CDL. Subsection 2.9-2.10

What is the difference between aggressive driving and road rage?

"Aggressive driving is the act of operating a motor vehicle in a selfish, bold, or pushy manner, without regard for the rights or safety of others." "Road rage is operating a motor vehicle with the intent of doing harm to others or physically assaulting a driver or their vehicle." (p.2-23)

What should you do when confronted with an aggressive driver?

"First and foremost, make every attempt to get out of their way. Put your pride in the back seat. Do not challenge them by speeding up or attempting to hold-your-own in your travel lane. Avoid eye contact. Ignore gestures and refuse to react to them. Report aggressive drivers to the appropriate authorities by providing a vehicle description, license number, location and, if possible, direction of travel. If you have a cell phone, and can do it safely, call the police. If an aggressive driver is involved in a crash farther down the road, stop a safe distance from the crash scene, wait for the police to arrive, and report the driving behavior that you witnessed. " (p. 2-23)

How do you recognize a distracted driver?

"Vehicles that may drift over the lane divider lines or within their own lane. Vehicles traveling at inconsistent speeds. Drivers who are preoccupied with maps, food, cigarettes, cell phones, or other objects. Drivers who appear to be involved in conversations with their passengers." (p. 2-22)

What are some things you can do to reduce your stress before and while you drive?

-Listen to "easy listening" music. -Give the drive your full attention. Don't allow yourself to become distracted by talking on your cell phone, eating, etc. -Be realistic about your travel time. Expect delays because of traffic, construction, or bad weather and make allowances. -Take a deep breath and accept the delay. -Slow down and keep your following distance reasonable -Don't drive slowly in the left lane of traffic -Avoid gestures -Be a cautious and courteous driver.

How do you use in-vehicle communications equipment cautiously?

-Turn off all communication devices. -Do not type or read a text message on a mobile device while driving. -If you must use a mobile phone, make sure it is within close proximity, that it is operable while you are restrained, use an earpiece or the speaker phone function, use voice-activated dialing; or use the hands-free feature. Drivers are not in compliance if they unsafely reach for a mobile phone, even if they intend to use the hands-free function. (p.2-23)

What are some tips so you won't become a distracted driver?

Your goal should be to eliminate all in-vehicle distractions before driving begins. Accomplishing this goal can be done by: Assessing all potential in-vehicle distractions before driving Developing a preventative plan to reduce/eliminate possible distractions Expecting distractions to occur Discussing possible scenarios before getting behind the wheel Based on the assessment of potential distractions, you can formulate a preventative plan to reduce/eliminate possible distractions. If drivers react a half-second slower because of distractions, crashes double. Some tips to follow so you won't become distracted: Turn off all communication devices. If you must use a mobile phone, make sure it is within close proximity, that it is operable while you are restrained, use an earpiece or the speaker phone function, use voice-activated dialing; or use the hands-free feature. Drivers are not in compliance if they unsafely reach for a mobile phone, even if they intend to use the hands-free function. Do not type or read a text message on a mobile device while driving. Familiarize yourself with your vehicle's features and equipment, before you get behind the wheel. Adjust all vehicle controls and mirrors to your preferences prior to driving. Pre-program radio stations and pre-load your favorite CDs. Clear the vehicle of any unnecessary objects and secure cargo. Review maps, program the GPS and plan your route before you begin driving. Don't attempt to read or write while you drive. Avoid smoking, eating and drinking while you drive. Don't engage in complex or emotionally intense conversations with other occupants. Secure commitment from other occupants to behave responsibly and to support the driver in reducing distractions Leave early to allow yourself time to stop to eat.