Express Driving School Lessons

What rule should you follow to avoid rear ends and other accidents?

Follow another vehicle with enough distance to allow for safe stopping depending on speed and road conditions, about 3 seconds.

What are freeway exit lanes?

Freeway exit lanes provide you (a) a lane to safely reduce speed, (b) space to yield to other drivers, and (c) space and time to adjust your speed to posted speed limits and sharp curves on the exit ramp.

How long is the DMV mandated to impose a license suspension?

From 4 months to 4 years depending on the number of offenses in many states

What does a flashing red light mean?

A flashing red light has the same meaning as a stop sign -- after fully stopping, proceed when safe, observing right-of-way.

What does a flashing yellow light mean?

A flashing yellow light is a warning to slow down and be especially alert.

What does a green arrow mean?

A green arrow means that you have right-of-way to turn in the direction the arrow is pointing after yielding to traffic, bicycles, and pedestrians already in the intersection. The turning vehicle is protected from oncoming traffic.

What does a green light mean?

A green light allows you to proceed after intersection is cleared of traffic and pedestrians and you have the right-of way.

What does a green painted curb mean when parking?

A green painted curb means that you may park for a limited time; the time is usually shown on a sign or is painted on the curb.

Driving in California is ________?

A privilege granted by the state

What does a red arrow mean?

A red arrow means stop until the green arrow or green signal appears and that you may not turn either right or left on a red arrow even if you stop first.

What does a red light mean?

A red light or stop sign means to stop fully behind the limit line or crosswalk, and if neither of these exist, before entering the intersection. **At intersections that do not have limit lines, you must stop at the entrance to the intersection.

What does a red painted curb mean when parking?

A red painted curb means no stopping, standing, or parking (except buses).

When should you safely make a right hand turn?

A right turn may be made on a red light after you have yielded to all traffic and pedestrians and if a NO TURN ON RED sign is not posted. You must make a complete stop before making your right turn. Safely turning right includes not turning wide; you should stay in the right lane until after you have finished your turn. To safely turn right, you should get close to the right edge of the road (watching for bicycles or motorcycles between your vehicle and the curb).

What is considered a "passing lane"?

On a two lane highway a third lane may be made available for limited distances and for purposes of passing called a "passing lane." The passing lane is separated by a broken white line from the right-side lane you are in. There will normally be a double yellow line on the left side of the passing lane which separates you from oncoming traffic and over which you may not cross. A passing lane may be used only for passing, and you must return to the right lane as soon as you have completed passing. There will frequently be signs indicating that a passing lane is ahead.

What is the Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS)?

Once an individual is issued a driver's license, the DMV uses a "point count" system to rate his or her driving records. The Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) is based on negligent operator points, that is points given within a specific time period for any violation of the California Vehicle Code in relation to the rules and regulations that a licensed driver must comply with

What is the purpose of freeways with timed entrance lights?

Timed entrance lights provide a gap between vehicles which reduces the likelihood of sudden stops and congestion. Some of these lights will only allow 1 car per lane to go at a time, others will allow 2 per lane. Double merge lanes allow traffic on high volume on-ramps to create gaps which allow vehicles to merge safely and may also include lanes marked for carpools. Carpool lanes will not have a meter light.

What is a four-way stop sign? How does it work?

This means that there are 4 stop signs (each corner) at an intersection. The vehicle on the left MUST YIELD to the vehicle on the right.

What causes "road rage"?

characterized by a driver using their vehicle in an angry and aggressive manner such as: (a) deliberate sudden braking, (b) pulling close to another car, (c) tailgating, (d) attempting to coerce another driver to pull over to settle a dispute, (e) cutting off other drivers, (f) speeding up when someone attempts to pass, (g) honking the horn or flashing headlights, (h) yelling or making obscene gestures

Provisional licensees cannot transport passengers under age __________?

20

When entering a bicycle lane to make a right turn, within how many feet must you enter the lane before making the turn?

200 ft

When are you classified as a CLASS C NEGLIGENT DRIVER?

A Class C driver is considered a negligent driver, if he or she has: ►4 or more points within a 12 month period, ►6 points in a 24 month period, or ►8 points in a 36 month period.

What does a single broken yellow line mean?

A SINGLE BROKEN YELLOW LINE in the center of the road denotes the center of a two-lane, two way road. Passing is permitted on either side, if safe conditions exist, and to make left turns into other street, driveways, and alley if it can be done safely. When passing, you must use the lane belonging to oncoming traffic.

What does a single solid yellow line mean?

