lettering on the material and any other lettering does not affect primary colors or distort vision through the windshield.(4) The material does not reflect sunlight or headlight glare into the eyes of occupants of oncoming or following vehicles to any greater extent than the windshield without the material.

(d)… clear, colorless, and transparent material may be installed, affixed, or applied to the front side windows, located to the immediate left and right of the front seat if the following conditions are met:

(1) The material has a minimum visible light transmittance of 88 percent.(2) The window glazing with the material applied meets all requirements of…specified minimum light transmittance of 70 percent

and the abrasion resistance of AS-14 glazing, as specified in that federal standard.(3) The material is designed and manufactured to enhance the ability of the existing window glass to block the sun's harmful ultraviolet A rays.

Sunscreening Devices: Requirements (26708.2 VC)

Sun screening devices permitted…shall meet the following requirements:(a) The devices shall be held in place by means allowing ready removal from the window area, such as a frame, a rigid material with temporary fasteners, or a flexible roller shade.(b) Devices utilizing transparent material shall be green, gray, or a neutral smoke in color and shall have a luminous transmittance of not less than 35 percent.(d) The devices shall not have a reflective quality exceeding 35 percent on either the inner or outer surface.

Mirrors (26709 VC)

(a) Every motor vehicle registered in a foreign jurisdiction and every motorcycle subject to registration in this state shall be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of such vehicle. Every motor vehicle subject to registration in this state, except a motorcycle, shall be equipped with not less than two such mirrors, including one affixed to the left-hand side.

Defective Windshields and Rear Windows (26710 VC)

It is unlawful to operate any motor vehicle upon a highway when the windshield or rear window is in such a defective condition as to impair the driver's vision either to the front or rear. In the event any windshield or rear window fails to comply with this code the officer making the inspection shall direct the driver to make the windshield and rear window conform to the requirements of this code within 48 hours…

 This hat obstructs both the mirror and the view out thewindshield. Also, the red arrow indicates a crack in the

windshield..

D. Horn

Think of the roadway as a hallway crowded with people trying to get somewhere. Think of the horn as your voice. You might modulate your voice to get through a hallway, giving a low 'excuse me' to get past somebody, or perhaps a sharp but polite 'ahem' to somebody who is about to run into you. You wouldn't scream at someone, however. That would be rude and, worse, counterproductive… rather than proceeding swiftly down the hallway, you might very likely end-up in a time-consuming altercation. Well, don't blast your horn, either.

1. Purpose

The purpose of horn is to communicate vital information to other vehicles, pedestrian, and animals. • Warning Devices: Your horn is basically a safety device, and should be used as one. When you need to warn others of developing hazardous situations, sound your horn.

2. Use

Tap the horn lightly once or twice to alert the other driver to slow or stop. Always think in terms of using your horn and brakes together, e.g.: If another driver is backing out of a parking space with a partially obstructed view of your vehicle, tap once or twice on your horn, slow, and be prepared to stop.

3. Audible Distance

Every motor vehicle should be equipped with a horn in good working condition and should be audible of a distance of not less than 200 feet.  

You may only use your horn to warn others of imminent danger. If you use your horn inappropriately,

you will be cited.

4. Maintenance

Your horn must be in good working order working order.

California Vehicle Code: Horns or Warning Devices (27000 VC)

(a) Every motor vehicle, when operated upon a highway, shall be equipped with a horn in good working order and capable of emitting sound audible under normal conditions from a distance of not less than 200 feet, but no horn shall emit an unreasonably loud or harsh sound…

Use of Horn (27001 VC)

(a) The driver of a motor vehicle when reasonably necessary to insure safe operation shall give audible warning with his horn.(b) The horn shall not otherwise be used, except as a theft alarm system which operates as specified in Article 13 (commencing with Section 28085)…

Prohibitive Amplification

This prohibition applies to sound systems, stereo speakers, etc. It is unlawful for a driver to operate a sound amplification system audible outside the

vehicle for more than 50 ft.

E. Tires

1. Purpose

• Vehicular Control: Tires make contact with the road surface and control the direction of your vehicle. When you think about vehicle control, remember that a very small point on each tire – about the size of a person's palm - contacts the road at any given moment...so keep your tires in good condition. Tires also act to channel surface-water backward through their treads, keeping contact points on semi-dry pavement.

• Traction: The most important role of your tires is their ability to grip and hold the road

surface. This is known as 'traction.' Traction is the beginning of all the other roles your tires play, such as turning and stopping. Since gripping and holding the road depends on the condition of your tire tread, you must keep your tires in good shape.

2. Required Condition, Inflation, and Tread

Tires with less than maximum tread provide proportionately less traction. Especially on wet roads, worn tires are ineffective at executing turns and stopping. Also, tread depth is responsible for channeling water away from the contact points and keeping you on dry road. Thus, your tires must be free of cuts, bulges, punctures, or excessive wear. Keep all tires inflated to the specifications found on the sidewalls of the tires. Finally, your tread-depth must be a minimum of 1/32nd of an inch.

3. Maintenance

All newer tires have some sort of tread-wear indicators that appear when the treads are dangerously worn. Any tire showing a wear bar should be replaced immediately. Age is a very high price to pay for maturity. Likewise, when a tire shows extreme wear on the sidewalls, replace it. Low air pressure in tires is the leading cause of tire wear and blowouts. Too little air pressure also makes steering and vehicle control more difficult. Particularly if a vehicle has not been driven recently, you should check tires for proper air pressure. • Walk around your vehicle before getting in, checking for cuts, nails, bulges, or tire damage; • Check air pressure while your tires are cold; • Don't overload your vehicle; • When buying tires, only buy the size of tire recommended by the manufacturer; • Rotate your tires on a regular basis (every 5,000 miles or so) to avoid irregular tire wear.

California Vehicle Code: Tires - Tread Depth of Pneumatic Tires (27465 VC)

(a) No dealer or person holding a retail seller's permit shall sell, offer for sale, expose for sale, or install on a vehicle axle for use on a highway, a pneumatic tire when the tire has less than the tread depth specified in subdivision (b).(b) No person shall use on a highway a pneumatic tire on a vehicle axle when the tire has less than the following tread depth, except when temporarily installed on a disabled vehicle…

(1) One thirty-second (1/32) of an inch tread depth in any two adjacent grooves at any location of the tire....(3) Six thirty-second (6/32) of an inch tread depth at all points in all major grooves on snow tires used in lieu of tire traction devices in posted tire traction device control areas.

(c) The measurement of tread depth shall not be made where tie bars, humps, or fillets are located.

F. Safety Belts

The initial impact of a collision sets in motion a chain of impacts. Following the initial contact, passengers are thrown around, or thrown out of the vehicle(s). It is these secondary collisions that cause the most damage.

1. Purpose

• Reduce Injury and Fatalities: Safety belts reduce the severity of the secondary collisions inside of their vehicle by securing the driver and passengers in place.

2. Use

Everyone in your vehicle is required by law to wear a safety belt. Drivers must wear both the seatbelt and harness if they are separate. Drivers can be cited for allowing passengers under age 16 to ride unbelted. Taxi drivers are exempt from this law. When strapping in, make certain that the belt is snug over the lap, and that the clasp is fully engaged. The metal clasp should 'click' into the metal lock. Lap belts secured too low or high on a person are ineffective and can cause injury. Make certain the belt(s) are free of kinks. Neither the driver nor the passengers should disengage available shoulder harnesses.

3. Maintenance

Seat belts should be free from dirt and grease. Vehicles should never be driven with the belt stuck in the door, since this prevents the pring or ratchet system to secure the belt during a collision.

California Vehicle Code: Safety Belts - Requirements (27315 VC)

(d) (1) No person shall operate a motor vehicle on a highway unless that person and all passengers 16 years of age or over are properly restrained by a safety belt…(e) No person 16 years of age or over shall be a passenger in a motor vehicle on a highway unless that person is properly restrained by a safety belt…(f) Every owner of a motor vehicle...operated on a highway shall maintain safety belts in good working order for the use of occupants of the vehicle. The safety belts shall conform to motor vehicle safety standards established by the United States Department of Transportation…(h) … any violation of subdivision (d), (e), or (f) is an infraction punishable by a fine…

Child Passenger Restraints: Requirements (27360 VC)

(a) A parent or legal guardian, when present in a motor vehicle, as defined in Section 27315, may not permit his or her child or ward to be transported upon a highway in the motor vehicle without (1) properly securing the child or ward (2) in a rear seat in a child passenger restraint system meeting applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards, unless the child or ward is (3) one of the following:

(1) Six years of age or older.(2) 60 pounds or more.

(b) (1) A driver may not transport on a highway a child in a motor vehicle, as defined in Section 27315, without (2) properly securing the child in a rear seat in a child passenger restraint system meeting applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards, unless the child is (3) one of the following:

(1) Six years of age or older.(2) 60 pounds or more.

(2) This subdivision does not apply to a driver if the parent or legal guardian of the child is also present in the vehicle and is not the

driver. (c) (1) For purposes of subdivisions (a) and (b), and except as provided in paragraph (2), a child or ward under the age of six years who weighs less than 60 pounds may ride in the front seat of a motor vehicle, if properly secured in a child passenger restraint system that meets applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards, under any of the following circumstances:

(A) There is no rear seat.(B) The rear seats are side-facing jump seats.(C) The rear seats are rear-facing seats.(D) The child passenger restraint system cannot be installed properly in the rear seat.(E) All rear seats are already occupied by children under the age of 12 years.(F) Medical reasons necessitate that the child or ward not ride in the rear seat. The court may require satisfactory proof of the child's medical condition.

(2) A child or ward may not ride in the front seat of a motor vehicle with an active passenger airbag if the child or ward is one of the following:

(A) Under one year of age.(B) Less than 20 pounds.(C) Riding in a rear-facing child passenger restraint system.

Child Passenger Restraint System: Safety Belts: Requirements (27360.5 VC)

(a) No parent or legal guardian, when present in a motor vehicle, as defined in Section 27315, may permit his or her child or ward who is six years of age or older, but less than 16 years of age, or who is less than six years of age and weighs 60 pounds or more to be transported upon a highway in the motor vehicle without (1) properly securing the child or ward in an appropriate child passenger restraint system or safety belt meeting applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards.

Tips for Securing Children 

• Children are more likely than adults to be too close to an air bag when it deploys. Under current manufacturing standards, air bags are designed to inflate at speeds of up to 200 mph. This blast of energy can severely hurt or kill children too close to the air bag. Infants riding in rear facing safety seats should never be placed in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger side air bag. • The safest place for any child 12 years old and younger is in the back seat. • The Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants ride in the rear facing safety seats until they are at least 20 pounds and one (1) year old. This is the safest place in your vehicle since it is the point farthest removed from front, rear, and side impact collisions. Make absolutely certain the child safety seat is properly installed and don't forget to buckle in the child! Once strapped in, the child seat must have no more than about an inch of wiggle room in any direction. • Children must be harnessed into safety seats until they are six years of age, or sixty pounds. Be aware that this replaces the old rule of 'four years or forty pounds.' • Never use a second-hand child safety seat. If your child's safety seat has been in collision, replace it with a new seat.

G. Kaitlyn's Law

It is illegal for a parent or guardian or other person responsible for a child under the age of six (6) to leave that child in the vehicle without the supervision of a person at least 12 (twelve) years-old, when the vehicle engine is running or the key is in the ignition. This law was written in response to the tragic death of a young girl – Kaitlyn – who was left in a locked vehicle in 100є temperatures and died of heat exposure.

Additionally, the law states that it is illegal to leave a child under 6 alone in a vehicle where there are conditions that present a significant risk to the child's health or safety, and when the vehicle's engine is running or the vehicle's keys are in the ignition, or both.

It is against the law for a person to smoke any tobacco product in a motor vehicle when a minor is present in the vehicle, whether the vehicle is at rest or in motion. An infraction is a secondary enforcement, and is punishable by a fine.

 

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SECTION 7: TRAFFIC SIGNS, SIGNALS, AND CONTROLS

Traffic signs, signals, and controls communicate to drivers, regulating them, guiding them, and giving them information through combinations

of visual cues. These cues include words, colors, shapes, and placements of the devices. You must learn their methods of communication and their meanings in order to drive safely and legally.

Obedience of Driver to Official Traffic Control Devices (21461 VC)

(a) It shall be unlawful for any driver of a vehicle to fail to obey any sign or signal erected or maintained to indicate and carry out the provisions of this code or any local traffic ordinance or resolution adopted pursuant to a local traffic ordinance, or to fail to obey any device erected or maintained pursuant to Section 21352.

Obedience to Traffic Control Signals (21462 VC)

The driver of any vehicle, the person in charge of any animal, any pedestrian, and the motorman of any streetcar shall obey the instructions of any official traffic signal applicable to him and placed as provided by law, unless otherwise directed by a police or traffic officer or when it is necessary for the purpose of avoiding a collision or in case of other emergency, subject to the exemptions granted by Section 21055.

A. Recognizing Traffic Control Signals and Pavement Markings

Traffic control signals and pavement markings are recognizable by their colors and placement.

1. Purpose of Traffic Controls

Signs, signals, and markings fill in the blanks between your general driving skills and general knowledge, giving you specific information about local driving conditions. • Regulation: Such signs are almost always rectangular in shape, with black letters on a white background or field. An important example of this kind of sign is the posted speed limit sign. The exception to the shape and color of most regulatory signs are the 'Stop (red field; white letters),' 'Wrong Way (red field; white letters),' 'Yield (yellow field; black letters),' and 'Do Not Enter' signs. • Warning: Yellow in color with a diamond shape, these signs warn drivers about a change in normal driving conditions, such as 'right lane ends,' or 'curve.' These signs are usually placed well ahead of the change. • Information: Information signs are either blue or brown, depending on the type of information. Blue signs indicate upcoming private facilities, such as food, camping, hospital, scenic area, or rest stop. Brown signs indicate a public sites of interest, such as historic sites or national parks.• Guide: Signs with green fields and white lettering provide information about such topics as distance to the next city, upcoming exits, etc.• Construction and Maintenance:: These signs are usually orange and have a rectangular shape. They warn motorists that there may be work crews in the roadway up ahead. Always be prepared to reduce speed when you see these signs and to obey any instructions of any flag persons. And remember: traffic fines may be doubled in a construction zone!

2. Meaning of Traffic Control Signals

• Traffic lights: Tri-colored signal light are used to direct traffic flow at intersections. The duration of each red, green, and yellow phase of a traffic light is set to the traffic patterns for various times of the day at each intersection.

California Vehicle Code: Traffic Control Devices

Official Traffic Control Signals (21450 VC)

(a) Whenever traffic is controlled by official traffic control signals showing different colored lights, color-lighted arrows, or color-lighted bicycle symbols, successively, one at a time, or in combination, only the colors green, yellow, and red shall be used, except for pedestrian control signals, and those lights shall indicate and apply to drivers of vehicles, operators of bicycles, and pedestrians as provided in this chapter.

Signal at Other Places (21455 VC)

When an official traffic control signal is erected and maintained at a place other than an intersection, the provisions of this article shall be applicable except those provisions which by their nature can have no application. Any stop required shall be made at a sign or crosswalk or limit line indicating where the stop shall be made, but in the absence of any such sign or marking the stop shall be made at the signal.• Circular Lights

• green light: The intersection is clear and you can proceed with caution.• yellow light: The signal is about to change from green to red. If you are already in the intersection, proceed with caution; otherwise stop.• red light: Come to a complete stop.• right-turn-on-red: Drivers may make a right turn at a red light after stopping, if it is safe. However, watch for

signs prohibiting a right turn on red.• Arrows

• green arrow: Proceed in the direction of the arrow when safe.• yellow arrow: Be prepared to stop.• red arrow: Do not proceed in the direction indicated. A common mistake is a driver making a right turn after a complete stop against a red arrow. That is illegal as is proceeding against a red arrow when a circular green is also illuminated. Remember: it is illegal to proceed against a red arrow in the direction of that arrow - period.

