TN Drivers Manual Section C1

What does defensive driving mean?

Being aware, anticipating dangers, and taking action to avoid collisions.

What should you expect from other drivers?

Expect them to do the wrong thing and be ready to react safely.

What is the most important driving attitude?

Courtesy and consideration toward others.

What is the 2‑second rule used for?

Maintaining a safe following distance to avoid rear‑end crashes.

When should you increase following distance to 3–4 seconds?

High speeds, bad weather, limited visibility, or following large trucks/buses.

What causes most rear‑end crashes?

Following too closely (tailgating).

How do you handle a tailgater?

Move to the right if possible; if not, slow slightly to encourage them to pass.

Should you brake suddenly to get rid of a tailgater?

No — it increases your risk of being hit.

How much space do you need when merging or changing lanes?

A minimum 4‑second gap.

Should you ever cut across multiple lanes at once?

No — take them one at a time.

What should you do before crossing an intersection?

Look left, then right, then left again.

How far ahead should you scan while driving?

10–15 seconds ahead (about one city block).

How often should you check your mirrors?

Every 10 seconds.

Where should you look to avoid oncoming headlight glare?

At the right edge of your lane.

What does “split the difference” mean?

Steer between two hazards, giving more space to the more dangerous one.

What does “take hazards one at a time” mean?

Slow down and let one hazard pass before dealing with the next.

How do you safely pass another vehicle?

Only pass one vehicle at a time with a 10‑second gap at 55 mph.

When is it safe to return to your lane after passing?

When you can see both headlights of the passed vehicle in your rearview mirror.

What should you NEVER do in an intersection?

Block it or stop with part of your car in a traffic lane.

How do you handle drivers merging suddenly?

Slow down and give them space.

What should you do if a driver is forced into your lane?

Slow down and create room.

What is road rage?

Aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating, honking, yelling, cutting off others.

What percentage of traffic fatalities involve aggressive driving?

About 66%.

How do you avoid road rage?

Stay calm, obey laws, don’t engage, give space, don’t take things personally.

What should you do if an angry driver follows you?

Go to a police station or public place.

What should you do if you witness a crash?

Pull off safely, turn on flashers, and tell police you witnessed it.

What should you do if you arrive first at a crash?

Call 911 and avoid blocking emergency responders.

Should you move an injured person?

Only if there is immediate danger (fire, explosion risk).

What is a “safety cushion”?

Space around your vehicle that gives you time to react.

Why is space to both sides important?

It gives you room to turn or avoid hazards.

How do you avoid driving in another driver’s blind spot?

Speed up or slow down to stay out of it.

What should you do when meeting oncoming traffic on a two‑lane road?

Stay slightly right in your lane to avoid crowding the centerline.

How do you communicate with other drivers?

Use signals, brake lights, horn, and eye contact when needed.

What does “Aim High in Steering” mean?

Look far down the road to spot hazards early.

What does “Get the Big Picture” mean?

Maintain enough following distance to see hazards around you.

What does “Keep Your Eyes Moving” mean?

Scan constantly — don’t stare.

What does “Leave Yourself an Out” mean?

Always keep space in front and at least one open side to escape danger.

What does “Make Sure They See You” mean?

Use signals, lights, and horn to ensure others know your intentions.