A SINGLE SOLID YELLOW LINE in the center of the roadway dividing a lane or several lanes of travel in both directions, indicates that you may not drive over it in order to pass other vehicles. You may cross over a solid yellow line to make a left turn at an intersection, to enter or exit a road or a driveway, or to make a U-turn, if it can be made safely and is not otherwise prohibited.

When should you safely make a U-turn?

A U-turn is legal at an intersection with a signal light which is either green or a green arrow unless otherwise prohibited. When attempting a U-turn at an intersection: (a) you must be sure it is not prohibited, (b) scan for pedestrians and bicycles as well as other vehicles that may be entering the intersection, and (c) you must start the turn from the leftmost lane available to you but may finish it in any lane. **A U-turn is illegal on a one way street.

What does a blue painted curb mean when parking?

A blue painted curb means parking is for disabled persons with specially marked license plates or placards.

If someone is killed in a collision, what charge may be imposed on the DUI driver?

A charge of murder (man-slaughter)

What are carpool (HOV) lanes?

(a) are reserved for cars with two or more occupants, (b) are marked with signs and a diamond symbol in roadway, (c) at on-ramps are marked with the number of occupants required and times of day at which carpooling is required, (d) may require that once in a carpool lane you cannot cross over double lines to exit the carpool lane but must wait until you have a broken line and (e) include lanes reserved for buses on freeways that are also marked with a diamond symbol.

What are the distractions that lead to accidents?

(a) boisterous or inappropriate behavior by your passengers, (b) peer pressure to drive too fast or otherwise "show off", (c) the radio, tape/CD players, pagers and cell phones, (d) animals in the car, (e) small children in the car, (f) grooming while driving, (g) reading while driving, (h) emotional instability, and/or (i) thinking about something other than driving while behind the wheel

Who should you leave extra "cushion", space around your vehicle for persons who are likely to be distracted?

(a) delivery persons, (b) construction workers, (c) drivers talking on cellular phones, to passengers, or to children, (d) tourists [particularly at complicated intersections], (e) drivers who slow for what seems to be no apparent reason, (f) drivers looking for a house number, (g) drivers or pedestrians who appear to be intoxicated, and (h) drivers looking at map

What are the psychological causes of driving behaviors?

(a) emotional tension/state, (b) environmental conditions (both inside and outside your vehicle), (c) heredity of behaviors, (d) physical conditions of your body, and (e) the amount of training and practice you've had **These characteristics can affect your psychological ability to focus on the driving task and react safely and courteously.

What is considered a safe passing?

(a) good judgment, (b) the ability to make correct decisions rapidly, (c) good vision including depth perception and (d) knowledge of your vehicle's performance capabilities, acceleration, braking and steering. **At 55 mph, you will travel over 800 feet in 10 to 12 seconds. So will an oncoming vehicle. You will need over 1600 feet (or about one-third of a mile) to pass safely under these conditions, more at faster speeds. Since vehicles a distance of more than 1/3 of a mile seem to be heading toward you very slowly or even standing still it is difficult to judge how fast they are coming at you. If you can see the vehicle moving toward you, it is probably not safe to pass.

When should you NOT park?

(a) in an intersection, (b) on a marked or unmarked crosswalk, (d) within 15 feet of a fire hydrant, (e) within 15 feet of fire station driveway, (f) within 3 feet of a sidewalk ramp for disabled persons, (g) on a freeway unless due to an emergency, required to do so by a police officer, or is specifically permitted, (h) in front of a driveway, (i) at a red curb, (j) in tunnel or bridge, (k) where signs say "no parking," (l) in a parking space for disabled persons (without special placard or license plates), (m) in an area next to a disabled parking space painted with a crosshatched pattern regardless of color, (n) on the wrong side of the street, (o) on a sidewalk, (p) in a traffic lane.

What are the likely future changes in automobile technology?

(a) increased fuel efficiency and new industries to support it, (b) improved safety through engineering research and development (both vehicle and road) and (c) increased sophistication of controls and instruments. Many of these changes will contribute to safety and pollution.

What are the sociological changes caused by the development of the automobile?

(a) increased mobility of the US population, (b) accelerated development of remote areas that would not have otherwise been accessible, (c) the ability to live farther from places of work (suburbia), (d) increased access to goods and services, (e) urban sprawl, (f) reduced extended family and multi-generational households and (g) increased access to better education and healthcare

Why is the position of your vehicle important?

(a) keep up with the flow of traffic within legal limits, (b) avoid other driver's blind spots, (c) keep other vehicles out of your blind spots, (d) avoid maintaining a side-by-side position except for short periods of time, and (e) avoid driving in bunches or packs EX) When entering traffic from a full stop, you should leave a space of 1/2 block in the city and 1 block on highway. When cutting across traffic you need to leave enough room to get completely across.

