Driver's Ed

What are three common driving distractions you see in your family car?

Checking phone, not keeping both hands on the wheel, eating while driving

What should you do if you become drowsy while driving?

Frequent stops to stand and stretch can also increase a driver's alertness, but the body will continue to demand sleep until it gets sleep. To prevent drowsy driving, avoid driving between midnight and 5 am and avoid long trips after a long, stressful day.

When exiting a private road or driveway, to whom must you yield the right of way?

you shall yield the right of- way of all approaching vehicles and pedestrians.

List the 10 steps to securing your vehicle:

1. Stop in a legal, secure parking space. 2. Set parking brake 3. Place gear selector in Park 4. Turn off any accessories used 5. Secure windows 6. Turn ignition switch to "off" 7. Lock ignition and remove key 8. Remove occupant restraints 9. Check traffic prior to exiting vehicle 10. Close and lock the doors

What are three major areas in which a proficient driver must master performance skills?

1. control fo the vehicle (operational) 2. maneuvering the vehicle (guidance) 3. planning (navigational)

Explain the process of myelination and how it impacts a teen driver.

Insulation of the nerves to make information travel faster through them. During teen years, the nerves connecting the areas of the brain that control impulsiveness, process good judgment, and regulate emotion are finally insulated for faster transmissions. Those nerves that do not yet have the insulation coating have a definite influence on the driving skills of the adolescent or teen. As a result, their abilities to maintain full attention, recognize potential dangers, evaluate risky situations, and make good decisions are challenged.

A common myth holds that most teens who are good students and show responsibility in other areas of life will be good responsible drivers. What is wrong with this assumption?

Driving is a complex psychomotor task that requires painstaking development, just as tennis or playing the piano does. Experience and practice is vital.

What is the prevalent philosophy of driving in America?

Driving is a privilege and not an individual right.

What is the best way to cure sleep deprivation before you drive?

It is important to get proper sleep before a long drive and take frequent rests (every 90 minutes to two hours).

Why are voice-activated, hands-free cell phones still a distraction?

It still creates a mental distraction that interferes with the driver's ability to identify hazards, predict collisions, decide on collision avoidance strategies and execute precision maneuvers and anything that takes your mind off of the SIPDE process creates a greater risk for collisions.

Contrast right of way rules for 4 way stops with right of way rules for lane changes on multi-laned streets.

Lane changers must always yield to other traffic. At a four-way stop, each driver, takes their turn after yielding to other drivers.

What are four steps a parent can take to help their new teen driver reduce collisions and become a safer driver?

Limit passengers, negotiate with new driver about behaviors, zero tolerance for alcohol/drugs, everyone in the vehicle must wear a seatbelt.

How can you know when to stop backing your vehicle to avoid hitting a curb?

Line up the left curb or left lane boundary with the line between your vehicles left fender and hood (the gap between the hood and the fender).

What are two ways you can increase your awareness of two wheeled vehicle traffic?

Looking for more than just cars at intersections and being alert for movement.

What can happen to a vehicle if it is not serviced regularly?

Not changing oil can cause engines to seize up. Not rotating tires can cause blowout and uneven tire wear, leading to higher cost to replace tires too soon. Not changing transmission fluid can cause transmission failure. Not checking brakes can cause you to have an unexpected brake loss.

What does the "BGE" in BGE mirror settings stand for and how are BGE mirror settings different from traditional settings?

Stands for Blind Spot and Glare Elimination. They are different from regular mirror settings because they are adjusted out approx. 15 degrees more.

Who has the final authority over an organ donation?

Surviving family members

Regulatory Signs

Tell you laws and regulations that apply at a specific location. They are black or red on a white background. They are generally square or rectangular.

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) light

That your vehicle is installed with ABS.

What is the basic rule for controlling space to the front? How should that rule be modified for higher speeds?

The 3 second rule. A good rule of thumb at higher speeds is one second per every ten miles of travel.

Define "Yield".

give right of way to other traffic

What is the rule of thumb to stay out of another driver's blind spot?

if you can't see the other driver's face in the left side mirror, then he can't see you, either.

Are fuel additives helpful? Why or why not?

No there is nothing to prove the benefits and the cost doesn't add up.

What are four instances when headlights are critical for driving?

Bad weather, dawn and dusk, driving in fog, at night.

Execute

EXECUTE - your decision

When a person is pronounced brain dead, is there any chance of survival?

No

What is the proper sequence of events for starting a car with an automatic transmission?

