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Traffic School Courses:

Course Table of Contents (bookmark this site)


Status Chapter Title
1 THE RESPONSIBILITY OF DRIVING
2 DEFENSIVE DRIVING STRATEGIES
3 TRAFFIC SIGNS, SIGNALS, AND ROADWAY MARKINGS
4 SAFE DRIVING PRACTICES
5 TURNING AND PASSING
6 DRIVING IN THE CITY
7 DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY
8 DRIVING ON THE ROADWAY
9 CHALLENGES OF DRIVING
10 DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS AND ALCOHOL
11 SHARING THE ROAD AND DRIVING RESPONSIBLY
12 VEHICLE EQUIPMENT, SAFETY, AND MAINTENANCE
FINAL EXAM
REFERENCES


Introduction


As you begin this course, you are probably thinking that since you are a licensed,
experienced driver this course may well be a waste of time. After all, you already know
how to drive.

However, this course was designed to refresh and improve the basic driving knowledge you
already have. Studies indicate that all drivers have the capacity to drive two times
more safely than they presently do.

Consider the following national statistics about personal and societal losses resulting
from traffic collisions:

* Motor vehicle collisions are the leading cause of death among Americans ages 3 to
33.


* The number of injuries and deaths due to collisions is considered to be of
epidemic proportion, with 40,000 to 50,000 people killed annually in traffic collisions.


* With an estimated 6,328,000 police-reported collisions each year, the total
economic cost of crashes exceeds $230 billion each year.


* Traffic collisions cost the national economy billions of dollars in property
damage, increased medical costs, increased insurance premiums, and lost job time. The
cost of personal or family disruptions as well as mental and physical suffering cannot
be measured in dollars. Careers can be destroyed or delayed.


* Alcohol consumption and driving - a deadly combination - is a major cause of motor
vehicle collisions in the United States. An impaired driver behind the wheel of an
automobile is a collision waiting to happen.

* Alcohol is the single most commonly used drug in society today. If drivers simply
did not drink and drive, the roads would be a safer place for everyone. And despite
national public awareness campaigns, studies still show that approximately 40 percent of
all fatal collisions in the United States involve alcohol.

In 2003, there was a total of 4,215 fatal traffic collisions in California, and
approximately 36 percent of these fatalities were from speed-related crashes. Traffic
crashes cost the people of California $20.7 billion in 2003.

Motor vehicles play an extremely important role in our lives and our economy. Without
them, most of us could not get to work, go to the grocery store or travel outside of our
own community. However, it is imperative that we understand the potential losses
associated with motor vehicle collisions and unsafe driving practices.


The Responsibility of Driving


One of the first things to understand is that operating a motor vehicle is a serious
responsibility.

Your motor vehicle is a potentially dangerous weapon. A loaded gun can be dangerous in
inexperienced hands; operating a motor vehicle without a proper understanding of driving
and safety regulations can also be extremely dangerous. For example, if a driver parking
downhill fails to point the wheels of his or her vehicle toward the curb, the car could
roll into traffic, causing a collision with another vehicle.

Understanding the responsibilities of operating a motor vehicle will help you prevent
vehicle collisions and, more important, reduce the chances of causing possible harm to
yourself and others.


Reasons for Violations and Crashes


Here are some frequent causes of negligent driving, violations, and crashes. As you read
them, see if you recognize any that might describe your driving problem:



Fact




Although the U.S. population has been growing steadily, the rate of motor
vehicle deaths per 100,000 population has remained constant since 1998.



Speeding – Speeding is one of the most common hazardous acts committed by all drivers.
Speeding reduces the time drivers have to avoid crashes and also lengthens stopping
distances, increasing both the likelihood of crashing and the severity of the crashes
that do occur.

Lack of courtesy – Courtesy is nothing more than showing respect for the rights and
privileges of others using the highways. It is a simple matter of displaying good
manners while driving.

Inattention – Inattention is simply not paying attention to the driving task, making it
very difficult to evaluate the traffic conditions around you. Not paying attention may
keep you from responding when an emergency exists. Driving requires your full attention
at all times.

Impatience – To practice patience is a must, especially with the amount of traffic we
have on our highways today. We have to expect traffic tie-ups from time to time, whether
we are going to work, traveling on holidays or weekends, etc. A simple solution is
leaving earlier and adjusting your schedule accordingly.

Emotions – If you are having an emotional problem, your mind is preoccupied. You may be
worried about financial problems, family issues, someone who may be ill, etc. This is
when you are most accident-prone. If you are in this condition, allow someone else to
drive for you, or wait until the problem has been eliminated before you drive.

Lack of knowledge of the law – This involves not being familiar with what is expected
and required by law in all driving situations.

Inability to keep pace – You may not be accustomed to changing traffic patterns and
complex driving conditions – as may be the case if you have recently moved from a rural
to an urban area.

Resentment of authority – You are not willing to accept the law as it pertains to safe
driving.

Immaturity – Acting childish or lacking personal restraint and the tendency to act on
impulse, take risks, and perform aggressively, especially in the company of other
people.

Decreased alertness – Poor judgment, affected vision, inattention, and reaction time
slowed by alcohol or other drugs, fatigue, or illnesses such as: headache, indigestion,
sore throat, toothache, flu, infections, upset stomach, fever, or allergies.

Anger – Prevent yourself from becoming angry as a result of the actions of other
drivers.

Remember, anger and driving do not mix. There is no place for aggression behind the
wheel – shoulder passing, manic lane changers, speeders, and zig-zaggers all lead to a
pathology named "road rage."

If any of these conditions have contributed to your driving problems, an important first
step is to make the appropriate adjustments – change your attitude about driving,
compensate for your poor physical or mental state by exerting conscious and continuous
control over the driving task, or get additional driving instruction or help from the
appropriate healthcare provider. Along with your own commitment to change, this course
can help to increase your knowledge of California's motor vehicle laws so that you can
protect your driving privileges.

Remember: if your passengers are hanging on to the door handle, making awkward floor
motions when a stop has to be made, or telling you have all the makings of a race car
driver – these may be hints that you take too many hazardous chances on the road. If you
hear or see these actions while you are behind the wheel, it would be a good idea to
monitor your driving ability. Don't wait too long, or it might be too late.


Aggressive Driving and Road Rage


The consequences of aggressive driving include property damage, bodily injury, or death.
Road rage, most commonly seen in young males with a history of alcohol and drug abuse,
is a term used to describe the most extreme form of aggressive driving. However, anyone
can lose his or her temper in certain situations and become aggressive while driving.

Penalties for road rage and aggressive driving in California

The court may order the suspension of the driving privilege of any operator of a motor
vehicle who commits an assault on an operator or passenger of another motor vehicle, an
operator of a bicycle, or a pedestrian and the offense occurs on a highway. The
suspension period for an assault commonly known as "road rage," shall be six months for
a first offense and one year for a second or subsequent offense.

Who are these aggressive drivers and how can you identify them?

NHTSA defines aggressive drivers as high-risk drivers who climb into the anonymity of an
automobile and take out their frustrations on anyone at any time. For these drivers,
frustration levels are high and concerns for fellow motorists are low. They run stop
signs and red lights, speed, tailgate, weave in and out of traffic, make improper and
unsafe lane changes, make hand and facial gestures, scream, honk, and flash their
lights. They drive at speeds far greater than the norm, which often causes them to
follow too closely, change lanes frequently and abruptly without notice (i.e., without
using turn signals), and pass on the shoulder or unpaved portions of the roadway. They
may also mock or threaten motorists – verbally or with physical gestures – whom they
deem "thoughtless" enough to be in front of them.

In order to avoid becoming a victim of an aggressive driver, you must understand and
practice some preventive techniques. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety offers these
basic guidelines:

1. DON'T OFFEND – When surveys ask drivers what angers them most, the results are
remarkably consistent. A few specific behaviors seem unusually likely to enrage other
drivers:

* Cutting off: When you merge, make sure you have plenty of room. Use your
turn signal to show your intentions before making a move. If you make a mistake and
accidentally cut someone off, try to apologize to the other driver with an appropriate
gesture. If someone cuts you off, slow down and give them enough room to merge into your
lane.


* Driving slowly in the left lane: If you are in the left lane and someone
wants to pass, move over and let them by. You may be "in the right" because you are
traveling at the speed limit, but you may also be putting yourself in danger by making
drivers behind you angry. In many states and provinces the law requires you to travel in
the right lane and use the far left lane only for passing. Besides, it is simple
courtesy to move over and let other drivers by.


* Tailgating: Drivers get angry when they are followed too closely. Allow at
least a three-second space between your car and the car ahead. (When you see the car
pass a fixed point, you should be able to count at least "one one-thousand, two one-
thousand, three one-thousand" before you pass that point.)

If you think another car is driving too slowly and you are unable to pass,
pull back and allow more space, not less. That way, if the car does something
unexpected, you will have time to get out of the way.

You should be able to see the headlights of the car behind you in your rear
-view mirror. If you feel you are being followed too closely, signal and pull over to
allow the other driver to go by.

* Gestures: Almost nothing makes another driver angrier than an obscene
gesture. Keep your hands on the wheel. Avoid making any gestures that might anger
another driver - even "harmless" expressions of irritation like shaking your head.

Be a cautious and courteous driver. Signal every time you merge, change
lanes, or turn. Use your horn rarely, if ever. If you and another driver see a parking
place at the same time, let that person have it. And if another driver seems eager to
get in front of you, think "Be my guest," and allow the other driver ahead. When you
respond this way, after a while, "be my guest" becomes your automatic response and you
won't be as offended by the rudeness of other drivers.


2. DON'T ENGAGE – One angry driver can't start a fight unless another driver is
willing to join in. You can protect yourself against aggressive drivers by refusing to
become angry at them. A person who is angry can do things they may later regret and that
includes you. If you're tempted to retaliate against another driver, think "Would I want
to fly in an airplane with a pilot who was acting like this?" Think about what kind of
crash your angry actions would cause, then cool down and continue your trip.

* Steer clear: Give angry drivers lots of room. A driver you may have offended
can snap and become truly dangerous. If the other driver tries to pick a fight, put as
much distance as possible between your vehicle and the other car, and then get away as
quickly as possible. Do not, under any circumstances, pull off to the side of the road
and try to settle things face to face.


* Avoid eye contact: If another driver is acting angry with you, don't make
eye contact. Looking or staring at another driver can turn an impersonal encounter
between two vehicles into a personal duel. Once things get personal, the situation can
get out of hand quickly.


* Get help: If you believe the other driver is following you or is trying to
start a fight, get help. If you have a mobile phone, use it to call the police.
Otherwise, drive to a place where there are people around, such as a police station,
convenience store, shopping center, or even a hospital. Use your horn to get someone's
attention. This will usually discourage an aggressor. Do not get out of your car and do
not drive home – the aggressor may follow you.


3. ADJUST YOUR ATTITUDE – The most important actions you can take to avoid aggressive
driving take place inside your head. By changing your approach to driving, you can make
every trip more pleasant. Try these ideas for a positive change:

* Forget winning: For too many motorists, driving becomes a contest. Are you
one of those drivers who allows too little time for a trip and then races the clock to
get to your destination on time? If something happens to slow you down, do you get
angry? The solution is simple: Allow more time for your trip. You will be amazed at how
much more relaxed you feel when you have a few extra minutes. Listen to soothing music
or a book on tape. Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing. You will
arrive calmer, fresher, and in a less stressed-out frame of mind.


* Put yourself in the other driver's shoes: Instead of judging the other
driver, try to imagine why he or she is driving that way. Someone speeding and
constantly changing lanes may be a volunteer fireman or a physician rushing to a
hospital. Someone who jerks from one lane to another may have a reason, like a bee in
the car or a crying baby. Whatever their reason, it has nothing to do with you. Stay
cool and don't take other driver's actions personally.

* If you think you have a problem, ask for help: Courses in anger management
have been shown to reduce heart attacks. These same techniques can also help angry
drivers. Drivers who successfully reinvent their approach to the road show dramatic
changes in attitude and behavior. Look for anger management courses in your area. Self-
help books on stress reduction and anger management can also be helpful.


What Do Traffic Laws Really Mean?


Traffic laws are rules developed to ensure the safety of everyone on the roadway. They
are defined as:

* Regulations covering the licensing of drivers
* Registering and titling of vehicles
* Financial responsibility of drivers
* Minimum safety equipment of vehicles
* The rules of the road
* Infractions and penalties

Do I have to stop completely at a STOP sign?

Always come to a full stop at a STOP sign. You should stop at the limit line, if marked;
otherwise, you should stop before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the
intersection. If there is no limit line or crosswalk, you should stop at the entrance to
the intersecting roadway. Slowing down or "rolling through" the STOP sign is not enough
and is against the law.

Who stops at a YIELD sign?

To yield means to allow another to cross or to use an intersection or roadway before you
do. You must be prepared to slow down or stop if necessary to give the right-of-way to
vehicles on the roadway. Proceed when safe to do so.



Fact




Each year more than 900 people die and nearly 200,000 are injured in crashes
that involve red light running. About half of the deaths are pedestrians and occupants
in other vehicles who are hit by the red light runners.



When to stop at a yellow light

A steady yellow light means stop if you can do so safely. It does not mean that three
more cars can drive through the light before it turns red. A flashing yellow light means
slow down and proceed with caution. Be prepared to yield.


Common Courtesy Leads to Safe Driving


You are not the only driver on the road. Therefore, you have to be aware of other
drivers and pedestrians to see how they react to different situations. When drivers are
courteous to each other, traffic flows more smoothly and there is less chance of
collisions, injuries, or damage to private property. Remember the golden rule of
driving: Treat other drivers the way you want to be treated.

The Driving Privilege


You must demonstrate your driving competence by obeying the traffic and safety laws. If
you don't, your driver's license may be restricted, suspended, or revoked for committing
various driving offenses.

Is driving a right or a privilege?

Driving is a privilege you earn by mastering the operation of a motor vehicle and
knowing and following the laws and rules that govern the contacts between pedestrians
and others on the roadway. You choose to earn this privilege. Remember that driving is a
privilege, not a right.

Your responsibilities while driving include the following:

* Obey the traffic laws.
* Fulfill your financial obligations associated with any collision you cause.
* Demonstrate courtesy to others on the roadway.
* Protect your passengers at all times.
* Know and properly maintain your vehicle.

Driver Permit Issuance (VC 12509)

The minimum age for issuance of an instruction permit is 15 years, 6 months. The DMV,
for good cause, may issue an instruction permit to any physically and mentally qualified
person who meets the following requirements and who applies to the Department for an
instruction permit:

* Is age 15 years and 6 months, or over and has successfully completed an approved
course in automobile driver education and is taking driver training or is enrolled and
participating in an integrated driver education program.

Drive only when you are mentally and physically able to drive.

Note: Customers applying for a California DL or ID card for the first time are required
to provide a birth verification document, an acceptable document to prove legal presence
in California, and their Social Security Number. If you are a new resident within the
State of California, you must have a valid California driver's license within 10 days.

License Refusal

A class C license allows its bearer to drive an automobile. The Department of Motor
Vehicles may refuse to issue a license to you if you:

* Alter or falsify a driver license
* Have a history of alcohol or drug abuse
* Use the license illegally
* Falsify your application
* Do not understand the traffic laws or signs
* Do not have the skill to drive
* Have a health problem that makes your driving unsafe
* Have a failure to appear (FTA) or failure to pay (FTP) for a traffic citation on
your driving record
* Have not complied with a judgment of order for family support payments
* Use a crib sheet for any examination for a license
* Impersonate or allow someone else to impersonate an applicant to fraudulently
qualify for a license
* Refuse to give a thumbprint
* Refuse to sign the certification on the application
* Submit a fraudulent birth date/legal presence document or Social Security document

License Restriction (VC 12813)

The department may place special conditions or restrictions on your license. A driving
test is normally required to remove a special condition or restriction from your
license. The department may suspend or revoke your license if you violate a condition or
restriction.

Common restrictions are restrictions to drive to and from a DUI program, or a
restriction to drive to and from work only.

License Suspension and Revocation

If you drive with a suspended or revoked license, you can be fined and jailed and your
vehicle may be impounded.

* A suspended license means your driver’s license is temporarily taken away.
* A revoked license means your driver’s license is taken away for a period of 6
months to life.


Commercial License (VC 15302)

The driver of a commercial vehicle may not operate a commercial motor vehicle for one
year following the first conviction of specified offenses, including DUI, hit and run or
vehicular manslaughter, while driving any vehicle, not just a commercial vehicle (VC
15300).Two or more convictions of specified offenses, while driving any vehicle, results
in the permanent disqualification of a commercial driver from operating a commercial
vehicle (VC 15302).


Commerical License (VC 15215)

The DMV must report each conviction occurring within California of a person holding a
commercial drivers license from another state to the licensing authority of the home
state of the licensee.

What Are the Consequences Faced by Negligent Drivers?


The effects of convictions and collisions can be severe. If you break the law or drive
unsafely, your license can be taken away. When you are cited for a traffic violation by
a police officer, you promise to appear in traffic court. You may plead guilty or not
guilty, or you may pay the bail. Paying bail is the same as a guilty plea. However, if
you ignore the traffic ticket and your promise to appear in court, the failure to appear
(FTA) goes on your driving record. If you fail to pay (FTP) a fine, the court will
notify the Department of Motor Vehicles and this will go on your driving record. Even
one FTA or FTP will cause the department to suspend your license.

California Point System (VC 12810)

A public record of all your traffic convictions and collisions is maintained by the
Department of Motor Vehicles. Depending on the type of conviction you receive, each
occurrence will stay on your record for 36 months or longer.

You will receive 1 point for the following occurrences:

* A traffic conviction for driving in an unsafe manner
* Any "at fault" collision

You will receive 2 points for the following occurrences:

* A reckless driving conviction
* Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
* Hit-and-run driving
* Evading an officer
* Driving while your license is suspended or revoked
* Driving on the wrong side of the road
* Engaging in a speed contest
* Driving in excess of 100 mph

You will lose your driver's license if you get too many points.

Point violations for Class C Drivers

You may be considered a negligent operator of a motor vehicle (NOTS) when your driving
record shows any one of the following point count totals:

* 4 points in 12 months
* 6 points in 24 months
* 8 points in 36 months

Point violations for Class A and B Drivers (VC 12810.5)

You may be considered a negligent operator of a motor vehicle (NOTS) when your driving
record shows any one of the following point count totals:

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

However, the higher point count does not apply if the department reasonably determines
that 4 or more points in 12 months, 6 or more points in 24 months, or 8 or more points
in 36 months are attributable to the driver's operation of a vehicle requiring only a
class C license, and not requiring a certificate or endorsement, or a class M license.

For purposes of this subdivision, each point assigned pursuant to Section 12810 shall be
valued at one and one-half times the value otherwise required by that section for each
violation reasonably determined by the department to be attributable to the driver's
operation of a vehicle requiring a class A or class B license, or requiring a
certificate or endorsement described in this section.

NOTE: The above-mentioned actions can result in the restriction, probation, suspension,
or revocation of your driver’s license.

Penalty for Evading a Peace Officer (VC 2911)

As of January 1, 2006, the penalty for evading a peace officer includes imprisonment in
the county jail for up to one year. In addition, the penalty for anybody who causes
bodily injury while evading a peace officer has been enhanced to a minimum of; 3, 5 or 7
years in the state prison and 4, 6 or 10 years should they cause a death.

CHAPTER LEVEL QUIZ



1 Tailgating is an example of:

Towing a car
A traffic violation
What you do at a sporting event
Aggressive driving
A lane-change maneuver

2 Every year ______________ people are killed in traffic collisions.

40,000 to 50,000
100,000 to 120,000
70,000 to 80,000
1,000,000 to 1,200,000
50,000 to 60,000

3 Examples of two-point violations include:

Running a STOP sign or stop light
Exceeding the posted speed limit
Reckless driving, driving under the influence or drugs or alcohol, hit-and-run
Failing to yield the right-of-way
Listening to Barry Manilow

4 If you ignore a traffic ticket and fail to appear in court:

A failure to appear (FTA) goes on your record
Your fine automatically doubles
There is usually no consequence
A warrant is issued for your arrest
You will make the judge really mad

5 It is legal to come to a "rolling stop" at an intersection that only has a STOP sign.

True
False

6 For each traffic violation, you accumulate points on your driving record. You will be
placed on probation or lose your license if you get:

18 points in 36 months
6 points in 18 months
7 points in 12 months
5 points in 36 months
4 points in 12 months

7 If your license is suspended or revoked and you continue to drive you can be:

Forced to sing "I Fought the Law and the Law Won" Karaoke style at the police
station
Fined only
Fined, jailed, and have your car impounded
Let off with just a warning
Jailed only

8 All of the following are reasons for you to receive points on your driving record if
found guilty EXCEPT:

Making a left turn across a broken yellow line
Any at-fault collision
Reckless driving
Evading an officer
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

9 What percentage of all fatal traffic collisions in the United States involve alcohol?

90 percent
40 percent
70 percent
15 percent
50 percent

10 Which of the following must you practice regularly to avoid collisions?

Entering and exiting a freeway
Weaving in and out of construction cones at high speeds
Understanding the responsibilities of operating a motor vehicle
Always getting a good night's sleep, eating right, and exercising regularly
Talking on your cell phone on the way to the store




Defensive Driving Strategies


It's all about attitude

Superior driving skills require good judgment and the ability to make the right choices.
These skills can only develop if you have the right attitude. Be just as courteous while
you’re driving as you would in other social situations. To survive in today’s hectic
driving situations, you must practice the art of defensive driving. Simply put, this
means driving in a manner that reduces your chances of a collision with other vehicles,
pedestrians, animals, or objects. It means having a mental attitude based on knowledge,
experience, instinct, common sense, and common courtesy.

Ask yourself this: How would you react to someone pulling out in front of you, cutting
you off, or making obscene gestures at you? If you would respond by driving faster to
frighten the other person, tailgating them, or blowing your horn or gesture back, you
may not have the right attitude to execute proper judgment and make the right choices.
Research has demonstrated that attitude and perception (how you see things) are
influenced by your emotions. You are not a safe driver when your emotions are out of
control. To prevent your emotions from affecting your driving attitude, you must learn
to control your emotions or stay off the road.

Remembering the following principles will assist you in developing the right driving
attitude:

* Always be courteous and patient with other drivers.


* Do not let the actions of others cause you to make poor choices.


* Do not take unnecessary risks that could potentially jeopardize the safety of you
or others on the road.


* Remain alert and observant at all times.


* Understand that the laws and rules of the road exist to keep us safe. Accept
personal responsibility for your behavior and make the choice to obey the law.

Right of Way


One of the most important roadway rules of courtesy and common sense is the right-of-way
rule. Right-of-way rules help people drive safely. The right to use a particular part of
a roadway when two or more users of the roadway want to use it at the same time is
called the right-of-way. For example, if you yield to another driver or a pedestrian,
you are giving that individual the right of way. Everyone who uses a roadway, including
bicycle riders, moped riders, motorcyclists, and pedestrians must use and follow these
rules. These laws do not give anyone the right of way; instead, they describe who is to
yield to the right of way.

Right of way: When to use it, when to give it up


Fact




Thirty-six percent of pedestrian deaths among people age 65 and older in 2002
occurred at intersections. This compares with 20 percent for persons of other ages.




* If you come to an intersection without a STOP or YIELD sign, slow down and be
prepared to stop.


* If you arrive at a "T" intersection, the right of way is given to the vehicles on
the through road.


* Always stop for pedestrians crossing corners or other crosswalks. Do not pass a
car that has stopped at a crosswalk since the driver may have stopped for a pedestrian
that you cannot see.


* You must stop for any person using a guide dog or a white cane with or without a
red tip. The only individuals allowed to use these devices are blind or nearly blind
individuals. They must be given the right of way at all times whether or not they are in
a crosswalk.


* When you have parked off the road and are ready to enter the road again, you must
give the right of way to oncoming traffic.


* The surrounding traffic must always give the right of way to any approaching
emergency vehicle by moving to the far right of the road and stopping (clear of an
intersection) when that vehicle's sirens are sounding and/or lights are flashing.

WARNING: No one driver can claim the right of way. Even if you believe you have the
right of way, never assume that another driver will give it to you. The law actually
requires you to give up your right of way if doing so will help you avoid a collision.
If a driver doesn’t yield to you, forget it. Let the other driver go first. This will
prevent a collision and make the driving experience safer for everyone. Never insist on
taking the right of way.

How do you handle right of way when traffic signals malfunction?

Who has the right of way if the intersection:

* Is uncontrolled?
* Has STOP signs on all corners?
* Has a flashing red light?
* Has malfunctioning or broken signal lights?

In any of these instances, the first vehicle to reach the intersection has the right of
way. If two vehicles reach the intersection at the same time, the driver on the left
should always yield to the driver on the right.


How Do Emotions Affect Driving?


Emotions can have a powerful influence over the way you drive. Anger, anxiety, fatigue,
and stress can interfere with your ability to make safe driving decisions. When you are
stressed, tired, angry, or upset, you are less apt to pay attention to your driving. You
may not see hazards or react as quickly, and the chance of getting into a collision will
increase. If you are angry or stressed, you may let your anger out by driving recklessly
or becoming aggressive toward other drivers.

Stress and driving

Stress is something most everyone experiences as part of daily life. We have all felt
the pressure of busy schedules, deadlines at work, problems at home, bills to pay, etc.
When stress reaches extreme levels, it can seriously affect our physical and emotional
state. Stress can cause adrenaline rushes, muscle tension, increased breathing and heart
rates, sweaty palms, headaches, and extreme fatigue. All of these effects can impair
your ability to operate a motor vehicle. Follow these tips to avoid stress while
driving:

* You should avoid driving anytime you feel you are under high levels of stress.


* Because driving itself can cause stress, you should plan ahead of time to minimize
the chances of getting stuck in stressful driving conditions such as rush hour or bad
weather.


* If you are driving to an appointment, always give yourself enough time so you do
not find yourself rushing to get there.


* If traveling to an unfamiliar area, get directions and plan your route ahead of
time.



Fatigue and driving

Fatigue is a condition that can severely affect your reaction time and decision-making
abilities. Fatigue is most likely to set in on longer trips, and may be caused by a
number of factors, including boredom, eyestrain, heat, lack of sleep, and heavy meals.
Physical symptoms to watch for include drowsiness, blurred vision, slow reactions, lack
of coordination, and difficulty judging distance and speed. Emotional indications
include irritability and inattentiveness. Here are some steps to prevent fatigue-related
collisions:

* Get a good night's sleep before any long trip.


* Avoid driving late at night. Because our bodies are programmed to sleep when it is
dark, it’s no wonder most fatigue related collisions occur between the hours of 1 AM and
6 AM.


* Listen to the radio, open your window, or talk with a passenger to help you stay
alert.


* You are not in a marathon, so stop regularly for breaks. It’s a good idea to stop
every few hours to get out and stretch.


* Avoid alcohol or any medications that could make you drowsy.


* If you are tired, feel ill, have had an alcoholic beverage, or have taken
medications that may affect your ability to concentrate or stay awake, don’t drive.