What are the special speed limits that need to be obeyed even if there is no sign posted?

(a) railway crossings, (b) blind intersections, (c) alleyways, (d) residential districts, (e) schools, (f) bridges, and (g) business districts **Conviction of speeding when in these special areas is based on proof that the driver was unsafe and negligent

What are the economic and health impacts of the automobile over the years?

(a) the creation of an industry which employs a significant number of people, (b) the creation of new technologies and industries to support and supply them, (c) a significant increase in monetary cost for injury and property damage and (d) increased air and water pollution

When should you reduce your speed in urban areas?

(a) traffic is dense, (b) near shopping centers, parking lots, and in downtown areas, (c) when brake lights come on several cars ahead, (d) driving on narrow bridges and in tunnels, (e) when approaching toll plazas, and (f) near schools, playgrounds and on residential streets

What are the areas or sites which are difficult to see from a distance on the open road and may pose hazards?

(a) unmarked field and farm driveways and entrances, (b) livestock crossing areas, (c) roads that suddenly become rough or change surface, (d) soft and unmarked shoulders, (e) roadside stands and gas stations, (f) farm vehicles on the roadway and (g) maintenance activities such as mowing shoulders and center dividers. Stay alert for sudden changes in road conditions.

When should you use your headlights?

(a) when it is cloudy, raining, snowing or foggy, (b) on frosty mornings when windshields may be icy or foggy, (c) on country or mountain roads to make it easier for other drivers to see you, (d) anytime you do not have enough light to see for at least 1000 feet, (e) anytime it would help you see and be seen better, and (f) no later than 30 minutes after sunset and until at least 30 minutes before sunrise.

If any one of these abilities is missing or deficient, you CANNOT be a safe driver. You will be deemed too dangerous to the motoring public and not given a license, considering the following:

(a) you exhibit poor judgment in traffic situations and have difficulty taking appropriate independent action, (b) you fail to anticipate the actions of other drivers and do not react well or quickly to hazards, and/or (c) you appear easily distracted, can not handle simple instructions and do not notice or respond to all road signs

How should you safely drive on freeways?

(a) you must have the skill to steer around, without suddenly slowing, objects which are blocking your lane, (b) you should flash your brake lights to warn other drivers behind you about hazards ahead, and (c) you must reduce speed in construction zones.

What should you do when making a right or left hand turn?

(a) you must scan the intersection and the roadways entering it for pedestrians and bicycles as well as vehicles (b) be aware of controlled lanes and directional signals and planning your vehicle's position before and after the turn so as to avoid a collision or blocking traffic, (c) if your view is blocked, you must yield and move very slowly until you have good visibility, and (d) if there is a bicycle lane, that you must use it to make a right turn, not enter it more than 200 feet before the turn, and not cut off a bicyclist who has the right-of-way in the bike lane.

When should you put on your signal before turning?

**You should not assume that just because you have signaled a turn that there will be space for you to complete a turn. You should check your blind spots in addition to signaling an intention to make a turn. You should signal during the last 100 FEET BEFORE TURNING. On a freeway, you should signal for at least 5 seconds before turning or exiting. Use of electronic signals is required unless (a) the vehicle is not required to be equipped with turn signals, or (b) the signals become inoperable while driving. In these instances, use of hand signals is required. Signal even when you don't see other vehicles around. Be sure your turn signal is turned off after you have completed your turn or lane change so that you will not mislead other drivers.

When entering the lane of an oncoming vehicle in order to pass, you will need at least how many feet to pass safely?

1,600 ft

What are the financial costs of multiple-DUI offenses within 10 years?

1. Bail varies from $150 to $2,500 for a first offense and higher for subsequent repeat offenses. 2. Towing: Retrieving costs can amount to $1,200 for the first 24 hours and $50 for each additional day of storage. 3. Insurance premium for three to five years can double, triple or quadruple, with total costs up to $4,500. 4.. Legal Fees: Total costs for a first offender can be up to $20,000 (Solomon. 2015). 5. Fines for a first, second or third offense range from $390 to $1,000. 6. Alcohol / Drug Counseling Program can vary from a 3-month to 30 month program depending on number of offenses and BAC level, and can cost from $500 to $6000. 7. License Reinstatement Fees can cost from $95-$250. 8. Jail Time​ can be from 3 days to 180 days depending on number of offenses. Costs in terms of lost wages are phenomenal. 9. Insurance: You require a CALIFORNIA SR 22 Certificate before the DMV issues you a Restricted License or for license reinstatement; cost varies from $300 to $800, depending on your driving history, age, gender etc.

What are the four steps of Defensive Driving? What does IPDE stand for?

