Permit Test for the Win Part 2

Maneuvering

Large vehicles and trucks are not as easy to maneuver as passenger vehicles. Unless signs are posted, trucks must be in the right traffic lane or as close as possible to the right edge of the road. On a divided highway with four or more traffic lanes in one direction, they may also be driven in the lane just to the left of the far-right lane.

When driving around large vehicles and trucks, do not:

* Change lanes directly in front of them to reach an exit or turn. Dividing into a tight space in front of a large vehicle or truck is dangerous.
* Drive next to them longer than you need to when passing. Always pass a large vehicle on the left side. After you pass the large vehicle or truck, move ahead of it. Driving alongside a large vehicle makes it hard for the driver to avoid dangers in the road.
* Follow too closely. This is called tailgating and is dangerous. Give a truck more space than you would give a smaller vehicle. If you cannot see the truck’s side mirrors, the truck driver cannot see you. When you tailgate, you decrease your own safety distance.
* Underestimate the size and speed of an approaching large vehicle of tractor-trailer. A large vehicle or tractor-trailer often appears to be moving slower because of its size.
Many collisions involving passenger vehicles and large vehicles happen at intersections. In many cases, the passenger vehicle driver did not realize how close the large vehicle or truck was or how fast it was traveling.

Buses, Streetcars, Trolleys

Buses, streetcars, and trolleys will often have safety zones. Safety zones are spaces set aside for pedestrians. They are marked by raised buttons or markers on a road. Do not drive through a safety zone.

When people are boarding or exiting a bus, streetcar, or trolley without a safety zone, stop behind the vehicle’s nearest door or platform. Wait for the passengers to reach a safe place and then proceed.

When a bus, streetcar, or trolley is stopped at a safety zone or intersection where traffic is controlled by a law enforcement officer or traffic light, you may pass at no more than 10mph.

Do not overtake and pass any light-rail vehicle or streetcar on the left side, whether it is moving or standing, unless:

* You are on a one-way street.
* The tracks are so close to the right side that you cannot pass on the right.
* A traffic officer directs you to pass on the left.

To safely share the road with light rail vehicles:

* Be aware of where they operate. Buildings, trees, etc. can cause blind spots for the operator.
* Never turn in front of an approaching light rail vehicle.
* Maintain a safe distance from the light rail vehicle if it shares the road with other traffic.
* Check for approaching light rail vehicles before you turn across the tracks. Complete your turn only if a traffic light indicates you may proceed.
Light rail vehicles can interrupt traffic lights. Do not go until the traffic light indicates you may proceed.

Motorcycles

Motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as car and truck drivers, They also face added dangers. Motorcycles require exceptional handling ability and are harder to see.

Motorcyclists can increase their chances of being seen by:

* Keeping their headlight on at all ties, even during the day.
* Wearing a bright-colored jacket, vest, and helmet.
* Adding reflective material to helmets and clothes.
* Using turn signals.
* Flashing their brakes lights before slowing down to help others from notice them.
* Avoiding the blind spots of other vehicles.
* Not lingering between vehicles when lane splitting.

To safely share the road with motorcyclists:

* Check for motorcycles and use your mirrors when you change lanes or enter a major road. Motorcycles are smaller in size and harder to see so they easily disappear in a vehicle’s blind spots.
* Allow a four-second following distance. This space will help you avoid hitting a motorcyclist if they brake suddenly or fall.
* Whenever possible, give a motorcycle the full lane. It is legal to share lanes with motorcycles, but it is not safe.
* Never try to pass a motorcycle in the same lane as you.
* When possible, move to one side of your lane to give motorcyclists more room to pass.
* Check for motorcyclists before you open your door next to traffic.
* Before you turn, check for motorcyclists and gauge their speed.

Road conditions can cause motorcyclists to suddenly change speed or direction. These include:

* Potholes
* Gravel
* Wet or slippery surfaces
* Pavement seams
* Railroad crossings
* Grooved pavement

Emergency Vehicles

Give the right-of-way to any law enforcement vehicle, fire engine, ambulance, or other emergency vehicle using a siren and red lights. Drive to the right edge of the road and stop until the emergency vehicle(s) have passed.

