Penguin4x4

Nope. You're not burying a dog, or nursing your wounds over something that happened. You are sharing quite simple pointless shit with us. J Technically I am nursing my wound...$109 ticket for doing 5 over on a deserted highway at 1AM. Are you fuckin serious? 109 bones and this bullshit course? Or is the course instead of 109 dollars? J plead no contest, pay 109 for the ticket and 30 dollars for ticket dismissal course, plead innocent and fight the ticket in court, or plead guilty and pay 218. If it was a state trooper he probably wouldn't have stopped me. Just had to be a sheriff's deputy...in an election year...

Nope. You're not burying a dog, or nursing your wounds over something that happened. You are sharing quite simple pointless shit with us. J Technically I am nursing my wound...$109 ticket for doing 5 over on a deserted highway at 1AM. Are you fuckin serious? 109 bones and this bullshit course? Or is the course instead of 109 dollars? J plead no contest, pay 109 for the ticket and 30 dollars for ticket dismissal course, plead innocent and fight the ticket in court, or plead guilty and pay 218.

I was wondering if he got a DUI at first. If I ever get a DUI I'm hoping the arresting officer shoots my sorry ass. Repeatedly. No excuse for that kind of reckless behavior.

Nope. You're not burying a dog, or nursing your wounds over something that happened. You are sharing quite simple pointless shit with us. J Technically I am nursing my wound...$109 ticket for doing 5 over on a deserted highway at 1AM.

