Chapter 6 drivers ed

CHAPTER 6 REVIEW pt 2

- Because you can't tell what is on the other side of a steep hill or sharp curve, you must go slow enough to be able to stop. - Slow down at the first sign of rain on the road. This is when many roads are the most slippery because oil and dust have not been washed away. If the road is slippery, it won't give your tires the grip they need. You must drive slower than you would on a dry road. - The keys to accident avoidance are letting other drivers know what you plan to do, avoiding hazardous situations, and driving defensively at all times. - Good drivers keep a safe following distance. The more space they allow between their car and the car ahead, the more time they'll have to see a hazard or accident down the road. They'll have more time to stop or to avoid the hazard. - Select an appropriate driving speed, be aware of the big picture. Stay alert, and allow a safe space around your automobile.

When driving in bad weather, carry the following emergency equipment:

-Blankets or sleeping bags -Non-perishable food -Water -Flares -Extra clothing -Cell phone -Tire chains (when you know you might encounter snow)

A Locked-Wheel Skid

A locked-wheel skid happens when your brakes have stopped your wheels from turning, but the vehicle is still moving. Locked-wheel skids are frequently caused by applying the brakes too heavily when on slippery roads or trying to avoid an accident. To recover from a locked-wheel skid, first release a slight amount of brake pressure until the wheels start rolling, and then progressively reapply more pressure while avoiding another lock up. Next, quickly straighten the front wheels as the vehicle starts to straighten, and then slow the vehicle gradually with your brakes while avoiding locking the wheels again. If you lose traction while going around a corner, take your foot off the gas pedal without braking and turn your front wheels in the direction of the skid until you regain control. Avoid counter-steering by realigning your front wheels with the rear when they come around. If you lose traction while going around a corner or turn in a front-wheel drive vehicle, apply some gas and steer in the direction you want the vehicle to travel. The following are some tips for recovering from a skid: -Do not brake. -Keep your eyes pointed in the direction you want to go, and you will automatically steer there. -Keep the front tires aligned with your intended path.

Registering Or Renewing A Vehicle

A vehicle cannot be registered or have its registration renewed without evidence of financial responsibility. The DMV will ask you to provide proof of insurance or other form of financial responsibility each time your registration comes up for renewal each year. You should understand the different types of insurance when it is time for you to purchase insurance for your own vehicle.

An Acceleration Skid

An acceleration skid occurs when your drive wheels lose traction with the road while accelerating. Acceleration skids usually occur on ice or snow, but also on asphalt, sand, dirt, or wet pavement. To recover from an acceleration skid, do not apply brakes. Ease off the gas pedal. If the road is very slippery, you may need to push in the clutch. Otherwise, the engine can keep the wheels from rolling freely and help regain traction.

Uncontrolled Intersections

At intersections without signal lights or stop and yield signs, slow down and be ready to stop. Yield to any vehicles that are already in the intersection or just entering it. At a "T" intersection, vehicles on the through-road have the right-of-way. If you can't see clearly for 100 feet in both directions when approaching an uncontrolled intersection (a blind intersection), keep your speed at 15 mph so that you have time to stop if a vehicle pulls out suddenly. If your view of an uncontrolled intersection is obstructed by parked cars or other objects, stop before entering the intersection and slowly inch forward until you can see if there is cross traffic before proceeding through the intersection.

Bald Tires

Bald tires provide very limited traction and cause a significant increase in stopping distance. They may also cause tire blowouts. If you have a blowout or lose a wheel while driving: - Hold the steering wheel tightly and steer straight ahead. - Slow down gradually, taking your foot off the gas pedal slowly without applying the brakes. - Slow to a stop off the road, applying the brakes only when the car is almost stopped. Turn on your emergency flashers.

Fatigue

Both physical and mental fatigue increase the likelihood of accidents by affecting your vision, judgment, and reaction time. Falling asleep while driving is the primary collision factor in about 1% of fatal and injury collisions in California. Driving when you are tired is just as dangerous as driving when you have been drinking alcohol. The more tired you are, the more dangerous it is. When you are tired, you are less alert. Most drivers are less alert at night, especially after midnight. You increase your chances of being in a collision if you are tired because you may not see hazards early enough or react as quickly as necessary. If you are tired, the only remedy is to get off the road and get some sleep. If you don't, you risk your life and the lives of others. Review Chapter 2 for suggestions to keep a driver from getting tired on long trips.