1. Identify 2. Predict 3. Decide 4. Execute

What are the rules of DUI that all drivers in California should be aware of?

1. It is "unlawful for a person who has 0.08 percent or more, by weight of alcohol in his or her blood to drive a vehicle" (CVC Section 23152 (b)) 2. It is "unlawful for a person who has 0.04 percent or more, by weight of alcohol in his or her blood to drive a commercial motor vehicle" (CVC Section 23152 (d)) 3. It is unlawful for a person under the age of 21 years who has a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.01 percent or greater, as measured by a preliminary alcohol screening test or other chemical test, to drive a vehicle (CVC Section 23136 (a)) **This law is often known as the "Zero Tolerance Law" 4. A person who drives a motor vehicle is deemed to have given his or her consent to chemical testing of his or her blood or breath or, under certain circumstances, urine tested if he or she is arrested for DUI of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both (CVC Section 23612 (a)) **This is known as the "Implied Consent Law"

What are the 5 abilities required for being a safe driver? What is SIPDE?

1. Search 2. Identify 3. Predict 4. Decide 5. Execute **In order to drive safely, you must be in good cognitive, physical, and physiological condition. In particular, you need to be able to see and hear well enough to detect potential hazards and handle emergency situations.

What are three technologies used to help maintain vehicle mobility when a tire is punctured?

1. Self-sealing tires 2. Self-supporting tires 3. Tires supported by an auxiliary system

What are the primary causes for a vehicle collision?

1. Speeding 2. Failure to yield the right-of-way 3. Making illegal turns 4. Failure to obey stop signs and signals 5. Improper lange changes 6. Driving on the wrong side of the road (Lane Choice) 7. Tailgating (following distance) 8. Unsafe passing 9. Lane position & choice 10. Attention Level 11. Visability (Poor Scanning) 12. Poor Decision Making 13. Skid Recovery

What are the top mechanical failures that cause accidents?

1. Stuck Gas Pedal 2. Tire Blowout 3. Brake Failure 4. Cooling System Failure 5. Headlight Failure 6. Engine Failure 7. Hood Latch Failure

What are the 3 basic elements that determine the load capacity of a tire?

1. The size of the air chamber formed between the tire and wheel 2. The strength provided by the tire's construction to hold air pressure 3. The amount of air pressure actually in the tire

A visual lead of ________ seconds or 1 city block is appropriate when driving in traffic in urban areas.

10 to 15

It is against the law to pass when your view of the road ahead is obstructed and when you are within _____ feet of a bridge, viaduct, or tunnel.

100

Provisional licensees cannot drive between _____________?

11 P.M. and 5 A.M.

You should change lanes only when there is sufficient space between vehicles in the next lane and by allowing a gap of at least how many seconds?

4 seconds

What does a double solid yellow line mean?

A DOUBLE SOLID YELLOW LINE in the center tells you that you should not pass in either direction of travel, and never drive to the left of this line, even if it is not marked with a NO PASSING sign. It is normally used in curves where you cannot see oncoming cars.You may cross over a double solid yellow line to make a left turn at an intersection, to enter or exit a road or a driveway, or to make a U turn, if it can be made safely and is not otherwise prohibited.

When traveling at 55mph, how many feet do you need to stop?

400 ft.

If you are driving slower on a two lane road and _____ or more cars are following you, you must pull to the side and let them pass.

5

When exiting a freeway, you should signal your intention to exit for approximately how many seconds?

5 seconds

What does a white painted curb mean when parking?

A white painted curb means you may stop only long enough to pick up or drop off passengers or mail (usually at airport passenger terminals).

What does a yellow painted curb mean when parking?

A yellow painted curb means you may stop only long enough to load or unload passengers or freight, and no longer than is posted on the sign or painted on the curb; drivers of commercial vehicles are usually required to stay with their vehicles.

What does a yellow signal light mean?

A yellow signal light means the light is changing to red and to stop unless it is unsafe to do so.

What is the ABS system?

ABS improves vehicle stability, steer ability and stopping capability. Four-wheel ABS prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing drivers to maintain control of the car, as well as steering control during an emergency braking situation. SITUATION: Wheel lockup during braking causes skidding which in turn causes a loss of traction and vehicle control. This reduces the steering ability to change direction, which makes the car slide out of control. RESOLUTION: With the ABS system, the driver can brake hard, take the evasive action and still be in control of the vehicle in any road condition at any speed and under any load.

Why are airbags important?

Airbags (side & front) are enhanced protection to the upper body in a side-on impact. Full length window bags ("curtains") in some cars are dropped from the roof, shielding occupants' heads from direct impact with an intruding object or vehicle. **They are deployed at a speed and force appropriate with the severity of an impact and takes into account the size and weight of a passenger. It is also able to sense inappropriate seatbelt usage, abnormal seating position (when you are reaching out or bending down and forward), rear-facing child seats and vehicle speed.