An intersection is a point where any two or more roadways intersect or come together. Statistically, an intersection is one of the most dangerous locations within the highway transportation system. In 2009, about 18% of all fatal crashes in the U.S. occurred at intersections. Intersections are unforgiving environments. Traffic can be traveling 25-55 mph or faster. Often there is very little time to judge distance and make the right response. When drivers misjudge gaps, lethal outcomes result from head-on and side collisions. Intersections can be very complex and require wide visual scans of rapidly changing situations. As you approach any intersection, you will be faced with many decisions. Manage your distractions, predict the actions of other road users, signal your intentions, and focus on maneuvering through the intersection. This module is about how to approach and manage traffic conflicts that are present in intersections. Topics include: Types of Intersections Maneuvering Techniques Speed and Vehicle Position Blocked Line-of-sight Railroad Crossings There are through or cross-intersections, "T" and "Y" intersections, and traffic circles or roundabouts. Usually intersections have traffic controls to regulate traffic flow, yet some are uncontrolled. As you approach an intersection, quickly assess if the intersection is controlled or uncontrolled. Controlled intersections have signs, signals, and/or pavement markings to tell drivers what to do. The most common controlled intersection is one controlled with a stop sign. Yield signs and traffic signals are also used depending on how light or heavy the traffic flows through that particular intersection. If a signal is out on a controlled intersection, police or traffic control officials may be present to "control" traffic through the intersection. They give direction with whistles, flags, and hand signals. Obey their directions. It is illegal to disregard the direction of a traffic control official. Uncontrolled intersections do not have any traffic controls to regulate traffic. Typically uncontrolled intersections are located in rural areas or in residential neighborhoods. As you near an uncontrolled intersection, advance intersection signs may be in place to warn drivers of the approaching junction. Some advance intersection signs communicate the type of intersection you are approaching. Rotary traffic islands confuse some drivers but they actually are safer environments than cross-intersections. All traffic is going in the same direction. Judging gaps in traffic is easier and driver mistakes are typically not lethal. They present no demand to judge closing speeds of fast traffic. In a traffic island the number of potential conflict points for vehicles and pedestrians is substantially less than in a cross-intersection. There are up to 32 potential vehicle conflict points in a single-lane cross-intersection versus 8 in a single-lane roundabout. In the same cross-intersection for pedestrians, there can be up to 24 pedestrian/vehicle conflict points versus 8 in the roundabout. This is one of the reasons you will begin to see more of these intersections being incorporated into our road system in the future. As you near a controlled intersection search the entire intersection and surrounding area to identify other road users and potential conflicts: Check your lines of sight to determine if any trees, buildings, or other objects obstruct your full scanning capability. Check for markings, signs, and signals that control the traffic movement. If you need to turn, determine if turns are allowed and look for markings or advance channelization signs that give you direction on which lane you need to be in. Maintain your vehicle's position in your lane. Maneuver through the intersection only when you can do it safely. If you are turning, signal your intentions and reduce your speed. Prepare to yield to anyone that is already in the intersection. Exercise "due care" to avoid colliding with any pedestrian or other vehicle operator. At the intersection, conduct another thorough search sequence. Repeat the search sequence if you are in a busy or confusing situation. Exercise situational awareness - notice the speeds, direction, and intended maneuvers of the others sharing the intersection. If you approach a yellow or red signal in your lane, you are required to slow and stop. Check your rear-view mirror for traffic behind you. Tap the brake to communicate to drivers behind you that you are about to stop. Search for the stop line or crosswalk markings. Plan your stop before these markings or at the edge of the crossroad. Determine where you want the vehicle to go and bring your vehicle to a smooth stop. After you stop: Remain stopped and wait for the green signal. Delay your start until you are sure the intersection is clear and there are no potential red-light runners. Search left, center, right, and left again. Repeat this process if the intersection is not clear enough for you to proceed. During your search, anticipate that others might be entering your intersection after running a yellow light or because they are distracted or inattentive. Always yield to others who are already in the intersection. Do not allow the front of your vehicle to enter the intersection until it is clear. Often impatient drivers violate the right-of-way by rolling into the intersection before it is clear. How does this impact the driver who thinks they are about to lose the right-of-way? Sometimes they overcorrect and swerve into another lane. At an intersection controlled by a stop sign, yield sign, or flashing red light, yield the right-of-way to any vehicle in the intersection or vehicle approaching from across the road. Drivers may not notice uncontrolled intersections. Some uncontrolled intersections have advance intersection warning signs. Many are hidden from the line of sight. Continuous scanning is important to pick up clues that you are approaching an uncontrolled intersection. Look for changes in the environment at the edge of the roadway. Lights, mailboxes, fence corners, and parked vehicles are all indications that you are approaching an intersection. Moving traffic in the intersection has the right-of-way. When approaching an intersection, drivers must yield to any other vehicles approaching on a roadway without traffic controls. As you approach the uncontrolled intersection, adjust your speed and/or position, check for traffic to the rear, be prepared to brake, and plan an evasive maneuver if another driver pulls unexpectedly into the intersection, and into your path. When scanning, identify a large gap that gives you time to turn and accelerate to match the speed of traffic without interruption. If traffic is going fast, increase your search distance and identify a larger gap to enter. Watch for pedestrians, bicyclists, and other road users. When you enter traffic from a stopped position, always yield the right-of-way to vehicles, pedestrians, and through traffic already in the intersection or close enough to pose a hazard. Identify your path of travel. Imagine the track or line that you will be driving. Keep your eyes moving and be aware of your entire traffic situation. If your line-of-sight is obstructed in the intersection or beyond, slow down - there may be hidden hazards. If you are in traffic and other vehicles are blocking your view, re-position your vehicle or increase following distance so you can see to react. All vehicles for hire carrying passengers, all buses carrying passengers, and all vehicles carrying explosives or flammable liquids must always make a full stop at railroad tracks. These vehicles must stop no closer than 15 feet and no more than 50 feet away from the nearest rail. If you approach a railroad crossing at which a stop sign is posted, you must come to a complete stop and proceed over the tracks only after looking both ways to make sure a train is not approaching. Never assume because there is only a stop sign that the track is not used, and that a train is not coming. When you are stopped at an intersection, before entering the intersection, scan the intersecting roadways for traffic. If your view is obstructed to the left or right in any direction, your line-of-sight is blocked and risk is increased. This situation can occur when exiting parking lots with many drivers pulling out and in from all directions. SUVs or large vehicles often block your view. Also, trees and hedges are often overgrown and can block your line-of-sight. To reduce conflict at intersections with reduced visibility, proceed as if a vehicle was approaching. Stop at the stop bar, crosswalk, or before the intersection. Do not accelerate. Inch forward very slowly by easing off the brake. Approaching vehicles may honk - if your radio is on, turn it down or off so you can hear. Continue to inch forward until you can see past the obstruction and into the intersection. If another vehicle is approaching, it has the right-of-way. When your path of travel is clear, begin to accelerate and turn or go through the intersection. An intersection is a point where two or more roadways intersect. There are both controlled and uncontrolled intersections. As you near a controlled intersection, search the intersection to identify other road users. Locate traffic controls and begin to follow their direction. If you need to turn, look for special turn lanes. Reduce your speed. Yield to anyone that is already in the intersection. At the intersection, search left, center, right, and left again. If you approach a yellow or red signal in your lane, you are required to slow and be prepared to stop. After you stop, keep pressure on the brake and wait for the green signal. Remember to delay your start to avoid being struck by a red light runner. When the intersection is clear, maneuver your vehicle through the intersection. When you are stopped at an intersection, if your view is obstructed in any direction, your line-of-sight is blocked. Do not accelerate. Inch forward very slowly by easing off the brake. Continue to inch forward until you can see past the obstruction and into the intersection. If another vehicle is approaching, it has the right-of-way. When your path of travel is clear, begin to accelerate and turn or go through the intersection. Approach a railroad crossing with extreme caution. Look both ways, roll your windows down to hear, and be prepared to stop. If signal and bells are flashing and ringing, do not enter the intersection. Do not try to beat the train. Never stop your vehicle while over the railroad tracks or between the gates. Two-way roadways with a posted speed limit of 55 mph are typical in rural areas. These roads may have dangerous hills, curves and intersections. There are fewer vehicles, yet drivers travel at very high speeds. Rural roads have many unique, high-risk characteristics. In 2005, 74% of all fatal crashes occurred on two-lane, undivided roadways. These roads are dangerous because you are driving at high speeds often with only a lane marking that separates you from oncoming traffic. Typically there are fewer traffic controls. Most rural intersections are only controlled by stop signs. Occasionally, busy two-lane rural intersections are controlled by signals. This module is about the dangers and challenges of driving on two-way roadways. The topics that will be addressed include: Rural Driving Environments and Speed Roadside Hazards Driving on Hills and Mountains Curved Roadways Passing and Being Passed Rural or country driving involves unique characteristics and risk factors: Fewer intersections (many hidden or uncontrolled) Undivided, two-lane roads with oncoming traffic Limited shoulders and guardrails Wild animals Horse-drawn carriages, farm equipment, and other slow-moving vehicles Fewer vehicles, less traffic Drivers tend to travel at higher speeds with lower seat belt use Limited access to advanced medical care (in the event of injuries related to a crash, the average time to reach an emergency care facility in a rural area is 53 minutes versus 37 minutes in an urban area) Another risk associated with rural driving is boredom. When driving in the country, keep your mind focused on the task of driving. If you get bored, practice various "what-if" driving scenarios. Rural roads can be made of various materials and have many different surfaces, each with different and often low-traction conditions. Surfaces can include concrete, asphalt, brick, gravel, crushed stone, and dirt. Each of these surfaces affects traction quite differently. Rural roads can also be covered with water, wet leaves, or mud. Also, the surface might be rough, irregular (ruts) or have unexpected potholes or falling rocks. Some other characteristics of rural roads include narrow lane widths and poor lighting. Shoulders are typically small, sloped, or non-existent. This limits escape routes which are also difficult to navigate because of roadside trees, ditches, and steep embankments. When driving on rural roadways, surface and road conditions can change quickly with little warning. Be extra alert and watch for warning signs that communicate changes in road conditions. Because there are few intersections, they often appear when you do not expect them. Watch for indications that other traffic might be entering your travel path. Posted speed limits on rural roads are often higher than in urban areas; however, the older rural roads were originally designed and built for vehicles traveling at slower speeds. When you travel at higher speeds on these roads remember you will need a longer stopping distance. Your vehicle is more difficult to control and in the event of a collision the risk of you being injured is significantly higher. Adjust your speed to road and weather conditions. Listen to the sounds of your tires on the surface. If the road sounds rough or you experience difficulty with traction, slow down and be prepared to adjust your steering. Sudden changes in traction can occur when transitioning from a paved road to a dirt road and may result in a loss of control. Use low-hand steering and keep both hands on the wheel at all times. Watch for signs that warn you of an approaching intersection or curve. Do not depend on signs being there to warn you of all the hazards you will encounter. Do not drive faster than the posted speed limit or suggested warning sign. Rural hazards include hidden intersections, roadside businesses, slow-moving vehicles, oncoming traffic, pedestrians in the road or near the roadside, and animals in your path. Rural intersections are typically marked with signs and have no signals. Watch for approaching warning signs. When you see an approaching warning sign, it might be your only visual indication that the road is about to change. Be ready to respond quickly to what these signs are communicating to you. Drivers on rural roads will encounter "T" intersections, where side roads join a main road at a right angle. These intersections are dangerous because drivers traveling at high speed sometimes have difficulty seeing vehicles as they enter the road ahead. Vehicles that enter the through roadway enter very slowly and need time to accelerate to the posted speed limit. When a vehicle enters the roadway from a "T" intersection ahead of you, slow down until you are able to judge the required speed and space requirements needed to avoid a collision. Drivers will also be faced with "Y" intersections, where roadways intersect at unusual angles. "Y" intersections can be confusing, and are usually an intersection of a minor and major road. As you approach a "Y" intersection, watch for slow-moving vehicles as they enter the through road. If you are not sure which road is the through road, slow down and look for directional signs. Also, drivers entering a "Y" intersection must have more flexible neck muscles to enable them to turn their heads further to scan for intersecting traffic. Roadside traffic can enter your path quickly. When you see vehicles about to enter the road, slow down because they may enter your path. You might encounter a vehicle stopped in front of you, waiting to turn left. Do not leave the road and drive around it on the shoulder. Be patient. Communicate to traffic approaching from behind that they will need to slow and stop by tapping on your brakes. Slow-moving vehicles such as farm equipment might be blocking your path. Overtake these vehicles only if you have time and space to make a safe maneuver. If it is not safe, back off and wait; drivers of these vehicles frequently will pull over to allow backed-up traffic to pass. Exercise courtesy and patience. On rural roads, oncoming traffic might be difficult to see and the speed of these approaching vehicles might be hard to assess. Always travel with your headlights on so you can be seen. On narrow roadways, oncoming traffic might be driving in a portion of your lane. If you see this situation ahead, slow down and try not to meet the oncoming vehicle at a point where there is no shoulder. Extend courtesy and pull your vehicle over to the right edge of the roadway and gesture for the other driver to go through. Pedestrians without sidewalks and animals on the side of the road also present potential problems. Search the road as far ahead as possible and watch for these hazards. Avoid quick steering movements at high speeds. Slow when you see a pedestrian and yield the right-of-way. Look far ahead so that you have time to react and avoid these hazards. Before traveling on hills and mountains, prepare your vehicle's brakes and tires for extreme road conditions. These roads are built to follow the contour of the terrain resulting in sharp curves and very steep grades. Because of these grades and curves, drivers must travel at various speeds. Some mountain roads have curves so sharp that the roadway actually bends back in the opposite direction - this is called a switchback curve. Also, if you are being tailgated, or there is a long line of vehicles behind you, watch for turnouts and passing lanes. Pull over if you are being pressured by aggressive drivers behind you. Before leaving on your drive through the mountains, know what you are heading into. Have plenty of gas and make sure that your medications and emergency kit are with you. Avoid traveling in this terrain at night or in bad weather. Weather in the mountains can change very quickly. Tune in a local radio station to check on changing mountain weather and road conditions. In some mountainous regions a particular radio station is identified as the one to tune to for this type of information; the frequency will be displayed on informational signs along the roadway. Road conditions are also subject to change in areas where there is falling rock and in high elevations where there is snow. Before driving in the mountains, remember to think about how the altitude, motion, and potential vertigo might affect you and your passengers. Is anyone afraid of heights? If so, have them sit away from the edge of the roadway. When they look out they will be seeing the road instead of the distance below. Is anyone prone to motion sickness? Even though your safety belt holds you in position as you drive, the motion of going back and forth and up and down will pull and move you and your passengers around in their seats. Be aware that at very high elevations, above 5,000 feet, there is substantially less oxygen available and you can become tired very quickly. The lack of oxygen at high elevations can also cause shortness of breath, headache, nosebleeds, and an increase in your heart rate. The air is thinner at high altitudes and the change in oxygen levels may affect your vehicle performance. Altitude affects climbing power and you might experience slow acceleration. Because liquids boil and evaporate easier, your engine may overheat. If your temperature light comes on, pull over and let the engine cool off. Turn on the heater to help circulate hot air away from the engine. When you shut off the overheated engine, gasoline can vaporize in the fuel line (this is called "vapor lock"). Allow your engine to cool off and then try to restart it. If you plan to drive in the mountains frequently, have a mechanic adjust your engine for maximum performance in high altitude conditions. This will prevent a condition that will keep your engine from starting until it cools down. As you go into a curve, you can feel centripetal force pulling you toward the outside of the curve. If you are going left, it will pull you to the outside edge of the roadway. If you are going right, centripetal force will pull your vehicle to the center of the road, or possibly into an oncoming traffic lane. Curved roadways vary by the degree of the curve and the slope of the roadway. To maintain traction on a flat road, drive slowly through the curve. A crowned roadway is higher in the center for water drainage. A left curve on a crowned road that is not banked is very dangerous and should be approached with reduced speed. The surface condition can also vary and affect how you need to adjust your speed or position. Watch for advance warning signs that communicate a curve and the suggested speed. These speeds are designated for ideal conditions. Adjust your speed so you enter the curve no faster than the sign indicates. Enter the curve slower than the posted speed if there is reduced traction or visibility. Look ahead for oncoming vehicles entering the curve too fast. Be prepared for an oncoming vehicle to take the curve wide - plan to reposition your vehicle or visualize an escape route. You may be forced to take evasive action. After passing the sharpest point (apex) in the curve, accelerate gently. Stay to the right of your lane while driving through the curve. When you are through the curve, accelerate to a safe speed. Enter a curve slower than the posted speed if: Your vehicle is tall, has a high center of gravity, or if it has substantial weight loaded high Road conditions are slippery or if surface traction is less than ideal You are entering a blind curve that you cannot see around If you are traveling where there are tight curves that you cannot see around, stay to the right and tap your horn before entering the “blind” curve. Tapping on the horn warns traffic ahead that you are about to enter the curve. This is important when sharing the road with vehicles such as RVs that need to make wide turns to maneuver around tight curves. In this situation, be sure your audio system is off so you can hear other drivers if they signal to you with their horns. Be prepared to stop and yield the right-of-way to other vehicles that are using your lane as they maneuver through a blind curve. You may not pass another vehicle when approaching the crest of a grade or upon a curve in the highway, specifically where your view is obstructed so that it creates a hazard if another vehicle approaches from the opposite direction. Passing is one of the most dangerous maneuvers drivers perform. Did you know there are more than 3,000 head-on crashes every year? In 2009, 75% of all fatal crashes occurred on two-lane, undivided roadways. Make the decision to pass only if it is legal, safe, and beneficial. Most roads have pavement lane markings that indicate whether you may or may not pass. It is illegal to pass when there is a solid line on your side of the road. Passing is permitted if there is a broken line on your side of the road and there are no oncoming vehicles in the passing lane. Passing another vehicle on a two-lane roadway requires you to quickly make critical time, space, and visibility decisions. Judging the speed of other vehicles accurately is one of the most difficult skills in driving. You probably know that it takes more than five to seven seconds to pass another car even if it is traveling slowly. You will need about 10 to 15 seconds to pass another car traveling 30 mph. Did you know that at highway speeds, traveling at 60 mph, you will need about 20 seconds to pass another car traveling 50 mph? During that time you will travel almost 1,800 feet, the length of six football fields! It is critical that you make sure no vehicles are approaching in the oncoming traffic lane and you have enough space to pass safely. When oncoming traffic is present you will need twice as much space. In the situation above you will need about 3,600 feet of clear space - a little over two-thirds of a mile! Many head-on, passing crashes occur because drivers fail to see and accurately judge the speed and distance of approaching vehicles. When you see oncoming vehicles getting closer, it is too close for you to start the pass. Check driveways and side roads ahead to make sure no traffic will be entering the roadway. In the interest of self preservation, you must judge if you have enough room to pass when you approach large vehicles, hills and curves, intersections, and restricted lanes. Passing larger vehicles requires more time and space. At highway speeds of 60 mph you will need an additional five to seven seconds to pass a large vehicle such as a tractor-trailer truck or bus traveling 50 mph. During the 25 to 27 seconds needed to complete the pass safely you will travel 2,250 feet to 2,450 feet. And remember, if oncoming traffic is also traveling 60 mph, you will need almost one mile of clear space in the opposing lane. Hills and curves: When your vision is limited by a hill or curve, assume that an oncoming vehicle is just out of sight and do not pass! Hills and curves have just as much potential danger as oncoming vehicles. If you are within one-third of a mile of a hill or curve, do not start the pass. Intersections: Do not pass within 100 feet of any location where other vehicles or pedestrians can enter or cross the road. These locations include intersections, railroad crossings, and entrances to shopping centers. While you are passing, your view of pedestrians, vehicles, or trains is blocked by the vehicle you are passing. Lane restrictions: Check ahead for road conditions and traffic that could prevent you from passing safely. Pedestrians, cyclists, a patch of ice, broken pavement, or debris in the road could reduce or eliminate your passing safety margin. Most states prohibit passing on bridges, in tunnels, or where traffic is limited to one lane in each direction. It is also illegal to exceed the speed limit even when passing another vehicle. Do not begin the passing maneuver unless you are certain there is enough space ahead to return to your lane. Never assume you have enough space to pass several vehicles at once and do not rely on other drivers to make space for you to return. Before you return to your original travel lane, make sure you leave at least one second of space between yourself and the vehicle you passed. To accomplish this, make sure you see the entire front end of the vehicle you passed in your rear-view mirror. Before passing, assess the real benefits of performing the maneuver. Is it worth the effort and risk? The driver doing the passing has the majority of responsibility for passing safely. If you are the driver being passed, you also have certain responsibilities. Regularly glance in your mirror to ensure you are aware that another vehicle is passing. Do not rely on the other driver to communicate the maneuver by tapping the horn or flashing the headlights. Position your vehicle in the right side of your lane to help the other driver get a better view ahead and allow them more space when passing. Determine if the passing driver is having difficulty completing the pass safely. If so, help the other driver by slowing down. It is illegal to speed up while being passed. Sometimes the passing driver decides not to pass and drops back. If this happens, accelerate slightly to open up space behind you. Rural or country driving involves unique characteristics and risk factors: Fewer intersections (many hidden or uncontrolled) Undivided, two-lane roads with oncoming traffic Limited shoulders and guardrails Wild animals Horse-drawn carriages, farm equipment, and other slow-moving vehicles Fewer vehicles, less traffic Drivers tend to travel at higher speeds with lower seat belt use Limited access to advanced medical care (in the event of injuries related to a crash, the average time to reach an emergency care facility in a rural area is 53 minutes versus 37 minutes in an urban area) Slow-moving vehicles such as farm equipment might be blocking your path. Overtake these vehicles only if you have time and space to make a safe maneuver. If it is not safe, back off and wait; drivers of these vehicles frequently will pull over to allow backed-up traffic to pass. Exercise courtesy and patience. Before traveling on hills and mountains, prepare your vehicle's brakes and tires for extreme forces of gravity and inertia. When going through a curve, stay to the right side of your lane. Never coast down a hill in neutral or in overdrive - your vehicle could speed up beyond your control. Coasting downhill is illegal in some states. When traveling on rural roadways at higher speeds, remember you will need a longer stopping distance. Increase your following distance - make sure you have plenty of room to stop between you and any vehicle ahead. Many head-on, passing crashes occur because drivers fail to see and accurately judge the speed and distance of approaching vehicles. When you see oncoming vehicles getting closer, it is too close for you to start the pass. Always be sure there is safe space to return. Driving on multi-lane roadways and expressways can be an efficient and fast way to travel. Expressways are designed for safe driving at high speeds. Traffic travels in one direction in two or more lanes, and you can be passed on either side of your vehicle. Expressways have fewer collisions than highways because they are well maintained and their overall design provides drivers with a good view of the road ahead. Although they are convenient and allow drivers to get to their destination quickly, high rates of speed, congestion, and entering/exiting increase the risk of a crash. In 2009, more than 7,000 of the 30,797 fatal crashes occurred on multi-lane roadways and expressways with three or more lanes. Expressway driving demands quick reaction time and the ability to search a great distance ahead because higher speeds require a longer visual lead. Use visual search techniques to scan at least 30 seconds down the road. This module is about driving on expressways. Topics include: Expressway