Poor Visibility Due To Road Conditions

Certain conditions make the roadways more dangerous than usual, including: -Bad weather -Driving at night -An earthquake The faster the speed, the less control you have over your vehicle. Consider how the road conditions may affect the safe operation of your vehicle. For example, if the posted speed limit is 35 mph, you should not drive this fast if you're traveling toward a curve on a downhill icy road. Make sure that your vehicle's windows and lights are clean and working before driving in bad weather. Check that the windshield wipers and defroster are working properly and that you have adequate tread on your tires.

Collision Insurance

Collision insurance deals with damage to your vehicle in the event of a collision. This type of insurance is normally subject to a deductible, meaning that you have to pay a certain amount for damage to your vehicle before your insurance company will pay. Collision-insurance policies are limited by various terms indicated in the policy.

Comprehensive Insurance

Comprehensive insurance deals with the theft of your vehicle or damage to your vehicle caused by factors other than a collision such as a rock hitting your windshield. Comprehensive policies are also normally subject to a deductible and are limited by various terms in the policy.

Planning An Alternative Path Of Travel

Defensive drivers always leave themselves an escape route in case of an emergency. Escape routes are alternate paths of travel. As you drive, identify an immediate path of travel. This is where you want your car to be four or five seconds from now, based on existing road and traffic conditions. Position your vehicle so that you can take this alternative path to avoid a collision if conditions change. You need to increase your following distance to have enough space to take an alternate path. The four-to-five-second gap, like a three-second following distance, is determined by counting. Simply pick a point ahead and count "one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one-thousand-three, one-thousand-four, one-thousand-five."

Rubbernecking

Do not slow down needlessly to look at broken-down vehicles, controlled accident scenes, or road construction. If you are looking to the side of the road, you are not paying attention to vehicles in front of or behind you. Rubbernecking takes your attention away from driving and is a major cause of accidents, particularly on freeways.

Failing To Yield The Right-Of-Way

Failure to yield the right of way to another vehicle or pedestrian is the primary factor in about 20% of fatal and injury collisions in California. Two major mistakes that drivers make regarding the right-of-way are: - Assuming that other drivers will give them the right-of-way - Failing to yield to the right-of-way of others. - You don't have the right-of-way at a yield sign or when entering a roadway from a side street, freeway on-ramp, or driveway. You also don't have the right-of-way when you enter a roadway after being parked on the side of it. You should always yield the right-of-way to other vehicles and pedestrians already using the traffic lane.

Failure To Keep Right

Few things are more annoying than road hogs, who swerve from side to side within their lane or drive too closely to the dividing lines between lanes. They also refuse to pull to the right or use a turn-out lane to let you pass. Failing to keep right can cause others to become aggressive. If a driver wants to pass, let them pass. If a slow-moving vehicle refuses to pull into a turn-out lane or won't let you pass, do not honk your horn, tailgate, or submit to road rage. Pull back and give the driver a lot of space. If you are driving too close to the left or right side of your lane, other drivers traveling in your direction will not feel like they have enough room or safety to pass you. If you are swerving from side to side in your lane, drivers may pull partially into the oncoming traffic lane in an attempt to pass you, which can cause a dangerous head-on collision. The best position is in the center of your lane. This allows plenty of space in every direction, so you can react to hazards such as swerving vehicles. If you encounter a driver who is driving from side-to-side or hugging a lane-divider line, give the driver a lot of space. The person may be drunk or otherwise preoccupied.

Driving Too Slow

Going slower than other vehicles or stopping suddenly can be just as dangerous as speeding. Driving slower also tends to make other vehicles bunch up behind you, which could cause a rear-end collision. If many cars are trying to pass you, increase your speed to the speed limit or move over into the right lane. If you are driving slower than other traffic on the freeway, use the rightmost lane. Do not drive in the leftmost fast lane. If you are in the leftmost lane and another driver wants to pass, move into the right lane.

Hills and Curves

Hills and curves create situations that are hazardous by blocking your view ahead and the view of other drivers, causing vehicles to move slower or faster than is safe. You must be able to see at least one-third of a mile ahead to pass safely. If your view is blocked by a hill or curve, assume that there is an oncoming car just out of sight. Do not drive on the left side of a roadway when coming to a curve or the top of a hill where you can't pass safely. When driving around a curve, you can best maintain control if you slow down as you enter and gently accelerate as you come out of it. Follow these guidelines when traveling down hills: -Slow down or maintain your speed by shifting to a lower gear. -Do not ride your brakes on downhill roadways; it can lead to complete failure of your brakes. -Avoid overheating and breaking down on extended uphill roadways by pulling off if your engine temperature is in the danger zone and reducing stress on your engine by turning off air-conditioning and driving more slowly. You must use turnouts to let others pass if you are driving slowly on a two-lane road. If five or more cars are following you, you must pull to the side and let them pass.