Anger and driving

Anger – perhaps the most dangerous emotion to have when driving – is an emotion we all
experience in our lives. You may become angry at other drivers who perform unexpected,
illegal, or dangerous maneuvers. You may lose your temper with drivers who follow you
too closely, cut you off, drive too slow, or do not proceed quickly enough when a light
turns green. Drivers who are stressed, tired, or irritated in any way tend to respond
more angrily to events on the road that threaten their safety or peace of mind. Since
emotional distress is present in everyone’s life, people need to know how to control it,
especially when they are behind the wheel. Drivers must avoid the temptation to take out
their aggression on the road. If another driver exhibits poor judgment, don’t let it get
under your skin. Try to remain calm and patient. Increasing following distance and space
cushions will go a long way toward avoiding situations that can lead to anger.

Unfortunately, not every driver on the road will know how to deal with emotions such as
anger and stress. Some drivers even go to extremes, displaying extreme forms of
aggressive driving referred to as "road rage." Road rage includes deliberate tailgating,
yelling at other drivers, using obscene gestures, purposely blocking other drivers’
paths, and in extreme cases, assaulting others. There are things you can do to avoid
becoming a victim of road rage. Avoid the urge to honk your horn or flash your brights
at other drivers out of anger or frustration. Do not tailgate, block the passing lane or
merging lane, blare your music or bass, or switch lanes without signaling first. Also,
avoid making eye contact with angry drivers, gesturing, or participating in challenges
of any kind (Alliance for Safe Driving, 2000).

Use your judgment

You should know when you are fit to drive and when you are not. Be aware of situations
that are stressful and do not drive if you are extremely upset or anxious. Instead, ask
a friend to drive you to your destination or call a taxi. Don’t let your emotions
interfere with your driving - use good judgment, common sense, and courtesy to be a safe
driver.

Emotion and collision potential

As we have discussed in the previous sections, stress, fatigue, anger, and other
emotions play a significant role in your ability to drive safely. To reduce your chances
of experiencing a collision as a result of these factors, remember these key points:

* If you are upset, ill, angry, or tired, don’t drive.


* If you must take drugs that can make you drowsy, don’t drive.


* Do not drink alcohol or eat a heavy meal before driving.


* Don’t drive with anyone who has been drinking or using drugs.


* Stop for regular "stretch breaks" and don’t drive for long periods of time.

Wouldn’t you rather get there safely than not at all?

Adjusting to the Driving Environment




Fact




The rate of nighttime fatal crashes per 100 million miles traveled in 2001 by
male drivers 16-19 years old was about 5 times the rate for 30-54-year-old male drivers.
The corresponding comparison for females is 4 times the rate.



Time of day

Safe driving means practicing a few basic guidelines. One of these basic guidelines is
to adjust your driving to the environment. For example, decreased visibility at night
requires you to adjust your speed and carefully plan your route to ensure your safety.

Weather conditions

The friction between your vehicle’s wheels and the surface of the road is called
traction. Adverse weather conditions such as rain, fog, wind, snow, slick roads, or
standing water affect traction. You must reduce your speed to prevent slipping or
hydroplaning.

* Plan an alternative route in advance in case weather conditions become too severe.


* Increase your braking distance to accommodate the change in conditions.


* Remember that braking on a wet road will increase your stopping distance by 30-50
percent.


* Be sure you can see clearly through the windshield and from the front- and side-
view mirrors.


* Use your headlights to better view the road and assure that other drivers can see
your vehicle.

Road conditions

Precautions are often necessary when certain road conditions exist. These conditions can
affect your field of vision or may cause you to lose control of your vehicle. For
example, soft shoulders, which are frequently found on rural roads, are shoulders that
either slope downward or do not provide effective road traction. Drop-offs, often found
on mountain roads and elevated roadways, are areas where the road literally drops off
from the edge of the roadway without any shoulder. Both of these are extremely
dangerous, especially at night when your visual field is reduced. If you must pull over
on roads such as these, be extremely careful that you have a safe shoulder on which to
drive.

Pavement conditions

Bad pavement conditions include unpaved or gravel roads, potholes, and dips. All of
these conditions can cause you to lose traction and control of your vehicle.

* Dirt and loose gravel may cause your vehicle to skid or swing from side to side,
or it may increase the distance required to stop.


* Potholes (holes in the roadway caused by weather or overuse) can cause damage to
your tires, wheels, or the underside of your vehicle.


* Dips are often a natural part of the roadway. Some dips have been specifically
developed as part of the pavement to channel water off the roadway. Excessive speed
while driving through a dip can damage the underside of your vehicle.

In all of these situations, it is critical to avoid the condition whenever possible. If
that is not possible, reduce your speed, maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel,
and, if necessary, pull to the side of the road and examine your vehicle for damage
after passing through the area.

Seasonal hazards, such as snow, deep sand, or mud, can result from rain or desert storms
and may make it impossible to drive on the roadway. Even a small amount of mud can
greatly reduce road traction, and thick mud or deep sand can form ruts that trap tires.
When driving in these conditions it is important to keep moving at a speed that does not
cause a loss of traction but keeps your vehicle moving forward.


Areas Requiring Extra Caution


Construction zones

Construction and work zones require drivers to be extra cautious and alert. In 2003,
there were 1,028 traffic-related fatalities in work zones in the United States. In
addition, more than 40,000 people per year are injured as a result of traffic related
crashes in work zones. Drivers should use the S.A.F.E. method to assist in driving in
construction and work zones:

* Scan ahead for signs, cones, barrels, trucks, flaggers, and workers wearing
fluorescent vests and hats.


* Assess potential dangers. Is construction going on now? Are any lanes closed
ahead? Is traffic being re-routed?


* Find the best lane to get in as early as possible to reduce last-second lane
changes.


* Execute your decision safely by increasing following distance, reducing speed and
planning escape routes.

Following the S.A.F.E. guidelines will help reduce the number of injuries and fatalities
occurring each year in construction zones.

School zones

As in construction zones, driving through a school zone requires extra caution,
especially if children are present. Whenever you are traveling by a school, park,
playground, or area where children are present, reduce your speed and obey the posted
speed limit. By reducing your speed, you are giving yourself added time to react to an
unexpected event. For example, a child may dart into the roadway while chasing a ball,
or a child on a bicycle may come out of an entrance unexpectedly. In any event, you
should have enough time to react and stop safely in order to avoid what could be nothing
other than a devastating collision.

Intersections

Intersections are areas where one line of traffic meets another. Intersections can
include cross streets, side streets, highways, on-ramps, driveways, shopping center
entrances, etc. At intersections, visibility is reduced and the potential for unexpected
objects, vehicles, and pedestrians in the roadway is high.

Whether the intersection is marked or unmarked, remember to do the following:

* Look both ways for other vehicles and pedestrians, and then look again before
pulling out of the intersection.


* Signal early to let other drivers know you are turning into the intersection.


* Reduce your speed when approaching an intersection and when passing slow or
stopped vehicles in or near an intersection (they may be stopped for a pedestrian that
you cannot see).


* Do not stop in the middle of an intersection. If you are in the middle of an
intersection and an emergency vehicle is approaching, finish through the intersection
then pull to the right and stop.

Do not rely on traffic signals. Look right and left before proceeding even if the other
traffic has a STOP sign or red light. Reckless drivers do not obey traffic controls.

Driving Distractions


Distractions inside and outside the vehicle can take your attention away from driving.
This could cause you to make poor decisions and impair your reaction time at critical
moments. A study by AAA and the Network of Employers for Traffic Safety found that 1 out
of 4 crashes are caused by drivers distracted by other activities. Eating, searching for
an object in the car, retrieving and replacing cups in cup holders, tending to children,
talking on the phone, watching activities outside the car, or "rubbernecking" at a
collision site are distractions that can result in serious consequences. To be a safe
driver, concentrate on only your driving whenever you are operating your motor vehicle.

Mobile phones

Perhaps one of the most controversial topics pertaining to driving distraction is the
use of mobile phones while driving. As many as 44 percent of drivers on the road today
have or carry phones in their vehicles when they drive. In November of 2001, New York
became the first state to ban outright the use of mobile telephones in automobiles, and
more than 30 states and the District of Columbia have considered full or partial bans on
the use of mobile phones while driving. Many US municipalities restrict their use.
Outside the United States, at least 25 countries prohibit or at least restrict using
cell phones and other wireless technology in motor vehicles. Effective July 1, 2008
California drivers are prohibited from driving a vehicle while using a wireless
telephone unless the person uses a system that allows hands-free listening and speaking
(VC 12810.3). If you need to make a call, the best thing is to pull over or find a safe
place to stop in order to make the call.

Car stereos

Adjusting your radio station, tape player, or CD player can also be a dangerous
distraction. According to the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, glancing from the
road to insert a compact disc makes a driver six times more likely to have an accident
than glancing at the fuel gauge. To minimize your chances of a collision, you should
allow a passenger to change the station or music selection. If the driver is the only
person in the vehicle, they should have pre-set stations or pre-loaded recordings so
they do not have to search for tapes or CDs when their attention should be on the road.

PDAs

With the increasing popularity of hand held computers, otherwise referred to as
"Personal Digital Assistants" (PDAs), another dangerous high-tech distraction has been
introduced to the roadway. These devices allow a motorist to send and receive email and
even receive a fax on their PDA. However, driving while entering data on a PDA is
extremely dangerous. Professionals who work out of their car and rely heavily on mobile
phones and laptops, as well as any other motorist, must understand the dangers these
devices present. To drive responsibly, motorists should restrict their use of these
devices to times when their attention is not required for driving.

Car navigation systems

Safety experts say that navigation systems, one of the hottest new features in cars,
provide the greatest distraction. They allow a driver to enter a destination, and a
computer provides audio and visual directions. General Motors alone was expected to have
1 million vehicles with navigation systems on the road by the end of 2000. In addition
to GM, many other auto makers offer navigation systems. Although some systems do not
allow drivers to enter a destination while the vehicle is moving, other auto makers'
navigation systems can be programmed while the car is moving. The Virginia Tech
Transportation Institute states that programming some navigation systems while driving
can increase the risk of an accident 30 times.

Whether it be mobile phones, CD players, hand-held computers, or navigational devices,
drivers must understand that safe and responsible driving requires 100 percent of their
attention.

Stereo earphones

Wearing earphones that cover both ears while driving is against the law. If you wear
stereo earphones you may not hear approaching emergency vehicles, horns, or screeching
brakes. It is also possible to be unaware of a car driving in your blind spot.which you
may have heard even though you could not see.


What Causes Collisions?


Almost all collisions are caused by driver error. By staying alert, not driving under
the influence of drugs or alcohol, following traffic controls, giving right-of-way,
turning properly, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, avoiding unsafe
drivers, and remaining aware of other vehicles and objects around you, you should be
able to avoid getting into a collision.

Most collisions occur at intersections, when passing another vehicle or being passed by
a vehicle, or when changing lanes. In most cases, reducing your speed and increasing
your following distance will reduce the chances of a collision.

Intersections present special challenges. To avoid collisions at open or blind
intersections (where you are unable to see clearly in one or both directions) or in
right-of-way situations, proceed slowly and follow traffic controls and right-of-way
guidelines. However, never assume that the other driver will proceed safely. As you
proceed across a blind intersection or move forward as you assume your right-of-way,
look a second time and check that the lanes are clear.

When turning left or right, turning at the same time as another vehicle, merging or
exiting the freeway, making wide turns, or turning at the same time as a commercial
vehicle that makes wide turns, follow these guidelines:

* Reduce your speed.
* Observe traffic controls carefully.
* Allow for safe distances between your vehicle and other vehicles.
* Observe for pedestrians or road hazards.

In addition, you should be aware of other types of collisions:

* In a head-on collision, two vehicles collide front end to front end.


* A rear-end collision occurs when one vehicle hits another vehicle from behind. The
most damage is done when the vehicle struck is stationary.


* A side-impact (or lateral) collision occurs when one vehicle is struck in the side
by another vehicle.

* A rollover collision occurs when a vehicle flips over onto its side or top, or
tips and rolls over several times.

* Fixed-object collisions occur when your vehicle collides with a stationary object
(such as a parked car, pole, or roadway divider).

NOTE: Slippery surfaces decrease vehicle traction and increase your chances of skidding
or "fishtailing" (swinging from side to side). To avoid a collision as a result of
vehicle failure (such as faulty brakes or inadequate tread on your tires), be sure to
properly maintain your vehicle and have regular safety inspections.

What is the second collision?

All collisions are actually two collisions. The first collision occurs when the vehicle
strikes another vehicle or object. The second collision occurs when the occupants of the
vehicle (people or objects) collide with the interior of the vehicle. This could be the
driver or a passenger colliding with the steering wheel or windshield or a loose object
flying into one of the occupants. The second collision is often the one responsible for
injury or death. The chances of the second collision resulting in death or serious
injury can be greatly reduced with the proper use of safety belts and the presence of
dual air bags.



Fact




Frontal impacts accounted for 43 driver deaths per million registered passenger
vehicles in 2002 compared with 25 deaths per million in side impacts and 3 deaths per
million in rear impacts.



The direction of impact and the ability of the vehicle to absorb the impact of the
collision are important factors in determining the extent and type of injuries to the
occupants. For example, if a head-on collision occurs between a small car and a large
truck, the occupants of the small car are more likely to sustain serious injury or death
than the occupants of the large truck because the large truck is better able to absorb
the impact of the collision.

How Do You Avoid Collisions?


The following defensive driving techniques will help you avoid a collision:

1. Be alert. Don’t assume that the other driver is safe or that he or she sees you.


2. Plan an escape route to help you avoid a collision. Allow yourself enough reaction
time to avoid a collision by following the
3-second rule. The 3-second rule says that when the vehicle ahead of you passes a
certain point, such as a sign, count "one one-thousand, two one-thousand, three one-
thousand." This takes about 3 seconds. If you pass the same point before you finish
counting, you are following too closely. At faster speeds and during inclement weather,
the distance should be greater, since reaction time is reduced.


3. Think ahead. Always be thinking about what you would do in situations that can
cause a collision.


4. Use your horn to alert other drivers or animals of your approach or of situations
that need your attention.


5. Always scan your field of vision. Know the proper distances for braking and
following other cars.


6. Adapt your driving to your surroundings.

Collisions and energy absorption

In two-vehicle collisions, both vehicles' characteristics (including weight, stiffness,
and geometry) influence the outcome. In a serious head-on collision with two vehicles
traveling at the same speed, the heavier one will drive the lighter one backward. This
means people in the lighter vehicle would experience greater forces and probably more
severe injuries.

Your vehicle's ability to absorb the energy associated with a collision is crucial.
Areas called crush zones are located in the front and rear ends of cars. The crush zones
work by absorbing the energy associated with a crash, thereby increasing the distance
needed to decelerate restrained occupants, allowing them to experience less severe force
than if they had stopped abruptly. If the interior of the car remains fairly intact,
occupant restraints such as safety belts and airbags can be extremely effective.
Unfortunately, due to the geometric design of most cars, the sides of the vehicles are
not equipped with the same crush zones as the front and rear ends. Thus, a direct impact
to the side of a vehicle will cause the occupants to experience much more force than a
head-on collision would.


Avoiding Collisions: Scanning Your Surroundings


One of the most critical defensive driving skills is the ability to stay alert and scan
your surroundings. A study done by NHTSA suggests that driver inattention is a primary
or contributing factor in as many as 50 percent of all crashes. The key to avoiding
collisions is to maximize the time you have to react in order to avoid the danger.

Drivers must constantly be aware of their surroundings. This requires scanning ahead,
behind and to the sides of your vehicle at all times. Although mirrors will assist you
in knowing what is around you, you must physically turn your head to check blind spots
and areas not visible in your mirrors. It is a good idea to be aware of everything
within a three-second radius of your vehicle.

The 12-second rule for scanning ahead

Drivers should use the 12-second rule for scanning ahead. This means drivers should be
looking about 12 seconds down the roadway for potential hazards. You can use a fixed
object or road sign to judge exactly how far 12 seconds is, since this will vary based
on your speed. For example, find a road sign and count "one-one thousand, two-one
thousand..." until you have a good idea of how far ahead you will be in 12 seconds. In
the city, this will be approximately one city block. You should be looking for potential
hazards such as stalled vehicles or roadside construction. You should also be on the
lookout for emergency vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, or even animals that could
unexpectedly cross your path.


Avoiding Collisions: When You Are Being Tailgated


Drivers who follow other cars too closely are greatly increasing the chances of a
collision occurring. In an emergency situation, tailgating reduces the amount of time
the driver has to react, thereby increasing the chances of a collision. If you are being
tailgated and cannot change lanes, there are a number of steps to take to help you deal
with the situation:

* Increase your own following distance from the vehicle in front of you to six
seconds or more. If the driver ahead has to stop quickly, you will have more time to
gradually apply your own brakes and reduce the chance of the tailgater hitting you.


* Move to the right side of your lane to give the tailgater a better view of the
road ahead so that if he wants to pass you he or she can do so safely.


* Plan an escape route in the next lane or on the road shoulder in case you have to
swerve to avoid being rear-ended. If a tailgater cannot or will not pass you, politely
signal him to back off by tapping gently on your brakes to flash your brake lights.


* DO NOT slam on your brakes – this can easily cause a collision or provoke an angry
response from the driver behind you. If this is ineffective, try to gradually reduce
your speed to encourage the tailgater to move into another lane.

If you think that the tailgater is a real threat to you or other drivers on the road,
find a well-lit public place and pull over as soon as it is safe to do so to let the
driver get by you.


Avoiding Collisions: The Car Ahead of You


Positioning your vehicle properly within the stream of traffic is an important part of a
defensive driving strategy. Especially when driving in the city, allow the greatest
possible space between your vehicle and any potential hazards.

The 3-second rule

To reduce the risk of colliding with a vehicle ahead, use the 3-second rule. Studies
show that, when traveling at about 45 mph, 3 seconds of following distance will allow
the average driver enough space to stop his or her vehicle in almost any emergency
situation. At faster speeds the distance should be greater, since reaction time is
reduced.

When to increase your following distance

It is acceptable to increase your following distance to 4 seconds or more when:

* Someone is tailgating your car.
* Your vision is blocked by a large vehicle or the visibility is poor.
* Your driving speed is increased.
* Adverse roadway or weather conditions exist.
* The driver behind you wants to pass.
* You are stopped in traffic on a hill.
* You see a bus, school bus, or vehicle carrying flammable material that must stop
at railroad crossings.
* You are merging on a freeway.
* Momentary distractions are a common occurrence when driving. To minimize the
effect of momentary distractions, always pick a safe time to look away. Do this by
checking the situation ahead first, taking short glances only, and, if you are
accompanied by a passenger, asking the passenger to help with navigation.

Potential trouble areas for being rear-ended

Collisions with the car ahead can be avoided if you look ahead for potential problems.
Make it a practice to look over and around the car ahead. This includes checking ahead
for hilltops and curves and adjusting your speed accordingly. Always watch the brake
lights of vehicles in adjacent lanes. If you spot a potential problem, start braking
early.

The following locations are potential trouble areas:

* Controlled intersections
* Crosswalks
* Lanes next to parked cars
* Parking lot entrances
* Interchanges where cars enter and leave
* Slippery or ice-covered streets
* Areas where children are at play

General tips to avoid being rear-ended

To avoid being rear-ended by another vehicle, remember to do the following:

* Increase your following distance from the vehicles ahead (3 seconds or more).
* Signal early for all turns, stops, and lane changes.
* Brake smoothly and gradually.
* Keep pace with traffic whenever possible (without speeding).
* Check your rear and side mirrors for following distance of other vehicles.
* Before changing lanes, check the direction of travel.
* After stopping, keep the brake pedal depressed.
* Keep rear lights clean and in good working order.


Avoiding Collisions: Children


Children are unpredictable. Use caution whenever children are around. Drive carefully
near schools, playgrounds, and parks. Observe the speed limits near schools. Whenever a
school bus is stopped, be prepared for children crossing the street. If a school bus has
a flashing red light, you must stop until all the children are safely across the street
and the light has stopped flashing. Watch for school patrols or crossing guards and obey
their directions. When you come upon a stopped school bus with flashing red lights, you
must stop. If you fail to stop, you may be fined up to $1000 and your driving privilege
could be suspended for one year.


Avoiding Collisions: Animals


Animals in roadways can present unique problems for any driver. To prevent a collision
with an animal, remember the following points:

* Be cautious and drive slowly when traveling through pastures or farmland or in
areas where animals may be present.


* Use extreme caution when driving in areas where horseback riders or horse-drawn
vehicles are present. Avoid using your horn, as this may scare the animal and endanger
the lives of many people as well as the animal. If directed to do so by the rider or
driver of the vehicle, reduce your speed or stop until the road is clear or you can
drive around them.


* Watch for signs of wildlife, control your speed, and stay alert, especially at
sunrise and near sunset when many animals are the most active.


* Frightened animals can bolt in any direction, so always have an alternative route
planned.


* If an animal is in the road ahead of you, do not flash your lights at it. Instead,
slow down.


* If you think you may collide with an animal, it is better to brake than to swerve
out of the way.


Avoiding Collisions: Maintenance and Construction Areas


At any time, California Department of Transportation crews or their contractors are
working on highway construction and maintenance projects across the state. When
approaching a maintenance or construction area, remember the following:

* Observe the area carefully for specific markers (such as cones, flashing lights,
or safety barrels).
* Watch for flaggers, slow-moving equipment, or road hazards.
* Reduce your speed, keep alert, and increase your following distance.
* Find an alternative route if possible.
* Plan an escape route.


Avoiding Collisions: SIPDE


Remembering these letters can help you to drive defensively and avoid collisions:

* Scan your surroundings at all times.
* Identify potential hazards before you encounter them.
* Predict the actions of other drivers.
* Decide on a course of action and plan an escape route.
* Execute the proper course of action.


How to Choose an Escape Route


Maintain an adequate visual field – Choose a safe path of travel ahead by watching for
tailgaters, avoiding the blind spots of other drivers, and keeping as much space as you
can between yourself and oncoming traffic or parked cars. Adjust your speed or position
as necessary to maintain that safe distance. The more room you allow between yourself
and another car, bicycle, or pedestrian, the more room you will have to avoid a
collision.

Position your vehicle laterally – Select a speed that allows you to safely position your
vehicle between clusters of other vehicles. Select a lane position within traffic
clusters that allows you the greatest maneuverability and ability to avoid a collision.

Avoid multiple hazards – Identify hazards (such as construction sites, animals,
pedestrians, or bicyclists) early. Predicting potential hazards will allow you to plan
accordingly and adjust your speed and position to avoid these hazards. Always anticipate
and plan possible escape routes should you need to quickly avoid a hazard.

Be prepared to compromise – This will reduce the risk of hazards and reduce your chance
of a collision. If you come upon a long line of cars approaching from the opposite
direction, be prepared to brake and move to the right. If an approaching vehicle drifts
into your lane of travel, slow down, pull to the right, sound your horn, and flash your
lights. When driving on a curve, slow down before entering the curve and stay toward the
right side of the lane.


How to Protect Yourself in an Unavoidable Collision


Try to choose where your vehicle will be hit, especially if your vehicle has special
safety features. Avoid taking a direct hit to areas occupied by the driver or
passengers. If your vehicle is going to crash, remember to hit something soft (such as
shrubs or crash barriers) if you can.

If you cannot avoid being hit from the rear, prepare to begin braking immediately after
recovering from the force of the impact to avoid colliding with other vehicles or
objects. Use head restraints at all times to minimize the chance of head and neck
injuries.

If you are at risk of being hit from the side, honk your horn and flash your lights to
warn the other driver. If the way ahead is clear, accelerate rather than brake to get
past the danger more quickly. Finally, keep a firm grip on the steering wheel to
minimize the potential of being thrown from side to side. Your properly worn safety belt
will also help keep you positioned behind the steering wheel.


How to Lessen Your Chances of Collision


There are three important factors that will lessen your chances of getting involved in a
collision:

1. Knowledge – Knowing the laws and rules of the road is essential for avoiding
accident situations. This allows you to anticipate how the other driver will proceed.


2. Skill – Be skilled in the handling of any vehicle that you drive, especially the
steering, braking and accelerator functions.


3. Experience – Proven judgments made by you and other drivers have much value in
decisions made under certain circumstances.

Take advantage of your senses

* Seeing – Keep your eyes moving and be aware of everything happening around your
vehicle. Remember that your side vision decreases with an increase in speed. See the
"big picture" – don’t stare. Be far-sighted, especially in higher-speed driving, and be
sure to look far enough ahead.


* Hearing – It has been shown that hearing speeds up a response and there are times
that a hazard cannot be seen but only heard. Be aware of other drivers’ audible signals
for gaining your attention.


* Touching – Sometimes an unusual movement of your car can be detected from your
sense of touch. Most drivers have had the sensation of losing traction or skidding, loss
of brakes, or flat tires. The ability to recognize these feelings is important in
knowing a hazardous condition may exist.


CHAPTER LEVEL QUIZ



1 If you are experiencing extreme ______ you should not drive but ask a friend to drive
for you.

Anxiety
Depression
All of these answers are correct
Emotion
Anger

2 You must always stop for pedestrians crossing corners or other crosswalks.

True
False

3 If two vehicles reach the intersection at the same time, the driver on the ____
should always yield to the driver on the _____.

Right, left
Left, left
They should go at the same time
Right, right
Left, right

4 Which of the following has the right-of-way?

A limousine
A taxicab
A funeral procession
An ice-cream truck
Your mother-in-law

5 Where do most collisions occur?

On the freeway
On bicycle lanes
At intersections
In the air between airplanes
On rural roads

6 Cones, flashing markers, and safety barrels are all indicators that you are entering
a(n):

Freeway
One-way street
School zone
Construction zone
Tractor pull

7 All collisions are actually two collisions.

True
False

8 Talking on the phone while driving is an example of:

An efficient use of your time
Rudeness
A driving distraction
Road rage
A good driving technique

9 One way to avoid being rear-ended by another vehicle is to check the direction of
travel before changing lanes.

True
False

10 Which of the following is an example of a fixed-object collision?

A vehicle colliding with a pedestrian
A vehicle colliding with a pole
A head-on collision with oncoming traffic
One vehicle striking another moving vehicle from behind
A vehicle colliding with an object rolling across the road

Meaning and Color of Traffic Signs


Safe driving involves reacting properly to traffic signs, signals, and markings. Traffic
controls in California serve several purposes:

Regulatory signs tell you what you can and cannot do at certain times and places. They
are usually black and white or red and white. You must obey these signs just as you
would traffic laws.



Guide signs identify routes or provide directional guidance. They are usually green,
blue, or brown, and they tell drivers what services are available in the area. These
informational signs also let us know the distance to exits, the names of towns, and
directional guidance. They can also tell you about services (gas, food, or lodging) and
points of interest (historical sites, parks, etc.) along your route.



Warning signs alert you to hazards or possible hazards, problems, or safety concerns.
Most warning signs are yellow and shaped like a diamond.



Construction signs are orange with black letters. They provide warnings and guidance and
inform drivers of temporary road conditions ahead.



Shapes of signs

Shapes also provide you with critical driving information. For example:

* A STOP sign is an octagon.
* A YIELD sign is a triangle.
* A railroad crossing sign is round.
* A regulatory sign is a vertical rectangle.
* A school sign is a pentagon.
* A NO PASSING sign is a pennant.
* A warning sign is a diamond.
* Information and guide signs are horizontal rectangles.