Characteristics Entering Expressways Position and Speed Maneuvering on Expressways Exiting Expressways Highway Hypnosis and Velocitation An expressway is a limited-access, controlled-access highway. Vehicles are allowed to enter and leave an expressway only at designated locations. There are no intersections, traffic flows in one direction and cross-traffic is eliminated. Expressways include freeways, interstates, and toll roads. Expressways have maximum and minimum speed limits, and pedestrians and bicyclists are prohibited from using them. The curves on expressway entrance and exit ramps are banked or sloped to maximize safety at higher speeds. Large directional signs are placed in locations that allow drivers plenty of time to maneuver if they need to get on or off the expressway. Usually, one mile prior to each exit, at least three signs are posted to help drivers prepare to exit. Watch for signs that indicate the distance to the exit and exit lane signs. There are also "exit" signs to inform drivers specifically where the exit is located. Interchanges are designed to connect drivers to other highways going in another direction, through a carefully developed system of ramps and over/underpasses. Interchanges allow for fewer interruptions of the traffic flow but they can also be complex, confusing, and disorienting. Types of interchanges include designs that are shaped like a cloverleaf, a diamond, and a trumpet. A cloverleaf interchange is designed to eliminate conflicting traffic when you make a left turn or try to cross traffic. A diamond interchange is used when a road with low traffic intersects an expressway. Left turns can be made with lower risk on the low traffic road, so in this case a full cloverleaf is not necessary or economical. A trumpet interchange is used when a low traffic road ends at a "T" intersection of an expressway. The trumpet shape allows traffic to enter and leave the expressway without having to cross traffic. Before entering an expressway, search for entrance signs in the direction you intend to travel. Directional signs are posted at most entrances and communicate the route number and direction (north, south, east, or west) where the entrance will lead you. If you are unfamiliar with your route, be cautious not to enter an expressway using an exit ramp - prevent this critical mistake by searching for signs that say, "DO NOT ENTER." Enter most entrance ramps at low speeds and anticipate sharp curves. Be extra cautious if you are driving a large vehicle, SUV, or truck. Use the acceleration lane to adjust your speed to the traffic flow before merging onto the expressway. Select a gap, signal, check mirrors, and check blind spots. Be prepared to slow or accelerate quickly depending on the flow. Avoid very crowded and congested times of day. Prevent an emergency situation by merging without stopping. If there is a slow vehicle ahead of you on the ramp, drop back and create space ahead of your vehicle to accelerate when it is your turn to enter the traffic flow. Position your vehicle at least three seconds behind the vehicle you plan to follow. Merge smoothly. Turn off your signal. Adjust your speed to the traffic flow and recheck your rear-view mirror. Be prepared to maneuver quickly when you encounter an exit and an entrance that share a common lane. Generally, the right-of-way is given to exiting traffic; however, traffic conditions may alter this approach. Avoid collisions by adjusting your speed to change lanes, signal, and adjust to openings or closures in traffic. After you have entered the expressway, select the lane you want to drive in based on the traffic flow, road conditions, and how far you have to travel to your exit. Right lanes are used to enter and exit expressways and are often moving slower than the left lane. Sometimes entrance and exit ramps are located in the left lanes. If you are in heavy traffic at rush hour, use the center lane to avoid vehicles constantly entering and exiting in your path. Drivers who are already on the expressway and those entering both share responsibility to yield the right-of-way to avoid a collision. Never travel in between lanes, or straddle lanes. Select a lane and position your vehicle in the middle of the lane. Try to maintain an equal space cushion around all sides of your vehicle by adjusting speed or repositioning your vehicle. Drive in the center lanes through cities to avoid busy merging and exiting lanes. Watch the signs and do not get caught in a lane that is about to end or is designated as an "EXIT ONLY" lane for a route that you do not want to enter. Watch for unexpected exit and entrance ramps to the left. These are dangerous because the fastest lanes are typically on the left. You must not drive a vehicle on a highway at greater than reasonable speeds under current road conditions. Your speed must be restricted as necessary to avoid colliding with a person or vehicle anywhere near a highway. A person may not drive a vehicle on a highway at a speed in excess of the following maximum limits: 70 or 75 mph, depending if the state determines that the 75 mph speed limit is safe for that area. Certain rural interstate highways in areas with low populations may have a speed limit of 85 mph. 60 mph on a un-numbered, non-urban highway 30 mph in an urban or residential district 15 mph in an alley If traffic is traveling faster than the speed limit, resist going above the posted limit. The best approach is to be a "loner" and try to position your vehicle between packs of vehicles. If this is not possible, position your vehicle in the lane that allows you to travel as close to the speed limit as possible without blocking traffic. Scan your mirrors for drivers speeding and weaving in and out of traffic. If you are traveling in a passing lane and are being tailgated, or if a driver flashes his or her high beams at you, signal to change lanes and change lanes as soon as it is safe to do so. If you find yourself in a "pack" of vehicles traveling close together, drop back or move ahead by adjusting speed and space. Keep a 3-4 second following distance. If the road is slippery or wet, increase the distance to 6-8 seconds. Establish the interval by locating a large object such as a sign or overpass ahead. Watch the vehicle in front of you as it passes by or under the object. From that point, count the seconds it takes for your vehicle to pass the same object. When you are traveling the speed that it takes to count to four, you are traveling four seconds behind and have created a 4-second following distance. This is a safe gap to have between vehicles traveling the expressway - it provides time to react to an emergency under ideal conditions. Increase your following distance to 4-5 seconds if you have limited visibility, intersecting traffic, or a stationary object in the road. Avoid trucks and large vehicles' "no-zones." Recognize the blind spots of other vehicles and travel through them quickly to limit exposure time. Signal your intentions before you change lanes. Do not anticipate other drivers will open a gap for you if one does not exist - check your mirrors and blind spot before maneuvering. Use low hand steering to avoid over steering. Change lanes only when it is clear. Be courteous - if another driver drops back and creates space to let you in, communicate your "thanks" with a slight wave. Extend courtesy to other drivers who are trying to enter your path - create space for them to enter by slowing down, speeding up, or changing lanes. Passing on expressways is dangerous because of the high speed and potential for traffic conflicts. Typically, passing is conducted on the left. Passing on the right is permitted if slower traffic occupies the left lane. Select a lane that allows others to pass you on the left. If you are being passed on the right, those drivers are hard for you to see and they are communicating that you are going too slowly for the lane you are in. Maneuver to the right as soon as it is safe. When passing, search and identify vehicles that might conflict with your maneuver. Signal. Check your mirrors. When it is clear, enter the passing lane smoothly. As you maneuver, position your vehicle with adequate space between your vehicle and the one you are passing. If you are going to return to the original lane, wait until you can see the front end of the vehicle you passed in your rear-view mirror. As you are being passed, position your vehicle so there is adequate space to the side you are being passed on. Keep your speed steady or slightly decelerate to assist the passer. As you approach tollbooth areas be aware of drivers that make quick, last second decisions and change lanes quickly without warning. Watch for clues. Well in advance of the tollbooth, look for signs that indicate which lane you need to be in. A green light indicates the open lanes. Select the appropriate payment option lane, signal, and position your vehicle in the proper lane. Be prepared to pay the toll (if applicable) well in advance, so you do not create traffic delays. Before driving on an expressway, make it a point to know your route. Memorize the exit, interchange names, and numbers. Watch for directional signs. Recognize the location (how far away the exit is) and the lane you need to be in well in advance of having to exit. As you approach the exit, signal, change lanes, and position your vehicle in the exit lane. Approximately 1/2 mile before you exit, signal your intention to exit. Predict the actions of other drivers who are using the same exit. Decide the correct speed. Adjust your speed. Check your mirrors, exit smoothly to the deceleration lane or into the exit ramp. Turn off your signal. Slow down and maintain a safe space cushion ahead and behind your vehicle. If you encounter a very short deceleration lane, watch for warning signs and be prepared to slow quickly. If you drive a high-profile vehicle, slow in advance of entering a tight, exit curve. Search for conflicts; check traffic ahead and behind. Staying focused on driving can sometimes be hard if there is little traffic or when driving long straight routes hour after hour. Watch out for a mental condition called "highway hypnosis" which is related to drowsy driving. Drivers can fall asleep or just enter a state of inattention easily. If you notice fatigue setting in, sit up straight, change your seat position slightly, and then turn on the air conditioning. Stop at the next exit and take a stretch, walk around, or drink something refreshing. Long monotonous drives might create a sensation that you perceive you are driving slower than you really are. Luxury vehicles are so comfortable the driver may not feel high-speed sensations. New vehicles are also quiet and sound levels of the traffic environment are often low or not present. After long periods of high speed travel, the eyes become fatigued in the horizontal plane due to images streaming through the windshield. This condition is referred to as velocitation. You will notice it when entering slower traffic after long periods of expressway driving. A sudden drop in speed gives the illusion that you are traveling much slower than you actually are. When you experience velocitation, your eyes are fatigued and are unable to judge horizontal velocity accurately. Consequently, it may be difficult to judge safe following distances or the proximity of exits. The remedy is to stop for several minutes and allow the eyes to rest. Watch for drivers tailgating without making an attempt to pass. This driver may be subconsciously staring at the rear of your vehicle rather than scanning the road ahead. In this situation you may essentially be steering both cars. Slow gradually to encourage the tailgater to pass. Conduct a self-test to be sure you are not losing your concentration. Check yourself to be sure you are not staring aimlessly at the vehicle in front of you. The key to safe expressway driving is: Guard against highway hypnosis. Search for and process information. Stay focused. Adjust for other drivers. Expressway driving demands continuous searching skills, smooth maneuvers, speed adjustment, and positioning. Signal your intention to merge as you enter the acceleration lane. Quickly evaluate the freeway traffic, look for a space to merge, and adjust your speed. Be prepared to slow or accelerate quickly depending on the flow. Prevent an emergency situation by merging without stopping. Position your vehicle with at least a 3-second following distance from the vehicle you plan to follow. Merge smoothly. Turn off your signal. Adjust your speed to the traffic flow. When you enter the expressway, select the lane you want to drive based on traffic flow, road conditions, and how far away your exit is. Reserve your use of the center and left lanes for passing. If you are in heavy expressway traffic at rush hour, use the center lane to avoid vehicles constantly entering and exiting in your path. Travel at the speed of the flow of traffic to avoid conflicts. Maintain a 3-4 second following distance. If the road is slippery or wet, increase the distance to 6-8 seconds. Increase your following distance if you have limited visibility. Avoid truck and large vehicle "no-zones." As you are being passed, position your vehicle so there is adequate space to the side to be passed. Keep your speed steady and do not accelerate. If you drive a high-profile vehicle, slow in advance of entering a tight curve on an entrance or exit ramp. Watch out for a mental condition called "highway hypnosis" which is related to drowsy driving. If you notice fatigue setting in, sit up straight, change your seat position slightly, and then turn on the air conditioning. Stop at the next exit and take a stretch, walk around, or drink something refreshing. Velocitation is caused by long periods of high speed travel. The eyes become fatigued in the horizontal plane due to images streaming through the windshield. Velocitation can be noticed when entering slower traffic after long periods of driving. A sudden drop in speed gives the illusion that you are traveling much slower than you actually are. When you experience velocitation, stop for several minutes and allow the eyes to rest. Urban or city roadways have large populations, high traffic flow, many road controls, and a large amount of visual stimulation. With congestion and traffic jams, speeds tend to be lower, but there is quite a bit more sensory input that you have to pay attention to. Since we get most of our driving information from what we see, the busy urban environment can induce visual overload. In addition, all of the visual information requires more driving decisions. This module is about the unique characteristics of the urban environment and how to manage your risk when you drive in the city. Topics include: Visual Issues Plan Your Drive Congestion One-way Streets Urban Pedestrian Issues Urban driving often involves limited visibility. Limited visibility or line-of-sight often eliminates advance warning of traffic obstacles. High buildings, delivery trucks, and other large vehicles can restrict your field-of-view. Bicyclists and pedestrians are everywhere and can also block your line-of-sight. Carefully scan for signals and signs. Signals are often located at the side of the road. Signs are posted everywhere, and they are not all traffic related. If you want to pass in the city, never pass more than one vehicle at a time because often your field of vision is diminished. In the city, there is a lot going on. It is an overcrowded environment filled with an abundance of vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, billboards, and other visual distractions. More visual information means more decisions. Do not drive impaired or fatigued. Be mentally alert and manage your distractions. Do not let the bustle of city life take your mind off the task of driving. You should carefully plan your route every time you drive; however, this becomes even more important in the city. Keep the following tips in mind: Think about the time of day you are planning to travel and select a time frame that has the least amount of traffic. Carry a map with you and plan an alternative route in case you encounter construction or road closures. Be sure your vehicle is in proper working order and is filled with gas. Leave early because potential detours and heavy traffic can cause delay. Plan where you will park. Urban parking is more difficult to navigate to and locate. Also be sure you have money to pay for parking fees. If you will be traveling on toll roads, watch for signs and have money available within easy reach so you will not be distracted while navigating the toll area. Travel when the weather is good and you have plenty of daylight. Decide whether it is better to use through streets or travel on side streets. Side streets may help you avoid traffic, but they may not be as safe and they may increase your travel time because of traffic control lights. Consider whether it is better to use one-way or two-way streets on your route. Perhaps the most irritating part of driving in the city is sharing the road with traffic. Plan for traffic jams and delays around rush hour, but also anticipate that congestion will occur for other, unexpected reasons. If you find yourself in heavy traffic demonstrate patience and courtesy. Becoming angry or aggressive will not get you to your destination any sooner. In all this congestion, you must be prepared to stop or slow suddenly – cover the brake. Your foot will be in position for a sudden stop. Be careful not to actually rest your foot on the brake. This technique is beneficial in the following circumstances: When you are driving next to parked vehicles When you see the brake lights of other vehicles And when you approach signal lights As a general rule when driving in the city, choose a lane that is not congested or at least less congested than the other lanes. Do not dart in and out of traffic as you make your way to this lane. That practice is a dangerous one. Instead, stay in the lane you have chosen until you need to turn, pass another vehicle, or avoid a hazard. Be sure to plan a lane change well enough in advance so you avoid blocking multiple lanes. Search well ahead and position your vehicle in the proper lane well ahead of a required turn. The position of your vehicle is important. Remember to: Keep up with traffic speed but be sure to drive within legal limits Avoid another driver's blind spots Avoid letting another driver drive in your blind spot Avoid side-by-side driving Avoid driving in groups If traffic is heavy and moving slowly, do not enter an intersection until you can travel through it without stopping. Never get caught in the middle of an intersection when the cross-traffic light turns green. If your vehicle blocks traffic, it could trigger road rage; avoid this situation at all costs. Also, when stopping at an intersection, leave space in front of your vehicle for an “out” if you need it. Another unique feature of the city traffic environment is driving on one-way streets. Watch for signs identifying a street as one-way. For example, you may see signs that say ONE WAY, DO NOT ENTER, WRONG WAY, NO LEFT TURN, or NO RIGHT TURN. Other clues that indicate a street is a one-way street include the following: Parking is allowed on only one side of the street All vehicles are pointing in the same direction Yellow lines are absent Begin preparing to enter a one-way street at least one block before you reach it, and turn into the first available lane that is heading in the proper direction. Drive slowly since one-way streets may turn into two-way streets. You may also encounter hazards, such as drivers who have gone the wrong way down the one-way street. If you discover that you or another driver are traveling the wrong way on a one-way street, slow, steer out of the way, and sound your horn. Flash your headlights if there is time. Do not panic! Choose the lane with the fewest hazards. The middle lane is often the best choice. If there are only two lanes, drive in the right-hand lane or select the one that is farthest from any parked cars. When exiting a one-way street, carefully check the signs to be sure you are turning onto the correct street. If you are making a right turn, use the right lane. If you are making a left turn, use the left lane. If you are going straight, use the center lane if it is available. Check signs to determine if you are turning onto another one-way street or onto a two-way street. In the city, drivers need to make a continuous search for pedestrians because there is a high pedestrian population, they are usually in a hurry and they are hard to see. There is a higher concentration of pedestrians in urban environments because buses and other transit systems such as trains and subways shuttle people into the city in large groups. In addition, the drivers that enter urban areas to go to work become pedestrians after parking and exiting their vehicle. Pedestrians are often in a hurry and will dart and dash between parked cars. Several pedestrians may exit a commercial bus all at once. Your line-of-sight may be blocked so scan low for hidden pedestrians. Check for shadows under other vehicles. The Department of Transportation (DOT) is doing several things to help pedestrians cross the road with lower risk. They are implementing count-down pedestrian signals to help pedestrians gauge the amount of time they have to cross before traffic enters their path. Also, mid-block crossings and pedestrian refuge areas are being installed. New, bolder crosswalk markings are being painted on the road so drivers will quickly and clearly recognize these areas. As a driver, you are required to yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk. Watch the pedestrian signals so you are aware of the direction they are about to walk. Use the pedestrian signals to estimate when your signal is about to change. Scan in all directions before entering an intersection to ensure there are no pedestrians in your path. Be extra cautious when you are turning. If your light is green, pedestrians may be walking in the cross-lane directly in your path – they have the right-of-way. Urban or city roadways have large populations, high traffic flow, many road controls, and a large amount of visual stimulation. With congestion and traffic jams, speeds tend to be lower, but there is quite a bit more sensory input that you have to pay attention to. Urban driving often involves limited vision. Limited vision often eliminates advance warning of traffic obstacles. High buildings, delivery trucks, and other large vehicles can restrict your field-of-view. Bicyclists and pedestrians are everywhere and can also block your line-of-sight. If you find yourself in heavy traffic, demonstrate patience and courtesy. Becoming angry or aggressive will not get you to your destination any sooner. In the city, be prepared to slow or stop suddenly – cover the brake. Your foot will be in position for a sudden stop. As a general rule when driving in the city choose a lane that is not congested or at least less congested than the other lanes. Do not dart in and out of traffic. Watch for signs identifying a street as one-way. Begin preparing to enter a one-way street at least one block before you reach it, and turn into the first available lane that is heading in the proper direction. Drive slowly since one-way streets may turn into two-way streets. Your tires need to grip the road and you need to be able to see where you are going. These fundamental necessities for safe driving are affected when you are faced with poor traction and poor visibility conditions. Anything on the roadway that makes it wet, slippery, or unstable will affect your tires' ability to hold on to the road. Low tire tread will also affect your tires' ability to channel moisture away and increases the risk of hydroplaning. Anything that makes it hard to see through your windows or distorts what your mirrors are reflecting presents a poor visibility condition. Inclement weather has the potential to cause low traction and/or low visibility. This module is about how to prepare for and manage adverse conditions while driving. Topics include: Preparing to Drive in Adverse Weather Reduced Traction Managing Visibility in Adverse Weather Hydroplaning What to Do if Your Vehicle is Stuck Before the rainy season begins, prepare your vehicle for wet weather driving. Carry an umbrella and keep your windshield, windows, and headlights clean. Service your vehicle. Ensure the following systems are in good operating condition: Tire inflation, tread depth Windshield wipers, fluid, and blades Battery Lights Brakes Ignition Prepare yourself for driving in wet weather by allowing ample travel time, and be mentally alert for common driver mishaps caused by weather. Eliminate as many distractions as you can inside the vehicle - what is happening outside the vehicle will be more challenging and require your undivided attention. In many parts of the country the winter months are harsh and very rough on your vehicle. If you have to drive in ice and snow, conduct the following maintenance checks before the winter months arrive: Change the engine oil to an oil with a viscosity designed for cold temperatures. Check the battery; clean the terminals and make sure it is operating at maximum strength. Check the hoses for cracks. Replace tires with "all-season" or "snow" tires - check inflation regularly. Test the heating and air-conditioning system. Check coolant/antifreeze to determine the lowest temperature that it will go to without freezing. Install winter wiper blades and fill the windshield wiper fluid reservoir with a washer solution containing an antifreeze additive. Check and adjust the brakes. Check the exhaust system for leaks, holes, and rust. Purchase and practice installing the tire chains. Carry booster (jumper) cables, flares, emergency warning triangles (or other warning device), a small tool kit, first aid kit, and a flashlight with spare batteries. Keep your fuel tank at least 1/2 full. If you are traveling in a remote area, carry a blanket or sleeping bag, non-perishable food, candles, matches, warm clothes, and gloves. You should be dressed for the elements but if you are not and just in case you get stuck, carry boots and warm outerwear. In addition, throughout the winter, make sure you have a few other things just in case you need to clear off your windows or in case you get stuck: Snow brush, combination ice scraper A bag of sand or kitty litter Lock de-icer fluid (be sure to not store this in your trunk - carry it with you) Snow shovel If you can, park inside a garage. Always have at least half a tank of gas to keep moisture from forming in your gas line and freezing. Driving on slippery surfaces requires increased visual range. Focus your attention far ahead on the roadway to ensure you can gauge the distance between you and the obstacles ahead; ensure that you have ample time to start, turn, slow, and stop. When rain first starts falling, the water mixes with dust, dirt, sand, and oil on the road surface, creating an extremely slippery substance. The first 20 minutes of a rain shower is the most dangerous time to be driving. As the rain continues to fall, this slippery mixture is washed away; however, the road is still wet and it continues to present a low traction driving environment. On wet roads reduce your speed by 5-10 mph If there are wet leaves on the road, reduce your speed by half When traction is poor, accelerate gradually. Steer with smooth, precise movements. Try to do one thing at a time - increase your following distance and avoid puddles and flooded areas of the road. Position your tires to follow dry tracks created by other vehicles in your path ahead. Be conscious of spray from your vehicle and other vehicles. Be considerate and go very slowly if you encounter pedestrians. Make sure you know what the weather and road conditions are before departing. If it is raining and the temperature is supposed to drop below freezing, then the moisture will begin to freeze as the temperature drops below 32 degrees. Ice might not be easily seen but it will still create a slick, low traction surface on the roadway. If it occurs on an asphalt road the condition is known as "Black Ice" and is a true hazard. Shaded areas, over passes, and bridges are locations that can conceal spots of ice. These areas freeze first and dry out last. Some of the most dangerous conditions occur when temperatures are hovering around freezing, when snow begins to turn to watery slush. The combination of snow and water can be extremely slippery. If you are forced to drive in windy conditions, and it is snowing, be cautious of snow drifts which make it difficult to pass and see. If the snow is melting just before the sun goes down, it is likely the temperature will drop at night, turning melted snow into ice. There are some basic tips for driving on ice and snow that will make the experience safer. Different types of snow have different degrees of traction: Fresh, dry (powder) snow has more traction than packed, tight snow. However, be cautious of slick ice that may be hiding under the powder surface. When you park, create an escape path for your tires in the snow. Drive past the space you want to park in, and back up. This creates a path with less resistance when you exit the parking space. Adjust your speed in icy conditions: If you encounter packed snow, reduce your speed by half. If you are traveling on ice, reduce your speed to 10-15 mph. During the winter, add a few steps to your pre-drive procedures: As you approach your vehicle, check around the tires for frozen chunks of snow or ice. Clean the tires and wheel well and knock off accumulated snow or ice. Start the engine and let it warm up - turn on the defroster. Clean snow off the windows, hood, and top of the vehicle. If there is ice on the windows, scrape it off all windows; do not just clear the windshield (you need to be able to see in all directions). Rain, snow, and fog impair visibility and make it difficult to see the road and obstacles. If there is a significant temperature difference between the outside and inside of your vehicle, moisture will accumulate on the inside of your windshield and on your windows-making it more difficult for you to see. Always clean your windows and windshield, inside and out before you drive in any reduced visibility situation