Circular Green or Green Arrow (21451 VC)

(a) A driver facing a circular green signal shall proceed straight through or turn right or left or make a U-turn unless a sign prohibits a U-turn. Any driver, including one turning, shall yield the right-of-way to other traffic and to pedestrians lawfully within the intersection or an adjacent crosswalk.(b) A driver facing a green arrow signal, shown alone or in combination with another indication, shall enter the intersection only to make the movement indicated by that green arrow or any other movement that is permitted by other indications shown at the same time. A driver facing a left green arrow may also make a U-turn unless prohibited by a sign. A driver shall yield the right-of-way to other traffic and to pedestrians lawfully within the intersection or an adjacent crosswalk.(c) A pedestrian facing a circular green signal, unless prohibited by sign or otherwise directed by a pedestrian control signal as provided in Section 21456, may proceed across the roadway within any marked or unmarked crosswalk, but shall yield the right-of-way to vehicles lawfully within the intersection at the time that signal is first shown.(d) A pedestrian facing a green arrow turn signal, unless otherwise directed by a pedestrian control signal as provided in section 21456, shall not enter the roadway.

Circular Yellow or Yellow Arrow (21452 VC)

(a) A driver facing a steady circular yellow or yellow arrow signal is, by that signal, warned that the related green movement is ending or that a red indication will be shown immediately thereafter. (b) A pedestrian facing a steady circular yellow or a yellow arrow signal, unless otherwise directed by a pedestrian control signal as provided in Section 21456, is, by that signal, warned that there is insufficient time to cross the roadway and shall not enter the roadway.

Circular Red or Red Arrow (21453 VC)

(a) A driver facing a steady circular red signal alone shall stop at a marked limit line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection or, if none, then before entering the intersection, and shall remain stopped until an indication to proceed is shown, except

as provided in subdivision (b).(b) Except when a sign is in place prohibiting a turn, a driver, after stopping as required by subdivision (a), facing a steady circular red signal, may turn right, or turn left from a one-way street onto a one-way street. A driver making that turn shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians lawfully within an adjacent crosswalk and to any vehicle that has approached or is approaching so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard to the driver, and shall continue to yield the right-of-way to that vehicle until the driver can proceed with reasonable safety.(c) A driver facing a steady red arrow signal shall not enter the intersection to make the movement indicated by the arrow and, unless entering the intersection to make a movement permitted by another signal, shall stop at a clearly marked limit line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or if none, then before entering the intersection, and shall remain stopped until an indication permitting movement is shown.(d) Unless otherwise directed by a pedestrian control signal as provided in Section 21456, a pedestrian facing a steady circular red or red arrow signal shall not enter the roadway.

• Flashing signals:• A flashing red light means the same as a stop sign. Come to a full stop, and proceed with caution.• A flashing yellow light requires the driver to slow down, check for cross traffic, and proceed with caution.

• Blacked Out Lights: When approaching an intersection that has traffic control signals that are inoperative, drivers must stop at the intersection, and may proceed with caution only when it is safe to do so. This also applies to traffic control signals that become inoperative because of battery failure. In other words, should you encounter an intersection where the traffic signals are not operating, treat the intersection as you would a 4-way stop. Vehicles should proceed only after making a complete stop, in the order of arrival, and only when safe. If 2 vehicles arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the right has the right-of-way.

Flashing Signals (21457 VC)

Whenever an illuminated flashing red or yellow light is used in a traffic signal or with a traffic sign, it shall require obedience by drivers as follows:

(a) Flashing red (stop signal): When a red lens is illuminated with rapid intermittent flashes, a driver shall stop at a clearly marked limit line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or if none, then at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic on the intersecting roadway before entering it, and the driver may proceed subject to the rules applicable after making a stop at a stop sign.(b) Flashing yellow (caution signal): When a yellow lens is illuminated with rapid intermittent flashes, a driver may proceed through the intersection or past the signal only with caution.

• Designated lane signals: Lane signals are sometimes used on freeways or city streets to control traffic during heavy commutes.

These signals are mounted over individual lanes.• A green arrow over a lane means that the lane is open to all traffic.• A red 'X' over a lane indicates that it is closed. If you see a steady yellow light, move out of that lane.

green-yellow-red solid traffic signalsgreen-yellow-red arrows designated lane signal

Lane Use Control Signals (21454 VC)

When lane use control signals are placed over individual lanes, those signals shall indicate and apply to drivers of vehicles as follows: (a) Green indication: A driver may travel in any lane over which a green signal is shown. (b) Steady yellow indication: A driver is thereby warned that a lane control change is being made. (c) Steady red indication: A driver shall not enter or travel in any lane over which a red signal is shown. (d) Flashing yellow indication: A driver may use the lane only for the purpose of making a left turn to or from the highway.

3. Intersection Safety

• Scan for traffic controls and prohibitive signs: Ease off the gas pedal as you approach an intersection, and check for signs. Keep in mind that the particular traffic control may be time-specific, such as prohibiting turning at some intersections during certain hours of the day. Women like silent men...they think they're listening. • Scan for potential hazards: All intersections are dangerous, so even when you have the green light, scan thoroughly before proceeding. • Entering an intersection on a yellow light: A potential hazard is created each time you enter an intersection on a yellow light. Basically, don't enter an intersection on a yellow light if you can safely stop prior to the limit line. • Controlled intersections: Controlled intersections are intersections with stop or yield signs, or traffic signals directing the right-of-way.

• signal lights: Signal lights are placed at major intersections to control cross-traffic. Occasionally, a traffic signal may be placed on a lightly-traveled street or near a school. Be alert.

• flashing signal lights: Flashing signal lights are activated in the early morning hours.• circular arrows: You may make a turn in the intersection when it is safe to do so only in the direction that the arrow is pointing• right-turn-on-red: If you are stopped at a red light at an intersection, and you wait until it is safe (no cross traffic or pedestrians in the crosswalk) you may turn right against a red light unless there is a sign posted prohibiting such a turn. If you are entering an intersection on a green light, beware of others making this maneuver without clearance.• designated lanes: Be alert to the ever-growing number and variety of designated traffic lanes, including those for bicycle lanes, 'must-turn' lanes, diamond lanes, etc.

California Vehicle Code: Special Stops Required

Stop Required (22450 VC)

(a) The driver of any vehicle approaching a stop sign at the entrance to, or within, an intersection, or railroad grade crossing shall stop at a limit line, if marked, otherwise before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection. If there is no limit line or crosswalk, the driver shall stop at the entrance to the intersecting roadway or railroad grade crossing.

B. Pavement and Curb Markings – Purpose and Meaning

1. Yellow Centerline Marking

Yellow line markings separate traffic approaching from opposite directions.  • Two-laned roadway/broken line: You may cross these lines for passing, after assessing safety. • Two-laned roadway/solid line next to a broken line: If the lines are yellow, and the broken line is on your side of the roadway, you may pass over these lines. If the solid line is on your side of the roadway, do not pass.• Two-laned roadway/double solid lines: While passing over double solid centerlines is illegal, a driver may turn left over these lines at an intersection or onto a private road or driveway. A driver may also make a U-turn over these lines, under the rules governing that turn. • Four-laned roadway/double solid lines: Obviously, on a 4 lane road there would be no need to pass over double solid lines. However, as stated above, a driver may turn left over these lines (from a legal lane farthest left) at an intersection or onto a private road or driveway. A driver may also make a U-turn (from a legal lane farthest left) over these lines, under the rules governing that turn.• Divided Highways: Some highways are marked by intermittent barriers a dividing section that is described by double parallel lines that are not less than 2 feet apart. It is illegal to drive over, upon or across such an area unless there is a break specifically designed to accommodate a left or U-turn.• Two-Way Left Turn Lanes: These special lanes are located down the center of the street and they consist of parallel double yellow lines, interior line dashed and exterior line solid, on each side of the lane. They are used to shelter vehicles preparing to turn left off of the street and vehicles attempting to turn on to the street. It is illegal to drive more than 200 feet in these lanes. In other words, you may only use them to accelerate up to the prevailing speed for merging, or slowing down in preparation to make a left turn out of the lane.

Double Lines (21460VC)

(a) When double parallel solid lines are in place, no person driving a vehicle shall drive to the left thereof, except as permitted in this section.(b) When the double parallel lines, one of which is broken, are in place, no person driving a vehicle shall drive to the left thereof, except as follows:

(1) That the driver on that side of the roadway in which the broken line is in place may cross over the double line or drive to the left thereof when overtaking or passing other vehicles.(2) As provided in Section 21460.5.

(c) Either of the markings as specified in subdivision (a) or (b) does not prohibit a driver from crossing the marking when

(1) turning to the left at any intersection or into or out of a driveway or private road, or (2) making a U-turn under the rules governing that turn, and either of the markings shall be disregarded when authorized signs have been erected designating off center traffic lanes as permitted under Section 21657.

(d) Raised pavement markers may be used to simulate painted lines described in this section when the markers are placed in accordance with standards established by the Department of Transportation.

• Two-way left-turn lanes: Two-way left-turn lanes consist of parallel double yellow lines, interior line dashed and exterior line solid, on each side of the lane. It is illegal to drive in a designated two-way left-turn lane except when preparing for or making a left turn from or into a highway or when preparing for or making a U-turn. You may not drive for more than 200 feet while preparing for and making the turn or while preparing to merge into the adjacent lanes of travel. A left turn or U-turn shall not be made from any other lane where a two-way left-turn lane has been designated.

Two-way Left Turn Lanes (21460.5 VC)

A two-way left-turn lane is a lane near the center of the highway set aside for use by vehicles making left turns in both directions from or into the highway.

(b) Two-way left-turn lanes shall be designated by distinctive roadway markings consisting of parallel double yellow lines, interior line dashed and exterior line solid, on each side of the lane. The Department of Transportation may determine and prescribe standards and specifications governing length, width, and positioning of the distinctive pavement markings.(c) A vehicle shall not be driven in a designated two-way left-turn lane except when preparing for or making a left turn from or into a highway or when preparing for or making a U-turn when otherwise permitted by law, and shall not be driven in that lane for more than 200 feet while preparing for and making the turn or while preparing to merge into the adjacent lanes of travel. A left turn or U-turn shall not be made from any other lane where a two-way left-turn lane has been designated.(d) This section does not prohibit driving across a two-way left-turn lane.(e) Raised pavement markers may be used to simulate the painted lines described in this section when those markers are placed in accordance with standards established by the Department of Transportation.

2. White Line Marking

• Broken: Broken white lines divide lanes for traffic moving in the same direction on multi-laned roads, and can be crossed to pass or change lanes. • Solid: Solid white lines may appear near an intersection. Bold white broken lines indicate that a 'Turn Only' lane is approaching. When these lines transition to a bold solid line, you are required to turn. • Lines with arrows: An arrow in a lane indicates that you must turn in the direction of the arrow.

3. Curb Marking

• Purpose: Driving in an urban area, you often see the curbs painted different colors. You tend to find these marked curbs in commercial areas. They limit where you can stop or park your vehicle, and for how long.

• Color:• white: You can stop only long enough to pick up or drop off passengers or mail.• green: You can park for a limited time. The time is usually shown on a sign next to the green zone, or painted on the curb.• yellow: You can stop here only long enough to load or unload passengers or freight – and no longer than posted. Drivers of noncommercial vehicles are usually required to stay with their vehicles.• red: No stopping, standing, or parking (a bus may stop at a red zone marked for busses).• blue: Disabled parking only. To use the space, your vehicle must display a DMV-issued placard or license plate identifying a person with disabilities. Colored curb markings

• Placement: These markings can appear at any point along the block, depending on which business establishment requests the control.

Curb Markings (21458 VC)

(a) Whenever local authorities enact local parking regulations and indicate them by the use of paint upon curbs, the following colors only shall be used, and the colors indicate as follows:

(1) Red indicates no stopping, standing, or parking, whether the vehicle is attended or unattended, except that a bus may stop in a red zone marked or signposted as a bus loading zone.(2) Yellow indicates stopping only for the purpose of loading or unloading passengers or freight for the time as may be specified by local ordinance.(3) White indicates stopping for either of the following purposes:

(A) Loading or unloading of passengers for the time as may be specified by local ordinance.(B) Depositing mail in an adjacent mailbox.

(4) Green indicates time limit parking specified by local ordinance.(5) Blue indicates parking limited exclusively to the vehicles of disabled persons and disabled veterans.

(b) Regulations adopted pursuant to subdivision (a) shall be effective on days and during hours or times as prescribed by local ordinances.

C. Other Pavement Marking

• Edge-of-pavement lines are solid white lines on the outside margins of the roadway that indicate the edge of the roadway. • Limit lines are single thick white lines found at intersections. You must stop your vehicle behind these lines. • Pedestrian crosswalks are indicated by parallel white lines, usually found at intersections. Yellow crosswalks are found near schools. • Railroad crossings are often marked by a white 'X' on the pavement just prior to the crossing. • School warnings are marked by 'school xing' on the pavement around schools.

Distinctive Roadway Markings (21459 VC)

(b) The distinctive roadway markings shall be employed to designate any portion of a highway where the volume of traffic or the vertical or other curvature of the roadway renders it hazardous to drive on the left side of the marking or to indicate no driving to the left as provided in Section 21460, and shall not be employed for any other purpose.

D. Intersections or Crossings that Require Special Stops

1. Railroad Crossings

Especially in rural areas, where railroad crossings are not always well marked, proceed with caution at railroad crossings. Most are marked by signs on the approach to the tracks, although there are seldom crossing gates. Thus, stop before crossing the tracks, look, and listen. Do pediatricians play miniature golf on Wednesdays? Do not proceed until you are certain you have plenty of time. Never stop on the tracks. 

a. Controls • Flashers: Red flashing lights at a railroad crossing mean that a train is approaching. If there is no gate preventing your crossing, you may cross on a red flashing light, provided you carefully scan the tracks for sight of the train first.• Crossing gate: There may also be a crossing gate that blocks entrance onto the tracks. Once the gate begins to descend, stop behind it. If you attempt to beat a gate that is going down and don't make it, you can become trapped on the tracks between the gates. If this happens get yourself and your passengers out of the vehicle immediately. Move away from the tracks. Say goodbye to your vehicle, because the train will not be able to stop.• Stop sign: You must stop if there is a stop sign at the crossing, whether you see or hear a train coming or not. Stop, look, listen, and proceed with caution.

 Look for all train crossing indicators...because even if the engineer is looking for you, by the time he spots you it's too late for him to

stop.

b. Rail crossing safety: High speed commuter trains now travel through busy cities. Remember, commuter trains travel at higher speeds and are much quieter than freight trains. Pedestrians and vehicles should never cross a guard gate that is down.

Stops for Train Signals (22451 VC)

(a) The driver of any vehicle or pedestrian approaching a railroad or rail transit grade crossing shall stop not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail and shall not proceed until he or she can do so safely, whenever the following conditions exist:

(1) A clearly visible electric or mechanical signal device or a flagman gives warning of the approach or passage of a train or car.(2) An approaching train or car is plainly visible or is emitting an audible signal and, by reason of its speed or nearness, is an immediate hazard.

(b) No driver or pedestrian shall proceed through, around, or under any railroad or rail transit crossing gate while the gate is closed.