Meaning and Color of Traffic Control Signals


Traffic lights, signs, and right-of-way rules tell you when to go or stop at an
intersection.

Traffic control signals (VC 21450)

Traffic is controlled by official traffic control signals showing different-colored
lights successively, one at a time, or in combination. Only the colors green, yellow,
and red are used.

Pedestrian control signals and lights apply to drivers of vehicles, bicycle riders, and
pedestrians.

Traffic lights

* Circular red light (VC 21453) - A red signal light means STOP. You must come to a
full stop at the limit line before the crosswalk or before entering the intersection
should no limit line or crosswalk be present. You must stop at a marked limit line, but
if none, before entering the crosswalk, or if none, before entering the intersection.
You shall remain stopped until an indication to proceed is shown. A right turn can be
made against a red light after you stop and yield to pedestrians and vehicles in your
path. DO NOT turn if there is a sign posted for NO TURN ON RED.


You may also make a left turn on red if all of the following apply:

1. You come to a complete stop.
2. You are on a one-way street, turning onto a one-way street.
3. There is no conflicting traffic.
* Circular yellow light (VC 21452) – A yellow signal light warns you that the red
signal is about to appear. When you see the yellow light, you should stop if you can do
so safely. If you can’t stop, continue through the intersection with care and look out
for vehicles that may enter the intersection when the light changes.


* Circular green light (VC 21451) – A green signal light means GO, but first you
must let any vehicles, bicycles, or pedestrians remaining in the intersection when your
signal changes to green get through before you move ahead. You can proceed straight
through a circular green signal, turn right or left, or make a U-turn unless a sign
prohibits a U-turn. Yield the right-of-way to other traffic and to pedestrians within
the intersection or a crosswalk. Make a left turn only if you have enough space to
complete the turn before any oncoming vehicle, bicycle, or pedestrian becomes a hazard.

Do not enter an intersection, even when the light is green, unless there is enough
space to completely cross before the light turns red. If heavy traffic causes you to
block traffic, you can be cited.


* Circular red arrow (VC 21453)– A red arrow means STOP until the green signal or
green arrow appears. A turn may not be made against a red arrow. You must stop at a
marked limit line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk, or if none, before
entering the intersection. You shall remain stopped until an indication to proceed is
shown.


* Circular yellow arrow (VC 21452) – A yellow arrow means come to a complete stop if
you can do so safely. Be prepared to obey the next signal that could be the green or red
light or the red arrow.


* Circular green arrow (VC 21451) – A green arrow means GO, but first you must let
any vehicles, bicycles, or pedestrians remaining in the intersection when your signal
changes to green get through before you move ahead. You can proceed straight through a
circular green signal, turn right or left, or make a U-turn unless a sign prohibits a U
-turn. Yield the right-of-way to other traffic and to pedestrians within the
intersection or a crosswalk. Make the left turn only if you have enough space to
complete the turn before any oncoming vehicle, bicycle, or pedestrian becomes a hazard.


* Flashing red light (VC 21457) - A flashing red signal light means exactly the same
as a STOP sign: namely, STOP! After stopping, proceed when safe, observing the right-of
-way rules. Stop at a clearly marked limit line. If there is no limit line, stop before
entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection. If there is no crosswalk,
then stop at the point nearest the intersecting roadway.


* Flashing yellow light (VC 21457) - A flashing yellow signal light warns you to be
careful. Slow down and be especially alert.

Signal at other places (VC 21455)

Any required stop shall be made at a sign, crosswalk, or limit line indicating where the
stop shall be made, but in the absence of any such sign or marking the stop shall be
made at the signal.

Requirement to stop for traffic signal blackout (VC 21800)

The driver of any vehicle approaching an intersection which has official traffic control
signals that are inoperative shall stop at the intersection, and may proceed with
caution when it is safe to do so. This shall also apply to traffic control signals that
become inoperative because of battery failure.


Page 3 of 7

Lane Signals


Overhead lane-use signals (VC 21454)

Overhead lane-use signals tell you if it is clear for you to use the lane or whether the
lane is open to oncoming traffic only.

Reversible lanes allow traffic on crowded roadways to go in one direction at certain
times of day and in the opposite direction at other times of day.

* Green Arrow – A driver may travel in any lane over which a green signal is shown.
You may drive in the lane indicated when a green arrow is pointed downward.


* Yellow X - A driver is warned that a lane control change is being made. This lane
is closing to oncoming traffic and you should move to another lane as soon as possible.
As soon as you can do so safely, move over into a lane with a downward-pointing green
arrow.


* Flashing Yellow X - driver may use the lane only for the purpose of making a left
turn to or from the freeway. You can make a left turn at the intersection where the
signal is located.


* Red X - Do not enter or travel in any lane over which a red signal is shown. It is
open to oncoming traffic.

Traffic signals and intersection safety

When you enter an intersection, scan for traffic controls, prohibitive signs, and
potential hazards. If the light is yellow at a controlled intersection, stop safely
before entering the intersection. If you are already in the intersection and cannot stop
safely, proceed through at a constant speed and watch carefully for cross traffic.

Controlled intersections use some form of:

* Signal lights
* Flashing signal lights
* Circular arrows
* Right-turn-on-red signals
* Designated lanes


Page 4 of 7

The Purpose and Meaning of Pavement and Curb Markings


The following roadway markings are painted on the pavement and curbs to warn and direct
drivers. They can be lines, symbols, letters, or words.

Lane markings (VC 21460)

Lines separating traffic moving in opposite directions are yellow. The pattern of yellow
lines on a road tells the driver whether passing is allowed. They may be solid or dashed
lines, or a combination of solid and dashed yellow lines. They may also be single or
double lines.

When you see double parallel solid lines, you should not drive your vehicle to the left
of the lines.

When you see double parallel lines and one of them is broken, you should not drive your
vehicle to the left, except when overtaking or passing other vehicles.

Either of the markings does not prohibit you from crossing the marking when:

* Turning to the left at any intersection or into or out of a driveway or private
road
* Making a U-turn (under the rules governing that turn.)

Raised pavement markers may be used to simulate painted lines.

Lane markings and passing

The following types of yellow lines tell you whether passing is allowed:

* Broken yellow line - Passing is allowed if there are no oncoming cars.


* Solid yellow line next to broken line - Passing is allowed if there are no
oncoming cars and you are next to the broken line. Passing is not allowed if you are
next to the solid line.


* Double solid yellow lines on two-lane roadways - No passing is allowed.


* Double solid yellow lines on four-lane roadways - No passing is allowed.





White lane markings

Multiple lanes of travel are separated by white lane markings:

* Broken white line – These lines separate traffic moving in the same direction and
may be crossed when you are merging or changing lanes.


* Solid white line – These lines are used to separate driving lanes or a bicycle
lane and to mark fixed obstacles such as bridge supports on one-way roads. Solid white
lines should never be crossed.


* White lines with arrows – These lines indicate the direction of traffic. They can
indicate one-way traffic or permissible turning lanes at an intersection.



Page 5 of 7

Distinctive roadway markings (VC 21459)

Distinctive roadway markings are used to designate any portion of a highway where the
volume of traffic or the shape of the roadway makes it hazardous to drive on the left
side of the marking.

Two-way left turn lanes (VC 21460.5)

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

Two-way left turn lanes are designated by parallel double yellow lines, interior line
dashed and exterior line solid, on each side of the lane.

Do not drive your vehicle in a designated two-way left turn lane except when:

* Preparing for or making a left turn from or into a highway
* Preparing for or making a permitted U-turn.

You should not drive in that lane for more than 200 feet while preparing for and making
the turn or while preparing to merge into the adjacent lanes of travel. Do not use this
lane for passing.

Obedience of driver to official traffic control devices (VC 21461)

It is unlawful for any driver of a vehicle to fail to obey any sign or signal.

Obedience to traffic control signals (VC 21462)

The driver of any vehicle, the person in charge of any animal, any pedestrian, and the
operator of any streetcar shall obey the instructions of any official traffic signal
applicable to them unless otherwise directed by a police or traffic officer or when it
is necessary for the purpose of avoiding a collision. The exception is for an emergency
vehicle.

Curb markings (VC 21458)

Curbs are painted to regulate parking. There are special parking rules that go with each
color.

* Yellow - Indicates stopping only for the purpose of loading or unloading
passengers or freight for a specified time (time may be specified by local ordinance).


* Green -Indicates time-limit parking specified by local ordinance.


* White - Indicates stopping for either of the following purposes:

1. Loading or unloading of passengers for a specified time (time may be
specified by local ordinance).


2. Depositing mail in an adjacent mailbox.


* Red - Indicates no stopping, standing, or parking, whether the vehicle is attended
or unattended; however, a bus may stop in a red zone marked as a bus loading zone.

* Blue - Indicates parking limited exclusively to the vehicles of disabled persons
and disabled veterans. To park here, you must have a special permit.

NOTE: You may not park your vehicle and leave it unattended within 15 feet of a fire
hydrant. Also, when parking alongside a curb, the front and back wheels must be parallel
and within 18 inches of the curb. If your car is facing downhill, then car front tire
should be turned into the curb and set the parking brake.


Page 6 of 7

Additional Pavement Markings




Fact




Seventy-one percent of all pedestrian deaths in 2002 occurred on major roads,
including freeways.



Bike lanes — A bicycle lane is shown by a solid white line along either side of the
street, four or more feet from the curb. The words "BIKE LANE" may be painted at various
locations in this lane. Near a corner, this line will usually be a broken line. Motor
vehicles are permitted to enter the bike lane only where the line is broken and only in
order to make a right turn. Roadways with bike lanes may also have green "BIKE ROUTE" or
white "BIKE LANE" signs posted.

Ending highway lanes — Controlled-access roadways (as well as some city street lanes)
that are ending will usually be marked by large broken lines painted on the pavement.

Obstructions — White pavement markings indicate an upcoming obstruction, such as a bump
or dip.

Limit Lines — Limit lines are solid white lines stretching across one or more lanes in
the same direction, indicating the proper place to come to a stop at an intersection.
You must come to a complete stop before your front bumper crosses this line.

Crosswalks — Every intersection where streets with sidewalks meet has a crosswalk for
pedestrians to cross the street even though there may be no painted lines. Crosswalks
are that part of the pavement where the sidewalk lines would extend across the street
and are areas set aside for people to cross. They are often marked with white lines. If
you stop at an intersection, do not block these crosswalks, coming to a complete stop
before your front bumper enters the path.

Railroad crossings — These white pavement markings warn of an upcoming railroad
crossing. They are usually marked with an "X" symbol with the letters "RR" and a limit
line. Look and listen for trains in both directions. Be ready to stop if necessary. You
should expect a train on a track at any time, day or night.

School warnings — These white or yellow pavement markings read SCHOOL ZONE and indicate
that you are approaching a school zone and should reduce your speed accordingly.

High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes — These lanes are marked with a white diamond and
indicate a lane is reserved for vehicles occupied by more than one person. Signs will
state how many people must be in the vehicle and the days/hours that the HOV designation
applies. (For example, a sign reading "HOV 3" means that three people must be in the
vehicle to occupy the lane.)


Page 7 of 7

What Intersections or Crossings Require Special Stops?


Railroad crossings (VC 22452)

Before crossing a railroad grade crossing, you must first listen and look in both
directions along the track for any approaching train. Also look for warning signals
indicating the approach of a train, then proceed only when you can do so safely.

Railroad crossings are one of the deadliest types of intersections. Most collisions are
the result of human error. People do not obey the warning signals, they try to outrun
the train, or they ignore the crossing barriers. Never try to judge a train’s speed or
distance. Expect a train on any track in any direction at any time.

Controls at railroad crossings include:

* Warning signs
* Crossing gates
* Signals
* Flashing lights
* Roadway markings

Stops for train signals (VC 22451)

When you approach a railroad or rail transit grade crossing, you must stop not less than
15 feet from the nearest rail and must not proceed until you can do so safely, whenever
the following conditions exist:

* A clearly visible electric or mechanical signal device or a flagger gives warning
of the approach or passage of a train or car.


* An approaching train or car is plainly visible or is emitting an audible signal
and, by reason of its speed or nearness, is an immediate hazard.

Do not proceed through, around, or under any railroad or rail transit crossing gate
while the gate is closed.

Stop required (VC 22450)

If you approach a STOP sign at the entrance to or within an intersection or railroad
grade crossing, you must stop at a limit line, if marked, before entering the crosswalk
on the near side of the intersection.

If there is no limit line or crosswalk, you must stop at the entrance to the
intersecting roadway or railroad grade crossing.

Guidelines to rail-crossing safety

* Obey any controls at the crossing. If there are no controls, look and listen to
the left, to the right, and back to the left again.


* If a train is approaching, stop not less than 15 feet from the tracks.


* Proceed with caution after the train has passed - there may be another train
coming.

School buses (VC 22454)

When meeting or overtaking any school bus that is stopped for the purpose of loading or
unloading any school children and displays a flashing red light signal and stop signal
arm, you must bring your vehicle to a stop immediately before passing the school bus and
you must not proceed past the school bus until the flashing red light signal and stop
signal arm, if equipped with a stop signal arm, cease operation.

When driving on a divided highway or multiple-lane highway (any highway that has two or
more lanes of travel in each direction) you do not need to stop if you meet or pass a
school bus that is on the other roadway.

Remember, if you are driving in the same direction as the school bus, you must stop for
flashing lights even on divided highways.


CHAPTER LEVEL QUIZ



1 Regulatory signs tell you what you can and cannot do at certain times and places.

True
False

2 Guide signs are usually green, blue, or brown.

True
False

3 If you are traveling on a two-lane highway you may pass the car ahead of you if the
center line is:

Double yellow
Solid red
Solid white
Solid
Broken yellow

4 When making a left turn from a designated two-way turn lane, you should not drive
more than _____ feet in that lane before preparing for and making a left turn.

500
100
200
50
150

5 When approaching an intersection and the light turns yellow, you should:

Increase your speed to make sure you get through the light
Stop at any cost
Proceed as long as you can get your front bumper into the intersection before
the light turns red
Stop, if you can do so safely
Proceed if there is no cross traffic

6 A white curb allows stopping for brief periods only when you are picking up or
dropping off passengers or mail.

True
False

7 Pedestrian control signals and lights apply only to bicycle riders and pedestrians.

True
False

8 Railroad crossings are one of the deadliest types of intersections.

True
False

9 Which of the following are examples of an area where passing is legal?

You are next to a solid white line
You are on a single-lane road
You are passing a school bus that is stopped with flashing lights
There is a broken yellow line next to a solid yellow line and you are on the
broken line side
You are next to a double solid yellow line

10 All of the following are warning signs that you are approaching railroad tracks
except:

Crossing gates
Flashing lights
Signals
Roadway markings
The Goodyear blimp


CHAPTER LEVEL QUIZ RESULTS


You have answered 8 question(s) correctly.

To proceed to the next chapter, you must first score 10 out of 10 Click the "Continue"
button below to view material related to your incorrect responses - after which you may
re-attempt the quiz.

Note: We have highlighted your correct answers in green, and your incorrect answers in
red.

Question 1: It is illegal to pass a school bus if:
Incorrect: It is parked in the mall parking lot


Question 2: Which of the following types of signs help drivers identify routes and
provide directional guidance?
Incorrect: Regulatory signs


Question 3: You may make a right turn on red unless:
Correct: It is otherwise posted


Question 4: Railroad crossings are one of the deadliest types of intersections.
Correct: True


Question 5: The only type of octagonal sign is a:
Correct: STOP sign


Question 6: If you are traveling on a two-lane highway you may pass the car ahead of
you if the center line is:
Correct: Broken yellow


Question 7: Warning signs are typically what color?
Correct: Yellow


Question 8: A flashing red light should be treated the same as a:
Correct: STOP sign


Question 9: A painted white curb means:
Correct: You may stop to pick up or drop off passengers.


Question 10: Pedestrian control signals and lights apply only to bicycle riders and
pedestrians.
Correct: False


Page 1 of 10

Safe Driving Practices: Established Speed Laws in California


Basic speed law (VC 22350)

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

Basic speed laws exist to remind drivers that they must never drive faster than is safe
for the present conditions, regardless of the posted speed limit. No matter what the
speed limit sign may say, your speed should depend on:

* The number and speed of other cars on the road
* Whether the road surface is smooth, rough, graveled, wet, dry, wide, or narrow
* The presence of bicyclists or pedestrians
* The presence and amount of rain, fog, snow, ice, wind, dust, smoke, or darkness

It may actually be illegal to drive at the posted speed limit if weather, visibility,
traffic, and roadway surface conditions adversely affect the driving environment.



Fact




Studies in California have found that the rate of speeding violations per mile
traveled is at least three times as high for drivers 16-19 years old as it is for
drivers age 30 and older.



Minimum speed law (VC 22400)

No person shall drive on a highway at such a slow speed as to impede or block the normal
and reasonable movement of traffic, unless the reduced speed is necessary for safe
operation, because of a grade, or in compliance with the law.Minimum speed laws exist to
prevent drivers from moving at such slow speeds that they block the normal and
reasonable flow of traffic.

Maximum speed limit (VC 22349)

No person shall drive a vehicle upon a highway at a speed greater than 65 mph, except
where posted as a 70 mph zone. No person shall drive a vehicle upon a two-lane,
undivided highway at a speed greater than 55 mph unless that highway, or a portion of
the highway, has been posted for a higher speed.

Unsafe speed for conditions (VC 22354)

Whenever the Department of Transportation determines upon the basis of an engineering
and traffic survey that the limit of 65 miles per hour is more than is reasonable or
safe upon any portion of a state highway where the limit of 65 miles is applicable, the
department may determine and declare a prima facie speed limit of 60, 55, 50, 45, 40,
35, 30 or 25 miles per hour, whichever is found most appropriate to facilitate the
orderly movement of traffic and is reasonable and safe, which declared prima facie speed
limit shall be effective when appropriate signs giving notice thereof are erected upon
the highway.

Prima Facie speed limits (VC 22352)

The prima facie speed limits are as follows:

1. The speed limit is 15 mph when:


* Crossing a railway crossing (if during the last 100 feet of the approach to
the crossing the driver does not have a clear and unobstructed view of the crossing for
a distance of 400 feet in both directions). This does not apply if there is a flagger on
duty or a clearly visible mechanical crossing signal device is installed but does not
indicate the immediate approach of a train.


* Crossing an intersection of highways if during the last 100 feet of the
approach the driver does not have a clear and unobstructed view of the crossing for a
distance of 100 feet, except at an intersection protected by STOP signs, traffic control
signals, or YIELD RIGHT-OF-WAY signs.


* Driving in any alley.

2. The speed limit is 25 mph when:


* Driving on any highway other than a state highway, in any business or
residence district unless a different speed is determined by local authority.


* Passing a school building or grounds, while children are going to or leaving
the school, or when passing any school grounds that are not separated by a fence while
the grounds are in use by children.


* Passing a senior center or other facility primarily used by senior citizens.


Page 2 of 10

Safe Driving Practices: Speed Limits For Designated Areas


The following speed limits should be followed in these designated areas:

* Freeways - The speed limit on freeways is 65 mph. For two-lane and divided
highways the maximum speed limit is 55 mph unless otherwise posted. On some highways,
the allowable speed limit is 70 mph (this speed is only permitted where posted).


* Residential zones - The speed limit in residential areas is 25 mph unless signs
show other limits.


* Business districts - The speed limit in business districts is 25 mph unless signs
show other limits.


* School zones - The speed limit in school zones is 25 mph while children are
outside or crossing the street. No matter what the speed limit sign states, you should
never drive faster than 25 mph when the school grounds have no fence and children are
outside.


* Senior centers - The speed limit around senior centers is 25 mph.


* Blind intersections - The speed limit in blind intersections is 15 mph. Blind
intersections are intersections where you cannot see for 100 feet in either direction
during the last 100 feet before crossing. You should drive no faster than 15 mph and be
able to stop if a vehicle pulls out suddenly.


* Alleys - The speed limit in alleys is 15 mph.


* Special traffic lanes and construction zones - In these areas, you should observe
the signs for different speed limits posted. Fines are doubled for most traffic
violations issued in a construction zone.

Safe Driving Practices: Speed Limits For Designated Vehicles




Fact




Large trucks require much longer distances than cars to stop. Lower speed limits
for trucks make heavy vehicle stopping distances closer to those of lighter vehicles.
Slower truck speeds also allow automobile drivers to pass trucks more easily.



Maximum speed for designated vehicles (VC 22406)

Since it takes much longer to stop, accelerate, and turn when towing a trailer, some
roadways have lower speed limits posted for these vehicles. No person may drive any of
the following vehicles on a highway at a speed in excess of 55 miles per hour:

1. A motortruck or truck tractor having three or more axles or any motortruck or
truck tractor drawing any other vehicle.


2. A passenger vehicle or bus drawing any other vehicle.


3. A school bus transporting any school pupil.


4. A farm labor vehicle when transporting passengers.


5. A vehicle transporting explosives.


6. A trailer that is towing a large motor vehicle.


Dangerous Speeding Penalties


Penalties for driving in excess of 100 mph (VC 22348)

Any person who drives a vehicle upon a highway at a speed greater than 100 miles per
hour is guilty of an infraction punishable, as follows:

1. Upon a first conviction of a violation of this subdivision, by a fine of not to
exceed $500. The court may also suspend the privilege of the person to operate a motor
vehicle for a period not to exceed 30 days.


2. Upon a conviction under this subdivision of an offense which occurred within 3
years of a prior offense resulting in a conviction of an offense under this subdivision,
by a fine of not to exceed $500. The person's privilege to operate a motor vehicle shall
be suspended by the Department of Motor Vehicles.

A note about speed contests

Police officers can arrest drivers and impound their vehicles for 30 days if the officer
determines they have been engaged in a speed contest, exhibition of speed, or reckless
driving. If the registered owner was not the driver or a passenger and was unaware of
the vehicle's use, the law provides for the release of the vehicle prior to 30 days.


Safe Driving Practices: Speed and Stopping Distance


As a driver, you must understand that total stopping distances involve three factors:

1. Perception distance – 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.
Beware of highway hypnosis or daydreaming, as it can dramatically increase perception
distance. Other factors that can increase perception distance are fatigue, drowsiness,
and illness.


2. Reaction distance – 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 ľ of a second for the average driver.


3. Vehicle braking (stopping) 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 longer it will take for your vehicle to stop. The chart above illustrates braking
distance in ideal conditions. However, there are many factors that can increase
perception distance, reaction distance, and stopping distance.

Since speed is the primary factor in stopping distance, drivers should be very conscious
of the conditions around them. Always abide by the posted speed limit and reduce speed
when driving in adverse weather. Hazards such as rain, snow, fog, wind, water, and slick
roads can all increase the total distance required to come to a stop.

The 3-second rule for safe following and stopping distance (VC 21703)

To ensure you are traveling at a safe following distance to the car in front of you, use
the 3-second rule. Studies show that with 3 seconds of following distance, the average
driver can stop his or her vehicle in almost any emergency situation. When traveling on
a roadway at an average speed of 45-50 mph, you should have at least 3 seconds of
following distance between you and the car ahead of you. At faster speeds or in adverse
weather conditions, the distance should be greater, since reaction time is reduced.

Check your following distance by identifying a fixed object on the highway in front of
you (an overpass, billboard, etc.). When the car in front of you passes the object,
start counting "one one-thousand, two one-thousand, three one-thousand." See how far you
can count between the time the car in front of you passes the object and your car passes
it. If you didn't make it to "three one-thousand," you should increase your following
distance.



Page 5 of 10

Safe Driving Practices: Speed and Impact


What is the effect of speed on the force of impact?

Speed has a powerful effect on the force of impact. For example, the force of a 60 mph
crash is not two times as great as the impact at 30 mph - it is four times as great! The
higher the travel speed, the greater the risk of serious injury or death in a crash.
Vehicles and their occupants in motion have kinetic energy that is dissipated in a
crash. The greater the energy that must be dissipated, the greater the chances of severe
injury or death. The laws of physics tell us that crash severity increases
disproportionately with vehicle speed.

Speed influences crashes in four basic ways:

1. It increases the distance a vehicle travels from when a driver detects an
emergency until the driver reacts.


2. It increases the distance needed to stop a vehicle once an emergency is perceived.


3. Crash severity increases with speed so that when speed increases from 40 to 60
mph, speed goes up 50 percent while the energy released in a crash more than doubles.


4. Higher crash speeds reduce the ability of vehicles, restraint systems, and roadway
hardware such as guardrails, barriers, and impact attenuators to protect occupants.



Fact




About 37 percent of all drivers ages 14-19 involved in fatal crashes were in
speed-related crashes, but the percentage among drivers 70 and older decreased to 7
percent. At all ages, male drivers are more likely than female drivers to be involved in
speed-related fatal crashes.



What is the relationship between how fast a car is going and what happens in a crash?

The higher the travel speed, the greater the risk of serious injury or death in a crash.
Vehicles and their occupants in motion have kinetic energy that is dissipated in a
crash. The greater the energy, the greater the chances of severe injury or death. The
laws of physics state that crash severity increases disproportionately with vehicle
speed. A frontal impact at 35 mph is one-third more violent than one at 30 mph.

Isn't speed variation - not speeding - the real problem?

No. Many crashes, and nearly half of those resulting in occupant deaths, are single-
vehicle impacts in which differences among vehicle speeds play no role or only a very
minor one. The risk of death and severe injury is a direct exponential function of
speed, not speed differences.



Page 6 of 10

Safe Driving Practices: Laned Roadways


While most people never consciously think about the lanes in which they drive, certain
lanes have designated purposes.

Laned roadway (VC 21658)

Whenever any roadway has been divided into two or more clearly marked lanes for traffic
in one direction, the following rules apply:

* A vehicle must be driven as nearly as practical within a single lane and should
not be moved from the lane until such movement can be made with reasonable safety.


* Official signs may be erected directing slow-moving traffic to use a designated
lane or allocating specified lanes to traffic moving in the same direction, and drivers
of vehicles shall obey the directions of the traffic device.

Position of vehicle in the lane of travel

When driving on the freeway, the far left lane is used for faster-than-normal traffic
and for vehicles passing slower traffic. The far right lane is used for traffic that is
slower-than-normal and for vehicles entering and exiting the roadway. Center lanes are
used for through traffic.

Driving on divided highways (VC 21651)

A divided highway is a multilane highway in which the opposite directions of travel are
separated by a fixed barrier or area of space called a median strip that may be paved,
dirt, or landscaped. Whenever a highway has been divided into two or more roadways by
means of intermittent barriers or by means of a dividing section of not less than two
feet in width, either unpaved or delineated by curbs, double-parallel lines, or other
markings on the roadway, it is unlawful to do either of the following:

* To drive any vehicle over, upon, or across the dividing section.


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

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

Page 7 of 10

Three-lane highways (VC 21659)

When driving on a three-laned highway, you must not drive in the extreme left lane at
any time, or in the center lane except:



Fact




Forty-two percent of car occupant deaths in 2002 occurred in single-vehicle
crashes and 58 percent occurred in multiple-vehicle crashes. In contrast, single-vehicle
crashes represented 65 percent of crashes involving SUVs and 59 percent of crashes
involving pickups.