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The highway transportation system uses traffic control devices to visually communicate messages to drivers using signs, signals, and road markings. Traffic controls are necessary to ensure orderly, predictable movement of traffic. Transportation professionals create traffic rules and regulations with careful consideration of driver capabilities, roadway structure and vehicle crash history. Signs, signals and markings warn you of changing road conditions, tell you what to do, and help guide your way. Not obeying traffic signs and signals is a leading reason for fatalities on our roadways. This module is about the purpose and meaning of road signs, signals, and markings. Topics include: Signs Signals Markings New or Unfamiliar Traffic Controls Responding Appropriately to Traffic Controls There is a national standard for road signs which uses symbols designed for quick and easy understanding. The standards are published by the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). The standards mandate the use of uniform colors and shapes so all drivers can quickly interpret their meaning. The three categories of signs are regulatory, warning, and guide signs. Regulatory signs communicate laws. Stop signs and yield signs are regulatory signs which warrant such emphasis; they were assigned unique, distinctive shapes. Stop signs are red and octagonal with white letters and a white border. Most stop signs are supplemented with a broad white stop bar painted on the road, indicating the best position to stop your vehicle. When stopped, yield the right-of-way to pedestrians or other vehicles that are approaching or already in the intersection. Yield signs are red and white or yellow inverted triangles, located where roads cross or merge. Allow others in your intended path of travel to use the intersection before you enter. To yield the right-of-way means you give the privilege of the roadway to another road user. Other important regulatory signs include the railroad crossbuck, do not enter, wrong way, speed limit, turning restriction, lane use, and signs restricting parking. Warning signs "warn" drivers of road and traffic conditions and communicate hazards that lie ahead. Most warning signs are yellow and diamond-shaped. Diamond-shaped warning signs communicate danger. Be prepared to adjust your speed and position when you see a warning sign. Warning signs do not tell you what to do; they warn you of approaching or potential danger. Warning signs with a speed posted on them indicate a reduction of speed may be necessary. These speeds are determined to be the safest speed to travel in good conditions; do not assume you can safely travel faster than the sign indicates. Traffic engineers are improving the visibility of advance warning signs with the use of fluorescent reflective shielding. You may begin to notice this particularly in school zones and construction zones. Guide signs provide information about routes, exits, location, distances, points of interest, and services. Exit signs are green. Route markers are posted on local, U.S., and interstate routes. Interstate route signs are red, white, and blue shields. Route signs vary according to the type of roadway. State and county signs vary from state to state. Route signs have the road number posted on them. Other guide signs include destination and mileage signs, roadside service signs, and signs that direct you to recreational areas. New signs to help guide you into the proper lane well in advance of an intersection are currently being implemented on all types of roads. These signs are called advance channelization signs. Their purpose is to provide an unfamiliar driver with information that allows lane changes to occur before the busy intersection. Advance street name signs are being installed to inform you of what street you are approaching well ahead of when you have to struggle to read the actual street name sign posted at the intersection. You may also begin to notice overhead street name signs that are internally illuminated. These improvements are being implemented across the country by the Department of Transportation. Traffic engineers use signals in combination with signs and markings to help control busy streets, roadways, and highways. Signals are bright enough to be easily seen both day and night. They are positioned to be seen above and to the side of traffic flow. New signals may be seen mounted on mast arms across the intersection to improve visibility by keeping the signals in the driver's forward field-of-vision. It is important to recognize signals well ahead of an intersection to have plenty of time to plan your maneuver. To improve the visibility of signals in advance of the intersection, traffic engineers are beginning to install larger signals. The old standard was the use of 8" lenses. Now 12" lenses with light emitting diodes (LEDs) are replacing the old signals in many communities. These lenses provide brighter light which is easier to see from a distance. In addition, on roads running in east and west directions, backplates are being added to signals to improve their visibility at dawn and dusk. Always obey traffic signals – it is the law. At a red light, stop your vehicle before entering the intersection. Stop with your front bumper positioned just before the stop bar. Remain stopped until the light turns green, check for any traffic and when it is safe, proceed with caution through the intersection. Right-turn-on-red is allowed in all states. If there is no sign that prohibits a right-turn-on-red, come to a full stop. Yield to other vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists. When there is no traffic in the intersection, and a safe distance with no cross-traffic, complete your turn. Yellow or amber means the signal is about to turn red. Prepare to stop at an intersection when you see the yellow light. If you are too close to stop safely, go through the intersection with caution. To avoid a violation, you must completely clear the intersection before the light turns red. It is illegal to enter an intersection after the signal turns red. Green lights mean cross traffic should be stopped, but it doesn't necessarily mean it is safe to go. Enter the intersection after scanning to be sure it is clear of traffic. The most dangerous time to enter an intersection is immediately after the light has turned green; this is when other drivers accelerate to "beat the yellow light." Flashing red and yellow lights control some intersections in rural areas, or during times when there is a low traffic flow. A flashing red light means you must come to a complete stop and yield the right-of-way to cross traffic. Enter the intersection only when it is clear. A flashing yellow light means slow down, and be prepared to stop. Proceed with caution; scan for traffic in your path before crossing the intersection. Lighted arrows control the direction traffic flows; they point in the direction you should drive. A green arrow means turn or drive forward in the direction that it is pointing. When a green left arrow displays, opposing traffic should be stopped; however, there is never a guarantee that opposing traffic will yield the right-of-way. Proceed cautiously through any intersection. Yellow arrows give you warning that a red arrow is about to appear; stopped traffic in that direction is about to move. Prepare to stop when you see a yellow arrow. A red arrow means do not travel in that direction. Large cities utilize lane control signals when large numbers of vehicles have to travel over bridges or through tunnels. Drive in the lane with the green arrow located above it. Do not travel in the direction of a yellow arrow - it is telling you that your path will soon have oncoming traffic. Never travel in a lane with a red arrow located above it, especially through a tunnel! X signals are also used in controlled lanes. A solid yellow X means move over to a lane with a green arrow. The yellow X is telling you the lane is about to switch directions and oncoming traffic will soon head your way. A flashing yellow X allows you to use the lane to make left turns, but only for a very short period of time. Use extreme caution when making a left turn on a yellow X. You only have a short distance to make this maneuver before the oncoming traffic will block your path. A red X over a lane means DO NOT drive in this lane. Pedestrian signals are used to control pedestrians at intersections with heavy traffic. Pedestrian signals are mounted near traffic lights. These signals inform pedestrians when to walk and they also help drivers know what to do. The WALK signal and the green light are normally on at the same time for drivers and pedestrians going the same direction. New pedestrian countdown signals are being installed to help pedestrians judge the actual amount of time in seconds they have before traffic signals change. Pedestrians must clear the intersection when the DON'T WALK signal flashes or remains lit. Search to be sure the intersection is clear of pedestrians before entering. ALWAYS give pedestrians the right-of-way. Markings communicate the law and are painted on the road for your safety and to regulate the flow of traffic. Markings provide drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists with important information, warnings, and direction regarding the use of the road. Markings signify roadways, lanes, and are often used to reinforce the messages provided by signs and signals. Lines, words and arrows are used to help control traffic moving on the road. Lines are the most common marking and are primarily used to signify traffic lanes. Lines inform drivers where to position their vehicles and communicate when it is not safe or legal to change lanes or pass. Lines also communicate where to stop, when the road narrows, and where pedestrians may safely cross the road. Text on the road is used to reinforce signs and signals. Text is also used with a diamond symbol to represent reserved lanes. Arrows are used to help drivers position their vehicle in the proper lane for turning left, right or going straight. Most markings are yellow or white. Yellow lines separate traffic traveling in opposite directions. White lines separate traffic moving in the same direction. If you have a SOLID yellow line on your side of the road, do not pass or cross over into the oncoming lane. If you have a broken yellow line, give the right-of-way to oncoming traffic. Slanted stripes indicate where vehicles should not change lanes. White lettering and symbols painted on the surface of the roadway are used to supplement signs and signals. New pavement markings with messages help guide drivers into the proper lane and avoid confusion at major intersections. These messages include route signs, merge arrows and skip strips. Skip strips are short white markings that define your turn lane through intersections. Watch for pavement markings to help you navigate and reduce your risk as you travel through these busy environments. Pedestrian crossings are being marked with bigger, bolder white stripes to help drivers recognize from a distance where pedestrians may be crossing. New electronic highway message boards are another way of getting safety messages and potentially life-saving information to the public in a timely manner. The messages may contain information such as: "Warning, Congestion Ahead", "Warning, Hazard Ahead, Detour...", "Child Abduction Reported...," etc. The message boards are also used to send weather warnings and report road conditions to travelers. When you see a message board with an amber dot flashing in each corner, this indicates the shoulder is closed. This board is typically found in construction zones and indicates if you have to exit the road. New pedestrian and school zones signs exist on the roadway to warn drivers of an approaching crosswalk and the actual crosswalk itself. You will see lines representing a sidewalk added to the new fluorescent yellow-green diamond-shaped sign or the five-sided sign shaped like a house; its purpose is to warn drivers of a pedestrian or school crossing. In high traffic areas, many cities and states have carpool lanes which are called diamond lanes or High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes. The HOV lanes are clearly marked with a large white diamond in the middle of the traffic lane. The rules and regulations for use of these lanes vary. Eligible vehicles include passenger cars, pickup trucks or vans carrying two or more people, law enforcement vehicles, buses, and motorcycles. Prohibited vehicles include trucks with more than two axles or having a gross weight capacity of five tons or more and vehicles towing trailers. Travel in these lanes only if you meet the criteria for the drivers in these designated lanes. Watch for exit signs far to the right, and then look for broken lines that allow you to exit. Never cross double or multiple yellow lines. Some urban areas have traffic signals that control traffic as it enters the expressway. These signals are often used during rush hours to provide interval space for vehicles to enter. Follow the signs and wait for your green light. Be prepared to accelerate quickly or decelerate to enter the traffic flow. Position your vehicle in the proper lane well ahead of the intersection or turn. Follow this procedure when approaching a controlled intersection with multiple turn lanes: Search the intersection and the roadway for traffic controls, pedestrians, and other users. If you need to change lanes, check your blind spot in the direction you are about to maneuver. Signal your intentions. When you have identified a safe gap, change lanes. Identify multiple turn lanes and watch for road markings. Select the lane you want to travel in well in advance. Search ahead, to the rear, and to the sides. Check the signal and if possible estimate when it will change. Adjust your speed and position your vehicle to minimize conflicts. As you approach the intersection, continue to search for pedestrians and conflicts. Watch for oncoming vehicles that are turning in the same direction. Sharing a lane with oncoming traffic to make a left turn can be dangerous. Safe guidelines for using a shared left-turn lane include: Do not move into the lane too soon. The longer you stay in the lane, the more likely you will meet someone coming in the opposite direction. Watch for vehicles pulling out of entrances and side streets. They may cut in front of you or turn into the shared lane and wait for a gap in traffic. Do not use a shared left turn lane as a through lane. If you do not want to turn, stay out of the lane. Never use the center lane for passing. On a three- or five-lane roadway, a double broken yellow line on either side marks a lane in which traffic changes direction at different times of day. The double yellow, broken line indicates a reversible lane. Reversible lanes are designed to move large volumes of traffic in the same direction. They are used during rush hours, at the conclusion of large sporting events and when large organizations such as military bases "let-off" for the day. When the traffic needs to go in the opposite direction, the lanes are reversed, or traffic is directed to go in the opposite direction. Reversible lanes are marked with unique signs, signals, and markings. A red X means the lane is closed. NEVER drive in a lane with a red X displayed. A solid yellow X means move out of that lane to a lane displaying a green arrow. A flashing yellow X means use this lane ONLY for a left turn. The lane is unprotected, so only enter this lane just prior to your turn. Check the lane to be sure traffic is clear before turning. A green arrow, pointing at the road means the lane is traveling in your direction. Use this lane to travel. Orange, diamond shaped, or rectangular signs alert drivers of construction zones. Be ready to slow, stop, or drive around equipment and workers. Travel through construction zones carefully and follow the directions received from construction workers or law enforcement officers. Be cautious about your position in the lane; often construction zones have no shoulder or extra space in which you can maneuver. Construction zones present a very high risk to all present. In 2009, 667 people lost their lives in construction zone crashes. Fatally injured persons included drivers (60%), passengers (24%), roadway workers (15%), bicyclists (1%), and others (1%). Warning signs "warn" drivers of road and traffic conditions and communicate hazards that lie ahead. New pedestrian and school zone signs exist on the roadway to warn drivers of an approaching crosswalk. They are fluorescent yellow-green diamond-shaped. Guide signs provide information about routes, exits, location, distances, points of interest, and services. Regulatory signs communicate laws. The regulatory speed limit sign is the most common sign on our roadways. Traffic engineers use signals in combination with signs and markings to help control busy streets, roadways, and highways. Lines are the most common road marking and are primarily used to signify traffic lanes. Lines also communicate where to stop, when the road narrows, and where pedestrians may safely cross the road. A broad white stop bar painted across your lane at an intersection indicates the best place to stop your vehicle. Text is also used with a diamond symbol to represent reserved lanes. Arrows are used to help the driver position his or her vehicle in the proper lane for turning left, right, or going straight. If you have a SOLID yellow line on your side of the road, do not pass or cross over into the oncoming lane. Electronic highway message boards communicate safety messages. When you see a message board with an amber dot flashing in each corner, this indicates the shoulder is closed. Construction zones present a very high risk to all who are present. Each year motorists injure thousands of roadway workers in construction zones. You share the road with vehicles, pedestrians, and animals and they need to be able to anticipate what you will do. Always communicate your intentions prior to maneuvers. Drivers communicate by using: Turn signals Brake lights Headlights Emergency hazard lights The horn Vehicle position Eye contact Body movements and hand signals The use of turn signals and your brakes are the methods of communicating to other road users that are used most often. This module covers communication. The topics that will be addressed include: Turn Signals Lights Brakes Horn Vehicle Position and Body Movement Turn on your signal well in advance of your maneuver to turn or change lanes. Signal at least 100 feet prior to turning, so other drivers in your vicinity can make adjustments to your change in speed and direction (Driver Handbook). Do not turn it on too much in advance; other drivers might think you don't know it is on and not pay attention or may assume you want to turn into a driveway prior to an intersection or corner. If you drive a newer vehicle, use your daytime running headlights (DRLs) to communicate your presence to other road users every time you drive. If you do not have them, always drive with your low-beam headlights on. Communicate you are passing by using your signals to alert drivers behind you. If you are far enough away, flash your high-beam headlights to oncoming drivers that have their high-beam headlights on. Use your emergency hazard lights to communicate to others that you are in trouble, there is trouble ahead, or when you are moving very slowly. Recognize how effectively your brakes operate. Have a good feel for the amount of pressure you need to “tap” on your brakes and the amount of pressure you need to apply to slowly decrease your speed and come to a smooth stop. If you see brake lights in a traffic jam ahead, signal to drivers behind by slightly tapping on your brakes. If a vehicle ahead of you activated a turn signal, there is a strong possibility it will be slowing prior to turning. Inform the drivers behind you that they will have to slow down by tapping your brakes. Using your horn can be beneficial or very irritating to other drivers. Honk when you are approaching a blind curve to warn others that cannot see you coming. "Tap" on your horn to warn other drivers or pedestrians who cannot see you coming. Press hard or "lay" on the horn if you see a potential collision about to occur. Do not use your horn if you are behind a slow moving vehicle. Do not use your horn to greet other drivers or pedestrians. Do not use your horn directly behind a bicyclist or a horse rider on the side of the roadway. Use the position of your vehicle to communicate your intentions to change lanes. Position the vehicle in the right side of your lane before turning right. When you are intending to turn left, move your vehicle toward the centerline before making your left turn. Use your body to communicate with hand signals. Wave your appreciation and thank other drivers when they give you the right-of-way. Never use obscene hand gestures when driving. Never direct other traffic with hand gestures because you may be liable should a crash occur. Hand signals can be used to supplement or provide extra emphasis on mechanical signals. Standard hand signals are the same for bicycle riders and vehicle drivers. Roll down your left window and use your arm to supplement your signals: To signal your intention to turn right, extend your left arm out and bend it up at the elbow. To signal your intention to turn left, extend your left arm straight out to the left, at shoulder height. To signal your intentions to slow or stop, extend your left arm down to the left side of your vehicle. Eye contact is an effective form of communication. Avoid eye contact unless you are making a courteous gesture. Eye contact is a trigger for road rage when you are communicating a negative message. Communication, if used consistently, can reduce the risk of collision. Turn on your signal well in advance of your maneuver to turn or change lanes. Signal far enough ahead so other drivers in your vicinity can make adjustments to your change in speed and direction. If you see brake lights in a traffic jam ahead, signal to drivers behind by slightly tapping on your brakes. Use your low-beam or daytime running headlights to communicate your presence to other road users every time you drive. Flash your high-beam headlights to other drivers you are behind and about to pass. Flash your high-beam headlights to oncoming drivers that have their high-beam headlights on. Use your emergency hazard lights to communicate when you are in trouble, there is trouble ahead, or when you are moving very slowly. Be familiar with the location of your horn and the pressure required to operate it. Do not use your horn unless it is necessary to warn other road users of a hazardous situation. Using your horn can be beneficial or very irritating to other drivers. Position the vehicle in the right side of your lane before turning right and move toward the centerline when you are about to turn left. Use hand gestures as a courtesy. Never use obscene hand gestures when driving. Avoid eye contact unless you are making a courteous gesture. Eye contact can be a trigger for road rage when you are communicating a negative message. When you share the roadway with other drivers and pedestrians, bicyclists, motorcycles and animals, you need to know and obey basic laws. You also need to know when to yield the right-of-way and try to anticipate what actions they might take that could cause you problems. Identify high-risk situations in time to avoid a collision. The more complex the driving situation, the more you have to search and identify potential conflicts. When you perceive what you think might be a potential problem situation ask yourself: What are the rules-of-the-road that govern this situation? What might cause a collision? What will I do to avoid a conflict? What might other drivers do when they notice what is happening? Train yourself to search for hazards. Predict the actions of other road users who are sharing your traffic path. This module covers basic traffic laws and the many issues associated with sharing the road with other road users. The topics that will be addressed include: Basic Traffic Laws Other Drivers Pedestrians and Bicyclists Motorcyclists Animals The Texas Move Over Law requires the drivers either slow down or change lanes when nearing a stopped emergency vehicle with lights activated. If you do not change lanes you must slow down to 20 miles per hour below the speed limit. This includes all police, emergency medical, tow trucks, and fire vehicles. If you fail to follow this law, you can face a fine up to $200. If the violation results in property damage, the fine is increased to $500, and if the violation results in bodily injury, the violation becomes a Class B misdemeanor. There are basic laws that always apply, with no exceptions. Driver improvement programs require inclusion of the rules-of-the-road as a reminder of our traffic laws: Buckle up. It is the driver's responsibility to buckle up and ensure all passengers are secured with fastened safety belts or in safety seats. Obey traffic controls. Follow the regulations and warnings communicated by signs, signals, markings, and other traffic controls. Stay in your lane, do not weave. Stop, yield, and go as directed. Pass on the left. Pass other vehicles on the left and only when there is time and space to safely conduct the maneuver. Passing on the right is only permitted in certain circumstances: the vehicle being overtaken is taking a left turn, the vehicle is passing on part of the paved highway, not the shoulder, and there is sufficient space for the passing to occur (§545.057). This can be dangerous because it is more difficult for the driver being passed to see you. Signal your intentions. Always communicate your intention to turn or change lanes by using your turn signal at least 100 feet prior to the maneuver. Travel at a safe speed. Drive at a speed not greater than or less than what is safe. Make reasonable decisions about traffic, the road surface, and weather conditions that might increase risk or compromise your safety while driving. Based on your speed, maintain enough space in front of your car to allow you to stop without hitting another vehicle or object. Obey the posted speed limit. Do not tailgate. When following another vehicle, drivers must maintain a reasonable, prudent, and safe distance, considering speed, visibility, road, weather, and traffic conditions. Do not stop quickly without a warning. When there is time and opportunity to signal, drivers must not stop or suddenly decrease speed without first giving a signal to the driver of any vehicle immediately to the rear by tapping the brakes. Never assume you have the right-of-way; another driver must give it to you. Drivers make mistakes and demonstrate a lack of courtesy even when they know the rules. Do your best to communicate your intentions when there is confusion about the right-of-way. Follow the rules of the following scenarios: Emergency vehicle is approaching. You must yield to any emergency vehicle that is using its siren and flashing lights. It is also illegal to follow any fire department vehicle that is responding to an alarm at a distance closer than 500 feet, or to drive into or park your vehicle within a block of where the fire department vehicle has stopped in answer to a fire alarm. Turning left and U-turns. Signal your intention when turning left at an intersection or when making a U-turn. Yield to all oncoming traffic until there is a gap providing you with sufficient time and space to safely turn. Exiting a driveway or parking space. Yield to all vehicles already traveling in the roadway. Pedestrians present. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crossings. Drivers must also exercise "due care" to try and avoid hitting a pedestrian even if they are not in a pedestrian crossing. Blind persons present. Drivers must always yield the right-of-way to persons who are blind. When a pedestrian is crossing a street or highway guided by a dog or carrying a white cane (or a white cane with a red tip), vehicles must come to a complete stop. Blocked lane. If your lane is blocked, you must yield the right-of-way to other vehicles around you before you prepare a lane change to go around the vehicle blocking your lane. Your lane is ending. If your lane is ending, you must yield the right-of-way to vehicles already traveling in adjacent lanes. Funeral processions. A vehicle with lighted headlights in a funeral procession has the right-of-way at an intersection and may proceed through the intersection if the procession is headed by a lead or funeral escort vehicle displaying flashing red and blue lights, unless the right-of-way is required by an emergency vehicle giving an audible signal. Unless authorized by a traffic officer, you may not drive your vehicle between the cars included in the funeral procession. Turning on your headlights in an attempt to appear as part of the procession or otherwise impersonating a funeral procession member is illegal. You may pass a funeral procession on the procession's left side on a multiple lane highway if the passing can be done safely. About 81% of the vehicles involved in fatal crashes in 2009 were passenger cars or light trucks - including pickups, vans, and sport utility vehicles. Light trucks are the most popular vehicles on American roads today. The open and rugged tread design of the tires limits the vehicle's ability to stop and turn. On average, pickups and SUVs need between 10-20% more distance to stop than passenger cars traveling at highway speeds. Although light trucks are similar to passenger cars, they are usually taller, heavier, and have different tires and suspension systems than cars. A taller vehicle allows the driver to see over surrounding traffic and search farther down the road ahead for potential dangers. The extra height may cause problems when entering certain garages and enclosed parking spaces. Pickup truck, small van, and SUV drivers pose other problems to car operators. These taller vehicles make it more difficult for passenger car drivers to see through, around, or past them. In a crash, the bumpers of tall vehicles cause more damage and increase the possibility of injury to the car's occupants. They also cause more glare when approaching or following other traffic because headlights are higher. The square shape and taller height of the light trucks mean they are more likely to be blown off the road by high winds. Light trucks are heavier than passenger cars and take longer to stop, turn, or accelerate than do lighter vehicles. In an evasive emergency maneuver, the higher center of gravity of these vehicles makes them prone to roll over or pitch forward more easily than a car. Step vans (delivery trucks) and 15-passenger vans are large vehicles with limited visibility to the rear. These vehicles have the same performance and handling characteristics of pickup trucks, SUVs and light trucks. Seldom is there an interior mounted rear-view mirror available for the driver to see to the rear of the vehicle. Avoid placing your vehicle at the rear or directly to the side of a van on the road. Increase space between your vehicle and a large van if possible. If you have to pass, ensure there is space in your lane to quickly overtake and reenter your lane. According to NHTSA's "Traffic Safety Facts", in 2009, large vehicle including single-unit trucks and semi-trucks (18 wheelers) weighing more than 10,000 pounds accounted for approximately 7% of the vehicles in fatal crashes. Of the 3,215 large trucks involved in fatal crashes, 67% were semi-trucks. In general, the bigger and heavier the vehicle, the longer it takes to accelerate and stop. Larger vehicles are also less maneuverable than smaller vehicles. Drivers of large vehicles sit up high and have an excellent view of the road ahead; however, the size of their vehicle limits their vision to the rear and to the sides. A large blind spot exists on the left (and several hundred feet directly behind the trailer). The entire right side of these vehicles also presents an equally dangerous blind spot. When traveling behind large trucks, increase your following distance. If you follow too closely, the large truck will obstruct your view of the road ahead. If you are in traffic following too closely, the truck driver cannot see you. Slow down and re-position your vehicle so you have a better view of the road ahead, and you can see the side mirrors on the truck. Trucks that are loaded usually travel very slowly uphill and have a tendency to increase speed traveling downhill. If you are in front of a truck that is traveling downhill, change lanes, out of the truck's path. If you are traveling behind a truck going uphill, pass it only when it is safe to do so. If you cannot pass, adjust speed, and prepare to drive the same speed the truck is going. Even if it is very slow, be patient. You have no other safe choice. Do not follow too closely behind a truck going uphill. Mechanical failures could cause the truck to roll back and collide with your vehicle. When following, passing, or while being passed by a truck in wet weather, be cautious of the tire spray. As you pass or are being passed, turn your wipers to high, anticipate the spray, maintain a straight path in your lane until you regain visibility. Blind spots around large vehicles are called "no-zones" because occupying these zones is extremely dangerous and not recommended. Stay out of the "no-zones." If you have to enter the no-zone, get in and out quickly! Do not enter a no-zone and linger - a truck driver might see you before you enter and forget you are there. If you see a truck begin to enter your lane when you are in the no-zone, never assume the driver is aware of your vehicle location. Maneuver out of no-zones as soon as possible. If a truck has a long and broad hood, the driver may also have restricted vision up to 20 feet beyond his or her front bumper. Long semi-trucks can have a blind spot of up to 200 feet behind the truck. Before deciding to pass a large truck, be sure to gauge the total length of the truck. Is the tractor pulling two or possibly three trailers? Can you see that far ahead? Drop back, maintain a long following distance so you can search well ahead of the truck for hazards down the road. Ensure that you have sufficient space ahead of the truck to allow you to easily re-enter the lane after overtaking and passing. Check for curves ahead and no-passing zones. Try to plan an escape route if you get caught in a hazardous situation during the maneuver. Never pass if you have to linger for any amount of time in the truck's "no-zone." Never pull quickly into a space directly in front of a truck or "cut off" a large truck in traffic. This is a major cause of truck-car crashes and in most cases the driver of the car is the one who gets injured. When a large truck enters a highway or freeway, demonstrate courtesy and create space for the truck to enter. Recognize when you have entered a "no-zone."- if you are in one, maneuver your vehicle out of the "no-zone." as soon as it is safe to do so. Commercial buses transport an assortment of passengers, and many commercial buses transport children to help supplement the school bus system. Commercial buses make frequent stops that delay traffic, often in the right lane. They often block your view of cross traffic and of passengers getting on and off the bus. If you see a commercial bus on its route ahead of your vehicle, change lanes well in advance to avoid their frequent stops. If the traffic is congested, be patient and stop behind the bus' rear no-zone. Allow the passengers on board the bus to disembark and make their way safely to the sidewalk. Drive with care when you are near a school bus. If you approach a school bus from either direction and the bus is displaying alternately flashing red lights, you must stop and not pass until (1) the school bus has resumed motion, or (2) you are signaled by the driver to proceed, or (3) the red lights are no longer flashing. You need not stop when meeting or passing a school bus which is (1) on a different roadway, or (2) upon a controlled-access highway where the school bus is stopped in a loading zone and pedestrians are not permitted to cross the roadway. A person who fails to obey the law regarding yielding the right-of-way to school buses displaying alternating, flashing lights, is subject to a fine of not less than $200.00 or more than $1,000.00. A second or subsequent conviction can result in a license suspension up to 6 months (Texas Drivers Handbook). Search for small children and other pedestrians around school buses prior to the bus stopping and after it departs. Be extra cautious and resume driving slowly, only after you are sure there are no pedestrians in your path. About 38% of pedestrian fatalities in 2009 resulted from persons improperly crossing the roadway or intersection, walking, playing, or working in the roadway. Pedestrians often enter an intersection before it is safe, or they dash across the street when they are in a hurry. Even though they might know better, it is your responsibility to yield the right-of-way to them. In bad weather, watch for pedestrians to unexpectedly cross your path when they are trying to get out of the cold or stay dry in a rain storm. Watch out for the unpredictable pedestrian with an umbrella; it is likely that they can see no more than their feet as they shield themselves from the weather. They cannot see you - compensate for their unpredictable actions, slow down and yield the right-of-way. Elderly, disabled, or blind pedestrians might move slowly through intersections. Be patient and courteous as you wait for them to cross; do not honk your horn or shout at them. On roadways without sidewalks, pedestrians are supposed to walk along the left side of the road facing traffic. This is a law designed for road users to "see and be seen". If you see a pedestrian along the side of the road, slow down and increase the space between your vehicle and the edge of the road. As a driver, you become a pedestrian as soon as you exit your vehicle. Remember other drivers might not see you; you should anticipate that they might not extend you the proper courtesy. You have just become the vulnerable one! As you approach the vehicle, check for the presence of pedestrians, especially in parking lots. When backing out of a driveway, watch for children playing near or behind the vehicle. Bicyclists are sharing the roadway more than ever - they use bicycles to commute, deliver packages, and for recreation and exercise. Bicyclists are supposed to obey traffic laws and the other rules-of-the-road like other highway transportation system users, but do not assume that they will. Some bicyclists may ignore traffic signs. Anticipate how road conditions, the environment, or traffic situation will affect bicyclists' actions. Bicyclists might enter your path without warning, swerve to avoid obstacles, unintentionally fall from their bike, etc. A bicyclist is just as unpredictable as a person driving a car. As you approach a bicyclist, adjust your speed and position. Slow down and create a wide space. Do not pass if the road is too narrow for you to pass safely. Do not pass them if you cannot safely move out of your lane. Be patient and follow them at a distance until it is safe to pass. From a distance, communicate your intentions to pass by signaling with a tap on your horn. Do not get up close behind a bicyclist and use your horn. Texas law authorizes NEVs to be operated on roads with a posted speed limit of 45 mph or less. Be extra cautious while sharing the road with NEV operators. NEV operators are required to have a driver license, but not required to have a motorcycle endorsement. They are also not required to wear helmets--which puts them at a higher risk than those who are operating larger vehicles. Be aware that you may find NEV operators on the main road, or if they are driving an enclosed three-wheeled vehicle, they may drive in preferential lanes instead. Motorcycles are small and difficult to see as they approach you from the opposing direction or from the side. Motorcycles can accelerate very quickly and can make extremely fast maneuvers. The driver has virtually no protection against injury during a crash. You may not operate a motorcycle unless you have applied for a class M license or possess an official authorization to operate a motorcycle with proof that you have completed an approved motorcycle operator training course. As of September 1, 2009, motorcycle riders are no longer required to carry a $10,000 minimum health insurance coverage. Instead, the Texas Department of Insurance is now required to prescribe a standard proof of health insurance for issuance of those who are over 21 years old and covered by an approved health insurance plan. When sharing the road with motorcycles, first you need to know they are there. Motorcycles can overtake you quickly from behind. Search for motorcycles at all times, especially before changing lanes, turning, or passing. It is the law that motorcycles must always operate with their headlight on - even during the day. Scan your mirrors for the presence of an approaching motorcycle by looking for the single headlight. Often, you might hear it before you see it. Because motorcycles are small, it is more difficult to judge their speed. Before changing lanes or maneuvering your vehicle, check the speed of the motorcycle - be sure you and the motorcycle are not about to merge into the same space. Motorcycles have small mirrors. If you are behind or to the side, do not assume the motorcyclist sees you. Motorcycles take up a small amount of space in the lane, but they need every bit of the lane in case they need to make a fast, evasive maneuver. Anticipate sudden movements, swerving, and quick lane changes without signals. Give the motorcyclist plenty of space and increase that space when the condition of the road is rough, irregular, or slippery as the result of inclement weather. When being passed by a motorcycle, maintain your lane position and prepare to adjust your speed to let the motorcycle in front of you. If you see a motorcycle rapidly overtaking you from the rear, maintain your lane position until it passes. Don’t try to change lanes. If you fail to yield the right-of-way to a motorcycle and it results in a collision causing injury, the minimum fine is $500. If the collision results in a serious bodily injury or death, the minimum fine is $1,000, with a maximum fine of $4,000. Each year, about 1.5 million animal-vehicle collisions cause about $1 billion in damage, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). When a vehicle collides with a deer or, in some northern states, a moose or elk the average damage is about $2,500, though it can exceed $10,000. According to NHTSA, in 2009 there were 173 fatal crashes and 12,000 injury collisions involving animals and motor vehicles. Animal-vehicle collisions can happen any time of year, but autumn is the peak season for deer-car collisions. Deer and other large animals that live in wooded areas are likely to be more active and roam outside of their territory during autumn because it is mating and hunting season. As a driver, there are a few guidelines to help reduce the risk of colliding with a deer, moose, or elk: Scan well ahead and far off to the sides of the roadway when you see "deer crossing" signs. At night, use your high-beam lights, conditions permitting, to illuminate the road's edges. Conduct extensive visual search in areas near woods and water, especially at dawn and dusk, when these animals venture out to feed. If you see one deer, there may be several others nearby. Do not flash your headlights. If there is no vehicle close behind you, brake hard. If a collision is inevitable, do not swerve to avoid the animal; your risk of injury may be greater if you run off the road. Maintain control of the vehicle. Report the collision to the police and your insurance company. Animals are unpredictable and easily startled. Encountering animals on the road can be dangerous whether it is a herd of cows, a single horse and rider, or a wandering pet. When you are driving on rural roads, be aware that you could encounter livestock at any time. Farmers often use rural roads to move animals between paddocks, or graze stock at the side of the road. Watch for livestock if you see broken fences, open farm gates, or droppings on the road. If there are animals on the road or roadside: Reduce your speed and be ready to stop. Do not sound your horn or rev your engine. Horses can frighten easily, behave unpredictably, and move into the road very quickly. Horses also have very good hearing and are easily alarmed by loud, unexpected noises. The average horse is so heavy, a collision with a car can kill the horse, its rider, and those in the vehicle. Do not overtake a horse as you would another vehicle. When approaching a horse in the roadway: Slow down and give the horse plenty of room, especially on bridges or narrow roads. Do not sound your horn or rev your engine. Stop if the horse appears frightened. At night, do not use high-beam headlights. If a smaller animal like a rabbit, cat, or dog crosses your path, do not swerve. Brake firmly if safe to do so. Small animals will do minimal damage to your vehicle if you cannot stop in time. Do not risk injury to yourself to avoid hitting an animal. Take extra care at sunset as the temperature cools; this is the time nocturnal animals feed and seek water. If you injure a domestic or farm animal on the road, contact the animal's owner. If you are unable to contact the owner, contact an inspector from The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) or a police officer no more than 48 hours after the collision. In the event that you hit a small animal, it may need medical assistance. If the animal has been killed, contact your local authorities to remove the animal from the roadway. Do your best to communicate your intentions when there is confusion about the right-of-way. Yield to any emergency vehicle that is using its siren and flashing lights. Signal your intention when turning left at an intersection or when making a U-turn. If it is an unprotected left or u-turn, yield to all oncoming traffic until there is a gap providing you with sufficient time and space to safely turn. Yield to all vehicles already traveling in the roadway. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crossings. Always yield to persons who carry a white cane or have a guide dog, whenever they are in the roadway. If your lane is blocked, you must yield the right-of-way to other vehicles around you before you prepare a lane change to go around the vehicle blocking your lane. If your lane is ending, you must yield the right-of-way to vehicles already traveling in adjacent lanes. Light trucks have a high center of gravity which increases their susceptibility to roll over. When you approach a school bus on an undivided roadway, be prepared to stop. When you see the flashing red stop lights, stop before reaching the bus zone and wait for the bus to unload or load. Proceed only after the bus driver turns off the red flashing lights. Watch for children. When traveling behind large trucks, increase your following distance. Avoid traveling in “no-zones” that are ahead, to the sides, and behind large trucks. If you find yourself in one of these areas, maneuver to get out of it quickly so you will be seen by the driver. As you approach a bicyclist, adjust your speed and position. Slow down and create a wide space. Do not pass if the road is too narrow for you to pass safely. Do not pass them if you cannot safely move out of your lane. Be patient and follow them at a distance until it is safe to pass. When being passed by a motorcycle, maintain your lane position and prepare to adjust your speed to let it in ahead of you. If you see a motorcycle rapidly overtaking you from the rear, maintain your lane position until it passes. A few guidelines to help reduce the risk of colliding with large animals include: Scan well ahead and far off to the sides of the roadway when you see "deer crossing" signs. At night, use your high-beam lights, conditions permitting, to illuminate the road's edges. If you see a deer on or near the roadway and think you have time to avoid hitting it, reduce your speed, tap your brakes, and sound your horn to warn other drivers of the hazard ahead. Do not flash your headlights. If there is no vehicle close behind you, brake hard. If a collision is inevitable, do not swerve to avoid the animal - your risk of injury may be greater if you run off the road. Maintain control of your vehicle. Report the collision to the police and your insurance company.