Railroad Crossings (22452 VC)

(a) Subdivisions (b) and (c) apply to the operation of the following vehicles:(1) Any bus or farm labor vehicle carrying passengers.(2) Any motortruck transporting employees in addition to those riding in the cab.

(3) Any school bus and any school pupil activity bus transporting school pupils....(d) No stop need be made at any crossing in the following circumstances:

(1) Of railroad tracks running along and upon the roadway within a business or residence district.(2) Where a traffic officer or an official traffic control signal directs traffic to proceed.(3) Where an exempt sign was authorized by the Public Utilities Commission prior to January 1, 1978.

 If you are approaching any school bus with a stop sign

extended or its red lights flashing from the front or the rear, youmust stop immediately before passing the bus on any undivided road

2. School Buses

• At school crossings: It is illegal to proceed through an intersection when a crossing guard is in the crosswalk. The law also requires that you reduce your speed to 25 mph around schools anytime school is in session and children are present outside fenced areas. However, even if a school is not officially in session, schools are gathering places for a variety of after-school activities. Anytime you are around a school, watch for students. And keep in mind that traffic fines are enhanced (doubled) in school zones, which means it will cost you more money if you get a ticket where children might be present. Why? You're putting the lives of innocent children in danger.

• When school bus lights are flashing: When the red traffic control lights on a school bus are flashing, or the stop sign is swung out perpendicular to the body of the bus, this means that children could soon be exiting and crossing the street in front of the bus. A flashing yellow light on a school bus means that you should slow and proceed with caution. A flashing red light means that - if you and the bus are traveling a laned-road without center dividers - you must stop immediately before passing the bus (regardless of whether you are approaching from the front of rear), and remain stopped until the traffic control devices are no longer operating.

The driver of a vehicle upon a divided highway or multiple-lane highway need not stop upon meeting or passing a school bus that is upon the other roadway (traveling in the opposite direction). A multiple-lane highway is any highway that has two or more lanes of travel in each direction. But a driver traveling in the same direction as the school bus on a divided or multiple-lane highway is still required to stop.

School Bus (22454 VC)

(a) The driver of any vehicle, upon meeting or overtaking, from either direction, any school bus equipped with signs as required in this code, that is stopped for the purpose of loading or unloading any schoolchildren and displays a flashing red light signal and stop signal arm, as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 25257, if equipped with a stop signal arm, visible from front or rear, shall bring the vehicle to a stop immediately before passing the school bus and shall not proceed past the school bus until the flashing red light signal and stop signal arm, if equipped with a stop signal arm, cease operation.(b) .(1) The driver of a vehicle upon a divided highway or multiple-lane highway need not stop upon meeting or passing a school bus that is upon the other roadway.

(2) For the purposes of this subdivision, a multiple-lane highway is any highway that has two or more lanes of travel in each direction.

E. Understanding Pictorial Messages as Instant Communication

Traffic signs give early warning to potential problems that may be ahead. Learn to identify them by color and shape immediately. 

   

1. Regulatory – Red, Black, or Red on White

• Stop, yield, or a prohibition: Regulatory signs deliver instructions that must be followed under penalty of law. In color, they can be a red field with white lettering, white field with black lettering.    2. Guide – Green • Movement permitted or directional guidance.   3. Warning – Yellow • General warning: Begin exercising caution immediately. Depending on the type of warning, cover your brake, reduce speed, look for hazards. 4. Construction - Orange • Warning and guidance, information for construction and maintenance zone operations: Slow down, look for men and/or machines and material obstructing the roadway. 5. Service – Blue • An indicator of motorists services, such as food, gas, and rest areas. 6. Recreational – Brown • Public recreation and cultural interest guides that point out historical, cultural, and recreational areas of interest.

7. Shapes Most signs are recognizable by their distinctive shape and can be understood from a distance.

Shape Meaning

Octagon Stop

Triangle Yield

Round Railroad crossing

Vertical rectangle Regulatory

Pentagon School

Pennant No passing

Diamond Warning

Horizontal rectangle Information and guide

Take note of this fact: Racecar drivers know that a basic mistake can be their last. That's true for you and me, too.

 

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You missed the question marked as red.

Nr Question

1California, like New York, requires that drivers have their vehicles inspected every year.

2 The main purpose of vehicle lighting is to _______ .

3Drivers must dim their high beam lights when following a vehicle within _______ and when approaching an oncoming vehicle within _______ .

4Anti-lock braking systems keep the wheels of a vehicle from locking up when the brakes are applied.

5 The hydraulic brake system controls____________________.

6In the section on Safety Equipment, the author says: Age is a very high price to pay for ___________.

7 Yellow signs are rectangular and regulate traffic.

8 A flashing red light means _______________

9 A white curb means _______ .

10 A blue curb means _______ .

11 Railroad crossings may be marked with _______ .

CHAPTER 4: BASIC MANEUVERS

SECTION 8: ESTABLISHED SPEED LAWS

There are three types of speed limits in California: Maximum, prima facie, and safe speed.

MAXIMUM SPEED: On the freeway, you will never see a maximum-posted speed higher than 65 mph, unless the highway is in a remote area, removed from the city, in which case you may encounter a 70 mph speed limit. But keep in mind there are some older freeways with maximum-posted speed of 55 mph.

PRIMA FACIE SPEED: It's easy to know the speed limit on a road with a posted sign. But some streets do not have signs. It is your responsibility to know the speed limit wherever you drive – even on a street with no posted signs! More on these speed limits in a moment.

SAFE SPEED: Speed limits are designed for optimum conditions: clean, dry road, good visibility and no extraordinary traffic situations. But have you noticed that the driving environment is not always "optimum?" The law allows for this; you may never drive at a speed that is unsafe for conditions, regardless of what the speed limit sign says. In other words, drivers must always use their judgment; if the road is wet or visibility is bad, you must reduce speed.

California Vehicle Code: Established Speed Laws

Excessive Speed and Designated Lane Use (22348 VC)

(a)…no person shall drive a vehicle upon a highway with a speed limit…at a speed greater than that speed limit.

Maximum Speed Limit (22349 VC)

(a) no person may drive a vehicle upon a highway at a speed greater than 65 miles per hour.

(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no person may drive a vehicle upon a two-lane, undivided highway at a speed greater than 55 miles per hour unless that highway, or portion thereof, has been posted for a higher speed by the Department of Transportation or appropriate local agency upon the basis of an engineering and traffic survey.Before they invented the drawing board, what did they go back to?

A. Purpose of Basic Speed Laws

Posted speed limits (the speed limits you see on signs) are the speed limits for posted areas. They have been set to accommodate speeds for ideal conditions: dry roads and daylight driving. However, driving conditions are not always ideal. When they are not, the Basic Speed Law is the rule of the road. The Basic Speed Law says that you must always drive at a speed that is safe for current conditions. Current conditions include (but are not limited to):

• The number and speed of other cars on the road;• The condition of the road surface (smooth, rough, graveled, wet, dry, wide, or narrow);• The presence of bicyclists or pedestrians in the immediate area;• Weather conditions (rain, fog, snow, ice, wind, or dust, etc.).

 

Driving too slow can be as dangerous as driving too fast. Particularly on the freeway, if your vehicle cannot maintain

at least the minimum speed limit, find a secondary road to your destination.

Basic Speed Law (22350 VC)

No person shall drive a vehicle upon a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable or prudent having due regard for weather, visibility, the traffic on, and the surface and width of, the highway, and in no event at a speed which endangers the safety of persons or property.

B. Purpose of Minimum Speed Law

As a matter of law, no person is allowed drive on a highway at a speed that blocks or impedes the normal flow of traffic. Sometimes, of

course, going below minimum posted speeds becomes temporarily unavoidable. The law recognizes, for instance, that you must sometimes slow for safety reasons (a hazard, or bad weather), or for reasons of difficult terrain or unexpected mechanical problems. In these cases, it is expected that the slowing will be temporary. If a driver wishes to drive slower than the rest of the traffic, it must be done in the right hand lane. Keep in mind that driving too slow could constitute a hazard, in which case the driver would be in violation of the Basic Speed Law. As the Minimum Speed Law states (see below) if your speed impedes the normal traffic flow, you could be in violation.

Minimum Speed Law (22400 VC)

(a) No person shall drive upon a highway at such a slow speed as to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic unless the reduced speed is necessary for safe operation, because of a grade, or in compliance with law.No person shall bring a vehicle to a complete stop upon a highway so as to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic unless the stop is necessary for safe operation or in compliance with law.(b) Whenever the Department of Transportation determines on the basis of an engineering and traffic survey that slow speeds on any part of a state highway consistently impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic, the department may determine and declare a minimum speed limit below which no person shall drive a vehicle, except when necessary for safe operation or in compliance with law, when appropriate signs giving notice thereof are erected along the part of the highway for which a minimum speed limit is established.

C. Speed Limits for Designated Areas

1. Freeways / Highways

As stated earlier, the maximum speed limit on divided freeways is usually 65 mph, although they can range from a low of 55 mph to a high of 70 mph, depending on location. The speed limit on 2-lane (one in each direction) undivided highways is 55 mph, unless posted otherwise. Freeways and highways through urban areas generally have speed limits lower than for those roads found in more outlying, rural areas. Some freeways and highways have different speeds posted for trucks than cars; some are posted for daytime versus nighttime driving. Some freeway stretches – such as Interstate 5 near the Oregon border – require speeds below the normal freeway speed of 65 mph due to sharp curves and steep downgrades. Once again, the Basic Speed Law must always be obeyed, regardless of the posted speed limit – you may never drive faster than is safe for conditions.

 

This sign means that within 500 ft. of a school where the playgrounds are not fenced, you must

slow-down to 25 mph if children are present.

2. Residential Areas

The speed limit in all residential areas are 25 mph. Local governments may post higher speed limits in residential areas, usually on wider thru-streets. If you do not see posted speed limits in a residential area, assume the speed limit is 25 mph. 3. Business Districts Each city posts its own speed limits – usually 35 mph in business districts, although it can be higher on larger streets. If no signs are posted, the speed limit is 25 mph.

4. School ZonesYou can be sure that if you are driving near a school, there will be children nearby. Always drive carefully when in a school zone, which is usually within 500 feet of a school. Signs posted within a school zone usually indicate a speed of 25 mph (although they may be as low as 20mph or 15mph, depending on municipality) A reduced speed is required whenever children are present, usually defined as morning arrival, afternoon departure, lunch hour and any time scheduled school activities bring children to the premises.Additionally, always anticipate the presence of children on bikes, skateboards and scooters when driving in a school zone. Warning: fines are

doubled for any moving violation committed while passing through a school zone.

5. Senior Centers

When driving by a retirement home or any other facility used primarily by senior citizens, reduce your speed to 25 mph. This speed limit only applies on surface streets (business or residential.) This "senior citizen zone" speed limit will not apply if you are driving on a state highway adjacent to such a senior center.

6. Uncontrolled / Blind Intersections

When within 100 feet of an intersection that is not protected by stop signs, yield signs or traffic control signals, and your view of the cross street or highway is obstructed for a distance of 100 feet in either direction, you must reduce speed to 15 mph, proceed with extreme caution and be prepared to yield or stop.

7. Alleys and Blind Railroad Crossings

Alleys are rarely marked with speed limit signs, but the prima facie alley speed limit is 15 mph. Additionally, when approaching within 100 feet of a railroad crossing that is not protected with mechanical or electrical gates or devices and your view of the tracks in both directions is not clear for 400 feet, you must reduce speed to 15 mph, proceed with extreme caution and be prepared to stop.

Prima Facie Speed Limits (22352 VC)

(a) The prima facie limits are as follows…:(1) Fifteen miles per hour:

(A) When traversing a railway grade crossing, if during the last 100 feet of the approach to the crossing the driver does not have a clear and unobstructed view of the crossing and of any traffic on the railway for a distance of 400 feet in both directions along the railway. This subdivision does not apply in the case of any railway grade crossing where a human flagman is on duty or a clearly visible electrical or mechanical railway crossing signal device is installed but does not then indicate the immediate approach of a railway train or car.(B) When traversing any intersection of highways if during the last 100 feet of the driver's approach to the intersection the driver does not have a clear and unobstructed view of the intersection and of any traffic upon all of the highways entering the intersection for a distance of 100 feet along all those highways, except at an intersection protected by stop signs or yield right-of-way signs or controlled by official traffic control signals.(C) On any alley.

(2) Twenty-five miles per hour:(A) On any highway other than a state highway, in any business or residence district unless a different speed is determined by local authority under procedures set forth in this code.(B) When approaching or passing a school building or the grounds thereof, contiguous to a highway and posted with a standard "SCHOOL" warning sign, while children are going to or leaving the school either during school hours or during the noon recess period. The prima facie limit shall also apply when approaching or passing any school grounds which are not separated from the highway by a fence, gate, or other physical barrier while the grounds are in use by children and the highway is posted with a standard "SCHOOL" warning sign. For purposes of this subparagraph, standard "SCHOOL" warning signs may be placed at any distance up to 500 feet away from school grounds.

(C) When passing a senior center or other facility primarily used by senior citizens, contiguous to a street other than a state highway and posted with a standard "SENIOR" warning sign…

D. Speed Limits for Designated Vehicles

The following vehicles may not travel in 55 mph:• A motor-truck or truck tractor having three or more axles• A passenger vehicle or bus towing another vehicle• A school bus transporting students• A vehicle transporting explosives • A farm vehicle carrying laborers • A trailer bus

Maximum Speed for Designated Vehicles (22406 VC)

No person may drive any of the following vehicles on a highway at a speed in excess of 55 miles per hour:(a) A motor-truck or truck tractor having three or more axles or any motor-truck or truck tractor drawing any other vehicle. (b) A passenger vehicle or bus drawing any other vehicle.(c) A school bus transporting any school pupil. d) A farm labor vehicle when transporting passengers.(e) A vehicle transporting explosives.(f) A trailer bus

E. Speed and Stopping Distance

The faster a vehicle is traveling, the longer it takes to stop the vehicle. Below are the factors used in calculating just how long it takes to stop your vehicle.

1. Perception Time and Distance

'Perception time' is defined as that period between seeing an object and recognizing what it is. While usually only a split-second (although it may be much longer, depending on your vision and mental awareness, local conditions, and the nature of the object), it adds car-lengths to stopping distance.

2. Reaction Time and Distance

Once you recognize a hazard, you must react to it. This is called 'reaction time.' If all the world is a stage, where is the audience sitting?It takes a (statistically) normal driver 3/4 of a second to react to an event after perceiving it as a hazard.

3. Braking Distance

'Braking distance' is the distance a vehicle travels from the instant the driver applies the brakes until the vehicle stops moving. This distance is highly variable, depending on the condition of the vehicle's tire and brakes, road condition, and weather conditions such as rain and snow.

4. Stopping Distance

The sum of the above factors – perception, reaction, and braking distances - is called the 'stopping distance.' Stopping distance, of course, goes up exponentially as speed increases. A vehicle moving at 30 mph can usually stop within 70 feet on dry pavement; a vehicle moving at 60 mph will take almost four times longer (250 feet) to stop.

If the #2 pencil is the most popular, why is it still #2?

 Statistics on Speeding

 Speeding — exceeding the posted speed limit or driving too fast for conditions — is one of the most prevalent factors contributing to traffic crashes. The economic cost to society of speeding related crashes is estimated by NHTSA to be $27.4 billion per year.  

Speeding and Fatalities (NHSTA) 

Motor vehicle crashes cost society an estimated $4,800 per second. The total economic cost of crashes is estimated at over $150.5 billion. The costs of speeding-related crashes are estimated to be $51,930 per minute or $865 per second.  

