Driver Education: Misellaneous Unit 5 Terms

Wildlife areas

-When you see a small animal in the road, think of your own safety. Don't try to dodge it unless you are sure it is safe to do so. -Big game animals, such as moose, elk, and deer, can cause severe damage to a vehicle. When you see a large animal on or near the road, slow down and proceed with caution. These are herd animals, and others are usually nearby. -Animals can move into the path of a vehicle so quickly that it's impossible to slow down enough to safely avoid hitting them. In this case, you must consider running over it as the safest alternative, even though the crash may damage your vehicle and will likely kill the animal. Concentrate on keeping control of the vehicle before, during, and after the collision. -Driving conditions change with the weather, light, and terrain. Study the following suggestions so you can react quickly and properly when the driving conditions change.

Fog, smoke, dust, or rain

-You are required to turn on your headlights in the daytime when vision is reduced to 500 feet or less. Low beams are best at such times. When you first turn on your headlights, be sure they are adjusted to low beams. -It is safest not to drive in fog, dust storms, or in heavy rain. If you must drive during these conditions, reduce your speed. For safety reasons, you should not use cruise control if the road is wet and/or icy. Slow down more when you see red taillights ahead. The vehicle may be stopped or creeping along. If conditions get too bad, pull off the road and stop. Don't creep along; somebody else may crash into you. Also avoid using your emergency flashers while moving. Other drivers may think you've stopped.

Tips for safe traffic stops

1. Slow down, signal, and pull to the side of the road as soon as it is safe to do so. 2. Put your vehicle in park, roll down the window, and keep your hands on the steering wheel. 3. Stay in the vehicle and don't move around. 4. Do not rummage around in the vehicle for your license and registration. 5. Wait for the officer to approach. They may approach from either side of the vehicle. 6. Be respectful, polite, cooperative, and follow instructions. 7. If the officer gives you a ticket, sign and accept it.

Night driving

About 90% of driving choices are based on what you see. At night, your vision is reduced. To make sure you have time to react to danger, always drive slowly enough so you can stop within the distance you can see ahead. This distance is about 350 feet when using the high beams of your headlights and about 100 feet when using the low beams. To make your night driving safer: -Increase the following distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. -Turn on your headlights, not just your parking lights, when driving between sunset and sunrise, or when visibility has been reduced to below 500 feet. The grey hours of twilight and dawn are the most dangerous times of the day. -Watch for slow-moving or unlighted vehicles, bicyclists, pedestrians, and animals. -Allow more distance and time for passing. -Don't drive or keep driving if you're tired. -Never wear sunglasses when light levels are low. -Keep both the inside and outside of your windshield clean. -Keep your headlights clean. Dirt will dim their light and may distort the beam. -Avoid looking into the headlights of oncoming vehicles. Instead, shift your eyes down to the lower right side of your traffic lane. This keeps the light from hitting your eyes directly. -Dim your headlights to low beam when approaching or following another vehicle or on lighted roads. -If you must park on a highway shoulder at night, turn on your emergency flashers or parking lights.

Handling emergencies

Emergencies appear suddenly, and you may have only a fraction of a second to make the right move. Lives may depend on your ability to react quickly. Be prepared for hazards and know what to do when they show up. Think before you act. Often, an instinctive reaction, such as slamming on your brakes while skidding, may be the wrong thing to do.

Flash floods

Flash floods are caused by intense rain that falls in a short amount of time. Idaho averages seven flash floods a year, and they generally occur during or right after a severe thunderstorm. In some cases, small streams a few feet wide by a few inches deep can swell to over 12 feet deep and 80 feet wide in less than five minutes. As little as six inches of fast moving water can knock you off your feet. Fast-moving water two feet deep can wash away a vehicle and reach the bottom of most passenger cars and cause loss of control or stalling. If the National Weather Service issues a flash flood warning, or you observe water rising quickly, take action immediately. -Do not drive through flooded areas. If you see a flooded roadway ahead, turn around and find another route to your destination. -Get far away from areas subject to flooding (e.g. dips, low spots, canyons, dry creek beds, along a stream). Seek higher, safer ground. -Avoid areas near rivers or streams and areas that are already flooded. Roads that are underwater may no longer be intact. Never drive through flooded roadways. -If your vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Rapidly rising water may engulf the vehicle and sweep it away. -Be very careful at night when it is harder to see flood dangers. -Do not park your vehicle or camp along streams or dry stream beds during threatening conditions.

Open range

Horses, cattle, sheep, goats, and other livestock under controlled movement over a highway or road have the right -of-way in Idaho. When you meet or overtake any livestock herds, be careful and cooperate with the workers in charge. Livestock also run at large in much of Idaho's range country. Drivers must be alert for animals grazing unattended on "open range," which means almost all areas outside of city limits and herd districts upon which livestock by custom, license, lease, or permit, are grazed or permitted to roam. The presence of fences does not necessarily mean that animals are not present or do not have the right-of-way. Be careful driving at night. If you strike and injure or kill livestock or domestic animals that are on the open range or under controlled movement, the owner of the animal(s) is not liable for damages to you or your vehicle. You may be liable for the injuries or death of the animal if you are found to have been negligent.