* When overtaking and passing another vehicle where the roadway ahead is clearly
visible and the center lane is clear of traffic within a safe distance


* In preparation for a left turn


* Where the center lane is at the time allocated exclusively to traffic moving in
the direction the vehicle is proceeding and is sign-posted to give notice of such
allocation.

This does not apply to a one-way roadway.

Driving on the right side of the roadway (VC 21650)

Upon all highways, a vehicle shall be driven upon the right half of the roadway, except
as follows:

1. When overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction under
the rules governing that movement.


2. When placing a vehicle in a lawful position for, and when the vehicle is lawfully
making, a left turn.


3. When the right half of a roadway is closed to traffic under construction or
repair.


4. Upon a roadway restricted to one-way traffic.


5. When the roadway is not of sufficient width.


6. When the vehicle is necessarily traveling so slowly as to impede the normal
movement of traffic, that portion of the highway adjacent to the right edge of the
roadway may be utilized temporarily when in a condition permitting safe operation.

This section does not prohibit the operation of bicycles on any shoulder of a highway,
where the operation is not otherwise prohibited by this code or local ordinance.

Page 8 of 10

Safe Driving Practices: Narrow Roadways and Mountain Roadways




Fact




Forty-two percent of deaths in roadside hazard crashes in 2002 occurred on
curves.



Driving on mountain roadways (VC 21662)

Many mountain roads or narrow roadways have few or no walls, guardrails, or protective
barriers of any kind. Your driving must be accurate and you must be alert and attentive
to your surroundings at all times. If you stray out of your lane of travel, you can
easily collide with another car or drive off the edge of the mountain. When driving in
these areas, it is critical to stay within the marked lanes of travel.

Follow these rules when driving on mountain roads:

* If the roadway has no marked centerline, the driver should drive as near the
right-hand edge of the roadway as is reasonably possible.


* If the roadway has insufficient width to permit a motor vehicle to be driven
entirely to the right of the center of the roadway, the driver should give audible
warning with the horn of the motor vehicle upon approaching any curve where the view is
obstructed within a distance of 200 ft. along the highway.

Required lane use and use of turnouts (VC 21656)

Many mountain roadways have special passing lanes at periodic intervals that allow you
to pass safely. Special turnout areas also provide you and other drivers with a place to
pull over, allowing others to pass.

On a two-lane highway where passing is unsafe because of traffic in the opposite
direction or other conditions, a slow-moving vehicle, including a passenger vehicle,
behind which 5 or more vehicles are formed in line, should turn off the roadway at the
nearest designated place (or wherever sufficient area for a safe turnout exists) in
order to permit the vehicles following it to proceed. Remember, even when passing, you
may not exceed the designated speed limit.

Narrow roadways (VC 21661)

Whenever you drive on a roadway that is too narrow to allow two vehicles to pass at the
same time, the driver of the vehicle going downhill shall yield the right-of-way to the
driver going up the hill and shall, if necessary, back his or her vehicle to a place on
the highway where it is possible for the other vehicles to pass.

Approaching vehicles (VC 21660)

When you encounter oncoming traffic (traffic proceeding in the opposite direction) you
must remain on the right side of the roadway. You must also, except when a roadway has
been divided into traffic lanes, give the oncoming traffic at least one-half of the main
traveled portion of the roadway whenever possible.


Page 9 of 10

Safe Driving Practices: Slow-Moving Vehicles and Designated Lanes


Slow-moving vehicles (VC 21654)

The following guidelines apply to slow-moving vehicles:

* Notwithstanding the prima facie speed limits, any vehicle proceeding upon a
highway at a speed less than the normal speed of traffic moving in the same direction at
such time shall be driven in the right-hand lane for traffic or as close as practicable
to the right-hand edge or curb, except when overtaking and passing another vehicle
proceeding in the same direction or when preparing for a left turn at an intersection or
into a private road or driveway. You cannot legally exceed the speed limit at any time,
even when passing a slow-moving vehicle.


* The Department of Transportation may place official signs directing slow-moving
traffic to use the right-hand traffic lane or another designated lane except when
overtaking and passing another vehicle or preparing for a left turn.

Designated lanes for certain vehicles (VC 21655)

Whenever the Department of Transportation or local authorities determine that the
designation of a specific lane or lanes for the travel of slower vehicles (including
tractor trailers, school buses, trailer buses, farm vehicles, and vehicles transporting
dangerous material) would facilitate the safe and orderly movement of traffic, they may
designate a specific lane or lanes for these vehicles and will erect signs indicating
the designated lane. (This does not apply to commercial buses, such as Greyhound).

Any school bus or trailer bus should travel in specified lanes. When overtaking and
passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction, the driver shall use either
the designated lane, the lane to the immediate left of the right-hand lane, or the
right-hand lane for traffic as permitted under this code.

Carpool lanes/preferential use lanes for High Occupancy Vehicles (VC 21655.5)

High-occupancy vehicles (HOVs) can use special lanes designated to reduce traffic during
peak rush-hour periods. A minimum number of vehicle occupants must be in the vehicle to
use these lanes. Motorcyclists are permitted to use these lanes. Many on/off ramps have
a designated HOV lane during certain peak hours of travel. You may not use HOV lanes
unless your vehicle's number of occupants and your travel time conform to any rules
posted.

Some low emission and hybrid vehicles (rated at 45 mpg or higher) are now permitted to
use the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes without the requisite number of passengers.
The vehicle must display a special decal, issued by the DMV.

Entering or exiting carpool/HOV lanes (VC 21655.8)

You may only enter carpool/HOV lanes when a single broken line is in place to the right
of the lane. You may not enter the lane when a double parallel solid line is in place to
the right of the lane. It is illegal to cross these double lines.

HOV lane use by ultra-low emission vehicles (VC 21655.9)

The use of carpool/HOV lanes and ramps is extended to vehicles that are officially
designated ultra-low emission by the state. These vehicles may travel in carpool/HOV
lanes regardless of occupancy of the vehicle or time of day.

Note about other special-use lanes: Buses often have their own lanes that are usually
marked BUS ONLY. Bicycle lanes are for use by bicyclists only and are separated from the
traffic by a solid white line that changes to a broken white line near intersections.


Page 10 of 10

Safe Driving Practices: Backing Up


Before getting in your car, check behind the vehicle for children, animals, other cars,
and small objects that may block your path of travel.

Visibility and body posture

When backing up (or driving in reverse), your visibility through the back window is
limited.

Look to each side to be sure there is nothing in your path. Next, turn your body to the
right and place your right arm on the back of the passenger seat or headrest. Look
carefully through the back window to be sure the path of travel is clear. Place your
left hand on the steering wheel.

While steering, never rely solely on your mirrors. Turn your head to the direction you
are steering and look directly at your path of travel.

Speed control

Always back up slowly. Release the brake only after your car is in the proper gear.
Backing speed should be extremely slow.

Steering

If you are too close to an object while backing up, make slight steering adjustments.
Continue to check your position through the back window and in all other directions.

Sharp turns

Vision is restricted anytime you are backing up. If you are forced to make a sharp turn,
your vision is even more restricted since you are unable to preview the area into which
you are turning. Avoid making sharp turns while backing up, but if necessary, do so
cautiously and at a very low speed.

Backing around a corner

The radius of the front wheels is wider than that of the rear wheels. When backing
around a corner, the front wheels will swing out farther than the rear wheels so be sure
to allow for extra space to avoid striking people or objects.

CHAPTER LEVEL QUIZ RESULTS


You have answered 10 question(s) correctly.

Note: We have highlighted your correct answers in green, and your incorrect answers in
red.

Question 1: All of the following are examples of 25 mph zones unless otherwise posted,
EXCEPT:
Correct: Driving on the Autobahn


Question 2: If a mountain roadway has insufficient width to permit a motor vehicle to
be driven entirely to the right of the center of the roadway while approaching a curve
with an obstructed view, you should:
Correct: Honk your horn within 200 feet of the curve


Question 3: On a multilane highway the center lane is used for:
Correct: Through traffic


Question 4: Drivers of slow-moving vehicles are required to:
Correct: Travel in the right-hand lane or designated lanes


Question 5: No matter what the posted speed limit sign indicates, your speed should
depend on all of the following conditions EXCEPT:
Correct: How late you may be


Question 6: All of the following vehicles are restricted to drive no faster than 55
mph on the highway EXCEPT:
Correct: Minivans


Question 7: The default speed limit in a residential zone is 35 mph.
Correct: False


Question 8: What is the speed limit at a blind intersection?
Correct: 15


Question 9: Fines are __________ for most traffic violations issued in a construction
zone.
Correct: doubled


Question 10: The higher the travel speed, the greater the risk of serious injury or
death in a crash.
Correct: True

Page 1 of 9

Identifying an Intersection




Fact




In urban areas, motorists are most likely to be injured in head-on collisions
and crashes involving red light running.



Controlled intersections use signals, signs, or control devices to direct the flow of
traffic.

Examples include:

* Signal lights
* STOP signs
* YIELD signs
* Flashing yellow lights
* Railroad crossing gates

Uncontrolled intersections do not use any form of control to regulate traffic.

What skills are required for crossing and turning in an intersection?

Judging the speed and distance of other vehicles is an important safety skill.

Wisely choosing a traffic gap or space in which to enter or cross traffic is the key to
successful crossing and turning. You need a gap that is about half a city block, and
about a full city block if you are traveling on an open highway. Make sure there are no
cars or people blocking the path ahead or the path to the side of the area in which you
are crossing or turning. Give yourself plenty of time to make your maneuver. Just
because a maneuver is legal does not mean it is safe.


Page 2 of 9

Left Turns: Protected and Unprotected

* A protected left turn is made from a left-turn lane with arrows or signals to
guide your turn. The green arrow pointing right or left allows you to make a "protected"
turn because oncoming traffic is stopped by a red light as long as the green arrow
controlling your lane is alight. Remember, a green arrow means "GO," but you still must
yield to any vehicles, bicycles, or pedestrians in the intersection.


* An unprotected left turn is a turn made without an arrow to guide the turn.
Unprotected turns may be made from the centermost lane of the roadway or from a left-
turn lane at an intersection. There may or may not be a signal
light where you make your turn. If there is a signal
and the light is green, start your left turn only if you have enough space to
complete your turn before oncoming traffic becomes a hazard.


* Before you make your left turn, be sure to scan for hazards such as other
vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists.


* In California, you are required to signal for at least 100 ft. before making your
turn (VC 22107 and VC 22110).


* Prepare to turn left by positioning your vehicle in the far-left lane about 200
feet (or more if traveling at a speed of 40 mph or greater) before you make your turn.
As you complete your turn, gradually accelerate to match the speed of traffic. You
should signal your intentions about 100-300 feet before making your turn.


* Making a left turn can be very dangerous. Your view of oncoming traffic may be
blocked by a line of cars. Do not make the turn if you cannot see oncoming traffic
clearly or when your view is blocked.


* When making a left turn from a two-way street, your car should be positioned next
to the center line.


* When turning left from a three-lane, one-way street onto a one-way street, you may
only turn left from the left lane.


Page 3 of 9

Right Turns: Protected and Unprotected

* A protected right turn is made from a right-turn lane with a green arrow to guide
your turn. Be sure to watch errant pedestrians.


* An unprotected right turn is made from a right turn lane or from the lane closest
to the right-hand curb. There is no arrow to guide your turn.


* Before you make your right turn be sure to scan for hazards such as other
vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists.


* In California, you are required to signal for at least 100 ft. before making your
turn (VC 22107 and VC 22110).


* Prepare to turn right by positioning your vehicle in the far-right lane about 200
feet (or more if traveling at a speed of 40 mph or greater) before you make your turn.
As you complete your turn, gradually accelerate to match the speed of traffic.


* You may make a right turn on red unless otherwise posted. Come to a complete stop
before making the turn. You may not turn right on red if the signal is a red arrow.


* Look for any bicyclists in a bike lane before entering the bike lane. If there are
bicyclists in the lane, let them know of your presence by signaling early or lightly
tapping your horn.



Page 4 of 9

U-Turns

* A U-turn is a way to reverse your direction of travel, turning so as to proceed in
the opposite direction. This can be accomplished by one continuous movement (in the
shape of a "U") or in a multiple-point turn (VC 665.5).


* Before you make your U-turn, be sure to scan for hazards such as other vehicles,
pedestrians, and bicyclists.


* Before you make your U-turn, make sure you check for prohibitive signs that tell
you that you cannot make a U-turn.


* Make sure nothing is blocking your view and that you have enough space and time to
complete your turn.


* When you have completed the turn, your vehicle will be facing the opposite
direction from when you began the turn. Be sure to straighten out your wheels as you
proceed forward.

Legal U-turns

You may make a U-turn:

* Across a double yellow line, if the turn can be made safely and legally.


* In a residential district, whenever a traffic sign or signal protects you from
vehicles which are close and if no vehicle approaching you is closer than 200 feet.


* At an intersection on a green light or green arrow unless a "NO U-TURN" sign is
posted.


* On a divided highway. You may not, however, drive over or across any dividing
section, curb, or strip. This includes two sets of double lines marking a center divider
(unless an opening is provided for turns); and the unpaved median in the middle of the
freeway.

Illegal U-turns

You may not make a U-turn in these situations:

* Where you cannot clearly see 200 feet in each direction because of a curve, hill,
rain, fog, or other reason.


* Where a “NO U-TURN” sign is posted.


* When vehicles may hit you.


* On a one-way street.


* In front of a fire station. Never use a fire station driveway to turn around.


* In a business district, except at intersections or through openings in a concrete
divider.


Page 5 of 9

Driving and Turning at Intersections: General Tips


Proceeding straight through an intersection

Remember these tips as you proceed straight through an intersection:

* Scan 10-15 seconds ahead - As you proceed straight, you should constantly scan
your environment. Scanning involves looking in front of you, behind you, and to both
sides of your vehicle. The California DMV recommends looking at least 10-15 seconds
ahead of your vehicle for possible hazards such as bicyclists, pedestrians, animals,
warning signs, or directional signs.


* Cover the brake - Because you must be prepared to stop or slow suddenly, you might
try a technique called covering the brake. Covering the brake involves taking your right
foot off of the accelerator and holding it over the brake pedal as you cruise forward on
your car’s momentum. Your foot will be in position for a sudden stop. Be careful not to
actually rest your foot on the brake.

Why should you signal for turns and stops? (VC 22110)

The purpose of signaling is to let others know your intentions. Always signal to other
drivers when you plan to turn left, right, slow down, or stop. Signal your left or right
turn during the last 100 feet before reaching the turning point. At highway speeds, it
is best to signal at least five seconds before you change lanes.

Remember, motorcyclists often use hand signals to make themselves more visible. Bicycle
riders may give right turn signals with their right arm held straight out, pointing
right.

If bright sunlight makes signal lights hard to see, use hand-and-arm signals also.

Page 6 of 9

Passing and Being Passed


Proper passing involves the use of good judgment, courtesy, and the ability to make
rapid decisions. When passing or being passed, remember the following:

* Reduce your speed if another vehicle is trying to pass your vehicle. Don’t speed.


* Tap your brakes as a warning to vehicles behind you if you see a hazard ahead.


* Plan an escape route in case you need to avoid a collision.


* Before entering the passing lane, look ahead to identify a gap that will allow you
to
pull back into the right lane.


* Before entering a passing lane, be sure to check for good road traction ensuring
that you will not lose control of your vehicle during the passing maneuver.


* Remain alert and maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and other vehicles
on the road (VC 21750).


* When traveling on a two-lane roadway, remain on the right side of the roadway
unless you are passing. Then, pass only when you have enough room to return to the right
side of the roadway and when your field of vision is clear (VC 21751).


* Because of the high speeds of travel on freeways, be extra careful when passing.
Stay to the right unless you are passing another vehicle or preparing to make a turn.



Page 7 of 9

When is Passing Prohibited?




Fact




More than one third of crashes typed as running a traffic control, rear-ending a
stopped or stopping vehicle, and running off the road involved injury. In contrast,
injuries occurred in only 16 percent of crashes involving lane change maneuvers.



Driving on the left prohibited (VC 21752)

Passing is illegal in the following situations:

* When your sight is restricted - Sight restrictions, such as those you might have
when driving on hills, curves, or when you are behind an oversized vehicle, make passing
unsafe. If it is unsafe to pass on a section of highway, it will be marked as a no-
passing zone by signs or markings. You MUST NOT drive on the left side of a roadway when
coming to a curve or the top of a hill where you can't see far enough ahead to be sure
it is safe to pass.


* When you do not have sufficient clearance - At highway speeds of 50 to 55 mph, you
need a 10- to 12-second gap in oncoming traffic to pass safely. If you are trying to
pass and another vehicle is approaching you from the opposite direction, you will need
about 1600 feet (about 20 seconds) to safely pass if you are traveling at about 55 mph.
If you do not have at least this much clearance, do not pass.


* At bridges, viaducts, or tunnels - Unless specifically stated on road signs,
passing is prohibited when you are within 100 feet of a bridge, viaduct, or tunnel.


* At railroad crossings - It is illegal to pass when approaching within 100 feet of,
or when crossing, any railroad grade crossing.


* Close to intersections - It is illegal to pass when approaching within 100 feet of
or when traversing any intersection.


* When roadway markings indicate no passing - The pattern of yellow lines determines
whether passing is permitted. For example, two solid yellow lines means that passing is
prohibited. A combination of a solid yellow line and a broken yellow line means that you
can pass only on the side with the broken yellow line. If a single broken yellow line is
present, either lane of traffic may pass when it is safe to do so.


* When you are behind a school bus - Do not pass a school bus if the red light is
flashing.


* On hills or curves - You need to be able to see at least one-third of a mile ahead
to safely pass a vehicle on a hill. If you cannot see this far ahead, it is not safe to
pass.



When is Passing Dangerous?


Dangerous passing situations include the following:

* There is a long line of cars ahead
* Another car is signaling an intention to stop or turn
* An oncoming car is too close
* The car ahead is traveling at or near the speed limit
* Your sight distance ahead is limited
* Your maneuver cannot be completed before reaching a no-passing zone
* You are on a two-lane road - try to avoid this maneuver because of the increased
chance of collision


Passing on the Right


Drivers may overtake and pass to the right of another vehicle only under the following
conditions:

* When the vehicle overtaken is making or about to make a left turn.


* On a roadway with unobstructed pavement of sufficient width for two or more lanes
of moving vehicles in the direction of travel.


* On a one-way street.


* On a highway divided into two roadways where traffic is restricted to one
direction on each of such roadways.

Remember: Drivers may overtake and pass another vehicle upon the right ONLY when they
can do so safely. Drivers may never pass by driving off the paved or main-traveled
portion of the roadway. Drivers of slow-moving vehicles must always drive as closely as
practicable to the right-hand edge of the roadway.

Page 9 of 9

Steps for Successful Passing


Often, passing does not accomplish very much. It simply places you one vehicle ahead of
where you originally were, and the time you save is negligible. Before passing, ask
yourself the following questions:

* Is the pass legal?
* Is the pass possible?
* Is the pass worth the risk?
* Do I have sufficient space to pass?

Then, if you decide the maneuver is still a safe decision, follow these steps for
successful passing:

* Check ahead for a clear, safe passing space. This is critical. Keep in mind the
time element necessary to accomplish a safe pass. You should be able to return to your
authorized lane of travel as soon as is practical.


* Scan for hazards such as oncoming vehicles, pedestrians, vehicles approaching from
the rear, or merging vehicles.


* Check your blind spots by turning your head to make sure no vehicles are in your
blind spots. Also check your rearview and side-view mirrors for vehicles behind you or
to your side.


* Communicate your intent to pass by signaling other drivers or, if necessary, by
flashing your headlights or tapping your horn.


* Don't exceed the speed limit to pass another vehicle.


* Don't linger in the other vehicle's blind spots.


* Make sure you have enough clearance of both the passed vehicle and of any oncoming
traffic ahead of you.


* Check ahead for changing traffic signals - Be sure to look ahead for any signal
changes. Try to watch for "stale" green lights - signals that have been green for a
while and are about to change to yellow.


* Recheck conditions ahead and create a return space for your vehicle, making sure
you can see the front of the vehicle you just passed in your rearview mirror.


* Signal your return into the lane, check your blind spots, and resume normal
driving.

Safety when being passed

If another vehicle is trying to pass your vehicle, reduce your speed and allow the
passing vehicle to complete the maneuver safely. It is also a good idea to position your
vehicle in the far side of your lane, thus allowing the overtaking vehicle greater
visibility. Finally, tap your brakes as a warning to vehicles behind you if you see a
hazard ahead.

CHAPTER LEVEL QUIZ RESULTS


You have answered 9 question(s) correctly.

To proceed to the next chapter, you must first score 10 out of 10 Click the "Continue"
button below to view material related to your incorrect responses - after which you may
re-attempt the quiz.

Note: We have highlighted your correct answers in green, and your incorrect answers in
red.

Question 1: Making a left turn can be very dangerous because:
Correct: Your view of oncoming traffic may be blocked by a line of cars


Question 2: If you are going to pass another vehicle on a hill, you need to be able to
see at least one-third of a mile ahead to pass safely.
Correct: True


Question 3: Passing is prohibited when you are within ____ feet of a bridge, viaduct,
or tunnel.
Incorrect: 200


Question 4: Successful passing includes:
Correct: Signaling and checking your blind spots


Question 5: Do not pass a school bus if the red light is flashing.
Correct: True


Question 6: An unprotected turn is made at an intersection where there are no arrows
or signals.
Correct: True


Question 7: If you are driving beside a single broken yellow line, passing is:
Correct: Legal


Question 8: A protected left turn at an intersection is:
Correct: Made from a left-turn lane with arrows or signals to guide your turn


Question 9: It is too dangerous to pass a vehicle if:
Correct: The car ahead is driving faster than the posted speed limit


Question 10: Proper passing involves the use of:
Correct: Good judgment, courtesy, and the ability to make rapid decisions


Page 1 of 5

Driving in the City: Speed




Fact




Fifty-two percent of deaths in roadside hazard crashes in 2002 occurred on roads
with speed limits 55 mph or higher.



When driving in the city, traveling at a reduced speed allows you:

* More time to see details and identify their meaning
* More time to analyze information and predict what might happen
* More reaction time to decide what to do
* More time to execute decisions or avoid dangerous situations

It is important to look ahead of traffic. This permits you time to:

* Observe for traffic hazards
* Leave enough distance to maneuver
* Look ahead for signal changes
* Anticipate signal changes


Driving in the City: Covering the Brake


Covering the brake is a term used to describe the technique of braking in which your
right foot is taken off the accelerator and held over the brake pedal as you cruise
forward on your car’s momentum.

Covering the brake allows you to slow your vehicle when stopping distances are reduced,
such as when you are driving in the city. This technique should be used when you:

* Are driving next to parked cars
* See the brake lights of other cars
* Approach signal lights


COVERING


Page 2 of 5

Driving in the City: Passing


Never pass more than one vehicle at a time, since your field of vision is usually much
smaller when driving in the city. You should generally pass to the left.

Passing over the center line of travel, especially if there is a solid lane divider, is
illegal. Passing within 100 feet of an intersection on a two-lane road is also
prohibited in most areas (VC 21752).


Driving in the City: Choosing a Lane


Defensive driving means positioning your vehicle so there is maximum distance between it
and the next vehicle or any potential dangers. Selecting the appropriate lane to travel
in is especially important, since there are many different kinds of hazards, vehicles,
and distractions on city streets.

Pick an appropriate lane

Many people simply drive in the same lane out of habit. However, city driving requires
you to carefully select a lane of travel that is appropriate for the situation in which
you are driving.

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
select this lane - this is a dangerous practice. 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 can avoid blocking multiple lanes.

Vehicle position

The position of your vehicle is important. Remember to:

* Keep up with traffic speed but be sure to drive within legal limits.
* Avoid other drivers' blind spots - check your vehicle position frequently, using
mirrors and head turns.
* Avoid letting another driver drive in your blind spots.
* Avoid side-by-side driving.
* Avoid driving in groups.
* Be aware of pedestrians and bicyclists.




Page 3 of 5

Driving in the City: Choosing a Safe Route


When selecting a safe route of travel it is important to be prepared. Be sure you are
ready mentally and physically, and that you can respond calmly if there is a change in
your plans. In addition:

* Be sure your car is in proper working order and is filled with gas.


* Think about the time of day you are planning to travel and select a time frame
that has the least amount of traffic.


* 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. For
example, side streets may help you avoid traffic but they may not be as safe or they may
increase your travel time because of traffic signals.


* Plan your route carefully. Carry a map with you and memorize any highway exits you
want to use.


* Consider whether it is better to use one-way or two-way streets on your route.


Page 4 of 5

Driving in the City: Special Problems




Fact




Forty-one percent of urban crashes associated with a vehicle turning left into
oncoming traffic involved injuries. These crashes often involve a side impact.



City driving presents drivers with special problems. When driving in the city, be aware
of the following:

* Parked cars hiding cross traffic. Approach intersections carefully and slowly to
avoid collisions.


* Detours present in the lane of travel. Watch for hazard signs indicating
construction areas or detours. Travel slowly through these areas, since you and other
drivers may be unfamiliar with the change in use of roadways.


* The proper way to use a two-way center left-turn lane. When making a left turn on
a street that has a center turn lane, do so from this lane. It is important that you
drive your vehicle completely within the lane so traffic is not blocked. In addition, do
not turn too early or you may find yourself facing oncoming traffic.


* The proper way to turn at corners. For example, when making a left turn on a
street corner, get close to the center divider line or into the left-turn lane, if one
is available. Don’t turn too soon and "cut the corner" of the lane belonging to cars
coming toward you. When making a right turn, get close to the right edge of the road
(and watch for bicycles or motorcycles between your car and the curb). Don’t turn wide.
Stay in the right lane until you have finished the turn.


Page 5 of 5

Driving in the City: One-Way Streets


Watch for signs identifying a street as one-way. For example, you may see ONE WAY, DO
NOT ENTER, WRONG WAY, NO LEFT TURN, or NO RIGHT TURN signs. Other clues that indicate a
street is a one-way street include:

* Parking is only allowed on one side of the street.
* All vehicles are pointing in the same direction.
* The street does not have yellow lines.

Prepare to enter a one-way street at least one block away and turn into the first
available lane that is heading in the proper direction.

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.

Drive slowly, since one-way streets may turn into two-lane streets, and you may
encounter hazards or meet drivers who have gone the wrong way down the ONE-WAY street.

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. Use the center lane if you are going straight and
one is available. Check signs to determine if you are turning onto another one-way
street or onto a two-way street.

How do you deal with wrong-way drivers?

When driving on one-way streets, you must be prepared to meet drivers who are not
familiar with the area and who find themselves heading the wrong way. It is important
that you reduce your speed and try to get their attention by flashing your lights or
honking your horn. Do not panic!

Pedestrians and bicyclists

When driving in the city, expect bicyclists and pedestrians to be everywhere. Because
there is limited driving space and many potential hazards in the city, remain alert,
reduce your speed, and scan the area constantly.