Reporting Requirements

If you are involved in an accident in which someone is killed or injured or if there is more than $750 in property damage, you must report the accident to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 10 days on a Traffic Accident Report form SR 1, which is available from any DMV or CHP office. An accident report can be filed for you with the DMV by your insurance company, but you are held responsible if it fails to do so. You are better off filing the report yourself than risking the penalty of not reporting the accident to the DMV. If law-enforcement officers arrive at the scene of the accident, they will probably file a law-enforcement report. This is not the accident report that you are required by law to file with the DMV. A report is required by each driver involved in the accident, regardless of who caused it, and even if it occurred on private property. If you are involved in an accident in which someone is killed or injured, you must report the accident to the police or California Highway Patrol within 24 hours. This is in addition to the report that you are required to file with the DMV. If you are unable to report an accident because you are injured, your passengers (if any) are required to file the report and provide information to law-enforcement officials and other persons involved in the accident.

Stopping Requirements

If you are involved in an accident, you are legally required to stop your vehicle and give assistance. Someone could be injured or need your help. You are also required to stay at the scene and provide information to other persons involved and law enforcement, if applicable. Not stopping if you are involved in an accident that has injured people or property is called "hit-and-run" driving. This can result in one year of jail time and a fine of up to $10,000. If you fail to stop at an accident that results in death or permanent, serious injury, you can be imprisoned for up to four years and receive a $10,000 fine. Subsequent hit-and-run convictions result in a mandatory five-year prison term.

Exchange Information

If you are involved in an accident, you must provide the following to other persons involved (and the police, if applicable): - Your driver's license number - Your vehicle registration card - Evidence of financial responsibility including the name and address of your insurance company and policy number - Your correct address If someone is injured or killed, passengers must show identification to other persons involved and to law-enforcement officials. If there are witnesses to the accident, obtain their names, addresses, and phone numbers. You should also record damage to your vehicle and injuries. It is a good idea to keep a camera in your vehicle for recording damage to all vehicles involved or utilize your mobile phone's camera. If you damage someone's property, you're required to present the same information as in any other accident. Failure to provide the required information at the scene of an accident or failure to leave a note with the required information is a misdemeanor and may result in six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Your license will be revoked for failing to stop at the scene of, or to provide information for, an accident resulting in a person's injury or death.

Preventing Further Damage

If you are stopped on the roadway, turn on your emergency flashers. If you have them, use flares or reflective triangles to warn other drivers. To reduce the chances of a fire, turn off your ignition. If fuel is leaking from your vehicle, stay back because it may catch fire. If you are involved in an accident resulting in only property or vehicle damage, if possible, move your vehicle off the main lanes of the roadway to a safe location within the immediate vicinity of the accident unless it would injure someone. If your vehicle is damaged badly enough that you can't drive it, have it moved off the roadway. In most cases, damaged vehicles will be towed if they are left on the side of the road for an extended period of time. This can be more expensive because you will probably have to pay storage fees in addition to regular towing fees. Because of this, it is best to take care of having your vehicle towed while you are at the accident scene.

Property Damage-Unable to Locate Owner

If you damage someone's property, such as when your vehicle rolls into a parked car or you hit a tree or sign post, you are required to: - Try to find owner or driver - Leave a note in a conspicuous place with your name and address and that of the owner of the car you are driving - Report the accident to law enforcement

Maintain An Adequate Visual Lead

If you look ahead and keep your eyes moving, you will spot a hazard more easily. Once you have seen the hazard and decided what to do, act. Never simply wait and see, or think that everything will be all right. To avoid last-minute moves, look down the road 10 to 15 seconds ahead of your vehicle. You need to look that far ahead to see hazards early. When you drive in city traffic, you should look at least one block ahead. On the highway, 10 to 15 seconds is about a quarter of a mile. If you look ahead, you will be able to see possible hazards that you can't see later, such as someone getting into a parked car. Scanning the roadside helps you to spot: - Cars and people who may be on the road by the time you reach them - Problems ahead - Road signs giving you directions - Keep your eyes moving. Check your rear-view mirrors frequently so that you know the position of vehicles near you. On the freeway, be ready for changes in traffic conditions. Watch for signals from other drivers. Expect merging vehicles at on-ramps and interchanges. Be prepared for rapid changes in road conditions and traffic flow.

Inattentive Driving

If you take your eyes off the road or lose your concentration for just a second, you could have an accident. One second not looking at the road means one less second that you have to react to emergency situations. To avoid distraction, do not play your stereo too loudly or take your eyes off the road when changing the music. Prepare for parking and bridge tolls before the trip by having the money in an easily accessible place. Plan your trips and review maps before pulling out of the driveway, not while driving. Never stop on a freeway or other roadway if you are lost or to read directions. Exit the freeway or pull to the side of the roadway, park, and study the map again. Another option is to have a passenger do the navigating for while you are driving.