Getting stranded during winter weather

Idaho winters can be severe, particularly in the mountains. When traveling in winter months, be prepared in case your vehicle breaks down or you get into a crash. You should keep an emergency winter driving kit in your car. The kit should include: -flashlights with extra batteries -a first aid kit -a pocket knife -at least one blanket or sleeping bag -an extra set of gloves -socks and a wool cap -a small sack of sand or cat litter for generating traction under the wheels -a small shovel -bottled water -booster cables -emergency flares -energy bars or other non-perishable food items -a brightly-colored scarf to attract attention in case of an emergency -waterproof matches or cigarette lighter -a map of the area where you plan to travel If you run your car for heat, make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of snow. If available, tie a scarf or bright cloth on the car antenna for snow crews to see. Let someone know your travel plans, including estimated departure and arrival times, route, and where you will stay when you reach your destination. Make sure your cell phone is charged and you have access to emergency phone numbers. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle if heavy snow is falling. Most deaths occur when people leave their car, get lost, and freeze. In case of medical emergencies in areas where roads have not been plowed, call the local or state police. These agencies will work with search and rescue personnel and the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) to respond to emergencies.

Protecting yourself in a crash

If you can't avoid a crash, try to protect yourself in the following ways: -The best protection is to properly buckle your seat belt before you start your trip. Your chance of avoiding serious injury or death is increased if you are wearing your seat belt properly. -If you're about to be hit from the rear and have a headrest, press the back of your head against it. Be ready to brake to avoid hitting cars ahead of you. -If you're about to be hit from the side, be prepared to steer to recover from the impact. -If you're about to be hit from the front and you're wearing a seat belt, use your arms and hands to protect your face.

Crash with an uninsured driver

If you have recently been in a crash with an uninsured driver and have been unsuccessful in collecting damages, you may request that the driving privileges of the uninsured driver be suspended. After a court judgment has been entered, the department may suspend the driving privileges of the uninsured driver until you have been paid, or for up to six years. For more information, contact any city, county, or state law enforcement agency, or the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD).

Oncoming car in your lane

If you're threatened with a head-on crash and have some time: -Slow down and try to warn the other driver by flashing your lights and honking your horn. -Pull to the right as far as possible. Don't go left. The other driver may recover and hit you broadside. If you can't avoid a crash, steer so the cars will hit at an angle and avoid a head-on crash.

Running off the road

Know what to do if the wheels drop off the pavement: -Grip the wheel tightly and steer straight ahead. Stay on the shoulder if there are no immediate obstacles. -Take your foot off the accelerator and apply the brakes gently. -Once you've slowed down, check traffic for an opening and then, when it is safe, steer onto the pavement. Be careful not to over-steer and shoot out across the center line.

If you hit an unattended vehicle

Make a reasonable effort to find the owner of an unattended vehicle or other property damaged in a crash in which you are involved. If the owner cannot be located, leave a note telling about the crash with your name and phone number. You must also notify police if the damage was more than $1,500 or someone was injured.

Crashes and the law

No matter how safely you drive, chances are someday you may be in a crash. Even if you're not at fault, you must know what to do. If you're involved in a crash, you are required to: -Stop as near to the scene as possible without blocking traffic. You may move vehicles that pose a traffic hazard before the police arrive. Idaho's Quick Clearance law requires anyone involved in a crash (on an interstate or major divided highway), that does not cause a death or injury, to safely move the vehicle to a shoulder, median, or emergency lane. -Give any help you can if someone is injured. Idaho's Good Samaritan Law protects you from civil liability if you act in good faith. However, don't try to move an injured person from a wrecked vehicle unless you have the necessary medical training or there is an immediate danger, such as fire. -Call for police and medical help as soon as possible. You must report to police any motor vehicle crash in which someone is injured or property damage is more than $1,500. Exchange information at the scene with the other people involved in the crash, including names, addresses, and driver's license numbers of the injured; names and addresses of any witnesses; and names, addresses, and insurance policy numbers of the other vehicle owners. If you provide false information you may be guilty of a misdemeanor. A police officer, when present, will help you exchange information with the other drivers.

At the scene of the crash

Someday, you may come upon a traffic crash where there are serious injuries and people need help. If police or medical help is already there, don't stop. Move on as officers direct. If you're the first one to arrive, stop and call 911 and assist if you are able.

Avoiding crashes

To avoid a crash, you have two choices: change direction by steering or change speed by braking or accelerating. -steering: If you don't think you can stop in time, try to turn out of the way. If possible, stay off the brakes while you turn—you'll have more control. -braking: Many drivers slam on the brakes to avoid a crash. Don't, unless you have anti-lock brakes. Locking your brakes may throw you into a skid and make things worse. Instead, you should pump your brakes hard and fast. You'll have more control and stop faster. -acceleration: When another car is about to hit you from the side or rear, accelerating may soften the impact or prevent the crash.