Page 1 of 8

Driving on the Freeway


Freeway driving is different from city driving and highway driving. Freeways are
controlled and access to them is limited. Traffic flows smoothly, there is a lower risk
of collisions, and fatality rates are lower. However, high rates of speed and crowded
conditions can make freeways dangerous.

Plan your route in advance

You have less time to react to emergency situations on a freeway, so be familiar with
alternate exits. Pay attention to the location and placement of guide signs - they can
help you determine distance and route direction.

Plan your time of travel to avoid unfamiliar or congested traffic situations. While
freeway driving can be somewhat complicated, the most frequent conflicts occur when
either entering or exiting the freeway. To achieve a smooth flow of traffic, use
appropriate maneuvers for both.

Entering the Freeway


When you enter a freeway you must rapidly adjust to an increase in speed and a high
volume of traffic. Assess potential merging conflicts. Watch for vehicles ahead, behind,
and in the lane into which you wish to merge. Make full use of the acceleration lane to
raise your speed to match that of the traffic already on the freeway. The acceleration
lane is a dedicated lane to allow you to fully accelerate to the speed of prevailing
traffic.

Do not stop before you merge with freeway traffic and do not drive too slowly.
Acceleration to highway speed should be complete by the end of the acceleration lane.
Not matching your speed to that of vehicles already on the freeway can result in
collisions.

Become familiar with these major parts of the freeway:

* On-ramp: A one-way entrance to the freeway


* Acceleration lane: An extra lane permitting a vehicle to reach freeway speeds


* Merging area: The space where the acceleration lane merges with the freeway


* Deceleration lane: A lane that allows drivers to adjust to slower-speed traffic

When you enter a freeway, observe the following:

* Be familiar with entrance warning signs.
* Observe the on-ramp speed warning signs.
* Check the speed of freeway traffic.
* Watch vehicles ahead for sudden stops.
* Locate a gap in the traffic and accelerate according to the flow of traffic.
* Look over your shoulder to check for vehicles in your blind spots.
* Adjust your speed for merging onto freeway through lanes. Remember, the maximum
speed of the freeway cannot be surpassed.
* Cancel your turn signal and go with the flow of traffic.

Cautions when entering the freeway

* Do not suddenly slow down or stop when you enter the acceleration lane. You may
cause a rear-end collision.


* Do not merge too slowly. Travel at the same speed as other vehicles in the traffic
flow.


* Be sure to observe on-ramp speed limit signs. Speed up gradually to merge with
traffic.


* Remember, slower-moving vehicles should travel in the right-hand lane or a lane
specially marked for their use.

Entering directly onto the freeway when there is no acceleration lane

If there isn’t an acceleration lane, pay attention to the YIELD or MERGE signs before
entering the freeway, wait for a longer gap before entering, and accelerate your speed
to blend into traffic.


Page 3 of 8

Leaving the Freeway


When you are exiting the freeway, scan ahead for signs indicating the desired exit lane.
Exiting can be smooth if you know where to exit. Approximately five seconds prior to
leaving the freeway, signal your intention to exit. Use the deceleration lane or ramp
for slowing and be prepared to adjust to slower speeds.


Exit lanes

Deceleration lanes lead to one-way ramps called off-ramps. They allow you to reduce your
speed without endangering traffic to the rear of your vehicle.

When off-ramps merge directly into traffic, watch for YIELD or MERGE signs and proceed
with caution. Off-ramps can be very short or have sharp curves, so adjust to the speed
posted on the off-ramp speed warning signs before getting onto the ramp.

Warning: Be sure to follow exit ramp speed limit signs. Do not travel faster than the
legal limit.


Special Freeway Features


Timed entrance lights may be used during rush-hour traffic to help with freeway
congestion.

Double merge lanes create a single lane by which you can enter the freeway, or there may
be two lanes that stay separate throughout the entire merge onto the freeway.

Diamond interchanges are actually shaped like a diamond. This is where a freeway
intersects a roadway with less traffic. Drivers entering the freeway use entrance ramps
and drivers exiting the freeway must stop or yield before turning or merging into the
cross traffic.


Page 4 of 8

Choosing Lanes of Travel


On two-lane freeways, use the right-hand lane when you are driving normally or entering
or exiting the roadway. Use the left-hand lane for passing slower-moving vehicles.

On a freeway with three lanes or more, use the right-hand lane for entering and exiting
the freeway, use the center lane for normal driving, and use the left-hand lanes for
passing.

When approaching interchanges, move away from the lane into which other cars are merging
to avoid merging conflicts.


Freeway Speed Limits




Fact




Research shows drivers with radar detectors are consistently overrepresented
among the fastest speeders. Use of a radar detector demonstrates an intention to speed
that distinguishes users of these devices from drivers who speed occasionally or
inadvertently.



The basic speed law says that you must never drive faster than is safe for the present
conditions, regardless of the posted speed limit. The maximum speed limit on most
highways is 65 mph. However, for two-lane undivided highways, the maximum speed limit is
55 mph, unless posted for a higher speed. On some highways the maximum speed is 70 mph,
but only if there are signs posted showing 70 mph.

When you drive too slowly, you block the movement of
traffic, you force lane changes by other vehicles, and you may receive a ticket.
However, there may be times you have to drive slowly. If so, move to the right lane so
the driver behind you can go faster. If you are driving a bus, towing a vehicle, or
driving a large truck, drive in the right-hand lane or in a specially marked lane.

Page 5 of 8

Making a Safe Lane Change on the Freeway


Making a safe lane change on a busy freeway can be a challenge. To change lanes safely,
follow these guidelines:

* Check for ample space between any vehicles ahead, to the rear, and to both sides
of your vehicle.


* Look for hazards, use your mirrors, and check for blind spots (turn your head and
check your rearview mirrors).


* Signal in advance your intention to change lanes.


* Change lanes one at a time even if two or three lanes are open.


* Avoid slowing or stopping when changing lanes.


* As you move into the intended lane, continue to glance back and forth from your
path of travel to your intended lane.



Page 6 of 8

Time Margins for Freeway Conditions


Establishing a space cushion (a gap between you and other drivers) is an important
element in defensive driving on the freeway. The higher your speed, the larger the space
cushion you’ll need.

How can you help other drivers enter or exit the freeway?

When entering or exiting a freeway, it is important to be courteous to other drivers.
Follow these tips for smooth driving:

* Observe merging signs.


* Warn other vehicles that you are entering or exiting the freeway by properly using
your signal lights.


* Adjust your speed to the flow of traffic and only enter an open gap in traffic.


* Never force your way into traffic.


* Move into adjacent lanes one lane at a time.

Page 7 of 8

Freeway Emergencies




Fact




Forty-nine percent of deaths in roadside hazard crashes in 2002 occurred at
night (9 pm-6 am).



If you encounter an emergency on the freeway (such as a stalled or disabled vehicle or
blocked roadway), follow these steps:

* Reduce your speed.


* Carefully steer around the emergency.


* If you must stop, warn other drivers of the impending change in traffic flow and
the emergency by tapping your brakes or using your hazard lights.


* Avoid staring at the emergency and concentrate on your driving.

Breakdowns

If your vehicle breaks down on the freeway, it can be extremely dangerous. Vehicles are
moving past you at high speeds, it is difficult to pull over, and there is little space
on the shoulder in which to maneuver.

If you do have a breakdown:

* Signal and pull off to the shoulder.


* Warn approaching traffic by using hazard lights, flares, or warning devices.


* Call for assistance. If you do not have a cell phone, ask a passerby to send help.
To maximize your security when asking for help, remain in your car with doors locked and
lower the driver side window only enough to allow for communication.


* If possible, stay in your car and lock your doors until help arrives.

Note: Any vehicle that is left standing on a freeway (even if disabled) for more than 4
hours may be removed. Any vehicle left unattended blocking the roadway or deemed a
hazard by the authorities may be towed immediately (VC 22651).

Reentering the freeway after an emergency

Reentering the freeway after a breakdown or emergency stop may pose certain challenges:

* Instead of a merge lane, the driver must use the shoulder as an acceleration lane.


* Much like entering the freeway when there is no merge lane, a driver should allow
a bigger gap in traffic before pulling onto the pavement.


* Never pull off of the shoulder into traffic unless there is a gap.


* Continue to signal and drive on the shoulder until you can safely merge with
traffic.


* If you are forced to drive on the shoulder for an extended distance, be sure to
scan for obstacles or hazards such as debris, potholes, or other vehicles parked on the
shoulder.


Page 8 of 8

Special Freeway Problems


Velocitation and highway hypnosis

Common psychological occurrences in freeway driving are velocitation and highway
hypnosis. Velocitation occurs when you unconsciously go too fast on the freeway. Highway
hypnosis occurs when the road literally hypnotizes you. To prevent these problems, drive
only when you are mentally alert and rested. Make frequent stops if you go on a long
trip.

Toll booths

What should you look for when approaching toll booths?

* Reduce your speed as you approach.


* Choose an appropriate toll booth lane as soon as possible and allow adequate time
to move into the correct lane.

Each toll booth has its own lane. Some are designated lanes for special vehicles such as
trucks, buses, and vehicles towing trailers. Be sure you select the proper lane for your
vehicle.


You have answered 10 question(s) correctly.

Note: We have highlighted your correct answers in green, and your incorrect answers in
red.

Question 1: Which of the following is NOT a major part of the freeway?
Correct: Video rental return box


Question 2: Freeway driving is the same as city driving and highway driving.
Correct: False


Question 3: On a freeway, you should change only one lane at a time even if two or
three lanes are open.
Correct: True


Question 4: Establishing a space cushion is an important element in defensive driving
on the freeway.
Correct: True


Question 5: If you are driving a bus, towing a vehicle, or driving a large truck, you
should drive in the __________.
Correct: Right lane or in a specially marked lane


Question 6: When you enter a freeway you should observe the following:
Correct: All answers listed are correct


Question 7: To change lanes safely in a freeway, you should avoid:
Correct: Changing more than one lane at a time


Question 8: When driving on a freeway, conflicts most frequently occur:
Correct: When entering or exiting the freeway


Question 9: Deceleration lanes lead to ______________ and allow you to reduce speed
without endangering traffic to the rear.
Correct: One-way ramps called off-ramps


Question 10: A diamond interchange is where a freeway intersects a highway with
_______.
Correct: Less traffic


Page 1 of 6

Driving on the Highway or Roadway


A highway is a way or place of whatever nature, publicly maintained and open to the use
of the public for purposes of vehicular travel (VC 360).

Any roadway you travel can present you with potential hazards such as:

* Unmarked farm and field driveways that can be blocked by mailboxes, shrubs, or
fences


* Livestock crossing areas that may be marked or unmarked


* Rough road conditions, including dirt or gravel roads, potholes, washboard
surfaces, and pavement material (such as crushed stone or cobblestones) that affect
traction


* Unmarked shoulders that may be extremely difficult to see at night if they are
unlit, unmarked, or have no boundary


* Roadside stands or gas stations

Good driving practices for driving on the roadway or highway include:



Fact




Forty-six percent of deaths in roadside hazard crashes in 2002 occurred on major
roads, 37 percent occurred on minor roads, and 17 percent occurred on freeways including
interstates.



* Reduce your speed.


* Watch for pedestrians, work crews, disabled vehicles,
or livestock.


* Watch for cars pulled over to the side of the road or pulling out of a driveway.


* Stay in the middle of your lane.


* Scan for warning signs or hazards.



Page 2 of 6

Driving on the Roadway: Slow-Moving Vehicles


Slow-moving vehicles are quite common on highways. They include wide-load vehicles
carrying heavy equipment, horse-drawn vehicles, snowplows, large trailers, and farm
equipment. Because they are wider than most vehicles, they are difficult to pass,
difficult to see around, and may kick up rocks or dust as they travel along unpaved
roads. They are not designed to travel quickly, so they can cause rear-end collisions or
block traffic.

When approaching a slow-moving vehicle:

* Reduce your speed.
* Identify the type of vehicle.
* Identify any potential hazards.
* Do not pass unless your view ahead is clear and you have plenty of room.
* Watch for oncoming cars that are trying to pass the slow-moving vehicle.
* Allow extra space between you and the slow-moving vehicle, if possible.





Page 3 of 6

Driving on the Roadway: Wild and Domestic Animals


Some roadways connect communities where farm and wild animals may be common. The
presence of fences does not necessarily mean that animals are not present or do not have
the right-of-way. You must be aware of signs of animals (road signs that indicate the
presence of animals; traveling in a wooded or farm area) and reduce your speed to
decrease the chance of an unexpected encounter. If you do encounter an animal:

* Proceed with caution.
* Follow the directions of the animal’s rider or handler (if possible).
* Avoid startling the animal.
* Keep your brake covered.
* Watch for oncoming traffic.
* Have an escape route.
* Stay alert.

Page 4 of 6

Driving on the Roadway: Hills, Mountains, and Curves


Driving on hills or mountains and around curves requires special consideration. The
weight of your vehicle and the steepness of the grade impact the effect of gravity on
your driving.

Driving downhill

If you are driving downhill, you are driving with the force of gravity and your
vehicle’s weight causes your speed to increase quickly. Use your brakes and transmission
carefully to avoid wear and damage to your vehicle’s engine and brake system. Brake
failure is a common problem of drivers who overuse their brakes and fail to downshift
when driving downhill.

Driving uphill

When you are driving uphill, you are driving against the force of gravity. Your use of
the gas pedal and transmission affects the power and speed with which you climb the hill
and the efficiency of your engine. Overheating is a problem in this situation.

Ability to see

Finally, your ability to see is often decreased when driving on hills. Curves and steep
grades, shrubs, large vehicles, and other obstacles can reduce your ability to see.
Drive with caution and drive only as fast as conditions allow.

Tips for driving on mountains and hills

Since mountain roads typically have curves, steep grades, and narrower widths than
average roads, you should:

* Reduce your speed.
* Pay careful attention to roadway signs and markings.
* Watch for obstacles such as rocks, snow, animals, and slower traffic.
* Avoid driving during bad weather.
* Stay within roadway markings.
* Use low-beam headlights to increase your visibility.
* Watch for roads damaged from washouts, rock slides, or landslides.

What should you do if you meet a car going in the opposite direction or want to pass a
vehicle traveling in the same direction?

The general rule is to give the right-of-way to the uphill traffic. However, courtesy is
important and some situations may require a different solution.

When passing other vehicles, look for an appropriate place to pass. Do not become
impatient because you are stuck behind a slow-moving vehicle. Many mountain roads have
specific passing lanes or pullout areas that allow slower traffic to safely pull off the
road and get out of the way of faster traffic.

Special problems in high altitudes: Overheating and Vapor Lock

High-altitude driving means that less oxygen is available to both you and your vehicle.
If you are not used to being in a high altitude, you may find that you are short of
breath and tired. Your engine also does not run as efficiently in high altitudes. It may
overheat more quickly (causing the gasoline to boil and vaporize or "lock" and stop
running), stall more frequently, and use gas more quickly.



Page 5 of 6

Open Roadways and Highways




Fact




Trees are the most common hazard. Twenty-eight percent of deaths in roadside
hazard crashes in 2002 involved a vehicle striking a tree.



When driving on an open roadway or highway, it is very important that you stay alert at
all times. Look ahead for lines of vehicles that could be moving slower than the speed
limit. Be sure to decrease your speed before reaching lines of cars or other slow-moving
vehicles. The chances of unexpected occurrences increase greatly in these situations.
Things to watch for include the following:

* Cars veering out of their lanes
* Slow-merging vehicles
* Farm tractors
* Animal-drawn carts
* Road-maintenance vehicles

Much like driving on hills and curves, driving on open roadways at night requires
increased alertness. Things that may be visible during daylight hours can be hard to
spot at night. These could include other traffic, road signs, intersections, hills,
curves, or animals in the road. Be sure to maintain a safe speed and be prepared for an
unexpected stop.



Page 6 of 6

Driving on the Roadway: Road Conditions


Rough road conditions (such as dirt, gravel, sand, or mud) require you to pay careful
attention to your driving. Watch for road signs that indicate these conditions and
listen to the sounds your car makes as it travels on these surfaces. Potholes, cracks in
the pavement, ice, snow, water, oil, or loose gravel will affect the traction of your
tires. Reduce your speed to reduce the chance of any loss of traction.

Narrow roads reduce your options for maneuvering your car. Your field of vision is often
reduced by trees, billboards, fences, or other obstacles that limit your ability to see
other vehicles, traffic signals, pedestrians, or other objects. Your line of sight may
be reduced by curves in the roadway, hills, or trees. The speed at which you drive on
highways also makes it difficult to see important details.

When traveling on roadways with rough conditions, remember the basic speed law: Do not
drive faster than conditions allow. By reducing your speed, you:

* Maintain better control over your vehicle
* Have more time to maneuver your vehicle
* Reduce your risk of a collision
* Reduce your risk of injury or death

You have answered 10 question(s) correctly.

Note: We have highlighted your correct answers in green, and your incorrect answers in
red.

Question 1: Your ability to see is usually very high when driving on hills.
Correct: False


Question 2: Which of the following factors affects traction:
Correct: Dirt or gravel roads


Question 3: Which of the following factors reduce your ability to see while driving on
hills?
Correct: All the options to this question are correct.


Question 4: Which of the following is (are) considered good driving practices when
driving on the roadway or highway?
Correct: All the options to this question are correct


Question 5: Which of the following physical forces affects your driving on hills?
Correct: Gravity


Question 6: Which of the following driving conditions restrict visibility?
Correct: All the options for this question are correct.


Question 7: Which of the following factors hinder(s) your field of vision when driving
at night?
Correct: All the options to this question are correct.


Question 8: Which of the following should you avoid while driving on mountain roads?
Correct: Passing slow-moving vehicles on the shoulder


Question 9: A reduction in speed in rough road conditions typically helps to:
Correct: Reduce loss of traction


Question 10: You have restricted ability to see in all of these driving conditions
EXCEPT:
Correct: Driving on rural highways


Page 1 of 7

Challenges of Driving: Fog


The best rule for driving in fog is simple – don’t. If driving is a must, then stay
informed about weather conditions, reduce your speed, and use safe driving tactics.

Obtaining maximum visibility and reducing glare

To maximize your ability to see and reduce glare, use your low-beam headlights,
windshield wipers, and defroster. Never use high-beam headlights, as they can reduce
your ability to see.

Fog lights can be mounted on the front of your vehicle to improve your ability to see.
They may be used when your vehicle’s low beams are on. Fog lights cannot be used in
substitution of headlights. In addition, spotlights can be used on the front of your
vehicle.

Use the right edge of the road as a guide and roll your passenger window down to hear
other vehicles approaching. Maintain an extra space cushion between you and other
vehicles. In very dense fog, pull as far off the road as you safely can and stop until
the fog clears.

Speed and fog

In very thick fog, you may not be able to see more than 200 feet ahead. When you cannot
see further ahead than 200 feet, you cannot safely drive more than 30 mph. To reduce
your chance of a collision when entering a fog bank, remember the following:

* Reduce your speed, but keep moving.
* Watch for slow-moving vehicles ahead.
* Look in the rearview mirror for vehicles approaching from the rear.

When your vehicle stalls in fog

If your vehicle stalls in fog, do the following:

* Move off the roadway as quickly as possible to avoid collisions with other
vehicles.
* Move away from your vehicle to avoid being struck by other vehicles.
* Restrict the use of flashers or flares, as their light reflects off the water
particles from the fog.
* Call for help.

General tips for driving in fog

* Listen for traffic you cannot see.
* Avoid crossing roadways.
* Avoid passing a line of cars.
* Consider postponing driving until conditions clear.
* Keep your headlights and taillights clean.
* Increase your following distance.



Page 2 of 7

Challenges of Driving: Wet Conditions


Driving in rain

When driving in the rain, reduce your speed and use your low-beam headlights, windshield
wipers, and defroster. Never use high-beam headlights, as they can reduce your
visibility. Increase the following distance between you and other vehicles. Signal your
intention to make turns earlier than usual. Don’t apply your brakes too suddenly or too
hard. In really heavy rain, pull as far off the road as you safely can and stop your
vehicle.

Driving on slippery surfaces

Slippery surfaces present you with challenging driving conditions. Slippery surfaces
decrease vehicle traction and increase your chances of skidding or "fishtailing"
(swinging from side to side). To avoid a collision as a result of vehicle failure (such
as faulty brakes or inadequate tread on your tires), be sure to properly maintain your
vehicle and have regular safety inspections.

Roads are most slippery when it first starts to rain because oil and dust have
accumulated on the roadway and have not been washed away.

Follow these guidelines when driving on slippery surfaces:


Fact




Seventeen percent of deaths in roadside hazard crashes in 2002 occurred on wet
or slippery roads.




* Reduce your speed.
* To obtain maximum visibility, drive with your low-beam headlamps turned on.
* Use your windshield wipers.
* Increase your following distance.
* Do not stop suddenly.

Hydroplaning

Hydroplaning happens when a layer of water gets between the road surface and your tires.
Generally, the front tires lose traction with the road surface. This dramatically
reduces traction and your ability to steer and maintain control of your vehicle. In
order to regain control of your vehicle, follow these steps:

* Continue to look ahead at your path of travel.
* Gradually take your foot off the gas.
* Do not brake suddenly.
* Apply steering input as necessary to maintain your path of travel.

After removing your foot from the gas, the vehicle will gradually slow down, causing the
front tires to come back into contact with the road surface, helping you regain full
traction.

Going through deep water

Deep water presents a serious driving hazard. Moving water as shallow as 6 inches can
carry away a smaller-sized moving car. When you approach a road with deep water, try to
find an alternate route, even if it means driving out of your way.

WARNING: As a rule, DO NOT drive through standing water. However, if it is absolutely
unavoidable, follow these guidelines:

* Do not overload the rear of your vehicle.
* Shift to a lower gear to keep the vehicle moving forward.

When conditions are poor, these suggestions will help you stay on the roadway:

* Stay on the paved portion of the roadway to maintain traction.
* Drive in the tracks of the car ahead.
* Avoid sudden movements.
* Allow more of a space cushion between your vehicle and other vehicles on the road.


Challenges of Driving: Wind


If you are driving a high-clearance vehicle such as a van, a motor home, or a pickup
with a camper shell, you may find it is difficult to handle the vehicle in the wind.
Vehicles such as motorcycles and vehicles pulling trailers may also have difficulty
driving in the wind.

If you find yourself in this situation:

* Slow down if you feel the wind pulling your vehicle.


* Firmly grip the wheel.


* Increase your following distance.


* Move to the right side of your lane on a two-lane highway or to the right lane if
you are on a multilane road.


Challenges of Driving: Snow and Ice


Your vision is greatly limited when driving in the snow. Road signs are sometimes
covered up with snow. Sunlight can reflect off snow and ice on the ground and cause a
glare that can be blinding. To improve your visibility, use low-beam headlights,
windshield wipers, and your defroster. Be careful at intersections where snow and ice
can create an invisible layer of ice. To improve your traction, drive in the tire tracks
created by other vehicles and use special tires designed to provide increased traction
when driving in snow and ice.

Speed, ice, and snow

When driving in snow and ice:

* Keep your speed to no more than half the dry-road speed.
* Drive at a steady pace.
* Reduce your speed when entering curves and shady areas.
* Maintain a larger following distance to avoid collisions.

Skidding in snow and ice

The importance of giving techniques for responding to skids is because statistically, an
average of 10,000 people die and 300,000 are injured each year in skidding accidents
(Liberty Mutual Skid Control School, 2000).

Whenever a skid occurs, there is no time to think about it and plan your recovery.
Drivers should know how to control a skid so well that their reaction is automatic,
executed in the right direction at the right time.

Usually, skidding is the result of driving too fast for existing conditions. Factors
that play a part in skids are:

* Road surface conditions
* Construction, slope, and temperature of surface
* Vehicle suspension
* Weight distribution of vehicle
* Vehicle's center of gravity
* Type of tires on vehicle
* Skill of driver

A key factor that governs what will happen are the tires, as they represent the point in
which the vehicle comes in direct contact with the road. This contact, called traction
or grip, allows the car to start, stop, or corner. Traction is greatest when the wheel
is stationary; traction between a rolling wheel and the road is slightly less and
traction is least when the wheel is locked and sliding. Drivers should note that
traction between the tire and the road is not constant and may vary to a point where
there is almost none at all. To further complicate matters, sand, ice, or water on the
road will decrease traction greatly. Drivers should remember that as their speed
increases, traction will decrease.

General tips to avoid skids in ice and snow

When your vehicle loses traction, you may skid as a result. To help avoid skidding,
follow these general tips:

* Watch for areas where ice collects.
* Avoid turning or swerving suddenly.
* Avoid applying your brakes too suddenly or too hard.
* Do not drive on the road edge or shoulder.
* Do not change to a lower gear at too fast a speed.
* Use chains in snow.




Challenges of Driving: Skidding and Traction


Skidding results from a loss of directional control of your vehicle and occurs when your
tires lose traction with the road surface. Skids are most likely to occur when you drive
at high speeds, in bad weather, or on dirt or gravel roads, and on wet or icy pavement.

To recover from a rear-wheel skid (when the rear of your vehicle feels like it is
sliding out from behind you), follow these guidelines:

* Continue to look ahead at your path of travel.
* Do not apply the brakes, even gently (see below).
* Apply steering as necessary to maintain your path of travel.
* Avoid turning the steering wheel too fast or too much.
* Do not change gears or shift to neutral.

Whether or not your vehicle has anti-lock brakes will have no impact on your ability to
regain control in a rear-wheel skid, because you should not apply the brakes at all in
this type of skid. Doing so would only transfer more weight away from the rear of the
vehicle, further reducing the rear tires’ traction and the driver’s overall control.

Starting Your Vehicle When Traction is Poor

Your car’s wheels cannot grip the road without traction. If traction is poor, try
starting in a higher gear and accelerate gradually to help your tires grip the road.


How to "Rock Out"


Rocking out is a technique to help you remove your vehicle from mud, deep sand, or snow
by moving your car forward and backward in rapid succession until your vehicle is freed.


Use this method to rock out your vehicle:

1. Start slowly in low gear and keep your tires straight.
2. Gently step on the gas.
3. Go forward as far as you can.
4. Shift rapidly to reverse.
5. Back up until wheels start to spin, but do not let them continue spin.
6. Shift back to low gear.
7. Repeat above movements in rapid succession.

Staying on the roadway in poor conditions

When conditions are poor, these suggestions will help you stay on the roadway:

* Stay on the paved portion of the roadway to maintain traction.


* Drive in the tracks of the car ahead.


* Allow more of a space cushion between your vehicle and other vehicles on the road
(more than 3 seconds).


* Avoid sudden movements.



Page 6 of 7

Challenges of Driving: Mechanical Failure


Mechanical failure can lead to an emergency situation if you are driving when the
failure occurs. Ensuring that the equipment in your vehicle is in optimum working
condition will help prevent breakdowns and inconvenience. The following are some common
types of mechanical failures and tips on how to deal with them:

* Accelerator stuck – A stuck accelerator is often caused by an obstruction on the
floor of the driver’s seat, such as mud or ice, or an object stuck against the
accelerator pedal. If your accelerator sticks, shift to neutral and stop as quickly as
possible.


