5 | CALIFORNIA DRIVERS HANDBOOK

What is the hand-to-hand steering method?

The hands are held across another and do not cross

What is the hand-over-hand steering method?

The hands cross and replace another

What situations would require one-handed steering?

When turning to back up and operating vehicle controls whilst driving

When should you signal to other drivers?

When you merge lanes, turn, slow down, or stop.

Before turning, how far should you signal?

100 feet before turning

What is the purpose of your vehicle’s horn?

To communicate with drivers of hazards ahead or your presence in situations you both cannot see (like in corners of a cliff)

What should you use your horn for?

To avoid collisions and to alert oncoming traffic where you both are unable to see

What is the purpose of your vehicle’s headlights?

To see what is in front of you and to allow other drivers to see you and avoid collisions.

If vehicles are approaching towards your car, what distance should you switch your high beam headlights to low beams?

500 feet for vehicles coming toward you

If you are behind and following a car, what distance should you switch your high beam headlights to low beams?

300 feet when following vehicles

What are the three cases should you use your headlights?

1. In harsh weather that prevents you from seeing other vehicles

2. Tunnels and mountain roads (even on sunny days)

3. When the sun is low on the horizon (sunset and before sunrise)

What is the purpose of your emergency flashers?

To warn other drivers of a collision or hazard ahead and when you experience vehicle trouble, forcing you to stop.

What do you do during vehicle trouble?

1. Turn on emergency flashers, or turn signals

2. Pull over away from traffic, or stop in a visible area