Estimated Annual Economic Costs of Speeding-Related Crashes

  

  In California during 2003, unsafe speed was the Primary Collision Factor in 28.3% of all fatal and injury collisions. In California

during 2003, unsafe speed caused 58,173 injury collisions (which injured 89,347 people) and 569 fatal collisions (which killed 653.)In California during 2003, when the motorcycle driver was at fault in a fatal collision, speeding was second only to DUI as the primary collision factor. Of the 5,202 motorcycle at fault injury collisions in California during 2003, 45% were caused by unsafe speed. Of the 250 motorcycle at fault fatal collisions in California during 2003, 38% were caused by unsafe speed.

 

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SECTION 9: PROPER LANE USE

Traffic lanes separate vehicles on the roadway and channel traffic within the complex web of California's roadways. For traffic lanes to work, however, you need to work with them. Choose a lane…don't just drift in-and-out of open spaces. Plan lane changes. Check thoroughly for appropriate space into which to merge; and stay in your lane as long as you are not being impeded, or impeding someone else.

California Vehicle Code: Proper Lane Use

Right Side of Roadway (21650 VC)

Upon all highways, a vehicle shall be driven upon the right half of the roadway, except as follows:(a) When overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction under the rules governing that movement.(b) When placing a vehicle in a lawful position for, and when the vehicle is lawfully making, a left turn.(c) When the right half of a roadway is closed to traffic under construction or repair.(d) Upon a roadway restricted to one-way traffic.(e) When the roadway is not of sufficient width.(f) When the vehicle is necessarily traveling so slowly as to impede the normal movement of traffic, that portion of the highway adjacent to the right edge of the roadway may be utilized temporarily when in a condition permitting safe operation.(g) This section does not prohibit the operation of bicycles on any shoulder of a highway, where the operation is not otherwise prohibited by this code or local ordinance.

A. Designated Lanes of Travel

1. Divided Highways

'Divided highways' separate two-way traffic with a barrier such as a guardrail, concrete wall, or a median strip.

Divided Highway (21651 VC)

(a) Whenever a highway has been divided into two or more roadways by means of intermittent barriers or by means of a dividing section of not less than two feet in width, either unpaved or delineated by curbs, double-parallel lines, or other markings on the roadway, it is unlawful to do either of the following:

(1) To drive any vehicle over, upon, or across the dividing section.(2) To make any left, semicircular, or U-turn with the vehicle on the divided highway, except through an opening in the barrier designated and intended by public authorities for the use of vehicles or through a plainly marked opening in the dividing section.

(b) It is unlawful to drive any vehicle upon a highway, except to the right of an intermittent barrier or a dividing section which separates two or more opposing lanes of traffic…

2. Laned Roadways

Urban and rural roadways with multiple lanes going in the same direction are called 'laned highways.' Lanes are marked-out by painted lines. Additional messages or symbols painted on the roadway may indicate the presence of 'turn' lanes, or other special-use lanes.

Laned Roadways (21658 VC)

Whenever any roadway has been divided into two or more clearly marked lanes for traffic in one direction, the following rules apply:(a) A vehicle shall be driven as nearly as practical entirely within a single lane and shall not be moved from the lane until such movement can be made with reasonable safety.(b) Official signs may be erected directing slow-moving traffic to use a designated lane or allocating specified lanes to traffic moving in the same direction, and drivers of vehicles shall obey the directions of the traffic device.

3. Three-laned Highways

On a three-laned highway, travel in the middle lane if you are driving a long way. Use the outside lane to pass; and the inside lane to exit.

Three-lane Highways (21659 VC)

Upon a roadway which is divided into three lanes a vehicle shall not be driven in the extreme left lane at any time, nor in the center lane except when overtaking and passing another vehicle where the roadway ahead is clearly visible and the center lane is clear of traffic within a safe distance, or in preparation for a left turn, or where the center lane is at the time allocated exclusively to traffic moving in the direction the vehicle is proceeding and is signposted to give notice of such allocation. This section does not apply upon a one-way roadway.

B. Position of Vehicle in Lane of Travel

1. Marked Lanes

Lanes separated by painted lines are 'marked lanes.' Always drive in the center of the marked lane.

2. Narrow Roadways

On a roadway that is too narrow for opposing vehicles to pass one another, the second driver to arrive yields to the first. On a hill, the driver on the downhill slope must yield to vehicles traveling uphill…even if it means backing uphill to do it.

Narrow Roadways (21661 VC)

Whenever upon any grade the width of the roadway is insufficient to permit the passing of vehicles approaching from opposite directions at the point of meeting, the driver of the vehicle descending the grade shall yield the right-of-way to the vehicle ascending the grade and shall, if

necessary, back his vehicle to a place in the highway where it is possible for the vehicles to pass.

3. Mountain Roadways

Should you be driving on a narrow, unlined roadway, position yourself as far to the right as possible. Additionally, honk within 200 feet of a blind curve.

Mountain Driving (21662 VC)

The driver of a motor vehicle traveling through defiles or canyons or upon mountain highways shall hold the motor vehicle under control at all times and shall do the following when applicable:

(a) If the roadway has no marked centerline, the driver shall drive as near the right-hand edge of the roadway as is reasonably possible.(b) If the roadway has insufficient width to permit a motor vehicle to be driven entirely to the right of the

center of the roadway, the driver shall give audible warning with the horn of the motor vehicle upon approaching any curve where the view is obstructed within a distance of 200 feet along the highway.

 

4. Other Vehicles Approaching

Position yourself as far to the right as possible if a vehicle is oncoming.

Approaching Vehicles (21660 VC)

Drivers of vehicles proceeding in opposite directions shall pass each other to the right, and, except when a roadway has been divided into traffic lanes, each driver shall give to the other at least one-half of the main traveled portion of the roadway whenever possible. If work is so terrific, how come they have to pay you for it?

5. Exceptions to Driving on the Right Side of Roadway

• When passing another vehicle• When preparing to make a left turn• When the right lane is closed for repair or maintenance• When the roadway is not of sufficient width for two vehicles

C. Required Lane Use and Use of Turnouts

'Turnouts' are generally short stretches of paved roadway to the right of the primary lane of travel. They are sometimes marked 'Slow vehicle turnout,' but not always. On narrow roads, a slow-moving vehicle trailed by five or more vehicles must pull to the side of the road or use a

turnout to permit the following vehicles to pass.

Turning Out of Slow-moving Vehicles (21656 VC)

On a two-lane highway where passing is unsafe because of traffic in the opposite direction or other conditions, a slow-moving vehicle, including a passenger vehicle, behind which five or more vehicles are formed in line, shall turn off the roadway at the nearest place designated as a turnout by signs erected by the authority having jurisdiction over the highway, or wherever sufficient area for a safe turnout exists, in order to permit the vehicles following it to proceed. As used in this section a slow-moving vehicle is one which is proceeding at a rate of speed less than the normal flow of traffic at the particular time and place.

1. Slow-moving Vehicles

Slow-moving vehicles such as heavily loaded trucks and farm tractors traveling on narrow two-way roads should move as close to the right hand edge of the roadway as possible.

Slow-moving Vehicles (21654 VC)

(a) Notwithstanding the prima facie speed limits, any vehicle proceeding upon a highway at a speed less than the normal speed of traffic moving in the same direction at such time shall be driven in the right-hand lane for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand edge or curb, except when overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction or when preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway.(b) If a vehicle is being driven at a speed less than the normal speed of traffic moving in the same direction at such time, and is not being driven in the right-hand lane for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand edge or curb, it shall constitute prima facie evidence that the driver is operating the vehicle in violation of subdivision (a) of this section.

2. Special Vehicles

You must utilize any special lanes designated by local jurisdictions that apply to your vehicle. Locally-posted designations can include lanes for large trucks, school buses, farm tractors, etc. Additionally, the Vehicle Code stipulates that the following vehicles may never drive at a speed on a highway in excess of 55 mph:

A passenger vehicle towing another vehicle A bus towing another vehicle A motor truck or truck tractor with 3 or more axles A school bus transporting any school pupil A farm labor vehicle, when transporting passengers Any vehicle transporting explosives A trailer bus

The above vehicles are required to drive in the lanes designated by any signs that may be posted to that effect. In the absence of these signs, these vehicles are required to be driven in the right-hand lane for traffic or as close as practicable to the right edge or curb. If, however, a specific lane or lanes have not been designated on a divided highway having four or more clearly marked lanes for traffic in one direction, any of those vehicles may also be driven in the lane to the immediate left of that right-hand lane, unless otherwise prohibited. When overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction, the driver shall use either the designated lane, the lane to the immediate left of the right-hand lane, or the right-hand lane for traffic as permitted. (This does not apply to a driver who is preparing for a left- or right-hand turn or who is entering into or exiting from a highway or to a driver who must necessarily drive in a lane other than the right-hand lane to continue on his or her intended route.)

Designated Lanes for Certain Vehicles (21655 VC)

(a) Whenever the Department of Transportation or local authorities with respect to highways under their respective jurisdictions determines upon the basis of an engineering and traffic investigation that the designation of a specific lane or lanes for the travel of vehicles required to travel at reduced speeds would facilitate the safe and orderly movement of traffic, the department or local authority may designate a specific lane or lanes for the

travel of vehicles…(b) Any trailer bus and any vehicle subject to the provisions of Section 22406 shall be driven in the lane or lanes designated pursuant to subdivision (a) whenever signs have been erected giving notice of that designation. Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision, when a specific lane or lanes have not been so designated, any of those vehicles shall be driven in the right-hand lane for traffic or as close as practicable to the right edge or curb. If, however, a specific lane or lanes have not been designated on a divided highway having four or more clearly marked lanes for traffic in one direction, any of those vehicles may also be driven in the lane to the immediate left of that right-hand lane, unless otherwise prohibited under this code. When overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction, the driver shall use either the designated lane, the lane to the immediate left of the right-hand lane, or the right-hand lane for traffic as permitted under this code.

This subdivision does not apply to a driver who is preparing for a left- or right-hand turn or who is entering into or exiting from a highway or to a driver who must necessarily drive in a lane other than the right-hand lane to continue on his or her intended route.

 

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SECTION 10: BACKING UP SAFELY

You back your vehicle everyday, usually without thinking of it as a risky maneuver. But your driveway is the single area that your vehicle

regularly shares with your children and pets, with toys, garbage cans, tools, and other inanimate objects. Backing out of it also puts you in proximity to pedestrians, bicyclists and other unprotected individuals. Additionally, people around a parked vehicle seldom pay attention to it, making them less than alert to potential danger. Finally, backing-up itself is one of the few maneuvers that must be executed with less than a clear field of vision.

A. Check Behind the Vehicle Before Getting In

Make a habit of walking around your vehicle to make certain that your backing path is safe. Only then should you get into your vehicle.

1. Children

If you see children playing in the area – or even if you think children might be playing in the area – check your vehicle and the driveway from every angle. If another adult is present, station them outside the vehicle while you are backing. A quick honk also signals children and pets that your vehicle is now occupied. When you are sure it is safe to back down the driveway, back very slowly with your foot covering the brake. Keep your window rolled down and listen for the presence of people around you.

2. Small Objects

In residential areas, children may leave bikes wagons, skateboards, and other toys on a driveway. Always survey your backing path before you enter your vehicle.

B. Visibility and Body Posture

1. Body Posture While Steering

Your margin of error is small when you are backing, because whatever happens will happen in close quarters. Do not back-up looking forward and guiding yourself with your mirrors. Mirrors do not give reliable information as to what is directly behind you. When backing to the left, look through the left side windows (front and rear). However, since most street traffic approaches from your right, avoid looking over your left shoulder for a long period of time. Make sure that your last look is to your right.

2. Head Position While Steering

Backing in a straight line, turn your head enough so that both eyes are aimed out the back window. Your left-hand should be placed on top of the steering wheel. If you intend to back to the left, turn your head and look through the left rear window and left side window placing your right hand on the top of the steering wheel. You may have to twist your head and body to look over and around the vehicle headrest.

C. Speed Control

1. Release of Brake Pedal

After you have checked for traffic and other hazards, release the brake pressure and allow your vehicle to move slowly, with your foot poised

over the brake pedal. When the way is clear, accelerate gently.

2. Backing Speed

Begin by backing your vehicle at about the same speed that you would walk (three to five mph). This also happens to be near idle speed, give or take. However, if you intend to use idle speed, keep in mind that your vehicle idles faster when it is first started.

D. Steering

1. Sharp Turns

When backing out of a spot that requires a sharp turn, such as out of a parking lot space, the front of your vehicle will swing sharply in the opposite direction. Be careful, because you risk striking the vehicle next to you with your front fender. 

2. Backing Around a Corner

When you are backing and turning around obstacles – such as backing around a blind corner – as much as half of your vehicle will

be exposed in the line of traffic before you can see clearly in either direction. A magician was driving down the road...and then he turned into a driveway.... Back very slowly; give a quick honk. Back a short distance, and then pause for unseen traffic and/or pedestrians to clear. Continue this practice until you have a clear field of vision to complete the maneuver.

E. When Movement is Constricted

1. Use Mirrors and Passengers to Help Navigate

In areas with lots of traffic such as busy shopping centers, parking lots, ask passengers to assist you. Position them outside your vehicle so that they are visible to you in your mirrors. Remind them that if they look into your mirrors from outside your vehicle and cannot see you, then you cannot see them either. Again, backing with only your mirrors for guidance is a bad idea. The line of sight through your rearview mirror is particularly limited, so don't forget to use your side view mirrors in tandem with your rearview.

2. Whenever Possible, Avoid Backing

Particularly for larger vehicles backing is a persistent cause of collisions and mishaps. Drivers of large vehicles are instructed never to back-up unless they are bringing their vehicles in for unloading. You should follow that advice. If you miss a turn, go around the block (in the city) or the next exit (freeway).

3. Find Parking Spaces that Do Not Require Backing

In less busy parking areas, you may find enough open spaces so that you can drive through a parking space into an open space directly forward, thus allowing you to pull forward out of the space when you leave. Also, available end spaces allow for forward exit. However, since most lots are configured for one-way traffic down alternate rows, in either of the above cases you will usually be pulling out into the opposite direction of the flow of traffic. This requires you to be alert to vehicles coming from odd directions. Do not pull out until you have a clear path, particularly since you will often have to make a sharp turn – sometimes even a three-cornered turn – to get into the proper direction of traffic flow.

 

 

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Intersections are full of activity and potential problems to look out for...they fracture your attention and require special focus.

SECTION 11: INTERACTING AT INTERSECTIONS

Interacting at intersections forces you to split your focus in several directions, and to look and listen for a variety of safety cues. It can be very confusing...and when you are confused, that is the time to slow down and clear your head. Whatever decisions you make, remember to clearly signal your intentions to other drivers. A few

other things to keep in mind:• Plan your trip ahead of time, particularly if you are on a deadline, and particularly if you are driving in a strange area;• Consult a map before you set out. Mark it up if necessary, and even write-out directions. Note one-way and/or two-way streets around your destination, so that you do not get turned around;• Use passengers as navigators whenever possible. Make sure they inform you of your turns well before you arrive at them.• If you find yourself approaching an intersection, and you are three lanes away from the lane you need to be in, don't panic. Drive to the next intersection and back-track. If you must make the turn, do it calmly. Merge deliberately and slowly, and always signal your intentions.