* Blowout – A blowout is the result of a sudden loss of pressure in a tire. If you
have a blowout, you should let off of the gas and gain control of your vehicle. Once you
are in control and your vehicle has slowed, gently apply the brakes, hold the steering
wheel firmly, and stop in a safe area.


* Brake failure – A loss of braking ability can be caused by loss of brake fluid or
loss of brake pads. If you experience brake failure, quickly pump the brake pedal. This
may help to increase fluid pressure to the brakes and restore some braking ability. If
this doesn’t work, shift to a lower gear and use the parking brake (with the release
engaged) to stop.

Note: If the engine fails, the power brake assistance system will stop
functioning, requiring extra pressure on the brake pedal to slow the vehicle. The brake
should still work, but you will have to press extra hard to obtain full braking power.


* Headlight failure – A headlight failure can happen when either your low-beam
headlights or your high-beam headlights don't work. If you experience headlight failure,
you should pull over and stop and then turn on your emergency flashers. DO NOT drive at
night without your headlights.


* Steering failure – If you experience a steering failure, slow down and shift to a
lower gear. Bring the vehicle to a stop. Keep in mind that if the engine stalls while
driving, the steering will still function; the steering will lose its power assist
function, making the steering wheel much harder to turn.


Page 7 of 7

Challenges of Driving: Carbon Monoxide


It is essential to cover an important topic: the effects of carbon monoxide from the
exhaust system. In some cases, a warning is given by way of a loud noise if the car is
experiencing problems with its exhaust system. In other cases, a driver may not be
alerted to a small leak – even in those vehicles with fairly good exhaust systems.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, invisible gas. Inhaling carbon
monoxide causes sleepiness, dizziness, headaches, nausea, and ringing in the ears. To
observers, someone who has inhaled carbon monoxide may appear and act like they are
intoxicated by alcohol. There is no pain associated with carbon monoxide poisoning.
Carbon monoxide enters the bloodstream 300 times faster than oxygen and replaces the
blood's stores, causing the victim to eventually suffocate and die from the lack of
oxygen in their blood.

Since a vehicle's windows may remain shut year round due to the use of air conditioners
and heaters, the threat of carbon monoxide poisoning is always present, especially when
in heavy traffic or when parked or stopped with the vehicle's motor running. Partially
opening the window may not always solve this problem. In fact, two people were found
overcome by carbon monoxide poisoning on the Washington Beltway (495) with their windows
completely open.

If you start to feel any of the symptoms cited above, leave the vehicle immediately and
get fresh air into your lungs. It takes about 15 to 30 minutes to flush the carbon
monoxide out of your system.

You have answered 8 question(s) correctly.

To proceed to the next chapter, you must first score 10 out of 10 Click the "Continue"
button below to view material related to your incorrect responses - after which you may
re-attempt the quiz.

Note: We have highlighted your correct answers in green, and your incorrect answers in
red.

Question 1: What should you do if your brakes fail?
Correct: Shift to a lower gear and use your parking brake to stop.


Question 2: What should you do in case of a blowout?
Correct: Let off the gas and gain control of the vehicle.


Question 3: Always turn on your high-beam headlights when driving in fog.
Correct: False


Question 4: Which of these vehicles would be easiest to handle in windy conditions?
Incorrect: A motorcycle


Question 5: The following are all problems associated with driving in snow EXCEPT:
Correct: Increased traction


Question 6: Which of the following happens when your vehicle hydroplanes?
Correct: All the options to this question are correct.


Question 7: Which of the following should you AVOID while driving on slippery
surfaces?
Correct: Stopping suddenly


Question 8: In rainy conditions, you should always decrease your space cushion.
Correct: False


Question 9: Which of the following tips help you avoid a skid?
Correct: All the options for this question are correct


Question 10: A steering failure occurs most commonly when the engine stalls.
Incorrect: False

Page 1 of 16

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol


Alcohol consumption and driving are a deadly combination. Consider these national
statistics:

* About 30 percent, or 3 in every 10 Americans will be involved in an alcohol-
related collision at some point in his or her life.


* In 2003, Alcohol was involved in 40 percent of all fatal crashes.


* In 2003, there was one alcohol-related fatality every 30 minutes.


(NHTSA, 2003)

Alcohol-related crashes hit Californians hard as well. Consider these statistics:

* Out of all the alcohol-related crashes in California in 2002, 1,411 people were
killed and 32,041 were injured.


* Alcohol involved traffic fatalities increased 7.9 percent in 2002-the fourth
consecutive increase after more than a decade of decline.


* DUI arrests in California increased by 3.7 percent in 2002.


* September 12, 2000, marked the first day California was without a traffic fatality
since May 1, 1991.


(California Highway Patrol Statistics, 2002)

Remember: Alcohol is one of the most commonly used drugs in our society. An impaired
driver behind the wheel of an automobile is a collision waiting to happen. Even one
drink can make you an unsafe driver.

"I can handle it"

"Don’t worry, I can handle it. Been doing it for years and never had an accident."
You've probably heard somebody say those words before. It may have even been someone you
know. Some people have been driving so long that they think they can do it in their
sleep. In fact, they may have driven home without remembering how they got there. They
were just lucky! Some day that luck will run out. Eventually everyone shows the effects
of too much alcohol.

Eight professional race car drivers took part in a scientific study to find out how much
alcohol it takes to affect driving skills. They were all put through a test simulating
driving in traffic. The best of these professionals made seven mistakes when he was
sober. After three drinks, he made twenty-two mistakes. That’s 300% more mistakes! None
of the professionals did as well after drinking, compared to their sober driving.

Mistakes the drivers made after having two or three drinks included:

* Weaving
* Speeding
* Poor distance judgment
* Failure to adjust speed when roadway pattern changed
* Failure to stop for traffic lights and stop signs
* Unnecessary "panic" stops



Page 2 of 16

Alcohol: Stages of Impairment


Drinking affects your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). BAC is the amount of alcohol
present in a 100-milliliter (mL) volume of blood. For example, if your BAC is 0.10, it
means that your blood contains 0.10 grams of alcohol per 100 mLs. Your level of
impairment can be measured by your BAC. BAC can also be measured by using tests that
assess your urine or breath.



Fact




Forty-five percent of fatally injured drivers on weekends (6 pm Friday to 6 am
Monday) in 2002 had BACs at or above 0.08 percent. At other times the proportion was 25
percent.



In California, the presumptive state of impairment is a BAC of 0.08 percent. However,
impairment begins well before the presumptive limit and starts with your first drink. A
BAC of 0.05, for example, in conjunction with other indications that the driver is
impaired could result in arrest and conviction. Let's take a look at how alcohol
progressively affects your body:

* At a BAC of 0.02, your reactions slow and the first signs of poor judgment appear.


* At a BAC of 0.05, driving skills deteriorate considerably, muscles are very
relaxed, and coordination is decreased.


* At a BAC of 0.08, judgment, inhibition, coordination, balance, vision, hearing,
and speech are affected. Your chances of being involved in a collision are greatly
increased.


* At a BAC of 0.10 or higher, your chances of being involved in a collision
dramatically increase. All mental and physical skills are affected and performing any
task with your hands or feet is difficult.


* At a BAC of 0.30 or higher, most individuals will pass out or may go into a coma
and die.

What factors affect your BAC?

Blood alcohol concentration depends on several factors, including:

* The amount of alcohol you consume. The more you drink, the higher your BAC.


* The time over which you consumed the alcohol. The faster you drink, the faster
your BAC will rise. For example, your BAC will rise faster if you have two drinks in one
hour, as opposed to two drinks over two hours.


* The amount of food in your stomach. However, some people falsely believe that
drinking on a full stomach will prevent impairment. In reality, food will only slightly
slow the absorption of alcohol into your bloodstream. Additionally, contrary to popular
belief, coffee will not accelerate the sobering process (and neither will cold showers
or exercise). Alcohol leaves the body primarily through an oxidation process performed
by the liver, and nothing speeds up this process. Elimination rate is .015 BAC per hour.


* Your body weight. A small person will be affected more by the same amount of
alcohol than a larger person. This is because the larger person has more bodily fluids
in his or her body to dilute the alcohol.


* Whether you are a man or a woman. Females have slightly more body fat than males,
given equal weight individuals. Because alcohol does not spread into fat tissue, females
have a smaller portion of their bodies in which alcohol can circulate. Thus it will
generally take less alcohol for a female to reach a particular BAC than it will a male,
given equal body weight and alcohol consumed.


* Whether the alcohol was mixed with a carbonated beverage. Carbonated beverages
will increase the speed at which alcohol is absorbed into your bloodstream, thus
speeding the effects.

Remember, only time can cancel the effects of alcohol.

How much alcohol is actually in your drink?

Alcohol comes in a variety of forms, including beer, wine, and spirits. The alcoholic
content of beer ranges from about 3 percent for light beer to 12 percent for some
microbrews. Wines have between 12 percent and 14 percent alcohol content. The strength
of hard liquor or spirits ranges from 20 percent to more than 60 percent alcohol.
Regardless of weight or tolerance, it takes your liver about one hour and fifteen
minutes to cancel the effects of one drink. Thus it would take approximately five hours
for the body to burn up the alcohol contained in four drinks.

REMEMBER: If you have larger or stronger drinks, and are also sick, tired, or have taken
other medications or drugs, you may be unsafe with even fewer drinks. All of these
factors can increase the effects of alcohol.


One drink is equal to:

* A 1.25-ounce shot of 80-proof liquor (even if it is mixed with nonalcoholic
drinks)
* A 5-ounce glass of wine
* 12 ounces of beer



Page 3 of 16

Alcohol: Effects on the Body


Alcohol is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and carried through the body. It goes
directly to the brain, the body’s control center. The nervous system is slowed and the
ability to perform multiple tasks becomes very difficult. Within a short period of time,
a person begins to feel a false sense of security and confidence.

As with most drugs, alcohol deceives the user into believing that he or she can still
function normally. Under the influence of alcohol, judgment is impaired. Many
individuals who wait awhile after having a few drinks convince themselves that they are
sober when they no longer feel the effects of alcohol. They also assume they can "sleep
it off." In fact, if you drank heavily the night before, you may still have a very high
BAC the next morning! Remember, only time can cancel the effects of alcohol.

General physical effects of alcohol

* Reduces your concentration
* Impairs your balance, coordination, and motor skills
* Decreases your ability to judge distances, speed, and motion
* Decreases your ability to control your vehicle
* Lowers your hearing ability

Vision and alcohol

Vision is a key factor in driving. The ability to see allows the mind to interpret and
respond to stimuli. Alcohol reduces and blurs the field of vision because it relaxes the
muscles that control the eyes. Alcohol further impairs your awareness of the driving
environment by distorting your depth perception, narrowing the scope of your peripheral
vision, and impairing your night vision. Your vision need only be mildly impaired by
alcohol for you to have trouble identifying hazards.

Alcohol and depth perception

You need depth perception to judge the speed of oncoming vehicles as well as your
stopping distance. Depth perception is also crucial for judging your distance from other
vehicles, objects and people around you. If you have been drinking, you may perceive a
stop sign to be further away than it really is, forcing you to slam on your brakes at
the last second. Drivers under the influence of alcohol also tend to focus on one spot
and forget to scan constantly with their eyes. Combined with blurred vision, this
results in tunnel vision, which causes a 70 percent reduction in your field of vision.

Alcohol and physical reflexes/coordination

The more you drink, the more your physical reflexes and coordination become clumsy and
slowed. This obviously has severe effects on your ability to execute driving maneuvers,
which depend on both skills. With every drink, the brain works less efficiently and
instructions to the muscles are delayed. As your muscles react more slowly, your driving
gets sloppy. This can result in over-steering, under-steering, late braking, over-
braking, or not braking at all.

Psychological effects of alcohol

When you consume alcohol, you lose your inhibitions and may take more chances than if
you were sober. Alcohol can also magnify emotions and feelings of anger or fearlessness.
This makes any person who has been drinking a serious threat to every other person on
the roadway.


Page 4 of 16

Driving Under the Influence of Prescription and Over-the-Counter Drugs


Prescription and over-the-counter drugs can affect a person’s driving abilities. These
drugs can cause drowsiness, dizziness, slowed reaction time, and poor judgment.

Legal drugs, which can either be prescribed or purchased “over-the-counter,” include the
following:

* Tranquilizers – These drugs are used to relieve tension, calm nerves, and lower
high blood pressure. They can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision. These
conditions lead to poor hand-eye coordination and are disruptive to basic driving
skills.


* Antihistamines – These medicines are used for the relief of hay fever, allergies,
and colds. They normally depress the central nervous system and may cause drivers to
become inattentive and drowsy.


* Sedatives – Sedatives are generally found in sleeping pills. They are designed to
induce drowsiness. Using these drugs in combination with driving results in drowsiness,
fragmented thought patterns, and problems evaluating spatial relationships and the
passage of time.


* Legal stimulants – Caffeine tablets give individuals a feeling of energy and
alertness. They can be very dangerous because they affect a driver’s concentration and
may also wear off suddenly. Stimulants can adversely affect a driver’s ability to drive
by making the user aggressive and overconfident.

NOTE: Read all your medication labels carefully and follow your doctor's orders before
taking any over-the-counter or prescription drugs. Try to avoid driving when taking
medicine that may impair your driving abilities.

Page 5 of 16

Illegal Drugs (Not Prescribed by a Physician)


Driving under the influence of illegal drugs is not only against the law, it is highly
dangerous. The following sections will describe different types of illegal drugs and the
effects they have on driving and the body.


Marijuana


What is it?

Marijuana - often referred to as grass, pot, or weed - is the dried and unprocessed
leaves, stems, and seeds of the cannabis sativa and cannabis indica plants. Marijuana
can be eaten or smoked. Most frequently, the dried plant leaves are shredded and rolled
in cigarette papers to form a joint. Joints can be smoked like a cigarette.

Hashish, which is another, more potent marijuana product, is processed from the resin in
the flowers of the marijuana plant. Like marijuana, hashish can be eaten or smoked,
though it is most frequently smoked in a pipe or bong.

Marijuana contains hundreds of chemicals, all of which affect the mind and body. THC is
the main chemical that causes marijuana users to feel a high. The amount of THC and
other chemicals present in marijuana varies greatly from plant to plant and joint to
joint. Marijuana purchased on the street may contain other drugs such as PCP or
contaminants such as herbicides, bacteria, or fungus, which can be extremely dangerous
if ingested by humans.

Effects of marijuana

The short-term effects of marijuana include:

* Problems with memory and learning
* Distorted perception (sights, sounds, time, touch)
* Trouble with thinking and problem-solving
* Loss of coordination
* Increased heart rate
* Anxiety

Driving experiments show that marijuana affects a wide range of skills needed for safe
driving. A driver's thinking and reflexes are slowed, making it hard for drivers to
respond to sudden, unexpected events. Also, a driver's ability to "track" or stay in
their lane through curves, to brake quickly, and to maintain speed and the proper
distance between cars is affected. Research shows that these skills are impaired for at
least four to six hours after smoking a single joint, long after the high is gone. When
alcohol and marijuana are mixed, it is definitely more hazardous than using either
substance alone because synergistic results are unpredictable (National Institute on
Drug Abuse, 2000).


Page 6 of 16

Amphetamines


What are they?

Amphetamines – usually referred to as speed, black beauties, uppers, or bennies – are
central nervous system stimulants. They have the ability to relieve sleepiness and
fatigue. Until recent years, amphetamines were prescribed by physicians for obesity,
depression, and even varying forms of hyperactive behavior in children. Because of the
potential for abuse, physicians have greatly reduced amphetamine prescriptions. Today,
amphetamines are prescribed primarily for narcolepsy, certain medical conditions, and
short-term weight control in serious cases of obesity.

Effects of amphetamines

A therapeutic dose of amphetamines can increase blood pressure, enlarge pupils, increase
respiration rate, depress appetite, relieve sleepiness, and decrease fatigue and a sense
of boredom. For some individuals, even a moderate dose of amphetamines can cause
agitation, inability to concentrate, anxiety, confusion, blurred vision, tremors, heart
palpitations, mild depression, or mood swings even after the stimulant effect wears off.

With higher doses of amphetamines, adverse effects can be severe. Delirium, panic,
aggression, hallucinations, psychosis, and heart abnormalities can occur. Although
amphetamines do not create a physical dependence, the potential for psychological
dependence is high.
Cocaine


What is it?

Cocaine is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It possesses two
properties: anesthetic (numbing) and vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels).
Other names for cocaine include coke, snow, flake, toot, nose candy, and powder.

Cocaine is a white crystalline powder which comes from the processed leaves of the coca
bush. Most people snort cocaine, but it can also be injected into the veins or muscles.
Injection usually produces an intense rush or high. For many users, psychological
depression, nervousness, irritability, loss of temperature sensations, and muscle
tightening or spasms may follow after the euphoria. Some individuals mix cocaine and
heroin. This mixture is called a "speed ball." By combining several stimulants, the
effects of all drugs are prolonged.

Effects of cocaine

Cocaine can cause devastating psychological and physical effects, occasionally resulting
in death. The effects of cocaine can be very short lived, with a sense of exhilaration
and euphoria lasting only 20 to 30 minutes. The user may also talk excessively and feel
extreme energy and self-confidence.

Dependence on cocaine

While tolerance to the effects of cocaine does seem to occur in repeat users, actual
physical dependence can best be characterized as a compulsion to continue using. On the
physical level, the compulsion can be driven by the user's need to avoid the symptoms of
withdrawal: hunger, lethargy, fatigue, nervousness, muscle tightening, and temperature
sensation loss. The compulsion to use again and again is strongest when the user injects
or smokes free-base, although it may occur with snorting.
Crack


What is it?

Crack is a form of cocaine that has been chemically altered so that it can be smoked.
Because the processing converts it into a chemical "base" (as opposed to an acid or a
salt), crack belongs to a category of cocaine known as free-base. In the past, most
free-base cocaine was processed using ether, a highly flammable solvent. Today, baking
soda and heat are used to convert cocaine into free-base, eliminating the ether-
processing step. The product still contains some impurities found in the original
cocaine, along with excess baking soda. When heated, the mixture makes a crackling sound
– thus the name "crack."

Why is crack so dangerous?

Crack is an especially dangerous drug because it can cause intense dependency and
addiction after only a relatively short period of use. Nearly every physical and
psychological high produced by a drug is followed by a low. The intensity of the high
produced by crack is followed by an equally intense "crash," or period of depression. In
other words, the higher the high, the lower the low. The desire to compensate for the
low leads to a pattern of compulsive use. Smoking crack provides the user with a rapid
high that lasts about five to seven minutes and is then followed by severe depression,
feelings of worthlessness, and a craving for more of the drug. In a brief period of
time, the drug begins to control the user, making the acquisition and use of the drug an
increasingly important part of the user's life. This is the pattern of behavior that
leads to addiction and dependence.

Psychosis and crack

After repeated and continuing use of crack, users may develop cocaine psychosis, a
condition characterized by paranoia and visual, auditory, and other sensory
hallucinations.

Heroin, Opiates, and Narcotics


What are they?


The term "narcotics" generally refers to opiates and other narcotic drugs derived from
morphine, a naturally occurring substance extracted from the seed pod of certain
varieties of the poppy plant. These drugs often sold in powder form, which can be white
or brown in color. Morphine, codeine, methadone, and heroin are common narcotics.
Heroin, the most potent and addictive narcotic drug, is often referred to as H, horse,
junk, or smack on the street.

Excluding heroin, narcotics are used as pain killers and also for relief during the
later stages of terminal illness. Opiates have been used for pleasure and medicine since
prehistoric times. Some find the effect of opiates unpleasant, with nausea and even
vomiting occurring frequently during the high. Drowsiness, dizziness, inability to
concentrate, mental clouding, apathy, and lethargy are also common side effects.

Effects of narcotics

Narcotics abusers typically report feeling a surge of pleasurable sensation or rush upon
initial use of the narcotic. The intensity of the rush is a function of how much of the
drug is taken and how rapidly the drug enters the brain and binds to natural opioid
receptors.

Immediate physiological responses usually include slowed breathing and heart rate;
constriction of the pupils and reduction of visual sharpness; itching and skin rash; a
warm flushing of the skin; increase in perspiration; and constipation, nausea, and
vomiting.



Page 10 of 16

Hallucinogens


What are they?

Hallucinogens are also called "psychedelics" or "mind expanders." Hallucinogens can
alter time and space perception, change feelings of self-awareness and emotion, change
one’s sense of body image, and induce hallucinations along with feelings of religious
experience. Two major hallucinogens – LSD and PCP – are discussed below.

LSD (Lysergic acid diethylamide)

Commonly referred to as "acid," LSD is one of the strongest hallucinogens. It radically
changes a person's mental state by distorting the perception of reality to the point
where hallucinations may occur. It may also have profound effects on the user's
thinking, self-awareness, and emotion.

LSD is semi-synthetic, although it is originally derived from a fungus that can be found
on certain grains. Pure LSD is a white, odorless crystalline powder that dissolves in
water. It is often mixed with other substances such as sugar and comes packaged in
capsules, tablets, or solutions, as well as on gelatin sheets or pieces of blotting
paper.

Physical dependence does not develop with LSD, but psychological dependence has been
reported among certain individuals. Long-term users may become so preoccupied with LSD
that they feel dissatisfied and depressed without it. However, psychological dependence
has rarely been reported as a consequence of other hallucinogenic use.

Effects of LSD

Effects of these drugs are not predictable and are influenced by the personality of the
user. Generally, low doses of hallucinogens produce mood and perceptual alterations, but
not necessarily hallucinations. Hallucinations are usually reported in cases where a
higher dosage has been ingested by the user. Not all of the drugs in this category have
the same capacity for inducing hallucinations, but if hallucinations do occur they may
"flashback" at any time without warning. Other effects include blurred vision, lack of
coordination, aggression, and confusion.

LSD experiences can sometimes add to existing neurosis or character disorders, and can
produce transient waves of mild anxiety, paranoia, or severe panic. Much of the result
of a trip depends upon the state of the user's mind at the time and the physical setting
of the experience. Tolerance to the psychological and physiological effects of LSD
develops rapidly with repeated use, but it may dissipate quickly when that use is
stopped.

PCP (Phencyclidine)

PCP was originally developed as an anesthetic in 1959 and has also been used in
veterinary medicine as a tranquilizer. However, human use of PCP was halted in 1965
because patients often became agitated, delusional, and irrational when recovering from
the drug's anesthetic effects. PCP is a white crystalline powder that can be dissolved
in water or alcohol. It has a distinctive bitter chemical taste and is available
illegally in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and colored powders. It can be
snorted, or the user might smoke it by applying it to a leafy material (such as tobacco,
mint, parsley, oregano, or marijuana).

First introduced as a street drug in the late 1960s, PCP soon gained a reputation for
provoking dangerous and violent reactions. Although one-time users may be turned off by
a bad trip, continual users respond to the drug's ability to induce feelings of
strength, power, invulnerability, and a numbing effect on the mind that can result in
the disappearance of unpleasant memories.

Alcohol and hallucinogens

Because of the unpredictable nature of these drugs, the addition of alcohol makes this
combination particularly dangerous – especially LSD and alcohol.


Page 11 of 16

Ecstasy and GHB


Two of the most popular drugs on the scene today are Methylenedioxymethamphetamine
(MDMA), commonly known as "Ecstasy," and Gamma-hydroxybutyrate, or "GHB." Both are
extremely dangerous and can have severe, long-term effects on users.

Ecstasy: What is it?

"Ecstasy," also known as XTC or X, is chemically similar to the stimulant amphetamine
and the hallucinogen mescaline. As a result, it can produce both psychedelic and
stimulant effects that last from three to six hours in users. It is usually taken in a
tablet or capsule form and is often used at raves and dance parties to provide dancers
with long-term, chemically enhanced stamina.

Although users may try to minimize the drug's negative effects, ecstasy use can cause
heart or kidney failure, dehydration, malignant hyperthermia, depression, anxiety, and
in chronic users, long-term damage to the brain's neurons.

GHB: What is it?

GHB, Liquid Ecstasy, or G, is a central nervous system depressant that can relax or
sedate the body. It can be produced in clear liquid, white powder, tablet, and capsule
forms. Because it can be mixed with alcohol and can be cleared from the body relatively
quickly (thus hampering detection), GHB has increasingly been involved in date rapes and
poisonings. GHB is predominantly used by adolescents and young adults, and is often
manufactured in homes with recipes and ingredients bought on the Internet.

The effects of GHB typically begin 10 to 20 minutes after the user takes the drug and
can last up to four hours. In small doses, GHB can relieve anxiety and cause relaxation;
however, such sedative effects can result in slow breathing and eventual coma or death
when the drug is taken in high doses. Side effects also include drowsiness, nausea,
vomiting, loss of reflexes, headache, and impaired breathing. Overdosing can occur very
quickly.


Summary of Illegal Drugs


We have discussed a number of dangerous drugs in this section. As you have learned,
using these drugs can have serious effects on your body and if you continue to abuse
them, they can be extremely dangerous and in many cases, deadly. It is important to keep
in mind that taking drugs and getting behind the wheel of a motor vehicle is much like
playing Russian roulette, but instead of using a revolver, the driver is using nearly
two tons of steel as his weapon. Drivers under the influence not only risk their lives,
but the lives of other innocent drivers and pedestrians as well.

What is the common factor shared amongst the talented and creative individuals listed
below?

* Elvis Presley
* Jimi Hendrix
* Janis Joplin
* Chris Farley
* John Belushi

All died at an early age from an overdose of drugs and/or alcohol.



Page 12 of 16

How Do You Avoid and Identify Impaired Drivers?




Fact




The proportion of driver deaths involving BACs at or above 0.08 percent in 2002
was 33 percent for passenger vehicles and 32 percent for motorcycles. The group of
drivers with the lowest proportion was tractor-trailer drivers (6 percent). A higher
percentage of pedestrians have high BACs than any group of drivers.



Alcohol-related crashes are three times more likely to occur at night than during the
day (61 percent vs. 18 percent), and the risk of a collision with an impaired driver is
almost two times greater on weekends, holidays, and vacation periods. However, as a
defensive driver, remember that impaired drivers can be on the road at any time (NHTSA,
2003).

Signs of an impaired driver include the following:

* Driving inconsistently (either too fast or too slow)
* Weaving across lanes
* Making wide or abrupt turns
* Driving off the roadway (onto shoulders, into other lanes of traffic, over lane
markers, etc.)
* Driving at night without headlights
* Stopping or starting suddenly
* Responding inappropriately to traffic signals
* Making obscene or strange gestures
* Using unusual postures while driving (e.g., driving with their face too close to
the windshield, sticking their head outside the window)

If you see a driver exhibiting any of these behaviors, keep as far away as possible from
his or her vehicle. Do not pass the driver; he or she may speed up and rear-end your
vehicle. Pull off the road as soon as it is safe; note the color, make, model, direction
of travel, and license plate (if possible) of the vehicle; and report the incident to
the police.

What are safe alternatives to driving impaired?