When you drive, distractions are everywhere, not just in your vehicle. At a typical intersection, you are surrounded by other drivers that are distracted or not paying attention. 77% of drivers talk on the phone 65% listen to the radio 30% listen to a portable music player Up to 45% of drivers eat or drink 27% interact with child passengers 6% do personal grooming This module is about how important it is to stay focused on the task of driving when you are behind the wheel. Inattention and distraction are becoming more difficult to manage. Topics to help you manage your distractions include: Importance of Staying Focused Inattention and Distraction Distractions You Can Control Managing Distractions You Can Control You need your eyes on the road ahead and both hands on the wheel to be capable of reacting quickly and controlling your vehicle. Split attention or focusing on distractions may narrow your field of view, shrink your peripheral vision and may cause a delay in hazard recognition. Distractions may also cause your hands to come off the wheel and steering can be affected. The average driver travels 24 miles per day to and from work in heavy, or rush hour traffic. For each mile driven, there can be up to 200 events that you have to see and decide what to do. During that single mile, you will make approximately 20 decisions - decisions that tell your hands to steer, your feet to brake, or both. Out of those 20 decisions, most drivers make two driving errors; that's one out of ten. Drivers make about two incorrect decisions per mile, which averages 48 incorrect decisions per day, per driver. To be able to steer effectively and react quickly while driving, you need to be focused on driving with: Your eyes and mind on the driving environment. Both hands on the wheel to be prepared for the unexpected. Inattention is a general lack of focus on the task of driving. Inattention is generally caused by intense mental concentration on highly emotional issues, such as relationships, health problems, family events, and money issues. It is also associated with daydreaming when your mind just wanders away from driving onto another subject. When these problems consume your thoughts, it's hard to focus on driving. If you are experiencing a highly emotional event in your life, assess your capability to remain focused behind the wheel. Clear your mind so you are able to react quickly to the unexpected events that you will encounter. Driver distraction is characterized as any activity that takes a driver's attention away from driving. Outside of the vehicle there are more distractions than inside. External distractions could include: Other drivers Crashes Road signs and billboards Unpredictable things, such as animals, pedestrians, and emergency vehicles. Distractions inside the vehicle could include: Music Navigation systems Talking Wireless devices Drinking and eating Your passengers Reading road maps, signs, and looking for street addresses are also visual distractions. It is important to remember that any distraction has the potential to cause or contribute to a crash. Eliminate as many distractions as you possibly can while driving. Do an inventory of the distractions you actually can control. Inside the vehicle there are obvious potential distractions you can prevent - using a mobile phone, text messaging, tuning the radio, changing CDs, eating, and grooming. Passengers also have a large potential to distract the driver. Control conversations and actions of those sharing the vehicle with you - including children and pets. You have no real control over events that occur outside the vehicle. You can plan your route to avoid construction zones and watch the traffic report to avoid congestion. When driving, you consistently encounter events that are unexpected - prepare for them by being focused on the task of driving while your vehicle is in motion. Before driving, become familiar with the features of your phone and program the numbers you use most often. If you have a phone in your vehicle, do not use it while the vehicle is in motion. To avoid the distraction of it ringing, turn the phone off or set it to go to voicemail. If you need to have a conversation, pull over and use the phone only when you are parked in a safe and secure location. Text messaging or surfing the internet on your wireless device while driving takes your hands off the wheel and your eyes off the road. This makes using a wireless device a distraction with one of the highest risks. When texting you are not looking at the road ahead and you are not using your hands to control the direction of your vehicle. To compound the risk, using a wireless device requires your thought process to be diverted from the task of driving. National statistics show that about 20% of fatal accidents are due to texting and driving. Several states have already banned cell phone use while driving. In May 2007, Washington became the first state to ban the practice of driving while texting. The fine for Driving While Texting (DWT) is set at $101. It is illegal in Texas to use a wireless communication device in a school zone unless the vehicle is stopped or a hands-free device is used. If you are under 18, it is illegal to use a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle. According to AAA, in 2007, up to 46% of drivers admit that they text while driving. The Virginia Tech Transportation Institute came to some shocking conclusions about texting while driving: If you choose to text while driving, you are 23 times more likely to get in a collision than if you were unimpaired. 71% of drivers age 18-29 said they texted while driving in 2009. It takes nearly 5 seconds to look at a texting device. This often happens moments before a crash. 95% of drivers would admit that texting while driving is unsafe, but 21% do it anyway. If you are traveling at 60 mph, you will travel almost the length of a football field in three seconds. A lot can happen in that amount of time with your eyes off the road and hands off the wheel. Program stations in advance. Load CDs and ensure they are not loose inside the vehicle. Keep the volume down so you can hear events outside of the vehicle. If you need assistance, have your passenger adjust the audio device. The new high technology systems being introduced into today's vehicles such as in-vehicle navigation systems, embedded cellular phones, and forward looking infrared warning systems offer incredible capabilities to the operator. However, they also bring with them distraction from the task of driving. The new technologies can actually place inordinate mental and physical demands upon the driver at very inopportune times. Studies done by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have shown that operating the controls on in-vehicle navigation systems impacts the ability to control the vehicle. The most distracting telematic activity, resulting in the greatest number of momentary losses of control, was inputting data into a navigation system using touch keys. Follow the manufacturer's warning and only input data when your vehicle is stopped. If you have a passenger in your vehicle let him or her operate the system for you. Passengers are serious distractions. Keep passengers and conversation to a minimum. Try to let the passengers do most of the talking. Refrain from emotional conversation and do not look at your passengers when you are talking with them. You are not the entertainment. If you are traveling with children, plan to keep them occupied with a quiet activity. Ensure they are safely secured and cannot move about the vehicle. Avoid this distraction because it takes both your hands off the wheel and your eyes off the road. Reading includes looking for street signs, reading maps, or trying to follow directions. Reading takes your focus away from driving and your eyes off the road. Avoid this distraction by knowing your destination before getting behind the wheel. If you need directions, stop your vehicle, then read the map. If you have a passenger, have him or her assist you in locating your destination. Plan to eat in advance of driving. On long trips, stop to eat and obtain rest so you do not get fatigued. If you have to eat, purchase car-friendly food. Prepare drinks so they fit in your vehicle's drink holder and will not spill. Plan ahead to minimize the mess of eating and drinking and the distraction that goes with it. Inattention and distractions are dangerous because they take YOUR MIND off of driving. Inattention is a general lack of focus on the task of driving. Stay focused on the task of driving because in one split second an unexpected event can occur, and you have to be ready to see it and react quickly! Most distractions are outside of the vehicle, and you cannot control them, but you CAN control the urge to look and stare. Do not take your eyes off the road ahead and keep both hands on the wheel so you can control your vehicle. Plan your route to avoid distractions outside of your car. Keep in mind that there are occasions when your vehicle can become a distraction. When engaged in a conversation, even on a hands free phone, the conversation involves your thought process and often emotions, which take your mind off driving. If you need to have a conversation, pull over and use the phone only when you are parked in a safe and secure location. If you need directions, stop your vehicle and then read the map. Groom yourself before your vehicle is in motion. Control your passengers - while you are driving, you are responsible for their lives. If you have to eat or drink, buy "car-friendly" food and get it ready before you are in motion. Enjoy the radio and CDs... load your CDs and set your radio stations before driving. Keep the volume down so you can hear events that occur outside of the vehicle. Watch out for others who are not paying attention - they are everywhere! And always stay focused behind the wheel.