Why is drunk driving unsafe?

Alcohol is a mind-altering drug that works as a sedative. It changes the way you think and act. It affects judgment and coordination to the extent that often you feel confident and un-flustered by the thought of driving home drunk.

What are run-flat tires?

Allows a vehicle to continue to drive at a relatively high rate of speed for 50-plus miles after a puncture.

What should you do when making a left hand turn?

At a green light you may make a left turn only if there is no hazard from oncoming traffic and it is not prohibited. When making a left turn at an uncontrolled intersection or a circular green light with no arrow, you must yield to oncoming traffic. It is a good practice to pull into the intersection in preparation for the turn. Once in the intersection you must complete your turn even if the light has turned yellow or red. **When you are making a left turn oncoming vehicles often have the right-of-way. You must yield to oncoming drivers when making a left-hand turn. Safely turning left includes not turning too soon and "cutting the corner" of the lane belonging to vehicles coming toward you.

How should you enter a freeway safely?

At approximately the same speed as traffic making sure you have enough room to merge safely (Remember the maximum speed allowed is 65 mph on most freeways). You must signal as you start to merge into traffic and should continue to signal until you are fully merged. Leave a 4 second gap between you and the car in front. That will give you and the car behind you a 2 second following distance. Do not try to squeeze into a gap that is too small. Leave yourself a big enough space cushion. Watch for vehicles around you. Use your mirrors and turn signals. Turn your head to look quickly to the side before changing lanes. If you need to cross several lanes take them one at a time. Do not stop to wait until lanes are clear, this could cause an accident.

What is the rule of 4-way stop signs?

At intersections with 4-way stop signs, stop first then yield to the vehicle that ARRIVED FIRST OR to the vehicle on your RIGHT if you arrive at the same time as other vehicles.

What should you do if you enter an intersection with no signs (not controlled)?

At intersections with no stop or yield signs you should slow down and be ready to stop and, and you must still yield to vehicles already in the intersection or just entering it. If you and another driver arrive at the intersection at the same time, the driver on the left must yield the right-of-way.

What should you do if you find yourself in a situation with an aggressive driver?

Avoid making eye contact, do not respond to any rude gestures, gradually reduce your speed to help create distance between your vehicles, change lanes if it is safe and possible to do so, and if you are on the interstate, take a nearby exit.

What do broken white lines mean?

BROKEN WHITE LINES indicate which lanes can be used for vehicles traveling in the same direction. You may cross the broken white lines to change lanes or to pass another vehicle (first making sure the passing lane is clear) but you cannot cross the yellow double centerlines to pass another vehicle. The lanes on the other side of the centerline are for traffic traveling in the opposite direction.

What is carbon monoxide? What are the dangers of it?

Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas produced by gasoline powered engines. Therefore, you will not know if you are breathing it. If you breathe too much carbon monoxide, you will become poisoned by carbon monoxide. If you have carbon monoxide poisoning, your ability to see, hear, and think will be severely diminished, which can cause you to have an accident. If you become severely poisoned from continued ingestion of carbon monoxide, it will be lethal. Carbon monoxide can be brought into the car by leaks in the exhaust system or through an open window or ventilating system. ***Do NOT run your vehicle's engine in an enclosed space, such as a garage, without properly ventilating the area. Have your exhaust system periodically checked for leaks to prevent yourself from becoming poisoned by carbon monoxide .

When should you change lanes safely?

Change lanes only when there is sufficient space between vehicles to safely merge into traffic in the next lane by allowing at least a 4 second gap. When changing lanes it is important to use mirrors, turn signals, and turn head quickly to the side to check blind spots. When changing lanes you should check blind spots by turning your head and looking in the lane you want to enter, using your rear-view mirror to check for vehicles directly behind you that may be starting to pass you, and checking the speed of persons ahead and behind in the lane you want to enter to be sure you have time and space to complete the lane change.

Controlled vs Uncontrolled intersections

Controlled intersections use stop signs and traffic signals to control traffic. Uncontrolled intersections don't use stop signs or traffic signals and may only use warning signs (commonly in rural areas).

What are the modern day technology advancement of tires?

Current day tires now provide excellent grip levels, especially in wet weather, and are puncture resistant.

What are the modern day technology advancement of foot pedals?

Current gas and brake pedals are designed to break away in a major impact, reducing injury to feet and ankles.

What do the double broken & solid lines mean?