After you have had a few drinks is not the time to figure out the best way to get home.
Your judgment is already impaired and it is likely that you will not make the best
decisions. The best way to avoid driving impaired is to plan ahead. If you will be
attending an event in which you or your friends will be drinking, choose a designated
(non-drinking) driver to take everyone home. Or, you might arrange to stay where you are
for the night. This will minimize the risk and temptation of making the wrong decision
later on.

However, if you have had something to drink, don’t take a chance! The most important and
responsible decision you can make is to find an alternative way home. Ask a sober friend
or acquaintance for a ride. Call a friend, call a cab, or use some form of public
transportation to get home. You should also be extremely cautious about riding in
another vehicle with a driver that has been drinking. Refuse to be a passenger in a car
if you suspect the driver has been drinking. Find another way home.

What happens when alcohol is mixed with other drugs?

If alcohol is mixed with other drugs, the effect can be greater than the effects of
either drug individually. Mixing substances can have a "synergistic effect," resulting
in an increase in the effect of each substance by 3 to 10 times. Using drugs and alcohol
at the same time can be extremely dangerous. This can dramatically increase driving
risk. Mixing some substances can be fatal. For example, alcohol combined with
tranquilizers or barbiturates severely depresses the central nervous system and can lead
to death.



Page 13 of 16

California DUI Laws


Implied Consent and Admin Per Se (VC 13353 ~ VC 13353.2)

In most jurisdictions, any person who is driving a vehicle has given his or her consent
to take a test of blood or breath if arrested for driving under the influence of
alcohol, drugs, or both. In some jurisdictions you have the right to choose which type
of test you can take.

If you are under 21 years of age and an officer has detained you because he or she
believes you have been drinking any amount of alcohol, a Preliminary Alcohol Screening
(PAS) or other chemical test is also required.

If a police officer arrests you because he or she suspects you are under the influence
of alcohol or drugs, you will be required to take a test to determine if it is so. You
must choose one of the two kinds of tests — blood or breath. If you are suspected to be
under the influence of a drug, you may be required to take a blood or urine test.

If you have a BAC of 0.08 percent or higher, or you refuse or fail to complete a test,
the officer will take away your license and serve you with an order of suspension or
revocation, which will take effect in 30 days and during which you can request a
hearing.

Refusal of Chemical Test (VC 13353)

If any person refuses the officer’s request to submit to, or fails to complete, a
chemical test or tests and the officer’s sworn statement states that the officer had
reasonable cause to believe the person had been driving a motor vehicle, and that the
person had refused to submit to or did not complete the test or tests after being
requested by the officer, the Department of Motor Vehicles shall do one of the
following:

* Suspend the person’s privilege to operate a motor vehicle for a period of one
year.


* Revoke the person’s privilege to operate a motor vehicle for a period of two years
if the refusal occurred within seven years of either a separate violation or a
suspension or revocation of the person’s privilege to operate a motor vehicle for an
offense that occurred on a separate occasion.


* Revoke the person’s privilege to operate a motor vehicle for a period of three
years if the refusal occurred within seven years of:


o two or more separate violations that resulted in convictions,


o two or more suspensions or revocations of the person’s privilege to operate
a motor vehicle for offenses that occurred on separate occasions, or


o any combination of two or more of those convictions or administrative
suspensions or revocations.


The suspension or revocation shall not become effective until 30 days after the giving
of a written notice, or until the end of any stay of the suspension or revocation.


Page 14 of 16

PAS Preliminary Alcohol Screening Test (VC 13353.1)

If any person under the age of 21 refuses an officer’s request to submit to, or fails to
complete, a preliminary alcohol screening test, upon receipt of the officer’s sworn
statement that the officer had reasonable cause to believe the person had been driving a
motor vehicle in violation of section 23136 and that the person had refused to submit
to, or did not complete, the test after being requested by the officer, the department
shall do one of the following:

1. Suspend the person’s privilege to operate a motor vehicle for a period of one
year.


2. Revoke the person’s privilege to operate a motor vehicle for a period of two years
if the refusal occurred within seven years of either a separate violation or a
suspension or revocation of the person’s privilege to operate a motor vehicle for an
offense that occurred on a separate occasion.


3. Revoke the person’s privilege to operate a motor vehicle for a period of three
years if the refusal occurred within seven years of:


* two or more separate violations that resulted in convictions,


* two or more suspensions or revocations of the person’s privilege to operate
a motor vehicle for offenses that occurred on separate occasions, or


* any combination of two or more of those convictions or administrative
suspensions or revocations.

The suspension or revocation shall not become effective until 30 days after the giving
of a written notice, or until the end of any stay of the suspension or revocation.

Immediate Suspension (VC 13353.2)

The Department of Motor Vehicles shall immediately suspend the privilege of any person
to operate a motor vehicle for any one of the following reasons:

1. The person was driving a motor vehicle when he or she had 0.08 percent or more, by
weight, of alcohol in his or her blood.


2. The person was under 21 years of age and had a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.01
percent or greater, as measured by a preliminary alcohol screening test, or other
chemical test.



Page 15 of 16

Fines and Penalties for Driving Under the Influence


If you are convicted of driving with alcohol or drugs in your body, the judge may give
you 48 hours to six months in jail. You will also have to pay $390 to $1,000 in fines
(penalty assessment extra), the first time you are convicted. In addition, you will lose
your license for up to six months, or DMV will restrict your driving privilege. You will
also be required to attend a DUI program. If the vehicle is registered in your name when
you are convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs (DUI), the
court may take your vehicle away for up to 30 days. You will have to pay for storing it.

If you are convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs twice
within seven years, the court must punish you with time in jail (up to a year), a fine
up to $1,000, and will take your vehicle for up to 90 days. You will lose your license
for two years. After completion of 12 months of the suspension period, you will be
allowed to obtain a restricted license if you enroll in a driving under the influence
(DUI) program, have an ignition interlock device (IID), alcohol breath screening device
installed on your vehicle, file a certificate of insurance (SR 22) with DMV, and pay the
restriction and reissue fees.

Even if you can get insurance after a DUI conviction, it will probably be very
expensive. If you are convicted a third time within seven years, you will lose your
driver license for up to three years, pay a heavy fine, and spend three or more months
in jail. After completion of 18 months of the revocation period, you may apply for a
restricted driver license if you complete a DUI program, install an IID in your vehicle,
file an SR 22 with DMV, and pay the restriction and reissue fees.

Treatment Programs (VC 23538 and 23556)

Completion of a DUI program is required for all DUI convictions. In 2005, the duration
of alcohol treatment programs after a first DUI conviction increased the probation from
6 months to 9 months and the required program activity hours from 45 hours to 60 hours
when the blood alcohol content (BAC) is .20% or greater, or the subject refuses a
chemical test. Also, the mandatory drivers license suspension period is now 10 months
for persons convicted of a first offense for DUI if the individuals blood alcohol
concentration level was .20% or greater (VC 23536).

DUI: Suspension and Revocation of License (Amendment to VC 13352)

Recent changes provide that a person convicted of multiple DUI.s within 10 years of a
prior conviction, can have his or her privilege reinstated, if he or she shows proof of
completing the initial 12 months of either the 18-month or 30-month drinking driver
treatment program, installs an ignition interlock device, and establishes proof of
financial liability.

Misdemeanor vs. felony

A misdemeanor is a crime less serious than a felony. A felony is a grave crime for which
the penalty may be imprisonment or death.

If injuries or death occurred as a result of your actions, you may be charged with a
felony. This results in heavy fines, automatic jail time, and extended probation. If you
are found to be responsible for causing the death of another person, you may also be
charged with manslaughter or vehicular homicide. If you are also sued in civil court for
causing injury, death, or property damage, you could also face severe personal and
financial consequences.


Page 16 of 16

Personal, Financial, and Societal Effects of Driving Under the Influence




Fact




Only 26 percent of the fatally injured passenger vehicle drivers involved in
nighttime single-vehicle crashes had no alcohol in their blood.



Now that you know what the legal penalties are for a DUI conviction, let’s look at the
more devastating effects. If you are arrested or convicted of driving under the
influence, the result will include personal, financial, and societal ramifications.

* Personal effects – Your personal reputation, self-esteem, and integrity can be
damaged or destroyed. If injury or death occurs as a result of your impaired driving,
you could be charged with a felony. You may be disqualified from many types of
employment if you are convicted of a felony. You may lose your freedom temporarily or
permanently if your license is suspended or revoked.


* Financial effects – In addition to the fines imposed by the court, you may have to
pay additional court costs, attorneys fees, vehicle impound fees and treatment and
evaluation fees. Your insurance rates will skyrocket – if any insurance company will
even accept you. What started as a $2 bottle of beer during happy hour could very well
result in a tab of $10,000.


* Societal effects – The greatest effects of driving under the influence fall on
society. In cases where innocent people are killed or injured, the actions of one person
can adversely change the lives of an entire community. Too often we see families on the
evening news who have lost a child or spouse in an alcohol- or drug-related collision.
These families and communities have to live the rest of their lives coping with a
senseless loss. In addition to such emotional trauma, society bears the financial
responsibility that accompanies criminal defense, public services, and incarceration.
Society realizes these expenses in the form of higher taxes, healthcare costs, and
insurance rates.

The consequences of driving under the influence are far-reaching and long-lasting. Think
before you drink and drive!


CHAPTER LEVEL QUIZ RESULTS


You have answered 10 question(s) correctly.

Note: We have highlighted your correct answers in green, and your incorrect answers in
red.

Question 1: At what BAC do driving skills deteriorate considerably and coordination
becomes decreased?
Correct: 0.05


Question 2: At what BAC would you start showing the first signs of poor judgment?
Correct: 0.02


Question 3: All of the following are effects of alcohol EXCEPT:
Correct: Increased muscular coordination


Question 4: A DUI conviction may result in:
Correct: All the options for this question are correct.


Question 5: Which of the following is an example of a legal drug (available without a
prescription)?
Correct: Antihistamines


Question 6: If injury or death occurs as the result of you driving under the
influence, you may be charged with a felony.
Correct: True


Question 7: Which of the following are signs of an impaired driver?
Correct: All the options for this question are correct.


Question 8: The BAC levels in a person can be reduced by:
Correct: Time only


Question 9: When is a preliminary alcohol screening (PAS) required?
Correct: If you are under 21 and are stopped on the suspicion of driving impaired


Question 10: Alcohol affects a person's vision in all of the following ways EXCEPT by:
Correct: Enhancing depth perception

Page 1 of 8

Sharing the Road: Pedestrian Safety


Pedestrians lose out in any collision, regardless of who had the right-of-way. In 2003,
4,749 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the United States, and 70,000
pedestrians were injured - averaging to one injury every 7 minutes (NHTSA, 2003).

Likely victims of pedestrian crashes are children, who often act impulsively and
unpredictably, and older pedestrians, who might not see you or respond quickly. Make
every effort to let them know you are there.

Driver responsibility



Fact




Eighteen percent of pedestrian deaths in 2002 occurred in hit-and-run crashes.



In a vehicle-pedestrian collision, the pedestrian will suffer the most damage. Drivers
must know when and where to expect pedestrians:

* Expect to yield to pedestrians at both marked and unmarked crosswalks.


* Be prepared to yield at crosswalks and intersections.


* Yield to pedestrians when turning corners. The pedestrian light normally allows
them to cross when you have a green signal.


* Look for pedestrians jaywalking (crossing without regard for traffic rules or
signals).


* Slow down when driving past a line of parked cars. Look underneath parked vehicles
for feet or bicycle wheels.


* Stop and yield when leaving a driveway or alley.


* Beware of the impaired pedestrian.


* Use your horn anytime a pedestrian is present to get eye contact. Remember—just
because you make eye contact with a pedestrian doesn’t mean that the pedestrian will
yield the right-of-way to you.


* Look for pedestrians to appear suddenly around buses. Watch for children - they
can be unpredictable and move erratically.


Page 2 of 8

Sharing the Road: Motorcycle Safety




Fact




Sixty-six percent of the females who died in a motorcycle crash in 2002 were
passengers. Ninety-nine percent of males who died were drivers.



Motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities on public roadways as automobile
drivers. In collisions with two-wheeled vehicles, the motor vehicle driver seldom
experiences injury, but injury or death is often inflicted on the motorcyclist. The
driver of the larger vehicle must accept the major share of responsibility for
protecting these riders.

Follow these guidelines for sharing the roadway with motorcyclists:

* As a vehicle driver, remember that motorcyclists are less protected than you are,
so you should accept an extra share of the responsibility for avoiding a collision.


* Be alert for the inexperienced motorcyclist (e.g., making jerky starts and stops
or wobbling excessively when riding).


* Give motorcyclists who aren't wearing protective clothing or helmets plenty of
extra room. Their poor judgment as to their need for protective gear may also be an
indication of poor driving skills.


* Remember that water, sand, oil slicks, or gravel can affect a motorcycle’s
traction.


* Allow a four-second following distance when behind a motorcycle and allow an even
greater distance in poor weather conditions.

The most common area of collisions with motorcycles is at intersections. Be prepared to
yield to avoid a collision.

Helmets and other protective equipment

Even low-speed crashes can be fatal. Most riders are going slower than 30 mph when they
are injured. At these speeds, helmets can cut both the number and the severity of head
injuries by half. Motorcycle riders who do not wear helmets are 40 percent more likely
to sustain fatal head injuries in a motorcycle crash than riders who do wear helmets.
Both motorcyclists and bicyclists are prone to many other bodily injuries and should
consider additional protective equipment (e.g., eye protection, heavy and easy-to-see
clothing, boots, gloves, reflective material) when riding.

Safety helmets required for motorcyclists (VC 27803)

California law requires all operators and passengers, regardless of age, to wear helmets
when operating a two-wheel vehicle on a public street, highway, or freeway. All helmets
should meet U.S. Department of Transportation and state standards.

Page 3 of 8

Sharing the Road: Bicycle Safety


Since pedalcyclist statistics were first recorded in 1932, an estimated 47,000 riders
have been killed in traffic collisions. In 2003 alone, 622 cyclists died and 46,000 were
injured on roadways. While bicyclists make up an estimated 12 percent of all nonmotorist
traffic deaths, pedestrians still have much higher fatality rates - 86 percent of all
nonmotorist deaths. Still, motorists must be extremely careful when sharing the roadway
with cyclists (NHTSA, 2003).

In California, bicyclists on public streets have the same rights and responsibilities as
automobile drivers. Cyclists are part of the normal traffic flow and are entitled to
share the road with other drivers. Follow these tips:

* You should always be prepared to yield the right-of-way to bicyclists.


* Be especially careful around children riding bicycles. They usually lack skill,
knowledge of current traffic laws and may be unaware of their surroundings.


* Exercise caution when approaching or passing bicycles. Gently tap your horn well
in advance to avoid startling the bicyclist.


* Look for pavement hazards that can affect the rider’s stability.


* Watch for bicyclists when opening your vehicle doors.


* Be especially watchful at night. Not all bicyclists use reflectors or lights.

California bicycle helmet law (VC 21212)



Fact




Four states (California, Florida, New York, and Texas) accounted for 47 percent
of bicycle deaths in 2002.





Bicycle riders are also highly susceptible to head injury and should strongly consider
helmet protection. California law requires all persons under 18 years of age to wear a
properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet while operating a bicycle
or riding upon a bicycle as a passenger, operating a non-motorized scooter or
skateboard, wearing in-line or roller skates, or while riding upon a non-motorized
scooter or skateboard as a passenger.

Page 4 of 8

Sharing the Road: Large Trucks


Commercial tractor-trailer trucks may be easy to see, but can present a significant
danger to other motorists if proper precaution is not taken. Because of their size,
large trucks generally take longer to accelerate and longer to stop, have larger blind
spots, take longer to pass and be passed, and require more room when turning or
maneuvering.

When following a truck, always increase your following distance to four seconds so that
you are able to see down the roadway. Following too closely will inhibit your ability to
see ahead of the truck. When you are behind a truck at a stop, especially on an incline,
allow extra room for the truck to maneuver. Because of gravity, gearing, and the type of
load it is carrying, the truck may first rock backwards toward you before going forward.

Just as you may have a hard time seeing past a large truck, it is also hard for the
truck driver to see you. Because of their large size, trucks have larger blind spots
called no zones. In addition to the blind spots on either side of the cab, there is a
deep blind spot up to 200 feet long directly behind the truck in which the driver cannot
see you. A general guideline when following a truck is that if you cannot see the truck
driver in the side mirrors of the tractor (cab), the truck driver cannot see you.

If a large truck is passing you, there are several steps you should take:

* Slow down to allow the truck to complete the passing maneuver safely. It takes
longer for a truck to pass than a car.


* Be aware of road conditions. Trucks driving on wet roads generate a large amount
of splash or spray from the wheels. This can dramatically reduce your vision.


* Turn on your wipers before the truck passes. Truck wheels can also generate dust
and stones on rough surfaces.


* Decrease your speed and allow the truck to pass quickly. This will enable you to
reestablish a safe following distance.


* Be aware of the extra space needed by large trucks to complete turns. Unlike a car
planning to make a right turn, trucks will often position farther to the left in order
to execute the right turn.



Fact




When occupants of large trucks die in multiple-vehicle crashes, more than half
of these deaths are in collisions involving another large truck.





WARNING: It may be tempting to use this extra space on the right to pass or turn ahead
of the truck, but this can result in serious injury or a fatal collision. Because trucks
are so much larger and heavier than cars, the driver of the car is almost always the one
killed or injured in a collision involving both types of vehicles. Also be aware of wide
left turns. Trucks
will often utilize both lanes of travel in order to complete a left turn.

Page 5 of 8

Sharing the Road: Emergency Vehicles


Responding to authorized emergency vehicles (VC 21806)

When approached by an emergency vehicle, all surrounding traffic must yield right of
way. Upon the immediate approach of an authorized emergency vehicle that is sounding a
siren the surrounding traffic will, except as otherwise directed by a traffic officer,
do the following:

* The surrounding traffic must yield the right-of-way and immediately drive to the
right-hand edge or curb of the highway, clear of any intersection, and stop and remain
stopped until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed.


* A person driving a vehicle in an exclusive or preferential-use lane (such as a bus
lane or HOV lane) shall exit that lane immediately upon determining that the exit can be
accomplished with reasonable safety.


* The operator of every street car shall immediately stop the street car, clear of
any intersection, and remain stopped until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed.


* All pedestrians upon the highway shall proceed to the nearest curb or place of
safety and remain there until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed.


Following emergency vehicles (VC 21706)

No motor vehicle, except an authorized emergency vehicle, shall follow within 300 feet
of any authorized emergency vehicle that has a siren sounding and lights flashing.


Passing a Stopped Emergency Vehicle (VC 21706.5)

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


Tips for safe driving with emergency vehicles

* Be alert for emergency vehicles. React by finding a safe place to pull out of the
way and stop.


* Move as close as reasonable to the closest edge of the curb of the roadway, clear
of any intersection. Then stop and remain in position until the authorized emergency
vehicle has passed, unless otherwise directed by any law enforcement officer.


* If you are trapped in traffic with an emergency vehicle approaching from behind,
stay put. The emergency vehicle will usually pass on the left. Follow the directions of
the emergency driver if applicable.


* After yielding, wait until the emergency vehicle has passed and look for other
vehicles that may be following. Proceed when your path is clear.


Page 6 of 8

Procedures When Involved in a Collision


Stopping requirements (VC 20001)

If you are involved in a collision, you must stop. If you don’t, you could be convicted
of a "hit and run." Victims at the scene could be injured and need your help. Leaving
the scene could result in further injury or death to collision victims.

Duty where property damaged (VC 20002)

The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting only in damage to any
property, including vehicles, must immediately stop the vehicle at the nearest location
that will not impede traffic or otherwise jeopardize the safety of other motorists.
Moving the vehicle in accordance with this subdivision does not affect the question of
fault. The driver shall also immediately do either of the following:

1. Locate and notify the owner or person in charge of that property of the name and
address of the driver and owner of the vehicle involved and, upon locating that person,
if requested, present his or her driver's license, and vehicle registration, to the
other person. The information presented shall include the current residence address of
the driver and of the registered owner. If the registered owner of an involved vehicle
is present at the scene, he or she must also, upon request, present his or her driver's
license information, if available, or other valid identification to the other involved
parties.


2. Leave a written notice in a conspicuous place on the vehicle or other property
damaged giving the name and address of the driver and of the owner of the vehicle
involved and a statement of the circumstances. The driver must also immediately notify
the police department of the city wherein the collision occurred or, if the collision
occurred in unincorporated territory, the local headquarters of the Department of the
California Highway Patrol.

Helping the injured

Provide care to the injured only if you feel confident in doing so. Otherwise, ask
others at the scene if they have knowledge of first aid. Send for help immediately—it
may save a life. If you have a mobile phone or citizen’s band radio, call 911.

Do not attempt to move injured people unless their location puts them in danger. Moving
them could cause further injury or death.

Preventing further damage

To reduce the chance of further damage at the scene of a collision, be sure to refrain
from smoking, as fire is a great risk. If debris or obstruction resulting from the
collision affects nearby traffic, do what you can to warn approaching vehicles of the
situation. Orange triangles, flares, flashlights and your vehicle’s flashers can help
warn other drivers.


Page 7 of 8

Reporting requirements (VC 20008)

When you have an accident, you must report it to the DMV if:

* More than $750 worth of property damage occurred.
* Anyone was injured (no matter how slightly) or killed.

Each driver involved in the accident must make a report to the DMV. This can also be
done by the driver's insurance agent or broker or legal representative. The CHP or
police will not make this report for you.

You must make this report, whether you caused the accident or not and even if the
accident occurred on private property. Report the accident within 10 days. Make the
report on the California Traffic Accident Report form SR 1. You can get this form from
any DMV or CHP office. If you don't make this report to DMV, your driving privilege will
be suspended. If you did not have the proper insurance coverage, your driving privilege
will be suspended for four years. During the last three years of the suspension, your
license can be returned if you provide a California Insurance Proof Certificate (SR 22)
and maintain it during this period.

Exchanging information

Once you are sure that all victims have received appropriate first aid, your next
responsibility is to obtain and exchange information about the collision with police
officers and those involved in the collision.

The information you are required to exchange usually includes the following:

* Names and addresses of all parties involved (especially drivers and passengers)
* Names and addresses of other witnesses
* Vehicle registration numbers
* License plate numbers
* Driver’s license numbers
* Insurance company information

It is a good idea to sketch the collision, take notes about the incident, and find
independent witnesses of your accident to protect yourself in case of a dispute.


Page 8 of 8

Financial Responsibility Requirements


California's Compulsory Financial Responsibility Law requires every driver and every
owner of a motor vehicle to maintain financial responsibility (liability coverage) at
all times. There are four forms of financial responsibility:

* A motor vehicle liability insurance policy.
* A deposit of $35,000 with DMV.
* A surety bond for $35,000 obtained from a company licensed to do business in
California.
* A DMV issued self-insurance certificate.

NOTE: You must carry written evidence of financial responsibility whenever you drive and
show it to an officer at his or her request after a citation stop or accident. Effective
January 2006, the DMV no longer has the choice of canceling the registration of any
vehicle when it is determined that the vehicle is not covered by a valid form of
financial responsibility, but instead the DMV is mandated to cancel the registration by
law. Additionally, the DMV may charge a reinstatement fee to cover the cost of
reinstating the registration after cancellation.

Required amounts of coverage

California law says you must be financially responsible for your actions whenever you
drive. Most drivers choose to have a liability insurance policy as proof of financial
responsibility. If you have an accident that is not covered by your insurance, your
driver's license will be suspended. If the driver is not identified, the owner of the
motor vehicle involved, if not insured, will have his or her driver license suspended.

The minimum amount your insurance must cover per accident is:

* $15,000 for a single death or injury
* $30,000 for death or injury to more than one person
* $5,000 for property damage

You may have to pay for extra coverage if your basic insurance policy does not provide
the minimum amount of coverage or recommended coverage. Your driver’s license may be
suspended for one year if you fail to provide proof of coverage in case of a collision.





You have answered 10 question(s) correctly.

Note: We have highlighted your correct answers in green, and your incorrect answers in
red.

Question 1: Within how many days are you required to report a collision to the DMV?
Correct: 10 days


Question 2: In what circumstance do you NOT have to report a collision to the DMV?
Correct: When there is less than $750 in damage


Question 3: Because of their large size, trucks have larger blind spots called no
zones.
Correct: True


Question 4: What should you do if you are involved in a collision?
Correct: All the options to this question are correct.


Question 5: Which of the following information need NOT be exchanged after collision?
Correct: Blood types of the people involved


Question 6: You should report a traffic collision to DMV if anyone was injured.
Correct: True


Question 7: All of these affect motorcycle traction EXCEPT:
Correct: Narrow lanes


Question 8: Which of the following affects motorcycle traction?
Correct: All the options to this question are correct.


Question 9: Who suffers the most physical damage in a vehicle-pedestrian collision
Correct: The pedestrian


Question 10: Which of these combinations reflects the minimum insurance coverage?
Correct: $15,000 for single death or injury and $30,000 for death or injury to more
than one person.


Page 1 of 14

Vehicle Equipment: General Lighting


The purpose of vehicle lights is to help you see while driving in the dark and to help
make your vehicle visible to others on the roadway. The headlights of a vehicle that are
normally operated are low-beam headlights. Large objects can be seen from 100 feet away
with low beams.

High-beam headlights allow you to see large objects at least 350 feet from your vehicle.
High beams should be used only when you are traveling on dark or poorly lighted roads
with little oncoming traffic. As soon as you see the taillights of another car (or you
are at least 300 feet from the vehicle in front of you), switch to your low beams, since
high beams reflect off the rearview and side-view mirrors and can create a bright light
that can temporarily "blind" the other driver. Switch to low beams when you are at least
500 feet from approaching vehicles.

All vehicles are required to have two taillights, except models prior to 1960 only need
one taillight. Taillights should give off red light and should be seen from a distance
of 1,000 feet. They should be operational whenever the headlights are operational.

Brake lights should be activated whenever you step on the brakes. Taillights can
function as brake lights, since they get brighter when you apply your brakes. Brake
lights should be visible from 300 feet away during daylight.

Vehicles may also have no more than two white or amber back-up lights so that, whenever
the transmission is set to REVERSE, other drivers can see that you intend to back up.

Turn signals should be present on all four corners of your vehicle and visible from a
distance of about 300 feet in daylight. They are normally amber or white in the front
and red or amber in the rear of the vehicle. They tell other drivers that you intend to
turn right or left.

Emergency flashers are also called hazard lights. These lights indicate that you are
experiencing an emergency situation or they can warn other vehicles that your vehicle is
moving very slowly or is not operating properly. All four exterior turn-signal lights
are activated at one time when you turn on the emergency flashers.

In addition to the above lights, you may also equip your motor vehicle with no more than
three additional lights that may be used with, but shall not be used in substitution of,
headlights. Parking lights and fog lamps may not be used alone as a substitute for
headlights.

Hours of use

Vehicle lights should be used whenever the driving visibility is reduced. This can
include the following:

* Dusk
* At night
* During conditions in which visibility is impaired (including fog, snowstorms,
dust, smoke, etc.)
* During daylight hours to increase your ability to see or to alert other vehicles
of your presence
* When driving in conditions that require windshield wipers to be in continuous use





Page 2 of 14

Vehicle Equipment: Headlamps and Auxiliary Lamps




Fact




Daytime running lights are a low-cost method to reduce crashes. They are
especially effective in preventing daytime head-on and front-corner collisions by
increasing vehicle conspicuity and making it easier to detect approaching vehicles from
farther away.