Identifying an Intersection

Intersections are where roadways cross one another. By definition, these crossings can be primary and secondary roadways, or any combination of primary and secondary roadways. Intersections are made up of a minimum of two crossing roadways, although three or more roadways may cross at an intersection. Traffic may flow at a minimum in two directions

(intersecting one-way streets, with no turns allowed) up to 16 directions (intersecting two-way streets with right and left turns allowed from all directions). Intersections can be improved or unimproved, or a combination; marked or unmarked; controlled or uncontrolled (by traffic signs or lights). Look for the following seven clues to upcoming intersections.

• Traffic signals• Stop signs• Cross traffic• Vehicles stopped ahead or on cross streets• Vehicles making right and left turns• Pedestrians waiting at intersections• Absences of parked vehicles

California Vehicle Code: Intersections – Proceeding Straight, Turning, and Signaling

Intersection Defined (365 VC)

An "intersection" is the area embraced within the prolongation of the lateral curb lines, or, if none, then the lateral boundary lines of the roadways, of two highways which join one another at approximately right angles or the area within which vehicles traveling upon different highways joining at any other angle may come in conflict.

Regulation of Turns at Intersections (22101 VC)

(b) When turning movements are required at an intersection notice of such requirement shall be given by erection of a sign, unless an additional clearly marked traffic lane is provided for the approach to the turning movement, in which event notice as applicable to such additional traffic lane shall be given by any official traffic control device.(c) When right- or left-hand turns are prohibited at an intersection notice of such prohibition shall be given by erection of a sign.(d) When official traffic control devices are placed as required in subdivisions (b) or (c), it shall be unlawful for any driver of a vehicle to disobey the directions of such official traffic control devices.

1. Controlled

Particularly in cities, most intersections are 'controlled.' Stop signs, yield signs, traffic signals, or any conventional method (even a traffic officer) qualify as traffic control.

2. Uncontrolled

some residential areas within the city or on secondary or rural roads, you will find intersections without traffic control. These 'uncontrolled' intersections are dangerous. Right-of-way decisions are left to approaching drivers.

What do you call a fish with no eyes? A fsh. Sometimes, the most destructive collisions occur at uncontrolled intersections when negligent drivers enter them without even bothering to slow.

Skills Required for Crossing and Turning

Good judgment, patience, keen observation, and courtesy will increase your margin of safety when crossing and turning at intersections.

1. Judging Time to Make a Maneuver

Depending on the size of the intersection, you may take five-to-six seconds to cross from a complete stop. A left turn may take four-to-five seconds to complete. To make a right turn on a red light against traffic, it may take as long as five-to-six seconds to move into the flow of traffic.

2. Judging Speed and Distance of Other Vehicles

Judging the speed and/or distance of moving vehicles when you are at a stop is a matter of experience. However, there are things you can do to reduce risk. At busy hours, seek out streets controlled by traffic signals, rather than risking a left turn onto a busy street from a stop sign. Remember to judge the speed of traffic coming from the left and right when you pull across a two-way street.

3. Choosing a Gap or Space in Traffic

There is no hard rule for picking a gap in traffic, since vehicles approach at varying speeds. Generally, if you are stopped at a stop sign, it will take approximately a five-to-seven second gap in traffic in both directions to safely clear an intersection. If a vehicle were approaching at 45 mph, you would need a block in each direction to safely cross the intersection.

C. Left Turns – Protected and Unprotected

Intersections with traffic lights that include green, yellow, and red arrows in the light array are called 'protected,' because the arrows mean that oncoming traffic must stop for left-turning vehicles. In some instances – usually indicated by a sign on the light - you may still turn once the arrow disappears, if the light remains green. More often than not, however, once the green arrow disappears, you may no longer turn until the arrow cycles around again.

 This intersection provides a

protected intersection, as indicated by the illuminated green turn arrow. Vehicles 1 & 2 have the right-of-way to turn left. The illuminated red light means that oncoming vehicle 3 must stop and yield right-of-way to them.

The unprotected left turn – the turn against traffic that is not regulated by a green arrow - is a dangerous maneuver for two obvious reasons. First, the maneuver is one of the few that puts the driver directly into and through the path of oncoming traffic; and, second, the unprotected left turn requires that the driver calculate several factors in a short period of time: the duration of the traffic signal; the speed of oncoming vehicles; the distance through the danger zone, etc.

Scan for Hazards

Search the intersection well before you reach it. Scan the four corners of the intersection and identify any hazard in or near the intersection. Two snowmen are standing in a field. One says to the other: "Funny, I

smell carrots, too." Look for changing traffic signal, pedestrians in or near the intersection, bicycle riders moving along the curb.

Vehicle Position Before and After Turn

some streets there are specially-marked 'left turn' lanes in the approximate middle of the street; on some streets, not. Obviously, if there is a 'left turn' lane, position yourself in that lane before turning. Otherwise, your left turn from the inside lane (the lane closest to the middle of the street). Complete the left turn into

either lane of the cross-street that is available and it is safe.

3. When Your View is Blocked

Generally, multiple-laned two-way roadways allow turning from the inside lane(s), while through-traffic proceeds along the outside lanes. If you are turning left, vehicles in the turn lanes across the cross-street can obscure through-traffic coming at you. If this happens to you, inch out slowly with your wheels straight, and wait until the you can see a clear path before completing the turn.

Turning upon a Highway (22100 VC)

(b) Left Turns. The approach for a left turn shall be made as close as practicable to the left-hand edge of the extreme left-hand lane or portion of the roadway lawfully available to traffic moving in the direction of travel of such vehicle and, when turning at an intersection, the left turn shall not be made before entering the intersection. After entering the intersection, the left turn shall be made so as to leave the intersection in a lane lawfully available to traffic moving in that direction upon the roadway being entered, except:

(1) Upon a highway having three marked lanes for traffic moving in one direction which terminates at an intersecting highway accommodating traffic in both directions, the driver of a vehicle in the middle lane may turn left into any lane lawfully available to traffic moving in that direction upon the roadway being entered.

D. Right turns – Protected and Unprotected

A protected right turn is indicated by a right-turn arrow. You may find a protected right turn at a 'right-turn only' lane, or a lane leading on or off a freeway ramp.

1. Scan for Hazards

As you approach a busy intersection, slow down and anticipate what is happening or what might happen at the intersection. Ask yourself: Will the signal turn yellow? Why is the vehicle ahead slowing? Is that pedestrian stopping traffic? Will the bicyclist cross against the signal? Is there a problem from the vehicle making a left turn? Is the vehicle to the rear following too closely?

2. Check for Controlled Lanes and Signals

Right Turn on Red: The 'Right Turn on Red' rule permits a driver to use his or her best judgment when turning right at a controlled intersection. Remember: a right turn on red is legal only under the following conditions: you signal your intention to turn, you come to a complete stop, you yield to other users who have the right of way, there are no signs prohibiting the right turn on red, you make the turn from a lane which is legally appropriate for a right turn, and you can make the turn safely.

Scan for any restrictions on right turns. Such signs include prohibitions on 'Right Turn on Red' turns, or right turns at certain times of the day. Also, watch for 'Right Turn Only' lanes, which require you to turn even if you don't mean to turn. Some streets have signs posted that allow vehicles to make a right turn from the middle lane. Pavement marking and posted sings must be in place that allow for such turns.

 You can usually turn right on a red light if there are no prohibitive signs...but you can never turn right on a red light if - like the guy in

the picture above - you haven't made sure to yield to vehicles approaching through the green light first.

3. Vehicle Position Before and After Turn

Right turns must be made from the lane closest to the right hand curb, unless there are markings on the pavement or other signs that allow the turn to be made from a middle lane. Stay in the right lane until the turn is completed. Avoid swinging wide when turning right.

4. When View is Blocked

If your view of the intersection is blocked by natural or manmade obstacles, slow down and cover the brake as you prepare to turn right.

Turning upon a Highway (22100 VC)

…the driver of any vehicle intending to turn upon a highway shall do so as follows:(a) Right Turns. Both the approach for a right-hand turn and a right-hand turn shall be made as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway except:

(1) Upon a highway having three marked lanes for traffic moving in one direction which terminates at an intersecting highway accommodating traffic in both directions, the driver of a vehicle in the middle lane may turn right into any lane lawfully available to traffic moving in that direction upon the roadway being entered.(2) When a right-hand turn is made from a one-way highway at an intersection, a driver shall approach the turn as provided in subdivision (a) and shall complete the turn in any lane lawfully available to traffic moving in that direction upon the roadway being entered.(3) Upon a highway having an additional lane or lanes marked for a right turn by appropriate signs or markings, the driver of a vehicle may turn right from any lane designated and marked for that turning movement.

5. Use of Bike Lane for Turns

You must be within 200 feet of your turn before you can enter the bike lane. In any event, bicyclists often appear suddenly and 'as-if out of nowhere' in these lanes, and you are responsible for tracking them.

Turning Across Bicycle Lane (21717 VC)

Whenever it is necessary for the driver of a motor vehicle to cross a bicycle lane that is adjacent to his lane of travel to make a turn, the driver shall drive the motor vehicle into the bicycle lane prior to making the turn and shall make the turn pursuant to Section 22100.

E. U-turns

A 'U-turn' transitions you from traveling in one direction on a street into traveling in the opposite direction on the same street. This maneuver requires that you turn across the path of oncoming traffic. Avoid U-turns if you can just as easily drive around the block. A U-turn is legal at any intersection in the state of California, unless there is a prohibitive sign. In a residential district, you may not make a U-turn when any other vehicle is approaching from either direction within 200 feet, except at an intersection when the approaching vehicle is controlled by an official traffic control device.

1. Scan for Hazards

You should be watching cross-traffic, and oncoming traffic going through expiring lights. You should also be watching for bicyclists and pedestrians in crosswalks across which you are turning. Finally, watch for vehicles making right turns from the cross-street into the lane into which you are U-turning.

2. Check for Prohibitive Signs

Local jurisdictions have the right to prohibit U-turns. Look for prohibitive signs above the traffic signal or on the traffic signal post. Some signs might prohibit U-turns only during peak traffic hours. U-turns are always illegal:

 This driver needs to begin his u-turn from the left

lane to make it legal. Where signs ("No U-Turn") prohibit the maneuver. Anywhere that you do not have an unobstructed view of the highway and traffic upon it for at

least 200 feet in each direction. On one-way streets. In a business district,except at an intersection (Note: The CVC treats churches, apartment

buildings, multiple dwelling houses, clubs, and public buildings other than schools, as business districts.)

In a residence district when another vehicle is within 200 ft. in either direction, except at an intersection when the approaching vehicle is controlled by an official traffic control device.

On a divided highway, except where an opening has been provided. In front of a fire station.

3. Vehicle Position Before and After Turn

On a normal four-lane city street, start your U-turn from the inside lane (lane closest to the center), as if making a left turn. After all opposing oncoming traffic has passed, you can complete the turn in any lane that is available and safe.

U-turn at Controlled Intersection (22100.5 VC)

No driver shall make a U-turn at an intersection controlled by official traffic control devices except from the far left hand lane that is lawfully available to traffic moving in the direction of travel from which the turn is commenced.

U-turn in a Business District (22102 VC)

No person in a business district shall make a U-turn, except at an intersection, or on a divided highway where an opening has been provided in accordance with Section 21651. This turning movement shall be made as close as practicable to the extreme left-hand edge of the lanes moving in the driver's direction of travel immediately prior to the initiation of the turning movement, when more than one lane in the direction of travel is present.

U-turn in a Residential District (22103 VC)

No person in a residence district shall make a U-turn when any other vehicle is approaching from either direction within 200 feet, except at an intersection when the approaching vehicle is controlled by an official traffic control device.

Unobstructed View Necessary for U-turn (22105 VC)

No person shall make a U-turn upon any highway where the driver of such vehicle does not have an unobstructed view for 200 feet in both directions along the highway and of any traffic

thereon.

F. Proceeding Straight

1. Scan for Hazards

Make it a habit to use a 12-to-15 second lead time when you are driving in the city, paying particular attention to approaching intersections. Always be careful when pedestrians are in the area, and especially youngsters. Bicycle riders are hard to see since they are small compared to other vehicles on straight streets, they tend to ride close to parked vehicles. Put enough distance between you and larger vehicles in front of you so that you can see around them. Avoid following buses, trucks, and large sport utility vehicles that block other drivers' view of you. Always be aware of entrances and exits on busy streets: these areas are bottlenecks for vehicles slowing and making turns into and out of shopping centers, strip malls, and gas stations.

2. Covering the Brake

As you approach a busy intersection, suspend your brake foot over your brake (but do not put pressure on the brake). This is called 'covering the brake,' and it will give you an extra split-second to avoid trouble.

G. Signaling for Turns and Stops

1. Purpose of Signaling

Signaling alerts other drivers and pedestrians that you are about to turn or change lanes.

2. Distance Required

The law requires that you begin signaling 100 feet prior to making a right or left turn. Begin signaling earlier if you are traveling at higher speeds, or if you are being tailgated by another driver. If your signals do not work, you must use arm signals.

3. Duration of Signal

You must continue signaling until you complete your turn.

Turning Movements and Required Signals (22107 VC)

No person shall turn a vehicle from a direct course or move right or left upon a roadway until such movement can be made with reasonable safety and then only after the giving of an appropriate signal in the manner provided in this chapter in the event any other vehicle may be affected by the movement.

Duration of Signal (22108 VC)

Any signal of intention to turn right or left shall be given continuously during the last 100 feet traveled by the vehicle before turning.

Signal When Stopping (22109 VC)

No person shall stop or suddenly decrease the speed of a vehicle on a highway without first giving an appropriate signal in the manner provided in this chapter to the driver of any vehicle immediately to the rear when there is opportunity to give the signal.

Method of Signaling (22110 VC)

(a) The signals required by this chapter shall be given by signal lamp… Drivers of vehicles not required to be and not equipped with turn signals shall give a hand and arm signal when required…(b) In the event the signal lamps become inoperable while driving, hand and arm signals shall be used in the manner required…

Signaling is essential to allow other drivers to anticipate your moves and react to them. The above picture matches turn signals (circles) with their appropriate hand signals.

If you have some reason to think that your turn signals are not effectively signaling your intent, you can use the hand signals as well. But you must have your turn signals in working order and use them!

 

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SECTION 12: PASSING

The act of passing requires you to exercise good judgment. Good judgment comes from using your senses, and then applying common sense to what you see and hear…and don't second-guess yourself! If the gap ahead seems a little short for passing, it probably is.

California Vehicle Code: Overtaking and Passing

Overtake and Pass to the Left (21750 VC)

The driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle or a bicycle proceeding in the same direction shall pass to the left at a safe distance without interfering with the safe operation of the overtaken vehicle or bicycle, subject to the limitations and exceptions hereinafter stated.

A. Passing and Being Passed

1. Demands of Proper Passing

• Good judgment: Good judgment is the foundation of rapid decision making (see below). If you cannot trust your own judgment, you will either hesitate making decisions, or hesitate executing them. Practice observing the driving environment closely until you are confident that you are correctly identifying times/distances/objects/and the intentions of other drivers; observe your own responses, learn from your responses, and learn to trust your responses.

• Rapid decision-making: Get used to making the following decisions in a split-second:

• Is the road ahead clear of traffic?• Is there any problem such as a hill, curve, or intersection?• Is an oncoming vehicle too close or moving too fast or?• Do I have the speed to rapidly pass?

Use it or lose it.The answer to these questions must be: 'Yes, I'd bet my life on it.' Once you pull out and pass, the following decisions must be made in a split-second.

• Is the passing lane clear from behind, or are vehicles approaching?• Is the vehicle I am passing remaining in line?• Is my vehicle continuing to perform as I expected? (Sometimes a pass is started on a low grade, but finished on a steeper grade, which can affect the vehicle's performance.)• Are the traffic and road conditions the same as I thought them to be when I decided to pass?