1. Be sure gear shift is in Park position 2. Place key in ignition switch 3. Depress brake before starting engine 4. Start engine and once it starts, immediately release the igntion switch 5. Give it a few minutes to warm up 6. Depress brake pedal and place transmission into drive 7. Release emergency brake

Describe the four steps to performing a lane change.

1. Check mirrors to ensure traffic is clear. Wait until adjacent lanes are clear before attempting the lane change. 2. Signal your intentions by turning on indicator. Other drivers will adjust to let you in. Don't force your way into another lane. 3. Give a head check over your shoulder in the area of the blind spot. 4. Move back into the lane only after the entire front end of the car just passed can be seen in the rearview mirror.

What are four indicators that you should have your steering system checked by a professional mechanic?

1. Excess movement in the steering wheel 2. steering difficulty 3. odd movement under normal driving conditions, 4. squealing sounds when making turns.

Describe four categories of the ignition electronics system:Excess movement in the steering wheel, steering difficulty, odd movement under normal driving conditions, and squealing sounds when making turns.

1. Ignition System - draws energy from battery to create high voltage surges to set off combustion in engines cylinders. 2. Charging System - produces electrical power while engine is running to operate all electrical components and recharge battery. Consists of drive belt, alternator, voltage regulator, wiring, battery. 3. Starting System - permits driver to turn ignition switch to activate electric motor, Solenoid switch, wiring, and battery. 4. Accessory Circuits - power lights, safety systems, and accessories. System includes fuse box, wiring, and any electrically powered equipment.

What are 6 requirements to obtain a learner's permit?

1. Must be at least 15 years and 6 months old 2. complete a DL1P learner's permit and driver license application form 3. furnish proof of social security, residency, proof of legal presence in USA, and original identification document certifying name and date of birth 4. Pass multiple-choice sign and knowledge test. 5. Any applicant who fails the DMV driver knowledge or sign test for a learner's permit three (3) times will not be allowed to take the examination a fourth time until he/she successfully completes the classroom component of driver education subsequent to the third failure. 6. Pass a vision test

What are 6 requirements for a driver license?

1. Must be at least 16 years and 3 months old. 2. Hold a learner's permit for at least 9 months. 3. Successfully complete a state approved driver education program. 4. Have parent/guardian permission. 5. Parents must certify that their child has driven a motor vehicle for at least 45 hrs, at least 15 of which were after sunset. 6. The 180-day provisional license is valid when accompanied by a valid Virginia learner's permit.

What can you do before a family vacation to decrease the risk of distracted driving?

Adequate sleep is essential before a family vacation or road trip (be sure to also plan the trip and include directions and a map or GPS device).

What are the five guidelines of the Smith System?

Aim High and Look Ahead, Keep Your Eyes Moving, Speed Reduces Your Field of Vision, Get the Big Picture, Leave Yourself a Way Out, Make Sure Others See You

Where should children under 12 ride in a vehicle? Why?

All children aged 12 and under should ride properly buckled in the back seat.

What systems on an automobile should be serviced routinely?

Anything mechanical. Use some common sense evaluation. For example, it's important for such things as oil changes and tire rotations, but not so important to grease your transmission linkage. A lot of maintenance is just simple looking over your car regularly and doing what's needed to keep everything in working order.

How can you use your vehicle's controls more safely?

As the driver gains familiarity with the radio, air conditioning, lighting, and other comfort setting controls, he or she is more likely to make adjustments to these systems while driving. These kinds of adjustments are best made before beginning a trip or while the vehicle is stopped. Portable music players now give drivers the ability to customize their own driving "soundtrack" and resist the urge to change radio stations while driving. While this is good, the driver must resist the urge to change music while the vehicle is moving. When driving a rental car or other unfamiliar vehicle, the driver should take time to learn where the in-dash controls are and what they do. If an adjustment is absolutely necessary, the driver must be able to make the adjustment without taking his or her eyes from the road. Still, the safest alternative is to make adjustments when the vehicle is not moving.

How can you avoid becoming drowsy while driving?

Avoid driving between midnight and 5 am and avoid long trips after a long, stressful day. Try to get a full night's rest before any day that will require more than 2 hours in the car. Adequate sleep is essential before a family vacation or road trip (be sure to also plan the trip and include directions and a map or GPS device).

Identify

IDENTIFY - objects or conditions ahead that could interfere with your path of travel.

Why is seat belt use important?

Because it's the law and can also prevent serious injury and/or death.

Why are neighborhoods particularly dangerous to drive in?