Headlamps on motor vehicles (VC 24400)

During darkness, every motor vehicle other than a motorcycle must have at least two
lighted headlamps (one on each side of the front of the vehicle) between a height of 22
and 54 inches. The only exception to this rule is any vehicle registered prior to
January 1, 1930.

Vehicle with unlawful lamps (VC 24003)

No vehicle shall be equipped with any lamp or illuminating device not required or
permitted in this code, nor shall any lamp or illuminating device be mounted inside a
vehicle unless specifically permitted by this code. The exceptions to this rule are:

* Interior lamps such as door, brake and instrument lamps, and map, dash, and dome
lamps designed and used for the purpose of illuminating the interior of the vehicle.


* Lamps needed in the operation or utilization of those vehicles mentioned in
Section 25801, or vehicles used by public utilities in the repair or maintenance of
their service, or used only for the illumination of cargo space of a vehicle while
loading or unloading.


* Warning lamps mounted inside an authorized emergency vehicle and meeting
requirements established by the department.

Auxiliary driving and passing lamps (VC 24402)

Any motor vehicle may be equipped with no more than two auxiliary driving lamps mounted
on the front at a height of not less than 16 inches or more than 42 inches. These
driving lamps are designed to supplement the upper beam headlamps and may not be lighted
with the lower beam.

Fog lamps (VC 24403)

You may equip your motor vehicle with no more than two fog lamps that may be used with,
but shall not be used in substitution of, headlamps. Fog lamps shall be mounted on the
front at a height of not less than 12 inches or more than 60 inches.

Multiple beams (VC 24406)

The headlamps, and/or other auxiliary driving lamps on a motor vehicle during darkness
should be arranged so that you may easily and automatically select between levels of
light projected to different elevations.

Upper and lower beams (VC 24407)

Multiple-beam road lighting equipment must conform to the following guidelines:

* When using high beams, people and vehicles should be visible at a distance of at
least 350 feet ahead.


* When using low beams, people and vehicles should be visible at a distance of at
least 100 feet ahead.


* On a straight, level road under any condition of loading, none of the high-
intensity portion of the beam shall be directed to strike the eyes of an approaching
driver.

Use of multiple beams (VC 24409)

* Whenever you drive your vehicle during darkness, you must use sufficient light to
reveal people and vehicles at a safe distance in front of the vehicle.


* Whenever you approach an oncoming vehicle within 500 feet, use your lights
appropriately so the glaring rays are not projected into the eyes of the oncoming
driver. Low beams usually avoid glare at all times, regardless of road contour.


* Whenever you follow another vehicle within 300 feet to the rear, use the low
beams.

Single beams (VC 24420)

Single-beam lights, not supplemented by auxiliary driving lamps, are permitted on motor
vehicles manufactured and sold prior to September 19, 1940, if the single beams comply
with the following requirements and limitations:

* The headlamps shall be aimed so that when the vehicle is not loaded, none of the
high-intensity portion of the light shall, at a distance of 25 feet ahead, project
higher than a level of 5 inches below the level of the center of the lamp from which it
comes, and in no case higher than 42 inches above the level on which the vehicle stands
at a distance of 75 feet ahead.


* The intensity shall be sufficient to reveal persons and vehicles at a distance of
at least 200 feet.



Page 3 of 14

Vehicle Equipment: Rear Lighting Equipment


Taillamps (VC 24600)

During darkness, every motor vehicle not in combination with any other vehicle, and
every vehicle at the end of a combination of vehicles, must have lighted taillamps
mounted on the rear as follows:

* Every vehicle shall be equipped with one or more taillamps.


* Every vehicle, other than a motorcycle, manufactured and first registered on or
after January 1, 1958, shall be equipped with not less than two taillamps, except that
trailers and semi-trailers manufactured after July 23, 1973, which are less than 30
inches wide, may be equipped with one taillamp that shall be mounted at or near the
vertical centerline of the vehicles.


* When two taillamps are required, at least one shall be mounted at the left and one
at the right side, respectively, at the same level.


* Taillamps must be red in color and plainly visible from all distances within 500
feet to the rear except that taillamps on vehicles manufactured after January 1, 1969,
shall be plainly visible from all distances within 1,000 feet to the rear.


* Taillamps on vehicles manufactured on or after January 1, 1969, shall be mounted
between 15 and 72 inches, except on tow trucks.

Stop lamps (VC 24603)

Every motor vehicle that is not in combination with any other vehicle and every vehicle
at the end of a combination of vehicles shall have stop lamps mounted on the rear as
follows:

* Every such vehicle shall be equipped with one or more stop lamps.


* Every such vehicle, other than a motorcycle, manufactured and first registered on
or after January 1, 1958, shall be equipped with two stop lamps, except that trailers
and semi-trailers manufactured after July 23, 1973, which are less than 30 inches wide,
may be equipped with one stop lamp that shall be mounted at or near the vertical
centerline of the trailer.


* Stop lamps on vehicles manufactured on or after January 1, 1969, shall be mounted
between 15 and 72 inches, except on tow trucks.


* Where two stop lamps are required, at least one shall be mounted at the left and
one at the right side, respectively, at the same level.


* Stop lamps on vehicles manufactured on or after January 1, 1979, shall emit a red
light. Stop lamps on vehicles manufactured before January 1, 1979, shall emit a red or
yellow light.


* All stop lamps shall be plainly visible from a distance of 300 feet to the rear
both during normal sunlight and at nighttime, except that stop lamps on a vehicle of a
size required to be equipped with clearance lamps shall be visible from a distance of
500 feet during such times.


* Stop lamps shall be activated when the service brake(foot brake) or electric brake
is applied.


* Any vehicle may be equipped with supplemental stop lamps. Supplemental stop lamps
shall be red in color and mounted not lower than 15 inches above the roadway.

Back-up lamps (VC 24606)

Every motor vehicle, other than a motorcycle, must be equipped with one or more back-up
lamps either separately or in combination with another lamp.

* Back-up lamps must project a white light illuminating the highway to the rear of
the vehicle for a distance of no more than 75 feet.


* A back-up lamp may project incidental red, amber, or white light through
reflectors or lenses that are adjacent or close to, or a part of, the lamp assembly.


* Back-up lamps should not light except when the vehicle is about to back or is
backing or for a temporary period after the ignition system is turned off.




e 4 of 14

Vehicle Equipment: Signal Lamps and Devices


Turn signal system required (VC 24959)

Whenever you are towing a trailer coach or a camp trailer, the combination of vehicles
shall be equipped with a lamp-type turn signal system.

Turn signal system (VC 24951)

Any vehicle may be equipped with a lamp-type turn signal system capable of clearly
indicating any intention to turn either to the right or to the left. These vehicles
include:

* Motor trucks
* Truck tractors
* Buses
* Trailers and semi-trailers
* Passenger vehicles, other than motorcycles, manufactured and first registered on
or after January 1, 1958

Turn signal lamps should not be mounted lower than 15 inches.

Visibility requirements of signals (VC 24952)

A lamp-type turn signal should be plainly visible and understandable in normal sunlight
and at nighttime from a distance of at least 300 feet to the front and rear of the
vehicle. Vehicles of a certain size are required to be equipped with clearance lamps
visible from a distance of 500 feet during such times.

Turn signal lamps (VC 24953)

Any turn signal system used to give a signal of intention to turn right or left shall
project a flashing white or amber light visible to the front and a flashing red or amber
light visible to the rear.

Side-mounted turn signal lamps projecting a flashing amber light to either side may be
used to supplement the front and rear turn signals. Side-mounted turn signal lamps
mounted to the rear of the center of the vehicle may project a flashing red light, no
part of which shall be visible from the front.

In addition to any required turn signal lamps, any vehicle may be equipped with
supplemental rear turn signal lamps mounted to the rear of the rearmost portion of the
driver’s seat in its rearmost position.

License plate lamps (VC 24601)

All vehicles must have either a taillamp or a separate lamp shall be so constructed and
placed as to illuminate with a white light the rear license plate during darkness and
render it clearly legible from a distance of 50 feet to the rear. When the rear license
plate is illuminated by a lamp other than a required taillamp, the two lamps shall be
turned on or off only by the same control switch at all times.


Page 5 of 14

Vehicle Equipment: Brakes


The purpose of your car’s braking system is to provide you with the ability to slow or
stop your vehicle.

Standard vs. power brakes

Your vehicle may have standard or power brakes as well as parking brakes. Power brakes
require less effort to operate than standard brakes but they do not change the distance
needed to stop your car. Parking brakes keep your vehicle in place while it is parked
and they can be used in emergency situations when your normal brakes fail.

Required brake system (VC 26450)

Every motor vehicle must be equipped with a service brake system and every motor
vehicle, other than a motorcycle, shall be equipped with a parking brake system. Both
the service brake and the parking brake must be separately applied.

If the two systems are connected in any way, they shall be constructed so that failure
of any one part, except failure in the drums, brake shoes, or other mechanical parts of
the wheel brake assemblies, shall not leave the motor vehicle without operative brakes.

Parking brake system (VC 26451)

The parking brake system of every motor vehicle must comply with the following
requirements:

* The parking brake must be adequate enough to hold the vehicle or combination of
vehicles stationary on any grade on which it is operated under all conditions of loading
on a surface free from snow, ice, or loose material. In any event, the parking brake
shall be capable of locking the braked wheels to the limit of traction.


* The parking brake shall be applied either by the driver’s muscular efforts, by
spring action, or by other energy that is isolated and used exclusively for the
operation of the parking brake or the combination parking brake and emergency stopping
system.


* The parking brake shall be held in the applied position solely by mechanical
means.

Condition of brakes (VC 26453)

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

It is critical that you properly maintain your brakes. They are important communication
and safety tools. Take the necessary precautionary measures to ensure that your brakes
are functioning properly. If you notice that your brakes are getting worse, take your
vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible for an inspection. If repairs are needed, have
them performed immediately.


Page 6 of 14

Vehicle Equipment: Control and Stopping with Brakes


The service brakes of your vehicle or combination of vehicles must be adequate to
control the movement of and to stop and hold such vehicle or combination of vehicles
under all conditions of loading on any grade on which it or they are operated.

Every motor vehicle or combination of vehicles, at any time and under all conditions of
loading, shall, upon application of the service brake, be capable of stopping from an
initial speed of 20 mph according to the following requirements:


Type of Vehicle

Maximum Stopping Distance

1. Any passenger vehicle

25 feet

2. Any single motor vehicle with a manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating of less
than 10,000 pounds.

30 feet

3. Any combination of vehicles consisting of a passenger vehicle or any motor vehicle
with a manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating of less than 10,000 pounds in
combination with any trailer, semi-trailer, or trailer coach

40 feet

4. Any single motor vehicle with a manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating of
10,000 pounds or more or any bus

40 feet

5. All other combinations of vehicles

50 feet

Page 7 of 14

Vehicle Equipment: Windshields and Mirrors


Windshields and mirrors are critical operational devices in any vehicle. They provide
you with improved visibility as well as a screen against wind, rain, snow, or other
moisture. The following information will provide you with information about these
devices, their specifications, and required maintenance.

Windshields (VC 26700)

Every passenger vehicle, other than a motorcycle, and every bus, motor truck or truck
tractor, and every fire truck, fire engine or other fire apparatus, whether publicly or
privately owned, must be equipped with an adequate windshield.

Materials obstructing or reducing driver’s view (VC 26708)

You should not drive your vehicle with any object or material placed, displayed,
installed, affixed, or applied upon the windshield or side or rear windows that
obstructs or reduces your view. There are a few exceptions to this rule. They include:

* Rearview mirrors
* Rear window wiper motor
* Rear trunk lid handle or hinges
* Adjustable nontransparent sun visors mounted forward of the side windows and not
attached to the glass
* Signs, stickers, or other materials displayed in a 7-inch square in the lower
corner of the windshield or rear window farthest from the driver
* Side windows to the rear of the driver

Note: The law permits sun-screening devices meeting the requirements of Section 26708.2
(below) to be installed on the side windows on either side of the vehicle's front seat
if the driver or a passenger in the front seat has in his or her possession a letter or
other document signed by a licensed physician and surgeon certifying that the person
must be shaded from the sun due to a medical condition, or has in his or her possession
a letter or other document signed by a licensed optometrist certifying that the person
must be shaded from the sun due to a visual condition. the devices authorized by this
paragraph shall not be used during darkness.

Sun-screening devices (VC 26708.2)

Sun-screening devices must meet the following requirements:

* The devices shall be held in place by means allowing ready removal from the window
area, such as a frame, a rigid material with temporary fasteners, or a flexible roller
shade.


* Devices utilizing transparent material shall be green, gray, or a neutral smoke in
color and shall have a luminous transmittance of not less than 35 percent.


* Devices utilizing nontransparent louvers or other alternating patterns of opaque
and open sections shall have an essentially uniform pattern over the entire surface,
except for framing and supports. At least 35 percent of the device area shall be open
and no individual louver or opaque section shall have a projected vertical dimension
exceeding 3/16 inch.


* The devices shall not have a reflective quality exceeding 35 percent on either the
inner or outer surface.

Protruding loads

You must not carry anything in or on a passenger vehicle which protrudes beyond the line
of the fenders on the left side, or more than six inches beyond the line of the fenders
on the right side. A load extending more than four feet from the back of the vehicle
must display a 12-inch red or fluorescent orange square flag or two red lights at night.

Mirrors (VC 26709)

Every motor vehicle registered in a foreign jurisdiction and every motorcycle subject to
registration in this state must be equipped with a mirror located so the driver has a
view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of the vehicle.

Every motor vehicle registered in this state, except a motorcycle, must be equipped with
no less than two such mirrors, including one affixed to the left-hand side. Any motor
vehicle so constructed or loaded to obstruct the driver's view to the rear and any motor
vehicle towing a vehicle when the towed vehicle or load thereon obstructs the driver's
view to the rear, must have a rear view mirror mounted on both the left-hand and right-
hand sides of the vehicle. This requirement of having a right side rear view mirror does
not apply to a passenger vehicle if the load that obstructs the driver's view to the
rear is passengers.

Defective windshields and rear windows (VC 26710)

It is illegal to operate any motor vehicle upon a highway when the windshield or rear
window is so defective that it impairs the driver’s vision either to the front or rear.
If this occurs, the driver has 48 hours to make the windshield and rear window conform
to the requirements of this code.

Page 8 of 14

Vehicle Equipment: Horns


A car horn is designed to warn other drivers or animals of a problem or impending
hazard. It should be used:

* To avoid accidents
* To get another driver to "look" at you
* On narrow mountain roads where you are unable to see at least 200 feet ahead

A horn can be used in conjunction with a car anti-theft system.

Do not honk your horn:

* If the driver ahead of you is going slowly (he or she may be ill, lost, or having
car trouble)
* If slowing or stopping your car will prevent an accident
* If you are angry or upset
* If you are trying to "tell" another driver that he or she made a mistake
* If you are out with friends and want to have fun

A properly functioning car horn should be heard from a distance of 200 feet. It should
not be mechanically altered to amplify its sound, it should not emit harsh or
unreasonably loud sound, and it should be maintained in proper working order.

Horns or warning devices (VC 27000)

An authorized emergency vehicle may be equipped with an air horn that can be used with
the siren on that vehicle. It does not need to comply with the regulations of regular
passenger vehicle horns.

Every refuse or garbage truck should also be equipped with an automatic back-up audible
alarm that sounds when the vehicle backs up and that can be heard from a distance of not
less than 100 feet.



Page 9 of 14

Vehicle Equipment: Tires


Tires provide you with the ability to control your vehicle and provide you with roadway
traction. Tires are one of the easiest parts of your vehicle to monitor. Following a
regular maintenance schedule will save you money and aggravation and will help ensure
your safety while driving.

Properly inflated tires are critical in helping your vehicle maintaining traction. To
find your vehicle’s recommended tire pressures, look at the placard on the doorframe or
consult your owner’s manual.

Under-inflated tires cannot properly grip the road surface. This results in:

* Tires that squeal and become hot
* More difficult steering
* Decreased fuel economy
* Increased tire wear

Overinflated tires allow only the center of the tire to make contact with the road. This
results in:

* A harder, rougher ride
* A reduced tire print
* Faster tire wear

Your tires' inflation should be checked at least once each month or when you stop to get
gas. It is important to check the inflation when the tires are cold. Heat from road
friction will cause air in the tires to expand and give you a false pressure reading. Be
sure to check all your tires, including your spare tire.

It is illegal, as well as dangerous, to drive on tires that are severely worn. Bald
tires (tires with little or no tread):

* Provide greatly reduced traction
* Decrease your ability to properly control your vehicle
* Increase your risk of a punctured or flat tire
* Double your risk of hydroplaning or skidding on wet surfaces

Tires have wear bars that run across the width of the tires. The law requires you to
have a tread depth of no less than 1/32 of an inch in any two adjacent grooves at any
location on the tire. However, it is suggested that you replace your tires when the
tread depth is 1/8 of an inch or less. Purchasing quality tires is an excellent
investment that can save you time, money, and inconvenience in the long run. Be sure to
check your vehicle's owner's manual for recommended guidelines on the type of tire to
purchase and the proper maintenance schedule.

Tread depth of pneumatic tires (VC 27465)

No dealer or person holding a retail seller’s permit shall sell, offer for sale, expose
for sale, or install on a vehicle axle for use on a highway, a pneumatic tire when the
tire has less than the tread depth specified below.

This tread depth does not apply to any person who installs on a vehicle, as part of an
emergency service rendered to a disabled vehicle upon a highway, a spare tire with which
the disabled vehicle was equipped.

1. One thirty-second (1/32) of an inch tread depth in any two adjacent grooves at any
location of the tire, except as provided below.


2. Six thirty-seconds (6/32) of an inch tread depth at all points in all major
grooves on snow tires used in lieu of tire traction devices in posted traction device
control areas.

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

Page 10 of 14

Vehicle Equipment: Safety Belts


Safety belts are one of the most important safety features in your vehicle. They prevent
or reduce injuries and fatalities by restraining you in your vehicle or preventing you
from being thrown from your vehicle. All drivers and passengers traveling in a vehicle
are required by law to use a safety belt. Any driver or passenger 16 years of age or
older may be issued a traffic ticket if they are not wearing a safety belt while in a
moving vehicle.

Safety belts usually consist of a lap belt (which restrains your lower body) and a
shoulder belt (which restrains your upper body).

Safety belts should be used each and every time you and your passengers drive in a
vehicle. The lap belt should be positioned snugly across your hips and below your
stomach. The shoulder belt should be placed over your shoulders and across the center of
your ribs. Both belts should fit snugly and comfortably. Adjustments can be made
according to the specific type of device in your vehicle.

Be sure to inspect your safety belts regularly to be sure they are in proper working
order. They should retract easily, the securing device should easily accept and release
the buckle, and there should be no undue wear on the belts.

California safety belt law (VC 27315)

A person may not operate a motor vehicle on a highway unless that person and all
passengers 16 years of age or over are properly restrained by a safety belt. A person 16
years of age or over may not be a passenger in a motor vehicle on a highway unless that
person is properly restrained by a safety belt.

This does not apply to a passenger or operator with a physically disabling condition or
medical condition that would prevent appropriate restraint in a safety belt, if the
condition is duly certified by a licensed physician and surgeon or by a licensed
chiropractor who shall state the nature of the condition, as well as the reason the
restraint is inappropriate.

The Motor Vehicle Safety Act

* A mandatory seat belt law will reduce highway deaths and injuries by encouraging
greater usage of existing manual seat belts, Automatic crash protection systems that
require no action by vehicle occupants offer the best hope of reducing deaths and
injuries.


* Encouraging the use of manual safety belts is only a partial remedy for addressing
this major cause of death and injury. "Motor vehicle" means any passenger vehicle or any
motor truck or truck tractor, but does not include a motorcycle.


Riding in the Trunk (VC 21712)

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




Vehicle Equipment: Child Restraints


California law on child passenger seat restraints (VC 27360)

Children must be properly secured in a child restraint (safety seat or booster,
depending on the age and size of the child) until they are at least six years old or
weigh 60 lbs. Only one of these criteria must be met.

The child restraint law also requires that children under 16 who are at least 6 years or
60 lbs. be properly secured in a child restraint or a vehicle safety belt. (Note: if the
child places the shoulder belt under the arm or behind the back, which is extremely
dangerous, the parent or driver may be cited.)

The fine for failing to properly secure any child under age 16 is $100 per child (plus
penalty assessments). The fine for a second or subsequent offense is $250 (plus penalty
assessments).

NOTE: As of January 1, 2005, the law requires that a child who is required to be secured
in a child safety seat (under 6 years or under 60 pounds), be secured in the rear seat
of the vehicle. A child is allowed to be secured in the front seat of the vehicle if:

* There is no rear seat
* The rear seats are side facing jump seats
* The rear seats are rear-facing seats
* The restraint system cannot be installed properly in the rear seat
* All rear seats are occupied by children under the age of 12 years
* Medical reasons necessitate that the child not ride in the rear

A child may not ride in the front seat of a motor vehicle with an active passenger air
bag if they are under one year of age, weigh less than 20 pounds, or riding in a rear-
facing child passenger restraint system.

Additional tips for using a child safety seat include the following:

* The back seat is generally the safest place in the vehicle for all children 12
years of age and under.


* Children under 20 pounds and about 1 year of age should ride in a safety seat
secured to the back seat and facing the rear of the vehicle. Do not place these children
forward or backward in the front passenger seat if the vehicle has a passenger-side air
bag.


* Children over 20 pounds and about 1 year of age or older should ride in the back
seat. They should be secured facing the front of the vehicle in a child safety seat.


* Be sure the vehicle’s seat belt is correctly attached to the seat. If the seat is
not correctly attached, the child could be injured during a collision.


* Small children and infants should NEVER ride in rear-facing carriers in a front
passenger seat equipped with an air bag.

Kaitlyn's Law

Leaving young children unattended in motor vehicles has caused serious health and safety
harm to children and is an unacceptable public health and safety hazard. The dangers of
leaving young children unattended in motor vehicles include possible child access to
ignition, brakes, clutch and gear shift lever, and other parts of the vehicle that could
cause uncontrolled vehicular movement, exposure of the child to extreme cold or heat in
those vehicles, and other dangers. Prior instances where young children have been left
unattended in or around motor vehicles have resulted in serious injury or death.

Senate Bill 255, known as "Kaitlyn's Law," makes it an infraction, punishable by a fine
of $100, for the parent, legal guardian, or other person responsible for a child who is
6 years of age or younger to leave that child inside a motor vehicle, without being
subject to the supervision of a person who is 12 years of age or older, and where there
are conditions that present a significant risk to the child's health or safety, or when
the vehicle's engine is running or the vehicle's keys are in the ignition, or both.


Page 12 of 14

Vehicle Equipment: Head Rests




Fact




A 2002 Public Attitude Monitor asked participants what the main purpose of a
head restraint was and 67 percent correctly identified safety while 13 percent said
comfort and another 15 percent didn't know.



Proper positioning and adjustment

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, neck strains and sprains are
the most serious injury reported in 30–40 percent of auto insurance claims. Proper
positioning of head rests can reduce neck injuries.

A head rest should be at least as high as the head’s center of gravity, or about 3.5
inches (9 centimeters) below the top.

The backset, or distance behind the head, should be as small as possible. Backsets of
more than 4 inches (10 centimeters) have been associated with increased symptoms of neck
injury in collisions.

Page 13 of 14

Vehicle Equipment: Air Bags


Air bags are a form of passive vehicle restraint that provide a cushion to reduce the
force of impact in a collision and distribute it over a wider surface area of the body.
Serious chest and head injuries often result when a driver or passenger slams into the
steering wheel or rim during head-on collisions.

Air bags are usually located in the steering wheel and the dashboard but may also be
found in side door compartments of some vehicles. They are designed to inflate instantly
when an impact occurs over a certain speed and, when used in conjunction with a safety
belt, can provide the driver and passengers of a vehicle with much better protection
against serious injury or death from a collision.

Special cautions: children and small adults

Air bags, while a wonderful safety device, can be dangerous or fatal under certain
circumstances. Adults should not sit closer than 10 inches to the steering wheel and
small children and infants should NEVER ride in rear-facing carriers in a front
passenger seat equipped with an air bag.

NOTE: As of January 1, 2005, the law requires that a child who is required to be secured
in a child safety seat (under 6 years or under 60 pounds), be secured in the rear seat
of the vehicle. It is always safer for all children under age 12 to ride in the back
seat so they are protected from the air bag.


Federal Law for Safer Vehicles

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) was largely responsible for a
new federal law in 2007 requiring all new cars being sold by dealers to have posted the
pertinent government crash safety accident information next to the sticker price of any
new automobile.

Five stars are the highest government collision rating while 1 star is the lowest. The
government tests all major cars and ranks them in a few categories (i.e. front end or
side end collisions). Spending a minute or two on the www.safercar.gov site will provide
you and your loved ones with almost 15 years of car safety rating for almost all new and
used cars. Please visit this wonderfully educational site. Your life or that of a loved
one may depend on it.

Page 14 of 14

General Importance of Vehicle Safety Maintenance


Taking proper care of your car will result in a car that runs smoothly and reliably. Preventive maintenance is the key to this care. Check your owner’s manual to determine what is recommended. Generally, you should inspect your car on a regular basis. Usually, once a month is sufficient. Remember to:

* Change your oil regularly
* Check the air in your tires
* Check the levels of key fluids (such as brake fluid, transmission fluid, coolant, oil, and power steering fluid

Pre-trip inspection

Prior to any trip, be sure to inspect the following:

1. Tires - Check the inflation, tread, and general wear.
2. Mirrors - Check the working order and clean bugs off all mirrors.
3. Gauges - Check the levels of all gauges to determine if any particular device needs repair.


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Note: We have highlighted your correct answers in green, and your incorrect answers in red.

Question 1: The following are exempt from the mandatory safety belt law:
Correct: People with medical conditions as certified by licensed medical practitioners


Question 2: All of these vehicles need be equipped with turn signals EXCEPT:
Correct: Bicycles


Question 3: Which of the following are considered to be materials obstructing or reducing a driver's view:
Incorrect: Adjustable nontransparent sun visors mounted to the side windows


Question 4: Headrest backsets of more than _____ inches have been associated with increased symptoms of neck injury in collisions.
Correct: 4


Question 5: Tire inflation should be checked when the tires are:
Correct: Cold


Question 6: High-beam headlights allow you to see large objects at least ____ feet from your vehicle.
Incorrect: 750


Question 7: Safety belts usually consist of:
Correct: Both lap and shoulder belts


Question 8: It is legal to drive on tires that are severely worn.
Correct: False


Question 9: The purpose of the horn is:
Correct: To warn other drivers or animals of a problem or impending hazard


Question 10: The law requires you to have a tread depth of no less than 1/32 of an inch in any two adjacent grooves at any location on the tire.
Correct: True

















 

 


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