which is ironic if you think about it

I do need a drink after watching those drunk driver vids...

Pasted from Word document. And that's only half.

The laws of nature are physical forces that are with you whenever you drive. These forces include gravity, friction, inertia, kinetic energy, and the force of impact. These forces' influence will vary depending on vehicle weight, speed, and direction. Operate your vehicle to compensate for these powerful natural forces. Driving at lower speeds reduces the effects the forces of nature have on your vehicle. The biggest benefit of slowing down to manage gravity, friction, inertia, and kinetic energy is the reduction in the final "killer" force - the force of impact. The force of impact is the force of an object colliding with another object. Factors that affect the force of impact include the object's weight, speed, and distance traveled after initial contact. Why is this important? If you hit something with your vehicle, the force of impact is a huge factor relative to the amount of damage incurred by the vehicle and its occupants. Here is an example of how disastrous the force of impact can be: If you weigh 100 pounds, are traveling at 30 mph, and hit a stationary object, the force of impact is 3000 pounds (mass multiplied by acceleration). The force of impact increases if the object you hit is moving toward your vehicle. This is the reason you need to avoid head-on collisions at all costs. Later in the course we will review methods of steering and braking to avoid head-on collisions and reduce the force of impact in emergency situations. This module is about speed and reducing the devastating effects of physical forces when you drive or are involved in a crash. The topics covered include: Driving at High Speeds Stopping Distance Energy Absorption Managing Speed Speed on Curves Speed influences crashes in five basic ways: It increases the distance a vehicle travels from the time a driver detects an emergency until the driver reacts. It increases the distance needed to stop a vehicle once an emergency is perceived. Crash severity increases by the square of the speed; for example, when speed increases from 40 to 60 mph, speed goes up 50 percent while the energy released in a crash more than doubles. Higher crash speeds reduce the ability of vehicles, restraint systems, and roadway hardware such as guardrails, barriers, and impact attenuators to protect occupants. Traction and maneuverability are reduced. Driving at high speeds is dangerous, even when you are traveling the speed limit. Take note of how much you "don't see" when you travel at higher speeds. The kinetic energy of a vehicle is the extra energy it has gained as a result of its motion. The scientific definition is the amount of work that is needed to accelerate a body of a known weight from zero to a given speed. Having gained that kinetic energy during acceleration, the body maintains the kinetic energy unless its speed changes, like when you apply your brakes. Energy of Motion If there are two trucks exactly the same size, traveling at the same speed, one is empty and the other is fully loaded, the heavier truck has more energy of motion. Weight and speed affect your vehicle when you are trying to judge your stopping distance. If your vehicle is loaded with cargo and passengers and is twice as heavy as usual, it will probably take twice as long to stop. The faster you travel, the more energy of motion your vehicle will have. The energy of motion will change in proportion to the square of its change in speed. What does this mean? If you travel 40 mph, given the same braking power, it will require four times the stopping distance that it would take if you travel 20 mph. If you travel 60 mph, it will require nine times the stopping distance you would need going 20 mph. Stopping Distance As a driver, it's important to understand that increased speed increases your stopping distance. Stopping distances involve three factors: Perception distance - This is the distance your vehicle travels from the time you visually see a hazard with your eyes to the time your brain registers it and triggers a response. The faster you travel, the less information you are able to see and process. Beware of highway hypnosis or daydreaming, as it can dramatically decrease perception distance. This will be discussed in more detail later in the course. Other factors that can decrease perception distance are fatigue, drowsiness, and illness. Reaction distance - This is the distance traveled from the time your brain issues an instruction to the time your body carries out the instruction. An example of this would be the amount of time it takes to lift your foot and press the brake pedal. Perception and reaction normally require .75 seconds to 1.5 seconds for the average driver. Braking distance - This will vary depending on the speed at which you are traveling and the conditions of the roadway. The faster you are traveling, the farther it will take for your vehicle to stop. However, there are many factors that can increase perception distance, reaction distance, and braking distance. As your speed increases you will cover more distance-which will decrease the time it takes you to perceive, react, and brake when necessary. Traction is also critical in judging stopping distance. Adjust your speed to maintain traction. Adverse conditions such as rain, snow, fog, wind, water, and slick roads can all increase the total distance required to come to a stop. Always abide by the posted speed limit and reduce your speed based on your ability to see and the condition of the road. Drive at a speed slow enough for your tires to grip the road if you need to stop. Energy of motion must be understood when you drive. Reducing your speed will lessen the kinetic energy should a collision occur. If you drive a newer vehicle, it features vehicle impact and restraint systems designed to absorb energy and help protect you in a crash. The vehicle impact and restraint systems all work together. These systems help reduce injury and provide occupant impact protection. Your bumpers are designed to give when hard contact is made. Bumpers are equipped with shock absorbers. If you are in a fender bender, the entire system may have to be replaced. Even small bumper crashes are expensive to repair but worth it - you may need that protection again. In a crash, the vehicle body, front and back is designed to absorb energy - it is engineered to "crumple up." As the crumpling occurs, energy is absorbed. The passenger cage is designed to not give upon impact; it is designed to protect the occupants. To further protect you and absorb the harmful force of a crash, the passenger cage contains other restraint systems, such as your air bags and safety belts. The vehicle and the cage are reinforced on all sides - designed to keep it from collapsing inward. The crumple zone is the portion of the vehicle that is designed to give upon impact. Your steering column is designed to collapse or give way when your body comes in contact with it. In addition, newer vehicles have a lot of padding and no sharp edges to protect passengers from injuries. Manage your speed to blend with the flow of traffic without going over the posted speed limit. Maintaining a safe gap between vehicles reduces front- and rear-end collision potential. Determine a safe speed to travel based on: Traffic density and the rate of flow. When you enter a congested traffic area, the space between vehicles is limited. Adjust your speed to open up space to maneuver. If an area is crowded with vehicles, you might be forced to drive at a slow speed. The design and condition of the roadway. If road traction and surface conditions are less than ideal, reduce your speed to maintain traction. How far ahead you can see. If you cannot see clearly or around obstacles, reduce your speed in the event you need to make an unexpected evasive maneuver. Adjust your speed when you encounter slow-moving vehicles. If a vehicle turns right from a stop into your lane, it will take time for that vehicle to accelerate up to the speed of traffic. Slow down or move into the passing lane early to avoid closing in too close behind the slow vehicle. Select the proper lane for the speed you travel: When traveling on two lane roadways, the right lane is for slower vehicles and the left lane is for faster traffic. On three lane highways, the center lane is for through driving, the right lane is for entering and exiting and the left lane is for overtaking. As you approach a curve, keep in mind that you cannot change the weight of your vehicle or lower its center of gravity. You cannot alter the sharpness of the curve in the road. But you do have control over one critical factor as you go through a curve, and that is your speed. Managing speed is critical to maneuvering safely through a curve. Follow these guidelines for managing speed through curves: Watch for clues about how slow you need to go before entering a curve. Look for advance warning signs and begin to reduce your speed as soon as you see the sign. Do not drive into the curve faster than the speed posted on the warning sign. Try not to brake in the curve. Braking moves the weight of your vehicle sideways putting a strain on your tires, which could cause a blowout or rollover. Do not increase your speed until you are through the curve and see a straight path ahead of your vehicle. Enter the curve SLOWER than the posted speed if: Road conditions are slippery or if surface traction is less than ideal. You are entering a blind curve that you cannot see around. Your vehicle is tall and has substantial weight loaded high. Taller vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs, have a higher center of gravity than most cars, and in turn, a higher risk of rollover. You move the center of gravity up if you pack cargo above the baseboard. If your vehicle has a high center of gravity, you will need to drive at reduced speeds, especially when entering and maneuvering through curves. Drive slowly through curves and as you approach the top of a steep hill. Be prepared to drive slowly downhill. Never drive fast downhill because speed combined with the increase in the pull of gravity can cause you to easily lose control. Speed influences crashes in five basic ways: It decreases the amount of time a driver has to detect and react to an emergency. It increases the distance needed to stop a vehicle once an emergency is perceived. Crash severity increases. Higher crash speeds reduce the effect of vehicles' restraint systems and roadway safety features to protect occupants. Traction and maneuverability are reduced. Stopping distances involve three factors: Perception distance Reaction distance Braking distance Maintaining a safe gap between vehicles reduces front- and rear-end collision potential. Determine a safe speed to travel based on: Traffic density and the rate of flow The design and condition of the roadway How far ahead you can see Managing speed is critical to maneuvering safely through a curve. Enter the curve slower than the posted speed if: Road conditions are slippery or if surface traction is less than ideal. You are entering a blind curve that you cannot see around. Your vehicle is tall and has substantial weight that is loaded high. Space Ahead Space ahead of your vehicle is important in the event you need to stop or turn to avoid an obstacle that is in front of you. You have the most control over the space in front of your vehicle. You can slow down to create a gap of space or if there is more room in another lane, you can change lanes. It is easier to just reduce your speed. If the driver in front stops suddenly and a collision occurs it is the 'fault' of the driver behind because that driver is responsible to travel behind another vehicle at a safe distance. A safe following distance provides enough space to avoid a collision by steering and/or braking. It is your responsibility to recognize how far you need to distance your vehicle and maintain that safe space, or following distance. Following Distance On dry pavement, with good visibility, allow at least a 3-second interval between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead. This rule works well for speeds up to 50 mph; however, the faster you travel, the more distance you cover while bringing the vehicle to a stop. If you are traveling 40 mph, in three seconds you will travel 180 feet. At 60 mph, the distance increases to 270 feet. At speeds of more than 50 mph, it also is important to identify an alternate path into which you can steer if the path is suddenly blocked. Your stopping distance may be greater than the distance you can see ahead. The following are steps for using the 3-Second Rule: Pick out a fixed checkpoint along the road ahead: a road sign, light post, or other fixed object. As soon as the rear of the vehicle ahead of you passes the fixed checkpoint, start counting, "One one-thousand, two one-thousand, three one-thousand." When the front of your car reaches the fixed checkpoint, stop counting. You are following too closely if you reach the fixed checkpoint before you finish counting three seconds. The 3-Second Rule works fine when you are following vehicles that are moving in the same direction and at nearly the same speed as you. However, you would be unable to stop in time to avoid hitting intersecting traffic or a stationary object in the road you could not see due to a hill, curve, inadequate lighting, or weather conditions. Create a following distance greater than 3 seconds when: Traction and visibility are reduced. A driver behind you is trying to pass. Following a large truck or vehicle with limited rear vision. Following a large vehicle that is blocking your view of the road ahead. Following motorcycles. Driving on a hill or incline. You are distracted. Space to the Sides Space to the sides of your vehicle is also important for maneuvering around obstacles to the side. If possible, position your vehicle with a safe cushion of space to all sides. Space to the side can also be used as an escape route to avoid an unexpected hazard or threat ahead. In bad weather or if poor road conditions exist, more space on all sides might be needed to make adjustments in your path of travel. Space to the sides of your vehicle gives you a cushion to avoid others that might creep into your lane. If you are in the lane next to the centerline with oncoming traffic, position your vehicle in the right side of your lane. If you see a bicyclist in your lane ahead, position your vehicle in the left side of your lane. When managing space to the sides of your vehicle, remember the side mirror adjustments to ensure you see as much as possible to the sides of your vehicle. Avoid driving next to another vehicle or in a driver's side blind spots. Recognize your blind spots and keep out of that space to the side of other vehicles. Space for Merging Vehicles When you see a vehicle ahead approaching in the merge lane to your side, reduce the risk of collision by changing lanes. Create space to your side to allow the other driver a smooth merge without conflict. If there is no space to the side to change lanes, you need to speed up or slow down. Try to avoid slowing down because you risk being hit from the rear and the merging driver will have to accelerate, limiting his or her distance on the roadway. Side Space Conflicts When you have a hazard on your left and right, manage the hazard by slowing down and separating them. On a two-lane road, if there is a delivery truck that appears to be pulling into your lane on the right and an oncoming car in the left lane, slow down and let the oncoming car pass. Then use the open space in the lane on your left to create a safe cushion of space between you and the hazard on the right. Space behind your vehicle is important if you need to stop or slow quickly and it is also the most difficult space to manage. Space behind creates a safeguard or buffer from being rear-ended. Use the following techniques to help manage the space behind your vehicle: Maintain a smooth, steady speed. Do not slow down or stop without communicating to the driver behind you. Communicate your intention to stop or slow by tapping your brakes. Prior to slowing, check your rear-view mirror for vehicles behind you. In a residential neighborhood identify high-risk situations in time to avoid a collision. Sometimes you might have to enter an oncoming lane to allow enough space for the other road users such as children and small pets. Also some neighborhood streets are narrow and vehicles are parked in the street, possibly blocking your lane. If your lane is blocked, a vehicle in the oncoming lane has the right-of-way, so stop in your lane and give the oncoming vehicle the space it needs to travel through. If you have to park on a narrow residential street, take note of the position of other parked vehicles across the street. Park your vehicle in a space that leaves enough room in the roadway for a large emergency vehicle to safely pass through. Parking Lots Parking spaces are designed to provide parking for the maximum number of vehicles in the limited space offered in the lot. The majority of parking spaces are designed to fit a mid-size vehicle well, with room to exit the vehicle without denting a neighboring parked vehicle. SUVs typically take up more room than the space was designed for. Managing space in a parking lot involves high concentrations of vehicles in close proximity to one another and vehicles pulling in and out of small spaces with obstructed vision. The vehicle that is already in the lane has the right-of-way so allow it space to maneuver before you attempt to exit your parking spot. If you are waiting for a parking space, give the driver exiting plenty of space to maneuver. Many situations arising in parking lots with space issues and dented doors have been identified as potential road rage triggers. Roundabouts Roundabouts are appearing more and more in the U.S. It is not always a familiar situation to many drivers and often people are confused about how to maneuver. The best practice is to yield to traffic already in the lane you want to enter. Adjust your speed to the flow of traffic and only enter when there is a gap in traffic. Never force your way into traffic. Roundabouts present a situation where you have to carefully manage space ahead, to the sides, and behind your vehicle. Typically the speeds are slow and the direction you will be turning is right. Signal your intentions to enter. Enter only when there is a safe margin of space. As you exit, signal, change lanes when there is a safe gap, and exit the roundabout. The amount of space you need to safely maneuver increases with higher speeds. The faster you travel the more space you need to react to situations on the roadway. You have the most control over the space in front of your vehicle. On dry pavement, with good visibility, allow at least a 3-second interval between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead. This rule works well for speeds up to 50 mph; however, the faster you travel, the more distance you cover while bringing the vehicle to a stop. Create a following distance greater than 3 seconds when: Traction and visibility are reduced. A driver behind you is trying to pass. Following a large truck or vehicle with limited rear vision. Following a large vehicle that is blocking your view of the road ahead. Following motorcycles. Driving on a hill or incline. You are distracted. Space behind your vehicle is important if you need to stop or slow quickly and it is also the most difficult space to manage. Space behind creates a safeguard or buffer from being rear-ended. To manage space to the rear: Maintain a steady speed Communicate your intention to stop or slow by tapping your brakes Prior to slowing, check your rear-view mirror for vehicles behind you Deal with tailgaters by creating more space in front of your vehicle and change lanes to allow them to get in front of your vehicle. According to NHTSA's Traffic Safety Facts, the percent of alcohol-related fatalities has declined from 55% in 1982 to 38% in 2009. Although we have been making progress, alcohol is still the third leading factor for drivers involved in fatal crashes. Even if you do not drink, it is still important for you to understand how alcohol affects driving behavior. Anyone who drives or rides in a vehicle is exposed to drunk drivers. Over the past several years, a great number of resources have been focused on solving the drinking and driving problem. Today more police patrols and roadblocks are used to find and arrest impaired drivers. In many areas in the U.S., impaired drivers may lose their license, pay huge fines, have their vehicle impounded, have the cost of their insurance doubled or tripled, and/or serve time in jail for a first offense. As a host or hostess, you have the responsibility to ensure that your guests do not get behind the wheel after drinking. To help solve the drinking and driving problem, everyone in our society should clearly understand why this combination is so dangerous. It is a fact that alcohol is a key factor in vehicular crashes. One person every two minutes is injured in an alcohol-related crash. Over 327,000 people are injured per year in alcohol-related crashes. About three in every ten Americans will be involved in an alcohol-related crash at some time in their lives. This module is about alcohol-impaired driving. The topics that will be addressed include: Alcohol-related Traffic Crashes Alcohol and Driving Behavior Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Eliminating Alcohol Intervention Techniques Alcohol is the deadliest drug when it comes to motor vehicle safety. Alcohol is a depressant that affects judgment, vision, reaction time and coordination – abilities critical to safe driving. Alcohol alters judgment, and under the influence, people take risks they otherwise would not take – this includes driving while impaired. Mixing alcohol with driving is an issue for any age. On average in the U.S., one friend, parent, or family member dies every 54 minutes in alcohol-related crashes. Research conducted by the NHTSA in “Traffic Safety Facts 2005” cited that: In 2009, all 50 states had enacted laws making it a criminal offense to operate a motor vehicle at or above a specified alcohol concentration -- .08 g/dL. In fatal crashes in 2009, the highest percentage of drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels .08 g/dL or higher was for drivers age 21-24, followed by ages 25-35 and 35-44. In 2009, 25% of the children age 15 and younger who were killed in motor vehicle crashes were killed in alcohol-related crashes. The percentage of drivers with BAC .08 g/dL or above in fatal crashes was highest for motorcycle operators. All people are affected by the consumption of alcohol. Drinking too much of any beverage with alcohol will make a person impaired. And no two humans are physically or emotionally the same. In addition, expectations, mood, fatigue, and the combination of alcohol with other drugs can have a synergistic effect and alter or increase the effect of alcohol. Anger, depression, and excitement combined with alcohol increases risk and can be unpredictable. Since alcohol is a depressant, being tired can affect how you react to alcohol. Many medications react with alcohol and some people may be more sensitive than others. When used in combination with alcohol, legal medications and illegal drugs can have serious drug interactions and sometimes fatal effects. Alcohol's Physical Effects on Driving Safe driving requires sound judgment, reasoning and concentration. Drivers need to be focused, see clearly, interpret the situation, and react quickly. Once in the brain, alcohol affects these critical skills - judgment, reasoning, and concentration are all impaired. Alcohol works quickly to distort depth perception. It relaxes eye muscles and affects focus and peripheral vision. Alcohol-impaired drivers are less able to interpret what they see. They make errors in judging speed, have trouble interpreting shapes, and lack muscle coordination. As Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) increases, the area of the brain that controls muscular movements begins to slow down - the brain takes longer to process information and react. Muscular reactions become slow; steering and braking movements become uncoordinated. No matter how good of a driver you are, alcohol will decrease your reaction time and impair your judgment while driving. After only one drink, alcohol enters the bloodstream and then quickly enters the brain. The result of consuming alcohol faster than the body can eliminate it results in intoxication, and in some situations can lead to alcohol poisoning - a physiological state produced by a toxic substance. Implied Consent Law In Texas you will be asked to participate in a breath or blood alcohol test. The testing will be used to determine the alcohol concentration or the presence in your body of a controlled substance, drug, dangerous drug, or other substance. If you fail either test you may be arrested for operating a motor vehicle while impaired, or you are a minor and have ANY detectable amount of alcohol in your system while operating a motor vehicle. Regardless if you are over 21 or a minor, you may face criminal punishments if you are over the legal limit while driving or simply while in a public area. If convicted as a minor, you may be able to seal any of their criminal convictions after successfully completing any specialized court-ordered programs. Texas law allows for the DPS to suspend the license of a minor who fails a breath or blood alcohol test while operating a watercraft. If the minor or any other is hoping to drive after their driver license suspension term has passed, he or she will also be required to pay a $100 reinstatement fee at the end of the license suspension (SB 328). Refusal to provide a specimen results in the suspension of your driving privilege and any other driver license. The suspension for a minor who refuses is 180 days for the first refusal, and 2 years for subsequent refusals. If the specimen confirms that you have been operating a motor vehicle in a public place with 0.08% BAC or above, you will have your driver license suspended (or your driving privilege will be revoked if unlicensed) for up to one year for the first offense, up to two years for the second offense, and up to two years for the third and subsequent offenses. You may request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge to contest the suspension. Alcohol begins to affect a person's ability to function moments after it enters the body. The amount of alcohol present in the bloodstream is called blood alcohol concentration. Precise legal measurements are used to determine the amount of alcohol in the body and if a driver is impaired or illegally driving under the influence. It is a criminal offense in all 50 states to operate a motor vehicle at or above .08 g/dL. Lower BAC levels apply to young drivers under 21 and commercial vehicle operators. Many factors can affect an individual's BAC – such as gender, weight, number of drinks, and size of drinks. Also, the more a person drinks, the higher their BAC. Alcohol is metabolized by the liver, where dehydrogenase enzymes break down the alcohol. The BAC level does go down after the body begins to eliminate alcohol from the system - but this is a very slow process that does not occur at the same pace for everyone. Texas DWI Penalties Texas has tough alcohol-related laws to deter people from drinking and driving or to punish those who choose to drink and drive: 1st DWI Offense (Class B misdemeanor) - Punishable as a fine up to $2,000, confinement in jail for up to 6 months, and suspension of driver license for up to a year. Possession of an open container of an alcoholic beverage increases the minimum term of confinement by 3 days to 6 days for a 1st offense. 2nd DWI Offense (Class A misdemeanor) - Punishable by a fine up to $4,000, confinement in jail for up to 1 year, and suspension of driver license for up to 2 years. 3rd (or subsequent) DWI Offense (Felony of the Third Degree) - Punishable by a fine up to $10,000, confinement in the penitentiary for up to 10 years, and suspension of driver license for up to 2 years. DWI with Child Passenger Under 15 (State Jail Felony) - Punishable by an automatic license suspension for first-time offenders and increased suspension periods for repeat offenders, a fine up to $10,000, confinement in jail for up to 2 years. There will also be a $100 license reinstatement fee once the license suspension has passed. Intoxication Assault (Felony of the Third Degree) - Punishable by a fine up to $10,000, confinement in the penitentiary for up to 10 years, and suspension of driver license for up to 1 year. Intoxication Manslaughter (Felony of the Second Degree) - Punishable by a fine up to $10,000, confinement in the penitentiary for up to 20 years, and suspension of driver license for up to 2 years. Males have higher amounts of the dehydrogenase enzyme, so males can eliminate alcohol faster. Men also have more water in their bodies than women so they can dilute alcohol faster. Females take longer to eliminate alcohol than males, even though they might be the same weight. Elapsed time is also a factor. For most males, it takes the liver around one hour to process approximately one drink or one shot of liquor. Typically for females it takes longer. One drink equals one 12-ounce beer, a 5-ounce glass of wine, or one shot (1.5 ounces of hard liquor or spirits). No matter what you have heard, there is no way to disguise BAC or speed up the liver's elimination process. The following charts provide a quick reference to see the relationship of drinking and BAC. Notice the difference between males and females. No matter what age, drinking and driving do not mix; it is just too dangerous to consider. There are so many other people who do not obey the rules that the risk of sharing the road with an impaired driver is already high enough. Remember three in every ten Americans will be involved in an alcohol-related crash at some time in their lives. Most people who drink, drink to relax or have "fun." This is called recreational drinking. Drinking in excess or frequently to obtain the side effects of alcohol is classified as alcohol abuse. The third reason for drinking is classified as "experimentation," which is typically associated with teenagers who have not yet experienced the effects of alcohol on their own system. Unfortunately, most people have a limited knowledge about alcohol and how it impacts their judgment and health. Regardless of the reason, the effects of alcohol are unpredictable. The Host As a host, do not keep everyone's glass full and do not expect your guests to drink to excess in order to enjoy themselves. Serve amounts that are comparable to what would be served in a bar. Your guests need to understand how much alcohol they are consuming in the drinks you have prepared. Try to monitor and control the amount being consumed. Serve high protein or high starch foods which slow the absorption of alcohol. It is everyone's social responsibility to keep drinkers from driving. Establish designated drivers or carpools in advance. Try to include non-alcoholic beverages and non-drinkers at social gatherings. Ask the non-drinkers if they can provide transportation. Responsible adults should limit their alcohol consumption. Preventing drinking and driving situations is not always easy. Rely on your best judgment and call a cab if you or your driver has been drinking. As a host, be prepared for overnight guests just in case someone needs to stay over. Consider the potential legal liabilities for providing alcohol to guests and make an informed, safe decision. Open Container Law If you must transport alcohol, be sure that it is in a sealed, unopened container in the trunk or other locked compartment of your vehicle. It is illegal to have open containers of alcohol in your vehicle while you are operating it. If a police officer sees you drinking alcohol while operating your vehicle, you can be fined up to $500. If you receive a DWI while in possession of an open container of alcohol, it increases the minimum jail time by 3-6 days. Alcohol enters the bloodstream very quickly and begins to affect the body almost immediately. It is quick to find its way to the brain because the brain contains more blood than any other organ. The amount of alcohol present in the bloodstream is called blood alcohol concentration (BAC). Many factors can affect an individual's BAC - such as gender, weight, number, and size of drinks. Typically, one drink equals one 12-ounce beer, a 5-ounce glass of wine, or one shot. The male liver takes about one hour to process one drink. Alcohol-impaired drivers are less able to interpret what they see. They make errors interpreting shapes, have altered depth perception, and experience difficulty in judging speed. Never ride with an impaired driver. If intervention is not working, call a cab. In 2009 in the U.S., 9,813 people died in alcohol-related crashes. That's one every 54 minutes, or an average of 27 per day. Consider how many drivers you know who operate their vehicle under the influence of over-the-counter, prescription, and/or illegal drugs. The use of almost any drug will have an effect on driving performance. Drugs are designed to alter specific body functions and consequently can alter the ability to perceive, make sound judgments, and react quickly. The majority of drug users are under the influence of legal drugs such as medicine for colds, a headache, muscle or joint pain. Less than 5% of the population uses illegal drugs. Everyone's Body is Different If you have prior experience with a drug and its reactions, do not assume it will react the same, especially if you take additional medication. How a drug interacts with your body depends on the dosage, other drugs, food intake, and body weight/metabolism. Taking medicine can cause driving problems such as: Lengthened reaction time Reduction in your mental or physical abilities Intense or unexpected reactions If you are taking over-the-counter or prescribed medication, read the warning labels and follow the instructions given to you by your doctor or pharmacist. Inform your doctor of all medications you are taking. When you have this discussion, if applicable, be honest about the amount of alcohol being consumed while taking the drug. Combinations of medicine can produce unpredictable and strong side effects that make it hazardous for you to drive. This module addresses the risk associated with drug-impaired driving. Topics include: Types of Drugs Physiological Effects of Drugs Dangers of Combining Drugs Dangers of Drug-impaired Driving Avoiding Drug-impaired Drivers With all medication, it is important to know what you are dealing with. Here is a quick review of the types of legal and illegal drugs and their effect on the body. Legal drugs include non-prescription (over-the-counter) or those requiring a doctor's prescription. Legal drugs are tested for safety and are labeled with consumer warnings. The categories or types of drugs include: Depressants Stimulants Narcotics Hallucinogens Depressants affect the central nervous system by slowing down or "depressing" reflexes and coordination. Depressants include: Alcohol Analgesics (pain pills) Anti-diabetics (sugar medicine) Barbiturates (downers) Sedatives (ludes) Stimulants "stimulate" or speed-up the central nervous system. They increase heart rate and generate a false sense of alertness and well-being. Stimulants include: Nicotine (tobacco) Caffeine (soft drinks, chocolate, coffee) Amphetamines (speed) Designer Drugs (Ecstasy) Cocaine (crack/coke) Narcotics are strong depressants that are often prescribed for severe pain. They act to shut down the central nervous system. Narcotics include: Opiates (codeine, heroin, morphine) Hallucinogens alter the mind. They change the way the mind perceives, processes information, and reacts. They are unpredictable and illegal. Hallucinogens include: Cannabis (marijuana, pot) Lysergic Acid (LSD/acid) Mescaline and Peyote (mesc) Phencyclidine (PCP) Inhalants (fumes) Psilocybin (shrooms) Drugs alter body chemistry. Prescription drugs and non-prescription drugs have been developed by pharmaceutical companies and approved for public consumption by the Food and Drug Administration. Legal drugs have been tested for reactions and side effects before going on the market. Side effects vary and may include: Drowsiness Blurred vision Sensitivity to bright light Muscle ache Nausea Slowed reaction time All of these side effects alter a driver's performance. The list of drug-related side effects is endless and can vary depending on the individual. Never assume you will not react differently or will not be adversely affected after taking some type of drug. Legal drugs carry warning labels. The issuance of prescription drugs requires the pharmacist to tell you how and when to take the drug and what to do if there are side effects. Warning labels also carry specific instructions, such as: "Do not operate heavy machinery or equipment while taking this medication." As a driver, if you take medication, read the label and know what is in your system. Before driving, conduct an inventory of how you are thinking and feeling. If you are experiencing any "side effects" that affect your vision, thinking, or reaction time, do not drive. Combining different drugs may cause a more intense effect than if you only take one drug at a time. This effect is called synergism and is unpredictable and extremely dangerous. Just like any chemical reaction, chemicals might be stable alone, but when mixed, a dangerous chemical reaction can occur. If you combine similar drugs, for example, two depressants, the effect of combining two might be similar to taking three. This is especially true with alcohol. The same is true for combining drugs that have opposite effects. You may have different reactions to the individual drugs. Many over-the-counter (OTC) medications have side effects that can include drowsiness, dizziness, slowed reaction time, and poor judgment. These tips will help you handle OTC and prescription medications safely: Tell your doctor about every drug you are taking, including OTC medicines and those prescribed by other doctors. Ask your pharmacist about possible side effects for each medicine or combination of medicines. Ask how these side effects may affect your driving. Always read the warning labels completely and carefully. Never take more of any drug than is prescribed. Never take a drug prescribed for someone else. If you must drive after taking any medication, be extra careful. Almost any medicine can affect your driving. Never combine drugs without consulting with your physicians, and only use them as directed. Most state vehicle codes state that you shall not drive a motor vehicle after taking a substance which alters the central nervous system. This includes over the counter, prescription, and of course, illegal drugs. The following categories of drugs have known side effects that include impaired attention, reaction time and vision: Depressants slow the brain's processing ability to perceive and also slow the muscle response or reaction time. Stimulants temporarily excite and accelerate the central nervous system. Over stimulation can cause aggressive behavior. Narcotics depress the central nervous system. They slow down the brain's ability to process information and react. Cold medicines can also have serious side effects that impair driving. Read all warning labels carefully and follow the instructions. Most suppress cold symptoms and therefore the "side effects" slow the driver's ability to think and react quickly. Reference the following chart to help recognize common drugs, their source and how they can impact your ability to drive safely. How Drugs Affect Your Ability to Drive Types of Drugs - Examples Source Known Side Effects Amphetamines (diet pills, pep pills): Benzedrine, Dexedrine Prescription for fatigue and mild depression Dizziness, hallucinations, hyperactivity, decreased ability to concentrate, headaches Painkillers - Analgesics: Aspirin, Excedrin Over-the-counter Bleeding in stomach and intestines Antibiotics - For infection: Penicillin Prescription for infection Nausea Allergy and Cold Pills - Antihistamines: Benadryl, Dramamine Prescription and over-the-counter Drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, inattention Sedatives - Barbiturates: Seconal, Nembutal Prescription for insomnia, high blood pressure, epilepsy Drowsiness, impaired judgment, impaired reflexes Anti-anxiety - Benzodiazepines: Valium Prescription for mild anxiety Blurred vision, drowsiness, fatigue Tranquilizers - Librium, Valium Prescription for severe anxiety and emotional problems Blurred vision, drowsiness, fatigue, faintness, vomiting, tremors, dizziness Narcotics - Cough syrup and painkillers: Morphine, Codeine, Demerol, Tylenol with Codeine Prescription for pain, cough suppressant and insomnia Nausea, blurred vision, drowsiness, impaired concentration Alcohol - Beer, wine, liquor Regulated sales, age restrictions Impaired judgment, concentration and reasoning, nausea, blurred vision, drowsiness Marijuana and Hashish Illegal Distorted depth perception, impaired coordination, depression, panic, fear, hallucination Hallucinogens - LSD, PCP, mescaline Illegal Impaired senses, hallucination, panic, depression Stimulants: Cocaine: crack, crank, "ice," freebase Illegal Dizziness, impaired alertness, hallucinations, hyperactivity, decreased ability to concentrate, headaches Drugs are designed to alter specific body functions and consequently can alter the ability to perceive, make sound judgments, and react quickly. The categories or types of drugs include: Depressants Stimulants Narcotics Hallucinogens Depressants affect the central nervous system by slowing down or "depressing" reflexes and coordination. Your ability to focus and respond quickly is impaired. Sedatives are a type of depressant. Stimulants "stimulate" or speed-up the central nervous system. They increase heart rate and generate a false sense of alertness and well-being. They excite and accelerate the central nervous system. Moderate amounts may produce blurred vision, hallucinations and paranoia. Narcotics are strong depressants that are often prescribed for severe pain. They shut down the central nervous system. They can produce a wide variety of side effects including nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. Drivers also may experience slowed reaction time and drowsiness. Hallucinogens alter the mind. They change the way the mind perceives, processes information, and reacts. Combining different drugs and alcohol may cause a more intense effect than if you only take one drug at a time. This effect is called synergism and is unpredictable and extremely dangerous. Never combine drugs and use legal drugs only as recommended. Watch for indications that other drivers might be impaired: Erratic changes in speed Weaving from side to side Traveling in the wrong lane Running stop signs and lights Distance yourself from the impaired driver by increasing the amount of space between you and the other vehicle. Have you ever nodded off while driving and snapped awake without remembering what just happened on your journey? The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that there were 72,000 police reported crashes resulting in 730 deaths and 30,000 injuries as a result of drowsy driving in 2009. Studies have shown that sleep-deprived drivers' reaction times and performance skills are as poor as alcohol-impaired drivers'. There are two types of fatigue: Physical - A tendency toward inactivity brought on by physical exhaustion. Mental - A tendency toward inactivity brought on by mental or emotional stress. Your body and mind both get tired. Recognize physical and mental fatigue so that you can be sure you never get in a vehicle when your body needs to sleep. Your brain will find the sleep it needs when you are fatigued, and falling asleep at the wheel or experiencing a microsleep (temporary loss of concentration) can happen when you least expect it. Fatigue may be brought on by mental or physical exertion, stress, boredom, illness, or lack of sleep. Drowsy driving is now recognized as one of the leading causes of traffic crashes. Do not drive tired and do not ride with a tired driver. This module is about how being tired affects your ability to drive. The topics that will be addressed include: Circadian Rhythm Physical and Mental Effects of Fatigue Micro-sleep Sleep Driving Driving on Long Trips When do you find yourself wanting a nap - sometime in the afternoon after lunch? Avoid scheduling a drive when your circadian rhythm is low. These times are when you are more likely to zone out, blank out, or experience microsleeps at the wheel. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, most sleep crashes occur during "the middle of the night" and during the early morning hours. Less obvious, though, there is also a peak in sleep-related crashes in the mid-afternoon. Our natural circadian rhythms dictate that we will be most sleepy during the middle of our nighttime sleep period, and again 12 hours later, between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Vehicle off-road rollovers most often occur during these hours. If you work a late shift or stay up late into the night for whatever reason, be aware that fatigue affects your mind, body, and all your senses, especially vision. It is not safe to drive if you have stayed awake during your natural sleep time. Fatigue affects your body and your mind. When tired, you are not as alert as you should be and your senses are dulled. Your vision is affected because your eye muscles are tired along with the rest of your body and focusing becomes difficult. Your peripheral vision shrinks. Your ability to search is also reduced, delaying hazard recognition. You may miss critical information such as road signs and traffic signals. Or worse, you may not see an animal or pedestrian approaching from the side. When you are tired, your body is relaxed and it takes more time to steer and brake. Your brain is slowing down and your ability to react quickly is reduced. Lack of sleep is one of the leading causes of traffic fatalities. Fatigue has many of the same dangerous effects as drinking alcohol. 12 hours awake = same effect as .032 blood alcohol concentration 18 hours awake = same effect as .07 blood alcohol concentration 24 hours awake = same effect as .1 blood alcohol concentration Be aware that any of these blood alcohol levels could be illegal, and you could be considered as impaired as if you were drinking alcohol. Do not drive tired or after drinking. Never risk driving under this combination of risk factors. Microsleep is a term used for sudden, unexpected moments of sleep - microsleeps last 4-5 seconds. In 4-5 seconds, traveling 50 mph, your vehicle can travel the length of a football field. Close your eyes and count to five - imagine what can happen when you are asleep even for a few seconds at the wheel. In about half of the drivers who experience microsleep, there are no warning signs. Be attentive to the warnings that your body may give when you are about to fall asleep. Those warnings and symptoms include: Discomfort - heavy arms and legs Tense muscles Heavy eyes Constant yawning Leaning forward while driving Feeling tired Headache Your eyes closing Trouble keeping your head up Wandering, disconnected thoughts Distraction Not remembering driving the last few miles Drifting between lanes Tailgating Missing traffic signs Hearing the noise of rumble strips or lane markings Jerking the vehicle Drifting off the road When you notice these warning signs, get off the road. Do not depend on warning signs because sometimes microsleeps occur without any warning. You cannot predict when you will fall asleep at the wheel. Do you have health issues that disrupt your sleep patterns? Do you have a difficult time getting the needed 8 hours of sleep recommended by the National Sleep Foundation? If so, you are a likely candidate for microsleep, or "nodding off" while driving. If you experience microsleep, pull off where it is safe and you can rest. Prevent microsleep by: Driving only when rested Scheduling your drives to avoid your circadian rhythm "low-times" Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule Avoiding mental and physical exertion before driving Rest is the only cure for the effects of fatigue. Do not even consider driving if you are tired. In March 2007, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued new warnings for prescription sleep aids, alerting patients that the drugs can cause allergic reactions and complex sleep-related behaviors, including “sleep driving.” The agency has asked the makers of more than a dozen drugs to alter drug labels and officially warn doctors and patients of the risks associated with sedative-hypnotics. These commonly prescribed sleep aids are widely used and frequently advertised on television. Some patients who have taken the drugs have reported participating in behaviors similar to sleepwalking, but far more complex - such as driving, all with no memory of the events. If you are taking these types of drugs, reduce the risk of unpredictable "sleep driving" by taking no more than the prescribed amount and do not mix it with alcohol. This information may not apply to you directly, but add it to the list of reasons you need to be a defensive driver, stay focused, and be aware at all times - the driver next to you could be asleep with their eyes wide open. Driving on long trips is a unique experience: You are behind the wheel for a greater distance and time than you are normally used to. There are different driving environments and unfamiliar roads, which require you to be alert and attentive. Time zone changes interfere with your normal body clock and schedule. Tips for preventing fatigue when driving on long trips include: Get plenty of sleep before you depart. Ensure your vehicle has good air circulation. Wear your seatbelt - it "holds" you in your seat and your muscles do not tire so quickly. Take frequent breaks. Schedule and plan to stop every two hours, get out, and walk around. Rest. If necessary, find a hotel to prevent a fatigue-related crash. Lack of sleep is one of the leading causes of traffic fatalities. Fatigue has many of the same dangerous effects as drinking alcohol. For example, being awake for 18 hours straight has the same effect as a .07 BAC. The circadian rhythm is built into the human body to seek rest for itself. We will be most sleepy during the middle of our nighttime sleep period, and again 12 hours later, between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. When you are tired, your body is relaxed and it takes more time to steer and brake. Your brain is slowing down and your ability to react quickly is reduced. Fatigue blurs your visual acuity, shrinks your peripheral vision, and slows your hazard recognition abilities. You may miss critical information such as road signs and traffic signals. Microsleeps are sudden, unexpected moments of sleep that last 4-5 seconds. In 4-5 seconds, traveling 50 mph, your vehicle can travel the length of a football field. If you experience microsleep, pull off where it is safe and rest. If you are taking sedative-hypnotic drugs such as Ambien or Lunesta, reduce the risk of unpredictable "sleep driving" by taking no more than the prescribed amount and not mixing it with alcohol. Tips for preventing fatigue when driving on long trips include: Get plenty of sleep before you depart. Ensure your vehicle has good air circulation. Wear your safety belt - it "holds" you in your seat and your muscles do not tire so quickly. Schedule and plan to stop every two hours, get out and walk around.