Because pets, children, and even adults are more familiar with their home surroundings and are more likely to enter the roadway without adequately checking for traffic.

The previous article cites that 16 year old drivers "are cited for more mistakes than anyone except drivers over 82." Why?

Because teenage drivers are unexperienced and undeveloped drivers that often make mistakes and drive recklessly.

How are the Smith System and SIPDE similar? How are they different?

Both use 5 guidelines or rules. Both can be incorporated together. SPIDE method addresses potential hazards one at a time. SMITH system gives a broad overview of driving environment.

Why is it necessary to reduce speed as you enter a sharp curve?

Braking while in a turn is more difficult than while driving in a straight path. It will also save gas by using the car's weight and momentum to slow you down.

Decide

DECIDE - what action or actions to take (slow down, speed up, brake, steer clear) ahead of time to control/reduce risk.

How involved should I, the driver, be in routine auto maintenance?

Draining and replacing the transmission and brake fluids periodically is also a big help to a car.

Why do more collisions occur at controlled intersections than at uncontrolled intersections?

Driver Error. Statistics show that most collisions at controlled intersections occur after a complete stop because the driver fails to look both ways before proceeding through the intersection.

What is a driver's main concern with regards to large trucks, busses, or other large vehicles?

Drivers of non-commercial (or passenger) vehicles should exercise courtesy and give extra space.

Explain the "pruning" process and how it impacts new drivers.

Extra nerve connections begin dying off. This apparently allows the brain to become more efficient at the skills and routines that the body will actually use, without wasting space for what is unused. Researchers believe that teens who have not completed the pruning process simply do not have the brainpower to manage all of the available neural pathways and manage multiple thoughts, critical memories, and emotions well enough to make good decisions.

What can you do to prevent your own driving from becoming aggressive?

Follow the rules of the road!

What should you do if faced with an aggressive driver?

Get out of their way. Don't challenge them. Ignore them. Call 911. Pay attention to the road, and wear your seat belt.

What is your first course of action in reacting to a vehicle that is traveling below the speed limit, weaving within the lane, and breaking erratically?

Give him plenty of room, and stay clear. The best course of action is for your student to allow the car to move ahead. (In this driver's condition, it is better to have him in front of you than behind you).

What are the signs of a drowsy driver?

He may slow down and he will most likely drift out of his lane (this is why modern highway construction includes rumble strips on the right shoulder).

Describe how your normal braking system is different from your parking (or emergency) brake:

Modern vehicles are equipped with two braking systems: a dual hydraulic brake system and a mechanical brake system (parking or emergency brake).

What are some important maintenance steps I should take apart from bringing the vehicle in to a professional?

Most of all though, listen to your car. Spend time with your car. What I mean is to listen for unusual noises. Open the hood on a regular basis and look for leaks, broken wires or hoses, or just anything out of the ordinary.

How often should a new automobile be serviced? What about an older model?

New cars should be service according to the owners manual to keep from voiding your warranty. After the warranty expires, change the oil every 3000 miles. Rotate the tires every 5000 miles, etc. Use common sense and do whatever is needed to your car depending on driving habits and climate. A lot of this is common sense and just takes a little knowing your car.

Graduated Driver Licensing is an approach that is actually reducing teen collisions and deaths. According to the article, what is the key to an effective GDL law?

Night-driving restriction and parent involvement

What should I expect out of a routine service? What kinds of parts should be changed?

Oil change. Check all fluids and lubing all moving joints under the vehicle. Tune up including spark plugs, filters, plug wires, etc. Tire rotation. This all depends on how often you are talking about and what you mean by routine maintenance. Some mechanics will do a routine maintenance like oil changes and such that is needed at the time of service depending on conditions.

What kinds of tissues and organs are included in the donor program?

Organs: Lungs, liver, pancreas, intestine, kidneys, heart Tissues: eye, cartilage, rotator cuff, arteries, veins, blood vessels, bone tissue, tendons, skin

Predict

PREDICT - actions or changes in conditions on/near the roadway that could increase your level of risk.

What are "standard reference points"?

Part of the outside or inside of the car as viewed from the driver's seat.

List 2 acceptable proofs of residency.

Payroll check and voter registration card

Identify three components of the HTS.

People, vehicles, and roadways

Should pets in motor vehicles be harnessed? Why or why not?

Pets are another distraction that can usually be safely and easily managed. Many pet specialty stores have customized harnesses that buckle the pet into the vehicle.

What are the four steps to searching a curve?

Reduce speed, pay attention to signs and vehicles around you, ease off the gas, brake lightly with an even pressure.