Bad Brakes

If your brakes suddenly give out while driving: - Downshift to a lower gear or range (automatic transmissions) to slow your vehicle. - Pump the brake pedal fast and hard to build up brake fluid pressure — you will know in three to four pumps if the brakes will work — but do not pump anti-lock brakes. - Use your parking or emergency brake to gently slow your vehicle, but release it before the vehicle starts to skid. - Steer and swerve to avoid a collision or steer into something soft like bushes. - Sound your horn and flash your lights to alert other drivers. - When you are stopped, turn off the ignition and turn on your emergency flashers. If your brakes get wet and do not work (sometimes caused when you go through a big puddle), dry them by lightly pressing the gas pedal and brake pedal at the same time so that the vehicle drives against the pressure of the brakes. Do this only until the brakes begin working.

Improper Lane Changes

Improper lane changes are the primary collision factor in about 4% of fatal and injury accidents in California. When you change lanes, you have to do more than just signal and check your mirrors. You must turn your head and look into the lane that you want to enter because blind spots limit your ability to see vehicles to the side. Side-swipe accidents are caused by drivers not checking their blind spots before merging into another lane. Yield to vehicles that are already in the lane you want to enter. They do not have to make room for you to merge, and you should never assume they will. Avoid making last-minute lane changes to catch an exit or make a turn. Plan ahead and make your lane changes well in advance to avoid causing an accident. When you are making a lane change, keep an eye on traffic in front of and behind the lane that you are driving in. If you are not paying attention to traffic in your lane, you may rear-end the vehicle in front of you or hit other vehicles trying to enter the lane you want to enter. Do not cross over multiple lanes or over solid white lines when making a lane change. It is dangerous and illegal.

Wandering Mind

In heavy traffic, it is easy to lose your concentration and start thinking about things besides driving. If this happens, try rolling down the window or changing the radio station to help you stay focused on driving. Continually scan the roadway and your mirrors.

Avoid Multiple Hazards

It is not good to have to cope with too many hazards at the same time. While driving on a narrow two-lane road, you might identify a pedestrian walking on your side of the road and a truck approaching in the oncoming lane. By adjusting your speed, you can avoid having to meet the oncoming truck and pass the pedestrian at the same time. This simplifies the situation by separating one potential hazard from the other and allowing you to take them on one at a time. Slow down and let the truck pass. Then, move to the left to allow plenty of room before you pass the pedestrian. Avoid encountering a situation that involves multiple hazards by: - Identifying hazards early - Predicting potential hazards - Adjusting your speed and position - Anticipating and planning escape routes

Liability Insurance

Liability insurance addresses your responsibility to others for injury, death, and property damage. This is the type of insurance that you are required to have by law. Liability policies are also limited by the terms of the policy.

CHAPTER 6 REVIEW pt 1

Many factors are involved in driving performance. One person is killed every 2.5 hours in California, and one person is injured every 2 minutes as a result of a traffic collision. Practicing safe driving habits is the key to preventing unnecessary automobile accidents. - If you're tired, the only safe cure is to get off the road and get some sleep. If you don't, you risk your life and the lives of others. - Preventable causes of accidents include driving too fast, tailgating, inattentive driving, improper lane changes, poor vision and scanning habits, failing to yield the right-of-way, not understanding how to operate your vehicle in hazardous conditions, and faulty automotive equipment or lack of car maintenance. - Most accidents in urban areas occur at intersections. Because of the danger presented by intersections, it's very important that you approach them with caution and make an extra effort to be aware of what is happening in and around the intersection. - Never insist on taking the right-of-way. If another driver doesn't yield to you when he or she should, forget it. Let the other driver go first. You'll help prevent accidents and make driving more pleasant. Don't insist on your right-of-way if it will help to avoid an accident.

INTERSECTIONS, CONTROLLED AND UNCONTROLLED

Most accidents in urban areas occur at intersections. Scan for potential hazards at intersections such as pedestrians, bicycles, drivers running red lights, and drivers starting left-hand turns. Accidents at intersections are most frequently caused by drivers who disobey stop signs and red lights or violate the right-of-way of other drivers, such as by turning left in front of an approaching vehicle. It is dangerous to change lanes in an intersection. You could be cited for making an unsafe lane change.

Dangers Of Being Under-insured

Most drivers choose to have an automobile liability policy as proof of financial responsibility. If you have an accident not covered by your insurance, your license will be suspended. If the driver is not identified, the owner of the motor vehicle will have his or her license suspended.

