Driver’s Ed Unit 2 Study Guide: Modules 4–7

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the physics of driving, vehicle maneuvers, lane positioning, and safety regulations based on Driver’s Ed Unit 2 (Modules 4–7).

Laws of Nature

The basics of physics which also determines the cars movements in motion.

Natural forces influencing vehicle control

Gravity, friction, and inertia.

Inertia

The resistance to any change in a vehicle’s state or motion, which can push a driver into a straight line rather than turning during a sharp turn.

Vehicle pitch

The car moving in a forward or backwards weight shift, typically caused by suddenly accelerating and suddenly breaking.

Factors affecting surface traction

Braking, accelerating, steering, and speed.

Reference points

Visual guides that help assist a driver with lane placement and gaps.

Front limitation

Where the front bumper is and where you can see.

Back limitation

Where you can see from the rear bumper, requiring the use of side mirrors.

Vehicle footprint

The entire area around the car.

Antilock Braking System (ABS)

A system designed to allow maximum stopping forces without locking the breaks.

Smooth braking techniques

Techniques that allow for better fuel economy and more comfort for the driver.

Turnabout

A $2$ point turn used if a driver misses an address or building and cannot drive around the block.

Swing collisions

Collisions prevented by monitoring the front of the vehicle when backing up and turning the steering wheel.

Lane Position 2

Used for avoiding hazards on the right and for left turning.

Lane Position 3

Used for avoiding hazards and oncoming traffic on the left.

Controlled intersection

An intersection that features signs and rules.

Uncontrolled intersection

An intersection that does not have signs or rules.

Staggered stop

A stopping position designed to create more space for larger vehicles to intersect.

Left turns

A maneuver statistically more hazardous because drivers have to cross directly onto oncoming traffic.

Apex

The point when navigating a curve at which a driver should begin to smoothly accelerate.

Cloverleaf interchange

A type of highway interchange characterized by weave lanes.

Steady red X

A signal displayed over an expressway lane signifying the lane is closed or prohibited.

Expressway following distance

A standard recommended distance of $4$ seconds.

Virginia rural interstate speed limit

The maximum statutory speed limit of $70\,\text{mph}$.

School bus spacing

The requirement to be $10\,\text{feet}$ away from the bus when coming to a stop behind it.

Work zone driving modifications

Following the signs and removing all distractions.

Low-beam headlights (following)

Legally required in Virginia when following another vehicle within $200\,\text{feet}$.

Overdrive your headlights

Driving at a speed where the total stopping distance is longer than the distance illuminated by the headlights.

Hydroplaning

When a vehicle’s tires lose contact with the road and ride on top of a film of water.

Oversteer (fishtail) correction

Regaining control by gently turning the steering wheel in the same direction the vehicle is sliding.

Front traction loss (understeer) correction

The procedural step to straighten the steering wheel slightly.