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.” Examples of aggressive driving behavior include: Improper passing Speeding Improper lane changing Failure to obey traffic controls Reckless, careless or inattentive driving Making illegal turns Tailgating Failure to signal lane changes Shouting, swearing, name calling When you think of an aggressive driver, what image comes to mind? Aggressive driving has several levels and an assortment of penalties - all of which can be avoided if you can learn how to manage your aggressive tendencies when driving. Law enforcement agencies categorize observable aggressive driving behavior as: Failure to yield the right-of-way Cutting drivers off when passing Not allowing someone to pass safely Incorrectly yielding when entering traffic Making unsafe U-turns Not signaling before slowing for a turn Driving across highway dividers Passing in no-passing zones Passing stopped school buses when warning lights are flashing Speeding in marked construction areas Throwing an object from the vehicle These behaviors are considered "aggressive" by law enforcement because they demonstrate a disregard for the law. The aggressive driver typically denies that these crash-causing behaviors are aggressive. But it is clear that drivers who put others in danger by the way they choose to drive are hostile, dangerous and selfish. They want to force others out of their way. These drivers feel justified in dominating others and that's what labels this type of behavior "aggressive driving". Research conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in "Traffic Safety Facts 2009" cited that aggressive drivers injure two to four times more people than drunk drivers. Road rage is an escalation of emotions generally provoked by aggressive drivers. Road rage is characterized by a driver using their vehicle or some other object to threaten or cause physical harm to another highway user as a result of a traffic incident. Aggressive drivers are more likely to allow their emotions to take control and participate in road rage. Examples of road rage behavior include: Using the vehicle to cut other drivers off or run them over Chasing other vehicles in pursuit Throwing objects from the vehicle Physical fighting Rude and obscene gestures Shouting, swearing, name calling Honking to protest another driver's actions Shining high-beam headlights in retaliation The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety studied incidents of violent aggressive driving committed between 2003 and 2007 and found that 119,475 people were killed in crashes involving potentially aggressive actions. The NHTSA says about 66% of all traffic fatalities annually are caused by aggressive driving behaviors.

Driving is a dynamic activity that involves high-risk incidents and interaction with thousands of unpredictable drivers. Routine events are mixed with incidents that are not routine such as being cut off, tailgated, or having to follow a very slow moving vehicle. We enjoy the freedom and independence of driving when and where we please. Many drivers do not react well when that expected freedom is interrupted by restrictions, regulations, congestion, and the unexpected actions of other drivers. The following is a list of emotional challenges that are common reasons why drivers get angry, hostile, and exhibit aggressive behavior: Restriction. In a traffic jam, when drivers cannot get where they are going on time or at the expected speed of travel, anxiety builds up to "escape" the confinement of congested traffic. This anxiety causes drivers to perform aggressive maneuvers to get away from or get ahead of others. Being confronted with danger. Congested traffic filled with impatient drivers who make unpredictable moves, cause "close calls" and near collisions. Being confronted with dangerous situations increases stress, fear, resentment, and rage. Regulation. Government regulation, and all of the rules associated with driving, angers some people because they feel like it is an imposition, prompting them to disregard the rules because they do not agree with them or they are just rebellious. Lack of control over the situation. When drivers have no control over their driving environment and are stuck in traffic, the lack of control over the traffic event is frustrating and often leads to anger vented towards a nearby driver. It is the application of the old adage, "frustration leads to aggression."