B. When Passing is Authorized

Passing is always allowed under the following conditions:

• On multi-lane roadways with traffic moving in the same direction;• When broken or dashed white lines separate traffic moving in the same direction on roads with two or more lanes;• On multi-lane roadways with a solid yellow line adjacent to a broken broken

yellow line, when the broken yellow line is on your side of the roadway;

1. Designated Lane Markings

• Freeways: Freeway lanes are delineated by broken white lines. You can change lanes or pass in lanes to the right or left of another vehicle. Diamond lanes can be entered when they are delineated by broken or dashed lines. Drivers can not cross a yellow line into a diamond lane.• Two-lane Roadways: Two-lane roadways have one lane in each direction for converging traffic. Converging traffic are separated by painted lines:

Broken white lines Conditions are proper for passing

Two solid yellow lines Passing is prohibited

Solid yellow line beside a broken yellow line Passing (with caution) allowed on the side of the road with the broken yellow line

Passing on the Right (21754 VC)

The driver of a motor vehicle may overtake and pass to the right of another vehicle only under the following conditions:

(a) When the vehicle overtaken is making or about to make a left turn.(b) Upon a highway within a business or residence district with unobstructed pavement of sufficient width for two or more lines of moving vehicles in the direction of travel.(c) Upon any highway outside of a business or residence district with unobstructed pavement of sufficient width and clearly

marked for two or more lines of moving traffic in the direction of travel.(d) Upon a one-way street.(e) Upon a highway divided into two roadways where traffic is restricted to one direction upon each of such roadways.

Pass on the Right Safely (21755 VC)

The driver of a motor vehicle may overtake and pass another vehicle upon the right only under conditions permitting such movement in safety. In no event shall such movement be made by driving off the paved or main-traveled portion of the roadway.

C. When Passing is Prohibited

It is illegal to drive to the left of center on a two lane (one lane in each direction) roadway:

• When approaching the crest of a hill where your view of a vehicle approaching from the opposite direction is obstructed.• When approaching a curve in the highway where your view of a vehicle approaching from the opposite direction is obstructed. (blind curve)• When your view is obstructed upon approaching within 100 feet of any bridge, viaduct, or tunnel.• When approaching within 100 feet or

crossing an intersection or railroad crossing.

The above does not apply to a one-way roadway.When Driving on the Left Prohibited (21752 VC)

No vehicle shall be driven to the left side of the roadway under the following conditions:

(a) When approaching or upon the crest of a grade or a curve in the highway where the driver's view is obstructed within such distance as to create a hazard in the event another vehicle might approach from the opposite direction.(b) When the view is obstructed upon approaching within 100 feet of any bridge, viaduct, or tunnel.(c) When approaching within 100 feet of or when traversing any railroad grade crossing.(d) When approaching within 100 feet of or when traversing any intersection.

This section shall not apply upon a one-way roadway.

1. Designated Lane Use and Markings

Double yellow line separating oncomingtraffic Passing prohibited.

Double yellow lines with the solid linenearest the driver Passing prohibited.

Lanes with turning arrows in them Passing prohibited. • Freeways: Most freeways in California have car pool lanes that are strictly for the use of vehicles carrying two or more passengers. Car pool lane markings tend to vary slightly. Some have diamonds painted on the lane. You might see a pair of solid double yellow lines or a pair of double solid yellow lines with a single solid white line directly to the left and inside the lane. Other variations include 2 pairs of solid double yellow lines ("double-double") or a double-double with a solid white line inside. Remember that it is illegal to enter or exit a car pool lane over any of the above lane markings. You may only enter or exit over a broken white line. The only exception would be if an emergency vehicle displaying siren and lights were approaching from the rear. In this situation, after signaling and determining it is safe, a driver must exit the car pool lane over the double lines and allow the emergency vehicle to proceed ahead. Additionally, it is illegal to use the entrance/exit area of a car pool lane for passing.• Two-lane Roadways: You are prohibited from passing over solid yellow lines on two-lane roadways.

D. Special Situations

Many areas on two-lane roadways are not marked 'no passing,' but common sense dictates that passing can be dangerous.1. Without Sufficient Clearance

Never attempt to pass when you can't identify sufficient clearance, such as on a curvy road.

Passing Without Sufficient Clearance (21751 VC)

Atheism is a non-prophet organization. On a two-lane highway, no vehicle shall be driven to the left side of the center of the roadway in overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction unless the left side is clearly visible and free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance ahead to permit such overtaking and passing to be completely made without interfering with the safe operation of any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction.

2. On a Hill

It is illegal to drive on the left side of the road (as in attempting to pass another vehicle) when driving on the crest of a grade where the driver's view of the possible approach of another vehicle from the opposite direction is obstructed. If you are passing a slow-moving vehicle traveling 20 mph miles or less on a grade or hill, you should ideally pass at a speed of at least 10 mph faster than the vehicle you are overtaking – without exceeding the speed limit. In other words, if the grade is so steep that you can not coax another 10 mph out of your vehicle, you should not attempt to pass.

Passing on Grades (21758 VC)

In the event any vehicle is being operated on any grade outside of a business or residence district at a speed of less than 20 miles per hour, no person operating any other motor vehicle shall attempt to overtake and pass such slow moving vehicle unless the overtaking vehicle is operated at a speed of at least 10 miles per hour in excess of the speed of the overtaken vehicle, nor unless the passing movement is completed within a total distance not greater than one-quarter of a mile.

3. Intersections or Railroad Crossing

It is illegal to drive on the left side of the road (as in attempting to pass another vehicle) when approaching within 100 feet or traversing an intersection or railroad crossing. A doctor gave a man six months to live. He couldn't pay his bill, so the doctor gave him another six months.

 You cannot enter a

diamond lane to pass.

4. School Bus

When approaching from either direction a school bus that is stopped for the purpose of loading or unloading children (the bus will be displaying flashing red lights and a stop signal arm) drivers must stop their vehicles before passing the bus and remain stopped until the flashing red lights and stop signal arm have been deactivated.

The exception to the above rule would be when driving on a divided or multi-laned highway. In this situation, a driver need not stop upon approaching a school bus that is stopped on the other roadway in the opposite lanes. But a driver would still be required to stop if driving on the same roadway as the school bus, approaching the school bus from behind.

5. Bridges or Abutments

It is illegal to drive on the left side of the road (as in attempting to pass another vehicle) when your view is obstructed upon approaching within 100 feet of a bridge, viaduct or tunnel.

E. Dangerous Passing Situations

1. Long Line of Cars Ahead

Never pass more than one vehicle at a time. Wait your turn, pulling out into the passing lane only after those in front of you have had a chance. If you pull out to pass someone who seems to be a 'reluctant' passer, be very alert that they do not reconsider at the last instant and pull into your vehicle.

You cannot pass within 100 ft of a bridge or a railroad crossing.

2. Intention to Stop or Turn

The location of crossroads on two-lane highways can be unpredictable, and the crossroads themselves may be difficult to spot. Furthermore, much of the traffic on two-lane roads is local. Prior to passing, be alert for drivers ahead who are turning left, or drivers pulling out of the side roads into traffic. Signal your own intention to turn early.

3. Oncoming Vehicle Too Close

Don't even think about it...you're risking a head-on collision.

4. Car Ahead Is At or Near The Speed Limit

It is illegal to exceed that speed limit even briefly while passing. If you are keeping-up with the vehicle in front of you, and you both are at or near the speed limit, you are prohibited from passing by the speed laws.

5.Sight Distance Ahead is Limited

When you decide to pass, you need time and distance to pull out, accelerate, and travel well beyond the vehicle you are passing before pulling back into line. The doctor says: "You'll live to be 60!" I said: "I am 60." "See, what did I tell you?" he says. This can be a long or short distance, but if you can't see clear passing ahead for at least that distance, don't pass.

6. Maneuver Cannot be Completed before Reaching a 'No Passing' Zone

'No Passing' zones are sometimes marked with a sign prior to reaching them. Even if they are not, they are always marked with yellow lines. Do not pass if you cannot complete the pass before entering a 'No Passing' zone.

F. Passing Potential

Consider the following when assessing the potential for safe passing:

• The distance and speed of the oncoming vehicles• Speed of the vehicle that will be passed• Time it will take to pass• Your speed• Type of road and conditions – hill, curves, grave, wet, and fog

1. Identify Passing Situations

• Passing maneuver times: Ideally you should pass at a minimum of 10 mph faster than the vehicle you are passing, while staying within the legal speed limit.• Identifying a safe distance ahead: Do not consider passing if there are hills, curves, or dips within your intended path. Any oncoming vehicle should be at least one half mile-to-one mile away. (Figure that at approximately eight city blocks to a mile, an oncoming vehicle must be at least four blocks away at normal highway speeds).• Identify an end-of-pass gap to pull back into lane: Identify the gap into which you intend to merge after passing before you pull out to pass. Never assume that a gap will miraculously open for you.• Establish a safe response for hazards: On two-lane roads, you want to have an escape route in mind, should an oncoming vehicle suddenly appear in your lane. Often this will be the shoulder opposite the line of travel.• Checking for road traction: If you must pass in uncertain road conditions, test the road surface by accelerating briefly within your lane.

G. Steps for Successful Passing

1. Scan for Hazards

• Oncoming vehicle: You should be able to complete a pass without sudden acceleration to beat an oncoming vehicle. Give yourself plenty of room.• Vehicles approaching from rear: Often in passing situations, vehicles behind you will pull out to pass before you get the chance. Don't become so intent on passing that you fail to use the rear-view mirror.

• Merging vehicles: On a freeway, vehicles often merge into the lanes of traffic from the right – or slower - lanes. Avoid passing vehicles in these slower lanes, especially near an on ramp.

2. Check for Blind Spots

Before the attempt to pass is made, check the side-view mirror and glance over your left shoulder to make sure there is no vehicle in the blind spot.  3. Signal Intent

Signal with your turn indicator to communicate that you are starting the passing maneuver.

4. Warn the Driver Ahead

Tap on the horn or flashing your lights as safety measures warning the driver ahead of your intention to pass.

5. Obtain a Speed Advantage

In your own lane, begin speeding-up toward the vehicle you are passing as soon as you've committed.

6. Re-check Conditions Ahead

Before pulling out, check conditions ahead again to ensure that the passing lane is clear. You definitely do not want to be wrong about this.

7. Create Return Space

Do not complete your pass too soon…you should be able to see both headlights of the vehicle you have just passed in your rear-view mirror before merging back into the driving lane.

8. Signal Return

Signal your intention to return into the driving lane.

9. Check For Blind Spots

As a final check, glance over your right shoulder to make sure that the driving lane is clear.

10. Create Space For Vehicle Passed

The driver being passed should not be forced to slow down or take evasive action. Leave plenty of space for him or her when returning to the lane.

H. When Being Passed

1. Safety When Being Passed

• Yielding required: If you are being passed, you must do whatever necessary to assist the passer in completing the

maneuver. Your actions can include slowing and moving to the right if the passer has mistimed the pass.• Maintaining speed: Still, the passing driver generally expects the driver ahead to maintain consistent speed. An intoxicated person puts a quarter in the parking meter and the dial goes to 60. "Huh!" he says, "I lost 100 lbs.!" When you are being passed, if there is no danger apparent, maintain your speed and lane placement. Definitely do not speed-up.

Yielding for Passing (21753 VC)

Except when passing on the right is permitted, the driver of an overtaken vehicle shall safely move to the right-hand side of the highway in favor of the overtaking vehicle after an audible signal or a momentary flash of headlights by the overtaking vehicle, and shall not increase the speed of his or her vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle. This section does not require the driver of an overtaken vehicle to drive on the shoulder of the highway in order to allow the overtaking vehicle to pass.

 

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FAQ | Student Center | Log Off

You missed the questions marked as red.

Nr Question

1 Speed limits are set based on _______ driving conditions.

2 The minimum speed limit law states that a driver _______ .

3It is a good idea to have a navigator (passenger) assist in looking for pedestrians and other vehicles.

4In the section on Proper Lane Use, the author asks: If work is so terrific, how come they have to _______ ?

5 Always survey your backing path _______ .

6 U-Turns are legal _______ .

7 A driver should give _______ of the road to an oncoming vehicle.

8When a road is too narrow for approaching vehicles to pass,________________________________________.

9On a narrow road a driver must sound his horn when approaching a curve where the view is obstructed within a distance of 500 feet.

10 All turns must be signaled continuously before the turn for at least

11 Rapid decision-making is NOT a factor in safe passing.

Driving environments, like natural environments, are ever changing..

CHAPTER 5: DRIVING ENVIRONMENTS

SECTION 13: DEMANDS OF CITY DRIVING

City driving requires something more than simple focus: It requires a persistent attention to your surroundings. Traffic patterns in cities are complicated enough; to complicate them, patterns can change seasonally (tourist inflow, etc.), daily (changing construction zones, etc.), and momentarily (local mishaps).

A. Reducing Speed

1. Allows for More Time to See Details and Identify Their Meaning

You need time to see; to absorb information; to react to information. Allow for more time to see details and identify their meaning. If a synchronized swimmer drowns, do the rest have to drown, too? This is especially true when sights and sounds are coming fast-and-furious. The only way to add time for seeing details and identifying what they are is to slow down.

An intoxicated guy goes before a judge. The judge says: "You've been brought here for drinking." The guy says: "Okay, let's get started."

2. Allows for More Time to Analyze Information and Predict What Might Happen

In the city, you should train your eyes to look 12 to 15 seconds ahead of your vehicle, giving yourself time to analyze what you are seeing. Reducing speed is a must for the same reason. Is the vehicle 20 yards ahead moving with the flow of traffic; or is it illegally parked? You do not want to arrive at the spot without knowing for certain. Slow down.

3. Allows for More Reaction Time to Decide What to Do

The time you have to react to a situation will depend on your speed. You must have time not only to identify problems, but to evade them as well.

4. Allows for Additional Time to Execute Decisions or Avoid Dangerous Situations

The more difficult an evasive maneuver, the more time it takes to formulate it in your mind, commit to it, and execute it. Driving at slower speeds adds time for executing maneuvers.

B. Looking Ahead of Traffic

1. Look Ahead for Traffic Hazards

Look ahead a block (12 to 15 seconds), scanning from sidewalk to sidewalk. Remember:

• Aim your vision high• Get the big picture• Keep your eyes moving• Make sure others see you• Leave yourself an 'out'

2. Leave Enough Distance to Maneuver

Safe drivers never get 'boxed in' by allowing vehicles to simultaneously block their sides, front, and rear. Give yourself a space cushion for maneuvering.

 

Sudden jam-ups like this are common in the city and you require space and time to identify them and avoid a collision.

3. Signal Lights

• Look ahead for signal changes: Scan ahead one block (12 to 15 seconds) searching for changing lights. You may have to slow or stop for traffic ahead of you as the traffic line gets up to speed through a new green light.• Anticipate signal changes: Many traffic signals at busy intersections have pedestrian signals. They are boxes attached to the signal with either icons indicating 'walk-don't walk,' or the words 'walk-don't walk.' If the 'don't walk' signal stops flashing, be prepared for the light to turn yellow. The yellow will usually last for three to five seconds before turning red, depending speed limit on the street.• Check for stale green lights: A stale green light is a signal that has been green for some time and is about to turn yellow. Be aware of how long the light ahead has been green, and be prepared to brake.