Emergency Braking

Most drivers hit the brakes first to avoid an accident, which might lock the wheels and cause the vehicle to skid. To stop quickly, use threshold braking. Apply firm, steady pressure. If the car skids, let up on the brake pedal until the wheels begin to roll again. Now increase the pressure on the brake, using firm, steady pressure. Repeat this process until the vehicle stops. However, if you have anti-lock brakes, the braking system should automatically pump the brakes to regain control. Never pump anti-lock brakes with your foot. Apply firm, steady pressure until the vehicle stops. As long as you don't skid, you will still be able to maneuver your car. Steer away from hard objects such as other vehicles or abutments while you are braking in an emergency.

The Three-Second Rule

Most rear-end collisions are caused by following too closely. To avoid this, use the "three-second rule." When the vehicle ahead of you passes a certain point, such as a sign, count "one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one- thousand-three." If you pass the same point before you finish counting, you are following too closely. At faster speeds, the distance should be greater. Good drivers keep a safe following distance so they can see better. The more space they allow between their car and the car ahead of them, the better they are able to see a hazard or an accident down the road. They also have more time to stop and avoid the hazard. Keep enough space between your car and the car ahead of you so that you will have a bigger picture of what lies down the road and steering will be easier. Travel in the center of the lane instead of hugging one side or the other so that you can see

Driving Too Fast

No matter what the speed limit sign may say, you should adjust your speed depending on: - The number and speed of other cars on the road - Whether the road surface is smooth, rough, graveled, wet, dry, wide, or narrow - Whether pedestrians and bicyclists are near the road - The amount of rain, fog, snow, ice, wind, or dust on the road You could be cited for driving 45 mph in a 55-mph speed zone if dense fog, traffic, or other conditions require that you need to drive slower to be safe. You should drive slower when many vehicles are close together on the roadway (i.e., traffic). Stopping safely is harder in traffic because you have less room. Drive slower so you have more time to stop. You should drive more slowly when vehicles ahead of you are braking. You should also drive more slowly in or near: - Shopping centers - Parking lots - Downtown areas - Roads with heavy traffic - Narrow bridges - Narrow tunnels - Toll plazas - Schools and playgrounds - Residential streets

Skid Techniques

Not understanding how to handle your vehicle when skidding is a significant cause of accidents. Skids occur whenever tires lose their grip on the road. Certain road and weather conditions are particularly likely to cause skidding. Skids are caused by four different behaviors: -Over-braking - braking too hard and locking up your wheels. -Over-steering - tightening of the turning radius, which causes the back end to spin around, lose traction, and rotate. -Over-acceleration - supplying too much power to the drive wheels, which causes them to spin. -Driving too fast for road conditions - driving too fast results in the need to over-brake and over-steer.

Curves

On curves, there is a strong outward pull on your vehicle. You should cautiously approach curves, particularly when the road may be slippery due to rain, mud, snow, wet leaves, or gravel. You should obey warning speed limits on curves and freeway ramps. If one is not posted, judge how sharp the curve is and adjust your speed before you enter the curve. Braking on a curve may cause you to skid. Too much braking when driving down long hills can cause brake failure. Therefore, it is better to use your engine to slow your vehicle when traveling down long, steep hills than to use your brakes. To do this, shift to a lower gear before you start down the hill. In most cases, you will still need to use your brakes but downshifting will lessen your amount of brake use. If you are driving next to parked cars, you should assume that a parked car may move into your path of travel at any time; therefore, slow down and cover your brake.

other passengers

Other passengers, particularly children and pets, can distract you from driving. If you are going to have a conversation with passengers, do not take your eyes off the road. Allow them to perform tasks such as adjusting the radio or temperature in the vehicle or reading a map or directions. Sometimes passengers will point out things on the side of the road that they want you to look at. If you take your eyes off the roadway, you might hit the car in front of you. If you want to look at the scenery, pull off the road in a safe place. Because children can become bored and restless during long road trips, they can be very distracting. If you need to address young passengers, it is best to pull off the roadway. Do not turn your head around to discipline children while driving. Try to fend off their boredom by carrying books, games, or tapes in your vehicle to keep children occupied during long trips. Having pets in a car can also be distracting. If you need to transport an animal, use a carrying cage or have a passenger hold the pet.