Driving requires interaction between your body and mental processes. Drivers routinely drive in mental states that interfere with the ability to perceive risk and react quickly. You are impaired when your ability to operate a vehicle is limited or hampered. Emotional impairment leads to unpredictable behavior, which increases the risk for everyone in the driving environment. Emotional impairment factors are hard to manage because they often arise suddenly, without warning. The most common factors that create an emotionally impaired driver include: Stress Anger or rage Fear, anxiety, or panic accompanied by irrational thoughts Depression Grief Speed addiction Risk addiction Habitual disrespect for the law Negativity that condones hostility on the highway Denial of one's own driving mistakes Drivers who drive recklessly while experiencing these emotions are characterized as unwilling to exercise self-control because of fear, vengeance, prejudice, or disrespect for others. Avoiding collisions requires complex decisions and skilled responses. Other drivers depend on you to be rational and predictable.

When you drive, you get information from most of your senses. You see, hear, smell, and feel the motion of the vehicle - all of this input helps you to be aware of your driving environment, to predict what might happen, and to assess how to react. This information is processed by your brain and keeps you aware of changing situations. Sensory input helps your brain understand and decide when to accelerate, steer, or brake. You also need to be in general good health with no injuries or illness that might prevent you from operating your vehicle safely. Vision is the primary sense used in driving. About 90% of the information required for safe driving relates to vision. Since 90% of the information required for safe driving relates to vision, the degree of accurate vision is essential. Visual acuity refers to the clarity or clearness of one's vision, a measure of how well a person sees. Visual acuity is a measure of the ability to identify black symbols on a white background at a standardized distance as the size of the symbols is varied. This acuity is dependent upon the retinal focus, the sensitivity of the nervous system elements, and the manner in which the brain interprets the information. The well-known phrase "20-20 vision" refers to the ability to read given letters at a standard length of an eye exam room, specifically the distance from the patient to the acuity chart, which is typically 20 feet. Good driver vision includes: Contrast sensitivity Substantial visual field of view Glare recovery Contrast sensitivity is the capacity to sharply see the difference between two similarly colored objects. Often pavement markings are worn and tend to blend into the road. This can affect your ability to locate the lane boundaries and where the edge of the roadway is located. When driving, the inability to see the difference in contrast also affects distance judgment. An adequate visual field of view means you are able to see objects in the periphery. Horizontal and vertical peripheral vision enables you to see up, down, and to the sides. This ability is necessary for detecting signs, signals, vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, etc., outside of the field of view directly ahead. Glare recovery refers to the ability to see in the presence of oncoming headlights, at night, or in the presence of sun glare in daytime. Glare introduces stray light into the eye; it also reduces the contrast of important safety targets. If you suffer from allergies and have watery eyes, consider how that will affect your ability to see clearly before getting behind the wheel. Scanning to the sides and behind not only requires the ability to focus on the objects in the mirrors but the ability to move the neck and head quickly. A restricted range of motion reduces your ability to effectively scan to the rear and sides of your vehicle to observe blind spots, and can also hinder the timely recognition of conflicts during turning and merging maneuvers at intersections. Strength and range of motion in the arms are related to the ability to turn the steering wheel and negotiate turns at intersections. Be sure you have enough strength in your arms to control your steering wheel in the event you lose your power steering. You also do most of your braking and acceleration with your leg muscles. Your overall physical well-being is essential to operate your vehicle safely. In order to react quickly and operate your vehicle, all of the muscles and parts of your body that move, push, and pull the controls must be responsive and strong enough to safely make these maneuvers. Allow another licensed driver to drive you if you are sick, injured, or have any other substantial physical impairment. Mental readiness is hard to assess, but train yourself to do it. Be aware of your mental and emotional well-being. Extreme emotions such as anger, depression, sorrow, and anxiety can affect your ability to stay focused on the driving task. Excitement and happiness can also interfere with your ability to focus on driving. If for any reason you are mentally incompetent, even as a temporary condition, it is illegal to drive. It is also illegal to drive if any medical limitations may interfere with your ability to drive safely - this is not limited to chronic illness. Remember, Texas will not issue a license to individuals who have a physical or mental impairment which makes it unsafe for them to drive. Learn to recognize and assess your limitations before getting behind the wheel. If you determine your risks associated with being physically, mentally, or medically ready to drive are too high, consider alternative transportation choices such as walking, public transportation, or rides from family or friends. Before getting behind the wheel, it is important to know where you are going and the best route to get there. Drivers can avoid getting lost, wasting gas, and arriving late by knowing the destination and safest route before driving. Plan your route and departure times to avoid construction, hazards, and heavy traffic. Try to avoid high pedestrian areas and rush hour when other drivers are distracted and in a hurry. It is also a good idea to have an alternative route if you encounter a road closure or heavy congestion. If you have never driven to your destination, refer to a map and know your directions before getting behind the wheel. Also, leave in plenty of time to allow for delays. Check the traffic and weather reports before driving. Prepare for wet weather or driving in ice and snow. If weather is extreme, use an alternative route and/or departure time, if available. Before driving it is important to be aware of any potential problems that you can fix or attend to before getting behind the wheel. Pre-drive checks help you avoid costly repairs, breakdowns, or loss of control that could lead to a crash. As you approach the vehicle, have your keys in your hand. Be prepared to enter the vehicle without delay - especially if you are in a busy parking lot. If you are parked on the street, next to a curb, approach the vehicle from the front. Don't enter the street with your back to traffic. Search around your vehicle for obstacles and debris. Look for potholes, rocks, nails, and slippery areas. Look for fluids leaking from the vehicle or for objects that were not there before you parked the vehicle. Notice the direction your front wheels are turned. To avoid hitting something you may have to adjust the direction as you begin to move your vehicle. Check your tires for proper inflation. Ensure your lights and windows are clean and clear. Check the area for other traffic, pedestrians, small children, or pets running loose. Keep track of those sharing the area around your vehicle. If your vision is obstructed, search around or under those obstacles for things that appear to be in motion. Your mirrors should also be adjusted before every drive. Adjust your rear-view mirror to ensure you have a full view out of the rear window. Adjust the driver's side mirror by placing your head against the window and adjusting the mirror so you can see the rearmost left corner of the vehicle. Lastly, adjust the passenger's side mirror by positioning your head at the middle of the vehicle and adjusting the mirror so you can see the rearmost right corner of the vehicle. Do not sit too low or too close to the steering wheel as this will limit your steering ability. Position the seat so that your chest is 10 to 12 inches from the hub of the steering wheel. In this position, if the air bag deploys, you reduce the chance of injury. If you are short and cannot reach the pedals from this position, check to see if your vehicle has adjustable pedals. If your vehicle is not equipped with this feature, check with your vehicle dealer or local automotive supply retailers to obtain pedal extenders. Proper seat positioning is now much easier with new technology such as adjustable steering wheels, adjustable steering-wheel columns, and adjustable power seats. The most comfortable position for your hands depends on your height, arm length, seat height and steering-wheel position. In the past, drivers were taught to place their hands at the 10 and 2 o'clock or 9 and 3 o'clock positions. However, today more flexible positions are encouraged. With the lower 8 and 4 o'clock hand position, you can smoothly turn the steering wheel nearly 160 degrees in either direction without crossing your arms. When you must turn the wheel more than 160 degrees, a preferred technique is called push/pull or push/pull/feed steering: One hand pushes the steering wheel up in the direction you want to turn. Meanwhile, the other hand slides up toward 12 o'clock and then pulls down. The hand you first used to push then slides down to make further adjustments as necessary. To return to your original path, simply reverse the process or let the wheel slide through the fingers. Push/pull steering from lower hand positions has at least five major advantages over past hand placement methods: It is less fatiguing because it allows a more normal position for your arms. The 8 and 4 o'clock hand position is a lower, more restful position. The driver's arms stay close to the body and allow the body to be in a more upright and stable position. You are more likely to keep both hands on the steering wheel allowing the muscles of the chest, back and shoulders to do most of the work. Push/pull steering eliminates hand over hand and crossing the arms while steering. The hand over hand steering requires greater muscle strength. Injuries to arms, hands, face, and eyes can be reduced or prevented during a collision when a driver-side air bag deploys. Position the lap belt to fit snugly across your hips and not up on your abdomen. When the belt is fastened, take up any slack by pulling the belt firmly across your lap toward the lap-belt retractor. Use the tension adjuster to change the shoulder belt position and pressure against your chest. The shoulder belt should never be placed behind your back or under your arm. Passengers should not ride in the front seat with the back of the seat in a reclining position. Your body could slide forward, increasing the chance of both neck and abdominal injuries in the event of a crash. To get the maximum protection from painful whiplash neck injuries sustained in rear-end collisions, properly adjust the head restraints so they are close to the back of the head and no lower than the middle of the head. A crash occurs every 30 seconds. Before driving, assume you will be in a crash. Driver readiness lowers your risk. If you determine your driving risks associated with physical, mental, or medical limitations are too high, consider alternative transportation choices. Know your destination and plan the safest route. Plan an alternate route in the event you have an unexpected detour. Don't drive where you can't see. Most of the information you process while driving is visual. Before driving be sure you can focus on things near and far away. If you are sick, disabled, or your vision is impaired, have someone else drive. Position yourself to be able to steer, accelerate, and brake efficiently. Sit straight behind the wheel with your back against the seat. Adjust your seat so you can see and easily operate the controls. Adjust the driver's side mirror so you can see the rearmost left corner of the vehicle. Put a 10"-12" space between you and the wheel. Adjust the head restraint so the top of it is even with the top of your ears. Fasten your safety belt. Tell passengers not to recline in their seats. In the event of a crash, their bodies could slide forward, increasing the chance of injury. Eliminate unnecessary distractions or diversions. Loose objects become projectiles in a crash. Secure loose objects in the trunk or the cargo net. Secure yourself and your passengers and buckle up. Many drivers involved in crashes say "it happened so fast," "I didn't see" or "I couldn't stop in time." As a driver, you are often forced to respond quickly to a traffic situation. To have adequate time and space to avoid obstacles in your path you need to search the traffic environment far ahead of your vehicle. Position yourself with a clear line-of-sight so you can search the traffic environment about 30 seconds ahead. This gives you plenty of time to recognize obstacles ahead and maneuver around or away from potential traffic conflicts. To help judge how far ahead you need to look for the 30-second visual lead, pick out a fixed object like an overpass well down the road and start counting. If you reach the object before getting to thirty, pick out another object further down the road and try it again until you obtain the 30-second distance. The location of 30 seconds on the road ahead will vary depending on your speed. Traveling at 25 mph, 30 seconds ahead is about two and one half blocks. At 30 mph, 30 seconds ahead is close to two blocks. With a well developed 30-second scan technique, you pick up visual cues, process information and decide what to do next. This mental process takes time. After you decide what to do, you have already traveled a good distance and now you will still require a "control zone" of about 12-15 seconds ahead to safely execute your maneuver. This 12-15 second visual-control will give you time to identify a place or places to which you can steer, on or off the road if a potential problem situation develops into a threatening situation. The 12-15 second visual-control zone also gives you time to decide where to go if you cannot steer where you intended. Identification of alternate paths also becomes critical if you are in a situation where you may be struck from the rear. The following are clues that you are not looking far enough ahead when you drive: You make frequent, quick stops. In traffic, you often find yourself boxed in a slow moving lane - this indicates you have not spotted problems ahead well enough in advance to avoid them. If you drive a high profile vehicle such as an SUV or RV, it is critical to ensure you have clearance above, especially in places such as: Parking garages Fast food restaurant drive-up lanes Service stations with a canopy Tunnels and toll booths Residential or rural roads with low-hanging trees Your own garage Develop the habit of observing the ground for changes in road traction conditions and for shadows that might indicate hidden hazards, such as children between parked cars. Other benefits of using low scanning techniques include: Looking at the ground beside a moving vehicle helps you to more accurately judge its speed. Predicting another vehicle is about to change direction by checking the position of the vehicle's tires. Locating potholes and sudden changes in road surface conditions that might affect your traction and/or path of travel. Noticing shadows on the roadway might indicate a hidden vehicle ahead of a truck you want to pass. When approaching places where others may cross or enter your path, look to the sides to make sure no one will enter your travel path. Conduct your search to the sides by scanning such things as: Intersections, freeway entrances, driveways, alleys, controlled multi-lane roads, etc. Crosswalks and roadside areas Railroad crossings Parking lots School zones and residential areas Before you enter an intersection, search for threatening objects and conditions to the left – vehicles you will encounter first will come from this direction. Look ahead and then to the right. Often drivers fail to see vehicles to the right. Be aware that you are most likely to be hit by a vehicle coming from the right. Take one last look in both directions before you pull into an intersection in case you missed something the first time. Do not rely solely on traffic signals at an intersection. Look to the left and right even though other drivers have the red light or stop sign. Drivers often fail to stop for stop signs, and in many areas, several vehicles may run red lights during rush hour. Before crossing an intersection, be sure you have an adequate view. If your line-of-sight is blocked, slowly edge forward until you can see. If other vehicles are blocking your view of another lane, it is best to wait until they move. As you turn a corner, watch for pedestrians about to cross the street in your path. When a right-turn-on-red is permitted, always yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk. Whenever there is a lot of activity or there are roadside business entrances along the side of the road, use active scanning to the sides. Be cautious for obstacles when driving in or near: Shopping centers Parking lots Construction zones Playgrounds, school yards Busy sidewalks Residential areas Approach a railroad crossing with caution. Search and roll your windows down to hear, and be prepared to stop. Search as you approach a railroad crossing; look both ways even when warning lights are not flashing - the signal may not be working. If signal and bells are flashing and ringing, do not enter the intersection. Do not try to beat the train. Never stop your vehicle straddling the railroad crossing or between the gates. When approaching a railroad crossing with more than one track, make sure you have a clear view well down the track in both directions. Our natural tendency is to concentrate on what is going on ahead of where we are going. However, trouble can come from any direction - check your mirrors whenever you change speed or position. Standard rear-view and side mirrors do not provide a complete view of everything behind your vehicle, even when properly adjusted. To adjust the driver's side mirror, place your head against the window and set the mirror so you can just see the rearmost corner of the vehicle. To adjust the passenger's side mirror, position your head at the middle of the vehicle and set the mirror so you can just see the rearmost corner of the vehicle. When changing lanes, check for traffic behind you, glance in your rearview and side mirrors to make sure no one is preparing to pass you. Also, before you change lanes glance over your shoulders to check the blind areas to be certain no one is near the left- or right-rear corners of your vehicle. Some drivers may have difficulty looking over their shoulder. If you experience these problems, you can install special mirrors to reduce your blind areas in the following ways: Replace your regular mirrors with larger ones. Install large side mirrors, both sides. Install side mirrors with angled surfaces, which might be helpful in reducing blind areas. Attach a small convex curved mirror in the corner of a flat mirror. This will help you see blind areas, but will not help gauge distances. By using both mirrors together, you can detect other vehicles with the curved surface and judge how close they are with the standard mirror. Always check your mirrors: Before you slow down, stop, or when anything in the lanes ahead suggests a change of speed or position. When you have to slow or stop quickly. When you prepare to turn into a side road or driveway, especially if the driveway is just before an intersection. When maneuvering to pull into a parking space. When traveling on a long or steep incline. When you detect an obstacle in your mirrors adjust your speed or position to avoid any conflicts. Remember it is most difficult to manage space behind your vehicle. If there is someone tailgating, position your vehicle as far away as you can from the aggressive driver. Signal and maneuver to the right lane if there is a safe gap in traffic. Your external lighting system is designed to communicate with other drivers and help you to "see and be seen" by others. Increase your chances of being "seen" by other drivers by always traveling with your headlights on if your vehicle is not equipped with daytime running lights. If it is approaching dusk, or if the sky is starting to get dark, turn on your headlights. On highways, or when there is no opposing traffic, use your high beams whenever possible to illuminate your path. Be sure to turn off your high beams if there is opposing traffic or when you see taillights of vehicles ahead. Use your low-beam headlights in fog, snow, or rain. The water droplets in rain and the flakes in snow will reflect the light of your high-beam headlights back into your eyes and make an already poor visibility situation even worse. Remember, the faster you travel, the longer it takes to stop. If you are traveling so fast that you cannot see past the location where you would come to a complete stop, you are "overdriving" your headlights. If you "over-drive" your headlights, and you see an obstacle in your path, you will not be able to stop before you hit that obstacle. In curves, your headlights are pointing straight ahead, not into the curve. Slow down and try to search into curves beyond the illuminated path to the best of your ability. Reducing your speed will help. The most important thing you can do to help you see better is to have regular eye examinations and wear corrective lenses if you need them. Normal eyes are at their peak performance when a person is in their teens. Vision begins to decline around age 15. If you have not yet experienced any noticeable changes in your vision, be aware that it will happen. Watch for warning signs such as blurry objects far away and difficulty judging distance at night. Age-related changes in vision include poor vision in dim light, difficulty seeing in glare conditions, and reduced peripheral vision. As they occur, these changes require more time to effectively search the traffic scene. To help you see better in low-light conditions: Give your eyes a chance to adjust to darkness, especially after entering the dark from a brightly lit room. Give your eyes at least 30 seconds to adjust to the darkness while your engine is warming up. Keep in mind, it does not have to be pitch black for light levels to be inadequate. Allow your eyes time to adjust to other low-light conditions such as twilight, fog, or haze. Use all available light. If you are driving in the city, use low-beam headlights and stick to well-lit streets. Make sure you get full use of your headlights. If you think your headlamps are not projecting light far enough ahead, have them checked and adjusted if necessary. Keep headlights clean. Dirty lenses can cut the amount of light your headlights emit by as much as 90%. Wear sunglasses during the day so your eyes are rested if you have to drive at night. Do not smoke while you drive. In addition to creating a smoke screen, smoking reduces night vision. It also makes the windshield dirty. It is just as important to be seen as it is to see. You share the road with many drivers who have declining vision - drivers over 50 years old will experience a rapid decline in eyesight. Be aware that many drivers are age 50 and older, and may not see you clearly even though you can see them. Do not assume other drivers see you - especially if you make an illegal maneuver such as running a red light. Other drivers are being told to enter the intersection at the same time. Never assume they will see you and stop in time to avoid hitting you. What you are able to see without obstruction is called your “line-of-sight.” The best condition for visual search is when your line-of-sight around all sides of your vehicle is not obstructed. Look far down the road at least 30 seconds ahead. When you decide to execute a maneuver, you will need a control zone of approximately 12 to 15 seconds. Develop the habit of observing the ground for changes in road traction conditions and for shadows that might indicate hidden hazards, such as children between parked cars. This practice will also help you judge the speed of other vehicles. When changing lanes, check for traffic behind you, glance in your rearview and side mirrors to make sure no one is preparing to pass you. Also, before you change lanes glance over your shoulders to check the blind areas to be certain no one is near the left- or right-rear corners of your vehicle. Install larger side mirrors to reduce this blind spot. Whenever you have to back your vehicle, check behind it before getting in. Children or small objects are hard to see from the driver's seat. Back up slowly because your vehicle is much harder to control and stop while you are backing. Low light at night reduces your vision and makes driving difficult and dangerous. Using the night setting on your rear-view mirror may help, but it may hamper your ability to judge the distance of traffic behind you. At night, when there is no opposing traffic, use your high beams whenever possible to illuminate your path. Be sure to turn off your high beams if there is opposing traffic or when you see taillights of vehicles ahead. If an approaching driver refuses to switch his high beams to low, you should locate the white marker and use it to guide you. Do not overdrive your headlights - never drive so fast that you do not have time to stop to avoid hitting something just beyond your lights. If you "over-drive" your headlights, and you see an obstacle in your path, you will not be able to stop before you hit that obstacle.