C. Covering the Brake; Not Riding It

When you cover your brake, you remove your foot from the accelerator and position it over the brake pedal without actually touching the pedal. This is a good practice at intersections and in stop-and-go traffic. 'Riding the brake' refers to keeping a foot on the brake heavily enough that the brake pads engage the hub. This wears out the brake system and is a bad habit. It also activates your brake lights, indicating to drivers behind that you intend to stop when in fact you don't.

1. Slow for Reduced Stopping Distance

Removing the foot from the accelerator itself slows your vehicle…a good thing if you're anticipating trouble. More important, you are already poised to step down on the brake if trouble occurs. What has four legs and an arm? A happy pit bull.

2. Situations in which Brake Pedal Should Be Covered

• Next to parked cars: Scan for exhaust, brake lights or for the left front wheel turning toward the street. Many times you can see people entering their vehicles or a person closing their car door.• When observing brake lights ahead: If you see brake lights ahead, it may mean that traffic is stopping for an unexpected reason. Cover your brake.• Approaching signal lights: Signals can change from green to yellow or red abruptly as you approach them. Cover yourbrake.

D. City Passing

Passing other vehicles on multi-lane streets is perfectly within the law. Slower traffic should move in the slower lanes and faster traffic should travel and pass on the left.

1. Passing Over the Center Line of Travel

Whenever there are two yellow solid lines dividing a city street, you cannot pass on the left. If you are making a left turn, you may turn over the yellow lines if it is not otherwise prohibited.

2. Passing In or Near an Intersection

Avoid passing when approaching an intersection, especially on a two lane street.

E. Choosing a Lane

The basic rule of lane-positioning applies to all roadways: Slower drivers in the right-hand lane and faster drivers in the left-hand lane. If you are in the left-hand lane, and a driver approaches from the rear, always move to the right-hand lane (assuming it is safe) and allow the faster driver to pass.

1. Choose a Lane Appropriate to Use

A lawyer is a man who helps you get what's coming to him. On multi-laned streets (more than three-lanes in either direction), the middle lane generally provides the safest, most unobstructed lane for travel, since left-turning or right-turning vehicles are turning from the right- or left-hand lanes respectively.

2. Choose a Less Traveled or Congested Lane Unless Planning to Turn

Sometimes the right or slower lane may move faster than the other lanes. If necessary change to a lane where traffic is moving faster. You may drive in the fast – or left lane – even if you do not necessarily want to keep up to speed, if you plan to turn left. However, do not merge left until you are near your turn (200 ft), and clearly signal your intention to turn.

F. Vehicle Position

In flowing traffic, keep your vehicle to a single lane and drive deliberately, allowing drivers around you to anticipate your moves and make room for you.

1. Keep up with Traffic Speed and Within Legal Limits

Be aware of traffic speeds. Speed up to close gaps to safe distances; but do not exceed the speed limit to do so. You can find more room slowing just as easily as you can by speeding, so consider closing gaps by moving to a slow lane.

2. Avoid Another Driver's Blind Spots

Blind spots exist as a matter of vehicle design at approximately the right and left fender of every vehicle. They are smaller on small vehicles and larger on larger vehicles. Larger vehicles may also

have a blind spot to their rear. The longer you drive in another driver's blind spot, the greater grow the odds that the driver will merge into you.

3. Avoid Letting another Driver Drive in Your Blind Spot

Not only can you inadvertently hit vehicles in your blind spot, but having them there limits your immediate escape routes. Always know where the vehicles around you are located.

4. Avoid Side-by-side Driving

Slow down or speed up to avoid being hemmed in.

5. Avoid Driving in Bunches

Driving in a bunch increases your chance of having a collision, and limits your ability to escape others' mishaps. If possible, move to lanes where you have room in front, and to the sides and rear of your vehicle.

G. Choosing a Safe Route

Nothing reduces your chances of having a driving mishap – or increases your chances of arriving safely at your destination – more than choosing the right route. The best route is often not the most direct route; nor is it necessarily the route with the most freeways. Get used to planning your route in advance, taking into consideration the following:

• number of lanes on a street• amount of congestion due to businesses• pedestrian traffic• whether the road is divided for faster movement

When traveling to an unknown destination write the address, phone number and important landmarks.

1. Time of Day and Traffic Density

Avoid traveling at particular times of day, such as rush hour. This may mean arriving at work early, or leaving late. If possible, travel to congested areas between 10:00 am to 11:30 am and from 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm.

2. Thru-streets vs. Side Streets

Whether to travel thru-streets or side streets is an age-old debate. As a rule, thru-streets – even during peak traffic – move steadily, if slowly. Side streets - although they may have less traffic during peak - often have unprotected intersections that slow you down.

3. One-way Streets vs. Two-way Streets

One-way streets generally support more traffic (have more lanes of travel in a single direction) than two-way streets. Thus they are an improvement when choosing a route.

H. Special Problems Associated with City Traffic

1. Parked Cars Hiding Cross Traffic

Be careful as you approach any line of parked vehicles for drivers exiting them, for vehicles emerging from driveways, and/or for pedestrians darting into traffic.

2. Detour in Lane of Travel

Street construction or double-parked vehicles are two hazards that drivers must contend with in city driving. Look for cues ahead that alert you to blocked lanes, such as orange signs in the lane, brake lights, and vehicles merging out of the lane of travel.

3. Two-way Left-turn Center Lane Use

Center turn-lanes enhance the flow of traffic by allowing drivers turning left to get out of the line of traffic. However, they may also present a hazard, should drivers carelessly turn across the traffic flow. If you need to turn left, you can merge into the center lane a maximum of 200 feet before you must turn. Be aware that – as you merge into the turn-lane - other drivers turning left and/or drivers turning from a side street into your direction of travel may appear abruptly in your path in the center lane.

 

This unexpected detour is a common sight on city streets. They cause traffic jam-ups for the unsuspecting, and once you're caught it's too late to get out of the way. Look ahead

in traffic for them.

4. Turning at Corners

Intersections are where most collisions occur on city streets. When approaching an intersection, watch for drivers:

• Not turning into the correct lane (right lane into the right lane and left lane into a safe lane)• Running red lights as oncoming vehicles turn left• Stopping suddenly in front of you (often from pedestrians blocking the path of travel)

 Two-way left-turn center lanes present special problems that can only be

resolved by common sense and good judgment. Vehicles traveling in opposite directions may enter the lane at any time to turn off the main thoroughfare, and

vehicles may enter from side streets traveling in either direction. Be patient, wait your turn, and be observant. Remember: you can only drive 200 ft. in the

center lane.

5. Driving on One-way Streets

One-way streets tend to move more vehicles at higher speed with less conflict than two-way streets.

• Identifying • One-way sign with arrows posted• Only broken white line pavement markings• No yellow dividing lines• Parked vehicles facing the same direction on both sides of the street

• Entering: When making a right turn onto a one-way street, turn from the lane closest to the right curb. You can finish the turn in any lane that is open and safe. When making a left turn onto a one way street from a one-way street, turn from the farthest left lane and turn into any lane that is open and safe. You can turn left on a red light from a one-way onto another one-way street. When turning left from a one-way street onto a two-way street, make certain to pass across the yellow center lines into your lane of travel.

 One-way streets would seem to be more efficient to use...and they are. But

they present their own challenges: mainly staying alert to pedestrians,

bicyclists, and erratic lane changers • Speed: Keep up with traffic on one-way streets. On the other hand, avoid exceeding the speed limit, since traffic on streets without oncoming traffic tends to move at higher speeds.• Lane choice: Choose your lane on a one-way street by the distance you plan to travel. Long distance travel on a one-way usually dictates traveling in the center lane(s).• Exiting: It is best to move into the correct lane at least one block before you plan to make a left or right turn. Drive in the outer lanes prior to turning.• Dealing with wrong-way drivers: If you notice a vehicle turning onto a one-way street in your direction, sound your horn, flash your lights, and quickly move into a safe lane. Pull to the side and stop if possible.

6. When and Where to Expect Pedestrians and Bicyclists

Bicyclist can ride their bicycles on either side of the street on a one-way street. Thus, watch for them whenever you are in an outside lane. Also, if you park on a one-way street, watch for bicyclists before opening your door to exit your vehicle. An unbreakable toy is useful for breaking other toys.In the case of both bicyclists and pedestrians, one-way traffic puts them at a disadvantage crossing the street, because of the lack of a center turn lane as a refuge. That can make them unpredictable. Watch for them anywhere.

 

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SECTION 15: DEMANDS OF DRIVING ON AN OPEN HIGHWAY

On an open highway, expect the unexpected.

A. Areas of Potential Hazards

1. Unmarked Farm and Field Driveways

Farm and field driveways are seldom marked and often difficult to spot. These driveways can and will be found at any and all points on open including in blind curves and on hillsides. Farm vehicles enter and exit these areas at near-zero mph.

Crossing Areas

Livestock crossing areas are usually marked by 'Livestock Crossing' signs. When you see a sign and there are animals in the crossing, you must grant the right-of-way to the livestock. Furthermore, it is illegal to frighten animals or livestock in a crossing by honking or any other means.

3. Rough Road Conditions

Many roads in rural areas are poorly maintained. Watch for gravel, dust on the pavement, and/or potholes. Deja Moo is the feeling that you've heard all this bull before.

4. Unmarked Shoulders

Unmarked shoulders may be interrupted by storm drains or ditches that can cause a vehicle to swerve suddenly or flip over.

5. Roadside Stands or Gas Stations

Fruit stands, gas stations, and other small rural businesses may appear unexpectedly at any and all points along the highway. They may lack signage and/or be partially hidden. Daylight Savings Time: Why are they saving it and where do they put it? Often their driveways are graveled, and allow little room for maneuvering. They're often popular gathering places for locals, and can be quite busy. Watch for vehicles entering and exiting these places.

 

On roads with no shoulders, slow down and keep observant. Have a sense of an escape route should something happen.

B. Other Users of the Roadway

Most of the items consumed and produced in the countryside are trucked in on the open highway. Trucks travel slowly because of the terrain, reduced space, and reduced speeds. Near the summit of a steep or long hill, a truck may be traveling so slowly as to be virtually stopped. If you approach from behind at high speed, you will be on them before you know it.

• Speed: Large commercial trucks will often range in speed from 'below the speed limit' to 'way below the speed limit.' Do not tailgate, honk at them, or harass them.

• Passing

• Passing a large truck takes longer than passing other types of vehicle.

• When passing or being passed by a large truck, strong air currents may cause your vehicle to suddenly move sideways.

• Passing a large truck in a heavy rain is made more dangerous by side streams of water thrown off by the trucks wheels, which can obscure your vision.

moving Vehicles

traffic on open highways is local: slow-moving farm vehicles, delivery service, and short-trip drivers.

• Speed: Farm tractors and road maintenance vehicles usually travel at 25 mphroadways. They are distinguished by orange safety signs or red flags attached to the rear of vehicle. When you see such signs or flags ahead, begin slowing immediately, because you will close with the vehicle very quickly.

• Clearance: Farm implements such as harrows or plows are not designed forhighways. Give them wide clearance when you pass them.

While you are paying particular attention to 'cattle crossing' and 'horse crossing' signs, don't forget that rural areas are variety of domestic pets and undomesticated animals as well.

• Unexpected: High speed collisions with large - or medium-sized animals are always destructive. At the very least, they destroy the animal. Such a collision usually causes major

damage to your vehicle as well; and, if you lose control of the vehicle, you may do damage to yourself and/or your passengers. In the worse case, vehicles swerving to avoid animals have

been known to cross the centerline of the roadway and collide head-on with oncoming vehicles

 

If you are traveling too fast to allow the animal to move off or for you to move around it safely, the rule of thumb is this: Protect yourself first. Traveling in a straight line through the animal is safer at high speed than swerving to avoid it. If you kill an animal, stop, move it off the roadway, and attempt to contact local animal control or law enforcement. If you injure the animal, leave it alone, since injured animals can be dangerous. Attempt to contact local animal control or law enforcement.

• Passing: If you can pass an animal, slow down so as not to spook it, and then move cautiously around it.

 

C. Environments

Open highways with diverse terrain increase the number of judgments and adjustments you must make.

almost never encounter a high-speed blind curve except on an open highway. When you encounter one, move your vehicle to the right, away from the center line.

• Speed and braking: Always slow as you approach a curve. Then pick up speed as you come out of the curve. Before you enter the curve, try to assess whether the curve is banked or flat. Banked curves allow for a steadier safer speed than a flat curve.

• Hazards: When you are traveling into a blind curve, always be aware that your time and ability to react to a hazard is limited by your visibility and by the centrifugal forces acting on your vehicle.

• Be prepared for an oncoming vehicle that may drift into your lane.

• Be prepared for a bad road surface, which can affect your traction.

• Be prepared for any obstacles in the road.

• Shifting gears: When traveling downhill, downshift your transmission to control your speed. This reduces wear and tear on your brakes, wheels, and tires.

• Visibility and speed: Reduce your speed as you approach the top of a hill, taking care not to drive so fast that you cannot stop within the distance that you can see. Drive to the outside of the lane to avoid any vehicle opposite you passing near the crest of the hill.

• Brake failure or overheating: Going downhill, watch your speedometer to make certain that your speed does not gradually build to the point that you are out of control. Again, use your transmission to slow your vehicle, thus avoiding brake failure. When you must apply the brakes, use light, intermittent brake pressure.

Long steep uphill grades can tax your engine and cause overheating. Before setting out, check

your coolant level. If your temperature gauge indicates that your engine is heating up, pull off road

at a safe spot and allow it to cool.

3. Mountain Driving

Mountain driving requires complete concentration and all your driving skills. Often these roads are curved, narrow, and steep, putting severe strain on both your nerves and your vehicle's engine. Road surfaces can be eroded due to frequent freeze/thaw cycling – not to mention slick and icy. Elevation gain can turn a light rain into a blinding whiteout. Also, mountains sometime create their own weather patterns…so that a clear day in the valley may become a stormy one above.

• Vehicle condition: Most vehicles in good operating condition have the power, stopping ability, and cooling system to handle mountain driving. However, a badly maintained vehicle – particularly one with suspect brakes and/or cooling system

and/or an underperforming engine – should be kept out of the mountains.

• Speed: Most mountain roads have posted speed limits, particularly for tight curves. Most important, be prepared for the mountain itself to determine your speed. Road

and driving conditions change so quickly, and vary so much on a mountain,depending on posted speeds to keep you safe is suicidal.

• Allowing for other vehicles to pass: If a following driver seems to be impatient, move to the right and let the driver pass. Also, any driver may use a turn-out if vehicles behind want to pass. Remember, when five or more vehicles line up behind a slow-moving vehicle, the slow-moving vehicle must pull over and allow them to pass.

• Passing slower vehicles: If your path is clear and you are in a passing zone, you may pass uphill. However, it takes more time and distance to pass uphill. Pass only if you are sure it is safe…and be patient.

Problems at High Altitude 

• Overheating: Driving in the mountains can cause your engine to overheat. It can be caused by the stress of working-up a steep grade, by too little anti-freeze, by a broken fan belt, by the heat of a warm day, or by some combination of these . Still, overheating can lead to serious engine damage. When driving in the mountains,

frequently check your temperature gauge. If the vehicle is overheating – if your temperature gauge suddenly spikes, or you smell or see steam coming from the front of the vehicle - pull off the road, lift the hood, and allow the vehicle to cool. Often this will solve the overheating problem. If not, be prepared to wait for assistance. Dodrive the vehicle if the engine is above a safe temperature.

• Vapor lock: When a gas bubble forms in the fuel line it can block the flow of fuel, causing the engine to run unevenly or even to stall. This is called 'vapor lock.' If you experience vapor lock, pull off the road and wait for a few minutes or more. The problem will often resolve itself as the outside temperature acts to equalize pressures in the fuel line.