Making Poor Decisions

Poor decisions can result in accidents. Poor decisions can be a result of: - Not knowing the law. It is your responsibility to know the rules of the road. Ignorance is not an excuse for failing to obey vehicle laws. - Disregarding the law. You must follow the rules of the road. If you get into an accident because you fail to yield to other vehicles and pedestrians at a yield sign, you will be found at fault for the accident. - Taking unnecessary risks. Drivers who are in a hurry or who are showing off are likely to make poor decisions that result in an accident. Accidents as a result of making poor decisions are avoidable

Bad Lighting Equipment

Poor lighting reduces your visibility of the road ahead. Scanning for hazards is more difficult without working lighting equipment. Make sure to replace burned-out light bulbs. If both of your headlights go out while driving at night: - Wiggle the dimmer switch, which will often put the lights back on. - Wiggle the headlight switch. - If the lights do not come on, turn on your parking lights, turn indicators, or emergency flashers to warn other drivers. - Pull off the road as quickly as possible and leave the emergency flashers on. - Check your battery terminals to see if they are loose, or check your fuses to see if one or more is blown. - Don't drive at night with only your parking lights working or with no lights working. It is extremely dangerous, even for short periods. - Don't use your high beams alone if your low beams aren't working because you will not be able to dim them for other vehicles on the roadway.

Emotional Problems

Safe driving requires concentration. If you are depressed, angry, or preoccupied with problems, you will not be able to focus on the task of driving safely. You should not drive if you are under severe tension, emotionally distressed, or preoccupied with your emotions or thoughts. Heavy traffic, bad weather, and road work can cause you to become stressed and angry, especially if you are in a hurry. Being late for work or an appointment can also cause you to become stressed and drive unsafely. If you allow yourself to become angry, you may express your feelings inappropriately and cause an accident.

Slick Road Surface

Slow down at the first sign of rain. This is when many roads are the most slippery because oil and dust have not been washed away. Slippery roads will not give your tires the grip they need so drive slowly. Here are some guidelines to help you adjust speed: -Wet road: Go 5-10 mph slower. -Packed snow: Cut speed in half. -Ice: Slow to a crawl. Some road surfaces are more slippery than others when wet. These roads usually have warning signs. Here are some clues to help you spot slippery roads: -On cold, wet days, shade from trees or buildings can hide spots of ice. These areas freeze first and dry last. -Bridges and overpasses freeze before the rest of the road, and they can hide icy spots. -If it starts to rain on a hot day, the pavement can be very slick for the first few minutes. Heat causes oil in the asphalt to come to the surface and make the road slippery. -Close to the freezing point, the road is icy and may be more slippery than at colder temperatures

Avoiding A Collision With The Car Ahead

Sometimes you will need more than a three-second cushion. Give yourself a four-second or more cushion when: - You are being tailgated - Your vision is blocked - Visibility is poor - You increase your speed - There are adverse roadway, traffic, or weather conditions Minimize the danger of being distracted by: - Eliminating distractions in your car such as eating, grooming, or map reading - Taking only short looks away from the road - Having a passenger read maps and do other non-driving tasks Look ahead for trouble by: - Lowering your speed when approaching hilltops or curves - Being aware of brake lights in adjacent lanes and ahead in your lane - Decelerating early and smoothly to warn other drivers behind you To avoid colliding with vehicles ahead of you, you should be especially careful while driving in these areas: - Controlled intersections - Crosswalks - Lanes that are next to parked cars - Parking-lot entrances - Freeway interchanges where cars enter and exit - Slippery or ice-covered streets - Places where children are playing

Driving too fast for conditions

Speed is the primary factor in 27% of fatal and injury collisions. The faster you drive, the less time you have to react to road hazards. It is unsafe and illegal to drive faster than the posted speed limit, and you should drive slower than the posted speed limit if road or weather conditions make it unsafe to drive at that speed. Warning speed limits on curves and freeway ramps should be obeyed at all times. These speed limits are posted to help you avoid accidents, even in ideal conditions. If the road or weather is less than perfect, you should drive slower than the recommended limits.

Bad Steering Or Suspension

Steering failure caused by leaking power-steering fluid is a common problem. You should: -Turn the steering wheel hard, with both hands on the wheel, to get to the side of the road. -Stop the car. You may have to push the brake pedal hard if your car has power brakes. -Restart the engine and proceed with caution. Vibrations, unusual noises from your wheels, and pulling or swerving when you stop or turn all indicate problems in your suspension system or steering system. These problems are largely avoided by regular inspection and repair. You should also check for fluid leaks from your shocks and/or struts. If fluid is leaking, have them replaced. All vehicles will occasionally experience mechanical failure. The most important thing is for you, the driver, to remain calm. You will be able to think more clearly and respond appropriately.