DOUBLE BROKEN AND SOLID LINES.Marking patterns like these may be found on many three-Iane or five-lane highways. The outside, solid yellow centerlines tells you that you cannot use the center lane for passing. The inside, broken yellow centerline indicates that vehicles traveling in either direction may use the center lane only to make left turns, and start U turns from either direction of the traffic. **Enter the center turning lane with caution, watching for approaching vehicles in the same lane. You must signal and completely enter the lane before making your left-hand turn. Don't stop part way into the lane, with your vehicle blocking traffic.

What is one of the top 5 causes of accidents in the U.S. ?

Failure to yield the right-of-way to other drivers.

It is illegal to double park. Why?

Double parking is parking your car in a traffic lane next to a legally park vehicle. If you find it necessary to stop on a highway, you must pull your vehicle over to the side of the road and off the roadway leaving enough space for passage of other vehicles and a clear view of your vehicle for 200 feet in each direction. Local authorities may remove a vehicle that has been parked or abandoned: (a) to enforce parking regulations, (b) to direct traffic, (c) when it is obstructing traffic, (d) when it obstructs or interferes with public works. The owner must be notified as soon as practical if the vehicle is moved to a location that is not readily visible from the previous location, or if it was placed in storage.

Which age groups are most susceptible to car crashes?

Drivers age 15 to 19 have very high traffic accident, injury and conviction rates. Drivers under 18 years old are 2.5 times more likely to have a fatal accident than the average driver. **Nearly half of drivers who start driving before they are 20 are convicted of a traffic violation within the first year of driving. Teenage drivers have total accident rates that are twice that of adults.

Which is not a result of poor peripheral vision ?

Driving further from parked cars.

What are the essential attitudes to good driving?

Having the courtesy, consideration for others, alertness, using good judgment, acting responsibly and foresight.

You should neither insist on taking the right-of-way nor insist that others take it when they are hesitant to do so. Why?

If two vehicles enter an intersection from different directions at the same time and the intersection is controlled by stop signs in all directions or the signal light is not working, the driver on the RIGHT has the right of way.

What should you do if there is a sudden breakdown on the freeway?

If you lose power or have an equipment failure on a freeway (a) do not stop in traffic, instead pull to the shoulder and completely off the pavement if it can be done safely, (b) do not use the shoulder next to the center divider if at all possible, (c) warn others that you are having difficulties by using your brake lights and turn indicators, (c) safely position your vehicle on the right shoulder as far away from traffic as possible, making sure that your vehicle is visible for at least 200 feet in either direction and vehicles have enough space to pass, (d) use your hazard lights, flares and reflectors when parked on the shoulder to warn approaching traffic and (e) have your vehicle towed off the freeway before attempting repairs. **If your vehicle is parked, stopped or left standing on a freeway for more than four hours, it may be removed by law enforcement or you may be issued a citation.

How can illness affect one's driving ability?

Illness can impair your ability to transmit visual and auditory information to the brain, impair the ability of the brain to react properly, impair your ability to rapidly take corrective action (such as changing the direction and speed of your vehicle) and can cause you to fall asleep at the wheel.

What are "load limiters"?

In latest designs in seat belt pretensioner's system, a load or force limiter is integrated to reduce the risk that seat belts may cause occupant injury from the restraining force of the belt itself. Load limiters respond by releasing a small amount of belt to compensate for the large restraining force of the seat belt in collision. This will reduce the risk of breaking the bones of elderly passengers whose bone are brittle and subject them often to the risk of injury. **Thus, the load or force that the belt applies on the occupant will be kept below a threshold (limit), above which the risk of injury would be higher.

Why is it important to determine whether the intersection you are approaching is controlled or not?

In order to anticipate the behavior of cross traffic and pedestrians, anticipate cars stopping ahead, choose the correct lane for turning, and reduce speed as appropriate. **When entering "T" intersections (not controlled), vehicles on the through road have the right of way. The speed limit is 15 MPH at intersections if during the last 100 feet approaching the intersection you cannot see the other roadways entering the intersection for a distance of at least 100 feet (blind intersection) and in alleyways.

Watch out for cross traffic if passing through an intersection when a signal light has changed to yellow. Why?

It is against the law, even with the green light, to start to cross if there are obstructions (other cars, pedestrians, etc.) that will cause you fail to clear the intersection before the light turns red.

What is a gridlock?

It is dangerous to be caught in an intersection or roadway while attempting to cross. Even if the light is green do not start across an intersection if there are cars blocking your way. It is against the law to enter an intersection unless there is space to get completely across.

What does a yellow arrow mean?

It means that the light is about to change to red so if you have not entered the intersection, you must stop and wait for the green arrow.