Snow removal equipment

Use extra caution when encountering snow removal equipment. Snowplow blades force snow up and off the road, potentially causing blizzard-like conditions and reduced visibility for drivers following too closely. Use caution when driving in winter conditions, and cooperate with highway workers clearing the roads. Drivers should follow these tips for safe winter driving: -Remain two car lengths behind snowplow trucks for every 10 miles per hour you drive. Sand being spread by trucks can damage your vehicle. -Do not pass a snowplow unless it is absolutely necessary. -If you must pass, do so only when you can clearly see the road ahead. Do not pass on the side where the plow is spraying snow. If you do, the snow's force can knock your car out of control. -Do not cut back immediately in front of a snowplow truck. The plow blades are often covered with snow and can be difficult to see. -Do not brake suddenly if you are traveling in front of a snowplow. The heavy vehicle cannot stop as quickly as your automobile. -Do not abandon your car unless it is absolutely necessary. If you must, leave it as far off the road as possible. Abandoned cars can interfere with the road clearing process and can be extremely hazardous to snow removal equipment and the operators if they are hidden or buried by snow.

Rain and hydroplaning

Wet roads can be as dangerous as icy roads. Always reduce your speed in wet weather. You will need more distance for stopping and may skid on quick turns. Remember that roads are more dangerous at the start of a light rain when road oil and water mix to form a greasy film on the road. At speeds up to 35 miles per hour, most tires grip the road surface even when it's wet. As speed increases, the tires can't grip the road as well. At 55 miles per hour, the tires may lose all contact with the road. They start to "hydroplane" or ride on top of a film of water like a set of water skis. When that happens, you can't brake, accelerate or turn. A gust of wind, a curve or even a lane change can cause a skid. To reduce the chances of hydroplaning, you should: -Slow down during rainstorms or when roads are slushy. -Slow down if the road has standing water or puddles. -Replace tires as soon as they become worn. -Keep tires properly inflated. If you are about to drive over a slippery area or you think your car has started to hydroplane: -Maintain a steady speed and keep moving in a straight line. -Slowly take your foot off the gas pedal. -Don't try to stop or turn quickly until your tires are gripping the road again. -If you have to use your brakes, pump them gently unless your car has an anti-lock braking system (ABS).

Mountain driving

When driving in the mountains, you should: -Pay special attention to speed limit signs and signs warning of curves, steep hills, or other hazards. -Stay close to the right edge of the road away from 112 oncoming traffic. -Use a lower gear to control speeds while going down long hills. -Never coast downhill by shifting into neutral or disengaging the clutch. -Watch for a solid yellow line in your lane marking a no-passing zone. -Sound the horn when approaching any curve on a narrow road where the view is obstructed.

Winter driving

Winter driving calls for special skills. On slippery roads, the keys to safety are slower speeds, gentler stops and turns, and longer following distances. Here are some safe-driving tips that will help you when roads are slick with ice or snow: -Keep your vehicle in the best possible driving condition. The lights, tires, brakes, windshield wipers, defroster and radiator are especially important for winter driving. -Keep your windows clear. Don't start driving until the windows are defrosted and clean, even if you're going only a short distance. Keep your windshield washer reservoir filled with a non-freezing solution all winter. -For safety reasons, you should not use cruise control if the road is wet and/or icy. -Buckle up. All occupants are required to wear safety belts and/or shoulder straps when riding in a vehicle equipped with them. -Get the feel of the road by starting out slowly and testing your steering control and braking ability. Avoid spinning your tires when you start by gently pressing your gas pedal until the car starts to roll. Start slowing your car down at least three times sooner than you normally do when turning or stopping. -When stopping, avoid sudden movements of the steering wheel and pump the brake gently. Check your vehicle owner's manual. If the vehicle has anti-lock brakes, you may apply steady pressure to the brake pedal. -Use tire chains on very slippery roads. Some states require chains to be carried during winter months, so check for specific information before driving in other states. -Be aware of potential icy areas such as shady spots, bridges, and overpasses. Ice may form sooner or remain on bridges and overpasses longer, since they are exposed on their undersides and are deprived of ground warmth. Snow and ice also stay longer in shaded areas. -Studded snow tires may be used only from October 1st to April 30th. Some years, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) adjusts the dates due to weather conditions.

Collision

a crash when one object hits another with sudden force

Evasive action

a quick change in speed or direction to avoid a collision

Risk

the chance of injury, damage, or loss

Traction

the contact between the tire and the road surface; the adhesive or holding quality of friction

Skid

the loss of traction by the front, rear, or all tires, generally resulting in a deviation from the desired path of travel

Visibility

the maximum distance at which an object can be seen under the prevailing conditions; the range of vision

Hydroplane

when a vehicle's tires lose traction with the road and ride on top of a film of water