Tailgating

Tailgating is a term for when a driver follows too closely to the car in front of them, and it is the primary factor in about 3% of all fatal and injury accidents in California. If you are following another vehicle too closely, you are not able to see hazards ahead of you as easily and have less time to stop or slow down and are more likely to rear-end the car ahead of you in an emergency. Tailgating is particularly hazardous on freeways because vehicles are usually traveling at higher speeds. You should always keep a minimum of a 3-second gap in front of your vehicle. However, you need more than a 3-second cushion of space in front of your vehicle if the road surface or weather is poor or when you are near a place where pedestrians or vehicles may enter the road, such as a school, playground, business district, or shopping center. When following a motorcycle or large truck, you should give yourself at least a 4-second cushion of space in front of your vehicle. Give yourself even more than a 3- or 4-second gap of space when you are stuck in freeway traffic. You will find that you need to completely stop your vehicle less often if you keep a larger cushion of space in front of it. This saves wear on both your brakes and your clutch.

Purpose Of Insurance

The purpose of insurance is to make sure that you will be able to pay for injuries and damages if you are involved in an accident. California has a compulsory financial responsibility law requiring every driver and every owner of a motor vehicle to maintain financial responsibility at all times. There are four forms of financial responsibility: - Coverage by a motor vehicle or automobile liability insurance policy - Deposit of $35,000 with the DMV - Surety bond for $35,000 obtained from a company licensed to do business in California - A DMV-issued self-insurance certificate The statutory minimum limits of liability insurance in California are: - $15,000 for death or bodily injury of any one person, any one accident - $30,000 for all persons in any one accident - $5,000 for property damage in any one accident If you do not have enough insurance (i.e., you are underinsured) and are involved in an accident, other persons involved could sue you for damages not covered by your insurance policy.

Coverage

There are at least four different types of insurance: - Collision - Comprehensive - Liability - Uninsured motorist

Escape Techniques

To avoid an accident in an emergency, you can stop, turn, or speed up. Stopping is not always the safest maneuver in an emergency. However, if you are going to stop quickly, you should understand how to avoid skids as we described earlier in this chapter. If you do not have time to stop safely, steer your vehicle away from the hazard. You can try running off the road if necessary. Running off the road is usually a better option than hitting another vehicle, particularly head-on. If you are going to brake while you turn (and you don't have anti-lock brakes), make sure you don't lock your wheels. Although it may not seem intuitive, sometimes you can speed up to avoid an accident. This may work if a vehicle is going to hit you from the side or the rear. For example, if you are crossing an uncontrolled intersection and you notice a vehicle approaching at a high speed from the side, you should quickly speed up to avoid being hit from the side.

Avoiding Rear-End collisions

To avoid being rear-ended by another driver: - Increase your following distance to three seconds or more from the vehicle ahead of you - Signal early for turns, stops, and lane changes - Brake smoothly and gradually; do not stop abruptly or slam on your brakes - Keep pace with traffic when possible and legal - Frequently check your rear-view mirrors to see if you are being tailgated. Take appropriate action - Check over your shoulder to make sure you have space before changing lanes - Keep your brake pedal depressed even after stopping - Keep your rear lights clean and functioning When you follow too closely and another driver cuts in front of you, the normal reaction is to slam on your brakes or swerve into another lane. These maneuvers are dangerous in traffic. If another driver cuts in front of you, take your foot off the gas. This will give you space between your car and the other vehicle without having to swerve into another lane or risking a skid. Don't overreact if you are cut off. Plan your emergency escape route before an emergency happens.

Don't Bunch Up

To make sure that you have an escape route, you need to be between clusters of other vehicles. However, if you are stuck in a cluster, maintain a cushion of space around your entire vehicle. This space will give you additional time to see and react to hazards.

Uninsured Motorist Insurance

Uninsured motorist insurance addresses medical expenses that you or your passengers may incur when in an accident that is not your fault and is caused by another driver who does not have insurance. Your license will be suspended for failing to pay for property damage in excess of $750 or for damages resulting from injury or death caused by motor vehicle, if a certified copy of a judgment is received from a small claims court. As the owner of a vehicle, you are responsible for damages in the event of an accident in which someone else is driving if this person has your express or implied permission to drive the vehicle. The person signing a minor's license application assumes liability for damages caused by the minor regardless of whose vehicle he or she is driving. Many lawsuits resulting from accidents settle for much more money than the minimum amounts set by the financial responsibility law. You may have to pay the extra money if your insurance does not pay it all.

High Altitudes

When driving at high altitudes, your vehicle will have less power for passing and hill climbing, and the potential for overheating in vapor lock is greater. Vapor lock is when the fuel in the fuel system boils. It occurs when the vapor pressure of the fuel is higher than the surrounding environment.