What are the actions by DMV if DMV finds you have been a NEGLIGENT DRIVER?

Level I (Warning Letter). You will receive a warning letter if you have accumulated a certain number of points within a time period.Note: You might also receive a warning letter when a major conviction is added to your driving record. Level II (Notice of Intent to Suspend). You will receive a notice of intent to suspend letter if you accumulate a certain number of points within a time period. Note: You might also receive a notice if a major conviction is added to your driving record. Level III (Order of Probation/Suspension). You will receive an order of probation/suspension and your driving privilege will be suspended if you accumulate a certain number of points within a time period. The action is a one-year probation that includes a six-month suspension. The action is effective 34 days from the date the order is mailed. Level IV (Violation of NOTS Probation). You will receive a NOTS violation of probation order and your driver license will be suspended if: ►Any violation or collision occurs during a suspension. ►Any one or two-point violation or responsible collision occurs during a probation period. ►Any Failure To Appear (FTA) in court on a traffic violation. ►A driver under the age of 18 years violates provisional probation because of a responsible collision, an FTA or Failure to Pay (FTP), or any other reportable violation."

Why do tires get flat or "blowout"?

Most flat tires (and tire "blowouts") are because of slow leaks that go unnoticed and allow the tire's air pressure to escape over time. **The TPMS monitors tire air pressure in real-time and warns the driver of a possible tire blowout enabling him to take the necessary action.

Why is traffic safety research important?

Research into traffic safety must continually adapt to meet new challenges and identify ways to better address safety risks.

What does the combination of single broken & single solid yellow lines mean?

SINGLE BROKEN AND SINGLE SOLID YELLOW LINE. The combination of a solid yellow and a broken yellow centerline also shows the center of a two-way roadway. You may pass if the broken line is on your side of the road and safe conditions exist, but you may not pass when a solid yellow line is on your side of the road.

What does a solid white line mean?

SOLID WHITE LINES indicate to you must not pass & need to stay in your lane. It marks the shoulder of the roadway.

What does two sets of double solid yellow lines mean?

TWO SETS OF SOLID DOUBLE YELLOW LINES that are two or more feet apart represent a wall or center divider. Such lines stand for a solid wall. You may not drive on or over these lines for any reason! **NO LEFT OR U-TURN ON SUCH MARKINGS. You may not make a left turn or U turn across such markings. You may only make a U turn or left turn on a street divided with these lines at an opening provided for turns as shown above by car B.

What must a driver be able to Predict?

The (unexpected) actions that a potential hazard might require to be avoided. This also relates to the driver's perception. EX) If you see an oncoming vehicle with its left turn signal on, can you predict that it might turn in front of you?

What must a driver be able to Decide?

The action to take if the potential hazard becomes an actual hazard. This ability relates to the driver's judgment. EX) If the vehicle with its left turn signal on does turn in front of you, can you make a safe driving decision? Should you brake or swerve to avoid the hazard?

Why are seat belts important?

The appropriate use of a seatbelt during a vehicular crash reduces the risk of injury to passengers and in the majority of cases save lives. *Vehicle safety technologies, including seat belts, have saved an estimated 613,501 lives since 1960

What is the "No-Zone"?

The blind spots on the right, left, front, and behind a truck or large vehicle where drivers can't see you. *If you are following a truck closer than four seconds, you are in the rear "no-zone" *Once you pass a truck/semi, don't cut back over from a lane change UNTIL you see the full truck cab (driver window view) in the inside rear view mirror of your car

What must a driver be able to Execute?

The driving maneuver that is required to handle the potentially hazardous traffic situations. This ability relates to the driver's cognitive, visual, and motor function. **After you've decided what action to take, do you have the strength, reactions, reflexes, and the physical ability to maneuver the vehicle safely out of danger?

What is teh maximum speed limit for freeways?

The maximum speed in California is 65 MPH except (a) for some types of trucks, school buses, farm labor vehicles, when towing a trailer, camper or other vehicle, and some other types of vehicles, the speed limit is 55 MPH, and (b) the speed limit may be 70 MPH on freeways in certain rural, low density traffic areas, but only if posted.

What does "right-of-way" mean?

The person who has the legal right to continue on the road. *Also includes yielding to emergency vehicles and school buses

Which lanes on the freeway are considered for fast and slow driving cars?

The right-hand lane(s) on a freeway is (are) for slower moving traffic and leftmost lane(s) is (are) for faster traffic.

What do you do when a school bus have flashing red lights on? What does that mean?

This means that children are exiting the bus and you are required to stop, no matter what side of the road you are on. *If you are on the opposite side of (road) a raised barrier, then this does not apply

What are the undesirable traits for a driver?