What are the signs that tell us a parked car is ready to move into our path of travel?

Reverse lights, which cars have drivers in them, exhaust, car running, pedestrians, etc.

What are two factors you must consider in operator maintenance of your car tires?

Routine operator maintenance on tires includes keeping proper inflation levels (usually 35 psi for radials and 32 psi for bias, check the manufacturers recommendations) and looking for uneven or unusual tread wear.

Scan

SCAN - the roadway and off-road area 20-30 seconds ahead so that you can plan your path of travel.

How do you decide which lane to turn into when turning right or left onto a multi-lane street?

Select the closest lane to them or the first available lane nearest them.

Brake system warning light

Show parking brake is set before moving vehicle or to alert you that all/part of braking system isn't working properly.

How much time do you allow between applying your turn signal until the time you step on your breaks?

Signal at least 100 feet before making a turn. if you are traveling over 40 mph, signal at least 200 feat.

What three strategies are presented to reduce your risk in areas of limited visibility?

Smart Braking, flashing lights, or honking your horn.

List 2 acceptable proofs of social security number.

Social security card and previous year income tax return

What is the "modified hand to hand" steering method and why is it better than hand over hand steering?

The purpose is to keep your hands from the top of the steering wheel, you will likely punch yourself in the face with an airbag's deployment as well as the force of your own forward motion in the vehicle. With "hand to hand" steering, your hands never come in contact with each other.

What rights do medical personnel have when a person has indicated willingness to donate with a donor card?

The shortage of donors is due, in part, to the misconception that medical personnel only need the donor card to use tissues or organs. The fact of the matter is that the family must consent to organ donation. Even when a signed donor card is present, procurement organizations must get permission from the next of kin.

When traveling above the speed limit, what happens to your right of way?

When traveling above the speed limit, or otherwise breaking the law, a driver forfeits right-of-way.

Traditionally, professional driver education instructors have offered 30 classroom hours of study and 6 to 10 hours behind the wheel with the new driver. Has this approach reduced teen collisions? Why?

Traditional driver education courses (30 hours of classroom activities and 6 hours of behind the wheel experiences) have not worked well in developing great beginning drivers! The report cited statistics that show 16 year olds are ill prepared for the responsibility of driving.

What is UNOS and what does it do?

United Network for Organ Sharing - corrdinates organ distribution

How should you control your speed while descending a steep hill?

Use a low gear as you descend the hill. Follow the same rules for curves when approaching a hill crest.

How can you know if you are centered in your lane while driving?

Use your reference points for both right and left positioning three feet from the lane boundary to determine a center lane position.

Alternator/Generator warning light or gauge

Vehicle's electrical system is in trouble.

Temperature light or gauge

Warns you when coolant in engine is too hot or too low.

If you are renting a vehicle for family or business travel, what can you do to make driving safer?

When driving a rental car or other unfamiliar vehicle, the driver should take time to learn where the in-dash controls are and what they do.

When does left-turning traffic have the right of way?

When making a left-hand turn you must always yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic. Or turning from a one-way street to another one-way street.

What reference point can you use to determine the front limit of your vehicle?

When you stop your vehicle with the front even with a line or curb, the line or curb should appear to run under the left side mirror or into the right side corner post.

Explain "smart braking".

When you take your foot off the accelerator and position it over the brake pedel.

Can an individual choose which organs and tissues they would like to donate?

Yes

Do most religions favor or oppose organ and tissue donation?

Yes, no major religion opposes it

Which is better, natural motor oil or synthetic? Can I switch between the two?

You can switch between the two but you can't mix them. As to which one is better, it depends on who you talk to. I personally think that synthetic is a waste of money. While I do realize the durability factors, I personally think the cost outweighs the benefits. However, there are certain motor oils that are tried and tested from my own experience that are better.

How can circadian rhythms affect your ability to drive?

You should plan your driving when you are normally awake and not drive around the time that you normally go to bed. The most dangerous times to drive are generally 12 am to 5 am and 1 pm to 3 pm because your body is generally more ready to sleep at these times.

When does a pedestrian not have the right of way?

legally, pedestrians have the right-of-way at controlled intersections and in marked crosswalks; but the law also states that "no pedestrian shall unnecessarily stop or delay traffic while in a marked or unmarked crosswalk."

What is the safest way to make a phone call from your car?

the driver should pull over and stop the car or have a passenger use the device.

Oil pressure warning light or gauge

when oil isn't circulating at the proper pressure or there isn't enough oil.