D. Meeting or Approaching Other Vehicles on Open Roadways

1. Meeting Lines of Cars

When a long line of vehicles approaches you on an open highway, one of the vehicles may pull out to pass. Be prepared. Recognize this situation and be being ready to pull off the road onto the shoulder. Have you ever stopped to think and forgotten to start again?

2. Meeting at Hilltops

Optics – the interaction of exterior light and the eye that produces images – can be tricky near a crest, skewing the appearances of grades and distances. There may be less distance between you and an oncoming vehicle than you think.

3. Meeting at Night

If you are driving through the mountain darkness and you meet an approaching vehicle, always dim your lights within 500 feet of the vehicle if they are on high-beam. If you are blinded by the high beam lights of an oncoming vehicle, slow down, flick your high-beams, and move to the right.

4. Meeting Slow-moving Vehicles

When you approach a slow-moving vehicle from the opposite direction, be alert. If the driver behind the slow-moving vehicle decides to pass, you will need to move quickly onto the shoulder to avoid a head-on collision.

Conditions

Roads

road can pull the steering wheel out of your grip. Your vehicle can bounce so you lose contact with the road surface altogether.

water or any substance placed between the road and your tires significantly traction and increases stopping distance. These substances are abundant on open

Road

highways often lack wide and/or well-surfaced shoulders. Particularly near drop-offs, drive slowly into blind curves and sound the horn within 200 feet of the roadway on a steep grade is too narrow to allow two-way traffic, the driver

traveling downhill must yield to the uphill driver.

4. Field of View

Madness takes its toll...please have correct change. On many narrow roads, your field of view is limited to the road corridor itself by trees, hills, and other natural obstructions. Expect the unexpected emerging from these roadside blinds.

5. Line of Sight

Meanwhile, your line of sight is limited by curves, hill crests, etc. Never overdrive your line of sight.

 

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SECTION 16: HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS

A. Driving in the Fog

Fog usually appears at first as a white wall or bank. The instant you see such a wall, reduce speed. Fog often appears in patches, so when you drive out of one patch, be prepared for the next.

1. Obtaining Maximum Visibility and Reducing Glare

Fog is at its most dangerous at night, when it 'throws back' or reflects your headlights at you.

 

• Appropriate use of headlamps: Always use low beam headlights driving through fog, which reduces glare.

• Fog lights Fog lights enhance your ability to see in a fog. However, they must be mounted no less than 12 inches, not more than

30 inches, off the ground.

• Windshield wipers and defrosters: Replace windshield wipers before the rainy season starts for effective, non-streak cleaning. Also, your defroster is effective for preventing fog from condensing on your windshield, so keep it operational.

B. Speed Control in a Fog

1. Reduce Speed but Keep Moving When Entering a Fog

When you enter a fog, reduce your speed – perhaps by as much as half - to prevent overdriving your headlights. However, avoid the temptation to

stop, because you can be rear-ended by vehicles behind you.

2. Watch for Slow-moving Vehicles Ahead

In a fog, it is difficult to tell whether the taillights you're seeing belong to a slow-moving vehicle, or whether the vehicle is actually stopped. Cover your brake until you are certain.

3. Look in the Rearview Mirror for Approaching Vehicles

If you must slow suddenly, tap your brake to warn vehicles approaching you from the rear. If you must stop, turn on your emergency flashers prior to stopping, and leave them on until you are moving again.

C. When Your Vehicle Stalls

1. Move Off the Roadway Quickly

Usually there is some warning that your vehicle is about to stall, such as a sputtering engine. When this happens, move off the roadway as quickly as possible.

2. Move Away from the Vehicle

Exit your vehicle from the passenger-side door. If you check your engine, check it from the off-road side of the vehicle. You are better off, however, staying away from the vehicle altogether. If possible, move to the other side of a guardrail or to the unpaved portion of the roadway. Never try to cross lanes of the freeway for help. Wait for police to assist you.

3. Restricted Use of Flashers or Flares

Emergency flashers, reflective triangles, or flares are important in preventing your stalled vehicle from being struck. On high-speed roads, triangle or flares should be placed at least 50 feet from the vehicle so that approaching vehicles are forewarned. Beware that intoxicated drivers tend to focus on the flashing lights, and may be drawn to your flashers. Keep an eye out for erratically driven vehicles approaching from the rear.

 

If you have vehicle problems in the fog, pull to the side of the road and stay with your vehicle. If you go looking for help in a dense fog, it's easy to wander onto the roadway

and get a nasty surprise.

D. General Tips

1. Listen for Traffic You Cannot See

Diplomacy is the art of saying 'nice doggie' until you find a rock. In heavy fog where visibility is limited, listen for sounds of approaching vehicles.

2. Avoid Crossing Roadways

Find and use signal-controlled intersections. If you must cross the roadway in a fog, again, listen for the sounds of an approaching vehicle.

3. Avoid Passing a Line of Cars

Never attempt to pass a line of vehicles in a fog. If you must travel in hazardous conditions, leave yourself more time to arrive at your destination.

4. Postpone Your Trip

Your best option is to postpone your trip until weather conditions improve.

5. Keep Headlights and Taillights Clean

Particularly when driving into hazardous conditions, keep your vehicle in good working order, and keep headlights and taillights clean. Road dirt and grime from ice and snow will greatly reduce visibility.

E. Driving on Slippery Surfaces

1. Obtaining Maximum Visibility

In slippery conditions, the limits of visibility may mean the difference between hitting a patch of ice at high speed or avoiding it.

• Drive with headlamps on: Always drive with your headlamps on so that others see you. If you begin to slide, this will help them avoid a chain reaction collision.

• Use windshield washers to remove film: Slippery conditions are often associated with mist or road moisture that film

your windshield and - if it is cold outside – can layer your windshield with ice. Keep your windshield wipers and defroster going.

F. Speed Control in Slippery Conditions

1. Keep Below Dry-road Speed

Cut the posted speed limit in half when driving in fog or on ice. Slow even more if the fog or ice worsens.

2. Entering Curves

Even at your already reduced speed, you might have to reduce speed even further when entering a curve. Be sure to avoid any sudden braking or steering maneuvers.

G. Staying on the Roadway

1. Stay on the Pavement

Stay on the paved portion of the roadway. You may be tempted to drive with two wheels on a graveled shoulder, thinking it improves traction; but you may encounter potholes, raised grates, etc.

2. Drive in the Tracks of the Car Ahead

The wheels of the vehicles in front of you can 'squeegee' away some of the water that causes hydroplaning in heavy rains, and/or break-up and melt ice or frost. Try to drive in those tracks if you can.

3. Allow More of a Space Cushion

A simple one- or two-vehicle collision in good conditions can begin 'chain reactions' involving dozens of vehicles in hazardous conditions. Avoid this by increasing the distance between you and the vehicles around you

4. Avoid Sudden Movements

Any sudden acceleration, braking, or steering can cause a vehicle to lose traction on a wet road. Give a man a fish and he will eat for one day. Teach him how to fish and he'll sit in a boat and drink beer all day.

H. Driving Through Deep Water

Avoid driving through water. If you can't avoid it, remember the following.

1. Do Not Overload the Rear

Distribute passenger and cargo as evenly as possible in your vehicle. If the rear of the vehicle is overloaded, deep water can cause the front end to rise, reducing your ability to steer..

2. Shift to a Lower Gear

Drive through unavoidable water at a very slow speed in low gear. The more you disturb the water, the more likely you are to splash it into places it shouldn't be, such as the electrical and/or brake systems. When you emerge, pump your brakes to test them for grab. If their stopping ability is compromised by water, drive slowly and continue pumping them lightly until they dry.

I. Hydroplaning

When you drive too fast on rain-laden roadways – especially if you have bad tires – your vehicle can lose contact with the road surface and surf the water on the roadway. This is called hydroplaning. Drivers have described the action of hydroplaning as '…like moving on Jell-O...'

1. Regaining Control

 

• Take your foot off accelerator and slow down to regain traction with the road.

• Do not brake. Hard braking may cause the vehicle to skid.

J. Driving in Snow and Ice

In cold, snowy climates, one of your most effective preventative measures is warming your vehicle before starting out, which will improve its overall short-term performance (brakes, defroster, etc.).

1. Obtaining Maximum Visibility

Also before starting out, remove snow, ice, and/or street grime from headlights and taillights, and from windows, windshield and windshield wiper blades.

 Your ability to keep contact with a wet road is directly proportional to your

speed. Slow down.

 

• Appropriate use of headlamps: Drive with your headlights on. Pale winter landscapes make everything look washed out. Your headlights bring your vehicle into higher relief for other drivers to see.

• Windshield wipers and defrosters: Snowy conditions lead to condensation of moisture on glass surfaces inside the vehicle that obstructs visibility, and snow and grit on the outside of the surfaces. Make full use of your wipers and defrosters to avoid this problem.

K. Speed Control

1. Keep Below Dry-road Speed

Your traction is greatly reduced in snow, so you need to take into account road surface conditions and terrain features when setting your speed. Beauty is in the eyes of the "beer-holder." You will definitely need to keep below dry-road speed.

2. Keep Your Speed Steady

Particularly in rear-wheel drive vehicles (which include most passenger vehicles), sudden acceleration produces faster spinning of the rear wheels relative to the spinning of the front wheels. This makes your vehicle 'fishtail.' This in turn can cause a full-on skid. Keep a very steady, slow speed on an icy road.

One of the many hazards to look out for in a snowstorm is snowplows. Often, their shovels extend over the centerlines, and more than one

vehicle has hit them unawares.

3. Reduce Speed on Curves and in Shady Areas

Watch for ice on curves in the road that may be covered in shade. Bridges ice up before the road freezes. Remember: The road is more slippery at near-freezing than at much lower temperatures.

4. Maintain a Larger Space

Open up space around you, giving yourself more time to react to hazards and reducing the chances of being caught in a chain reaction collision.

L. General Tips to Avoid Skids

1. Watch for Areas Where Ice Collects

Pay particular attention to shady areas, curves, hill, bridges, and icy patches.

2. Avoid Turning or Slowing Suddenly

Slow before entering a curve in the road. Drivers are more likely to go into a skid on a curve or when changing speeds. Always avoid swerving from a straight path.

3. Avoid Applying Brakes Too Suddenly or Too Hard

This leads to skidding. If you have older (non-ABS) brakes, pump them intermittently and gently. If you have ABS brakes, do not pump them, since this reduces their effectiveness. If possible, find a dry spot on the road prior to braking to increase traction.

4. Do Not Drive on Road Edge or Shoulder

The more points of contact between your vehicle and the road surface, the less likely you are to skid; so when you put two wheels on the shoulder, you have reduced your contact points by two. Also, since shoulders of the road are not maintained during winter, ice may remain there longer than it stays on a traveled road.

5. Do Not Shift to a Lower Gear at High Speed

Shifting to a lower gear at high speed causes skidding. First slow down, then downshift.

6. When to Use Chains

Tire chains provide the best traction on snow and ice. Traction tires (either studded winter tires, or studded regular tires) are a good substitute. Both chains and traction tires are available at most tires stores, as well as many auto-parts stores. One or the other – rarely, both – are often required on steeply graded, high-elevation roads. If you do not have one or the other installed on your vehicle during storms in these areas, and you are stopped by law enforcement, you will be turned around and sent back.

If you need to chain-up, it's not necessarily fun. Still, in many conditions - especially in the mountains - you will be required to do it. Carry chains with you if you plan to drive in the mountains in snowy weather.

M. How to Stop Skidding

1. Avoid Braking Suddenly – Pump Brakes Lightly but Quickly

If you brake suddenly in hazardous conditions – and particularly if you keep your foot on the brake – your vehicle will lose traction, increasing your chances of skidding, and worsening a skid if you are in one already. Pump the brakes briskly to reduce speed (non-ABS).

2. Do Not Lift Your Foot from the Accelerator

Alternately, keep your foot on the accelerator. This keeps the engine moving. If the engine slows rapidly, it will make the skid harder to control.

3. Steer in the Direction in Which the Rear-end is Traveling

No matter what direction the rear of your vehicle is traveling during a skid, steer in that direction. This has the effect of straightening the vehicle.

 If you ever have to steer out of a skid, turning into the

4. Avoid Oversteering

The steering wheel should be turned gently to bring the vehicle out of the skid. The horse that I bet on was so slow, the jockey kept a diary of the trip. By turning the steering wheel too hard or too far - over-correcting - the vehicle will whip out of control in the opposite direction.

direction that you're already skidding is one of the scariest

things you will ever do. It feels completely wrong...because

you're already skidding in a direction you don't want to go.

But trust us, it's the only way to straighten out the vehicle

and get it under control. If you straighten the vehicle out

and then bolt into a ditch before you can stop the forward

progress of the vehicle, that's a lot better than turning away

from the skid and doing 360 degree turns into oncoming traffic.

5. Keep the Clutch Engaged

Engine compression in a manual transmission vehicle helps the vehicle slow. If you push in the clutch pedal, you disengage the engine, canceling out this benefit. Thus, in a manual shift vehicle, never depress the clutch pedal in a skid.

N. Starting Out When Traction is Poor

1. Start in a Higher Gear

By starting gradually in (D) drive, there will be very little spinning of the wheels.

2. Accelerate Gradually

Accelerate gradually, deliberately, and slowly to avoid spinning your wheels.

O. How to Rock-out when You are Stuck

'Rocking out' is a technique for freeing your vehicle if it is trapped in snow and ice. Prior to rocking the vehicle, stabilize the ground surface directly in front of the front wheels, and directly behind the rear wheels, with sand, gravel, boards, or anything handy. Then:

1. Start slowly in low gear and accelerate forward gradually until the wheels start to spin;

2. Quickly shift to reverse, allowing the vehicle to fall backward and accelerating gradually until the wheels start to

spin again;

3. Repeat the steps in rapid succession, effectively rocking the vehicle back and forth. Make sure that you keep the

vehicle moving, quickly gaining momentum with each back and forth movement.

P. Mechanical Failure

Below are some simple fixes for various mechanical failures.

1. Stuck Accelerator

1. Shift to neutral.

2. Apply the brakes.

3. Keep your eyes on the road.

4. Look for a way out.

5. Warn other drivers by blinking and flashing your emergency lights.

6. Try to drive the vehicle safely off the road.

7. Turn off the ignition when you no longer need to change direction.

2. Blowout

1. Hold the wheel tightly and steer straight ahead.

2. Slow down gradually. Take your foot off the gas pedal slowly but don't apply the brakes.

3. Slow to a stop off the road in a safe spot.

4. Apply the brakes when the car is almost stopped.

3. Brake Failure

1. Downshift to a low gear.

2. Pump the brake pedal fast and hard to build up fluid pressure. You will know in three or four pumps if the brakes

will work by whether the brake resistance stiffens at the top of its travel.

3. Intermittently pump (apply and release) the parking brake, but be ready to release it if the car begins to skid.

4. If possible, steer into bushes or something soft.

5. Sound your horn and flash your lights to warn other drivers.

6. When you no longer need to chance directions, turn of the ignition.

4. Headlight Failure

1. Try the headlights switch a few times.

2. If that doesn't work, put on the parking lights, emergency flashers, or turn signals.

3. Pull off the road as quickly as possible and leave the emergence flashers on.

5. Power Steering Failure if the Engine Dies

1. Steering will become difficult, but possible. Move to the side of the road as safely as possible.

2. Stop the car. You may have to push the brake pedal hard if your car has power brakes.

3. Restart the engine and proceed with caution.

 

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