They include aggressiveness, egotism, emotional instability, inattentiveness, exhibition and irresponsibility.

What must a driver be able to Search and Identify?

Traffic signs, signals, pedestrians, vehicles and other potential hazards. This relate to the driver's perception.

What is the golden rule of driving?

Treat other drivers the way you want to be treated. *You should obey traffic laws, drive responsibly, and avoid taking unnecessary risks.

What are the consequences if you don't follow the DUI rules?

Under this law, your driving privilege would be suspended for one year on a first offense, if: ►your BAC is .01% or higher, or ►you refuse to take the preliminary alcohol screening (PAS) test, or ►you fail to complete the PAS test

Why is being under the influence while driving dangerous?

Using alcohol, illegal drugs and medications can affect both the physical and psychological skills and abilities that are necessary for safe driving. **It impairs your (a) vision, (b) judgment, and (c) reaction time and will result in driving unsafely. **You can be arrested for driving under the influence of a controlled substance if you use illegal drugs and drive. **You can be arrested for driving under the influence of a controlled substance if a prescription drug causes you to drive unsafely.

Why is vision important when driving?

Vision plays a key role in the steps by which you detect and avoid a hazardous situation. The visual process includes: (a) the transmission of a visual image to your brain, (b) the comparison of this image with learned rules and experiences, (c) a decision to take an action, and (d) the transmission through your nervous system of commands to your hands and feet to turn the steering wheel, apply brakes, accelerate or decelerate, use the horn, etc. **Central vision is used to discern detail, identify, and/or recognize what is being seen. Visual acuity is the finest detail that can be perceived. Visual acuity is important for reading road signs and identifying hazards. The central vision allows the driver to judge depth and relative position in space, time and movement into space/time.

What is "road rage"?

When one driver reacts negatively to another driver. Angry drivers may lash out at other drivers, including you.

What do you do when an emergency vehicle has its lights on?

You MUST move to the far RIGHT side of the road and stop. *If you are already in an intersection, continue through and then pull over to the right and stop as soon as you can.

How should you drive in urban areas?

You can assume that the speed limit is 25 miles per hour in any business or residential district unless posted otherwise. Also, when passing a school building or school grounds when children are present, and when passing a senior center with a "senior" warning sign the speed limit is 25 mph unless otherwise posted.

When would you be able to flash your headlights?

You may flash your headlights to get the attention of another driver so as to avoid an accident.

What should you do when parking downhill?

You must turn the vehicle wheels into curb or toward side of road, set the parking brake and leave the vehicle in reverse gear or "Park" or "Reverse."

What should you do when parking uphill?

You must turn the wheels away from the curb and allow vehicle to settle back against curb, set the parking brake, and leave in "park" if an automatic transmission **When parking on a hill with no curb, park with the wheels turned toward the shoulder, so vehicle will turn away from center of road, set the parking brake, and leave in "park" or reverse gear.

What is the difference of covering vs "riding the brake"?

You should reduce your speed rather than "ride the brake." Covering the brake pedal to improve reaction time is recommended when (a) you are passing parked cars, as they may pull out in front of you or open their door, (b) you see brake lights ahead meaning that traffic is coming to a stop and (c) you are approaching signal lights -- look for traffic build up at the intersection and for flashing crosswalk lights, because these indicate that the light is about to change.

When should you use your high-beam headlights?

You should use your high-beam headlights whenever you are having trouble seeing with your normal headlights and when there are no oncoming cars, EXCEPT (a) when it is raining, foggy, or snowing or (b) it may blind other drivers. **You must: (a) dim your high beams for oncoming vehicles by the time they are within 500 feet of your vehicle and (b) dim your high beams when the vehicle you are following is within 300 feet.

What are the causes to teenager's involvement in car crashes/accidents?

Young drivers' over-involvement in traffic accidents stems from lack of driving experience, exposure to accident risk, alcohol/drug consumption, perceptual abilities, inexperience identifying and handling hazardous situations, personality structure, internal and external influences, poor judgment, excessive speed and attitudinal factors such as risk-taking propensity.

Why is hearing important when driving?

Your hearing can warn you of danger, such as the presence of vehicles in your blind spots. It allows you to respond to someone honking their horn, emergency vehicle sirens and bells at railroad crossings and can alert you to impending engine or other mechanical failures.

What does a yield sign mean?

Your vehicle must SLOW DOWN and yield to other traffic, pedestrians, and bicycles; does not need to stop if not necessary.

What does a stop sign mean?

Your vehicle must come to a COMPLETE STOP before entering the intersection ahead. Stop at the nearest point to the intersection where you have a clear view of approaching traffic and are not in the crosswalk (behind the line).