Unsafe Passing

When you pass another vehicle on a two-lane road, you must drive in the lane of oncoming traffic, which is extremely dangerous because it can result in a head-on collision. You must determine whether it is safe and legal to pass the vehicle ahead of you before attempting to do so. Don't try to pass another driver when your view of the road ahead is obstructed, and don't take unnecessary risks. If you aren't sure whether you have enough time to pass the vehicle before oncoming traffic is near, don't try to pass. If possible, wait for a designated passing lane or for the slower moving vehicle ahead of you to use a turn-out area. If you are being passed, don't speed up or swerve. Drive near the right edge of your roadway to assist the other driver and either maintain a constant speed or slow down slightly. Think and plan before you attempt to pass another vehicle. You are not going to get to your destination any faster if you are killed or injured.

First Aid

You are required by law to assist any person injured in an accident in which you are involved. This includes transporting or arranging for transport of an injured person to a physician, surgeon, or hospital for medical or surgical treatment if necessary.

Using Your Horn

You can use your horn to avoid a collision with a vehicle, pedestrian, or animal. Sound your horn and flash your lights to alert another driver of your presence. It is safer to use your brakes than your horn. Don't use your horn if slowing or stopping your car will prevent an accident. On narrow mountain roads, drive as far to the right as possible and sound your horn when you can't see at least 200 feet ahead due to curves, hills, weather, or other obstacles. This will alert any oncoming vehicles of your presence. !!!Only use your horn to avoid an accident. Don't honk your horn to chastise people for making mistakes or for going slower than you would like.!!!

Poor Vision And Scanning Habits

You should keep your eyes moving and looking for potential hazards all around your vehicle. Don't focus on the back of the car ahead of you. Look for the stoplights of vehicles ahead of you, vehicles trying to merge, and pedestrians entering the roadway. Be aware of traffic signs warning you of upcoming road conditions. Don't assume that a signal will still be green by the time you reach it. Be aware of how long a light has been green so that you can react if the light turns yellow before you arrive at the intersection. When slowing down, merging, changing lanes, passing, or making a turn, be aware of where vehicles, pedestrians, and objects are around your vehicle. Check your mirrors and blind spots first. If you cannot see the roadway ahead because of a large vehicle, such as a truck or an SUV, give yourself additional space in front of your vehicle, so you can react in an emergency. You may want to change lanes so that you can see what is going on ahead of you.

Controlled Intersections

You should scan for traffic controls and prohibitive signs as you approach intersections to prepare during your approach. Always obey the signs and signals at controlled intersections, but do not assume that other drivers will do so. Common traffic controls at intersections include: -Flashing and non-flashing signal lights and arrows -Stop and yield signs -Signs controlling U-turns, left turns, and right turns -Signs designating specific lanes for left, right, and U-turns, and straight-through traffic -Signs directing traffic Never insist on taking the right-of-way. Let the other driver go first. You will help prevent accidents and make driving more pleasant. On the other hand, it is possible to be too polite. Going too far in yielding your right-of-way may delay traffic by stopping or slowing unnecessarily to allow another driver to go ahead of you. At intersections controlled by signals, do not enter the intersection on a green light until all vehicles and pedestrians are clear. You should not enter an intersection on a red light, except when making a permitted left or right turn. You should not enter an intersection on a yellow light (solid or arrow) unless it is unsafe for you to stop. If you can't stop safely, look out for vehicles that may enter the intersection when the light changes.

Meeting Other Vehicles On Hills

You should stay to the far right side of the road when approaching hilltops and curves. Reduce your speed when: -Encountering an oncoming line of cars -At hilltops where you cannot see oncoming vehicles and obstructions that are over the crest of the hill -On curves and under other conditions that reduce your visibility -Meeting cars at night -Meeting slow-moving vehicles

Suspension For Failure To Provide Proof Of Coverage

Your license can be suspended for six months for failing to have or provide proof of financial responsibility. If you don't have evidence of financial responsibility to show law enforcement when you are stopped for a citation or after an accident, you may have to pay a fine of up to $500 plus penalty assessments, your vehicle may be impounded, and you could lose your license. In fact, if you do not have acceptable financial responsibility and you have an accident, you may lose your license for up to four years. Presenting false evidence of financial responsibility, including an expired or canceled insurance policy, bond, certificate of self-insurance, or assignment of deposit letter is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $750 and 30 days of jail time. The evidence of financial responsibility that you present to the DMV to register your vehicle or in the event of an accident or other traffic stop is reviewed. The DMV may ask the insurance company or other entity to verify that you do indeed have coverage, particularly at the time of an accident. If you did not actually have the proper insurance coverage, your driving privilege will be suspended for one year. To get your license back, you will need to provide evidence of financial responsibility and maintain it for the next three years.