This does not apply if you are in an intersection. Never stop in an intersection. If you are in an intersection when you seen emergency vehicle, continue through the intersection. Drive to the right as soon as it is safe and stop.

Emergency vehicles often use the wrong side of the street. They sometimes use a loudspeaker to talk to drivers blocking their path.

Obey any direction, order, or signal given by a traffic officer, law enforcement officer, or firefighter. Follow their orders even if they conflict with existing signs, signals, or laws.

It is against the law to follow within 300 feet of any fire engine, law enforcement vehicle, ambulance, or other emergency vehicle when their siren or flashing lights are on.

You can be arrested if you drive to the scene of a fire, collision or other disaster. When you do this, you are getting the way of firefighters, ambulance crews, or other rescue and emergency personnel.

Slow-moving Vehicles

Large, trucks, bicycles, and some cars can lose speed on long or steep hills. They can also take longer get up to speed when entering traffic. Some vehicles are not designed to keep up with the speed of traffic. Farm tractors, animal-drawn carts, and road maintenance vehicles usually travel 25mph or less. Slow-moving vehicles have an orange/red triangle on their back. When you see these vehicles, adjust your speed before you reach them.

Some slow-moving vehicles that may operate on public roads:

* Wheelchairs
* Scooters
* Neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs)
* Golf carts

Adjust your speed to share the road with these vehicles. There are times when one of these vehicles may be moving slower than the speed of traffic on a two-lane highway where it is unsafe to pass. If a line of five or more vehicles forms behind the slow-moving vehicle, it must turn off the road at the nearest safe place. This could be an area designated a turnout or an area where these is enough space for a safe turnout.

Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEV) and Low-speed Vehicles (LSV)

Watch out for slow-moving vehicles in the road when you see these signs or markings:

* NEV USE ONLY
* NEV ROUTE

NEVs and LSVs reach a maximum speed of 25mph. They are restricted from roads where the speed limit is greater than 35mph.

Owners of registered NEVs and LSVs must comply with financial responsibility laws and have a valid driver’s license.

Animal-drawn Vehicles

People in horse-drawn vehicles and people riding horses or other animals are allowed to share the road with motor vehicles. It is a traffic offense to scare horses or stampede livestock. Slow down or stop if necessary.

Bicyclists may:

* Legally ride on certain sections of freeways where there is no alternate route and bicycling is not forbidden by a sign.
* Move left to avoid hazards. These may include parked or moving vehicles, bicycles, animals, or trash.
* Choose to ride near the left curb or edge of one-way street.

Bicyclists must:

* Obey all traffic signs and signal lights.
* Ride in the same direction as traffic.
* Signal when changing lanes or turning
* Yield to pedestrians.
* Wear a helmet (if under 18 years old).
* Allow faster traffic to pass when safe.
* Stay visible (for example, never weave between parked vehicles).
* Ride as near to the right curb or edge of the roadway as possible.
* Not ride on the sidewalk (unless allowed by the city).
* Make left and right turn in the same way driver do, using the same turn lanes. If you are traveling straight on a bicycle, use a through traffic lane or, whenever possible, use a bike lane.
* Have a brake on their bicycle. The brake must enable the bicyclist to make a one-wheel skid on dry, level clean pavement.

Bicycling at Night

When it is dark out, bicyclists should avoid wearing dark clothing. They must have the following equipment:

* A front lap with a white light visible from 300 feet.
* A rear red reflector, a solid red light, or a flashing red light. This mist have a built-in reflector that is visible from 500 feet.
* A white or yellow reflector on each pedal, the bicyclist’s shoes, or their ankles. These must be visible from 200 feet.
* A whiter or yellow reflector on the front wheel, a white or red reflector on the rear wheel, or reflectorized tires.

Bicycling in Travel Lanes

Bicyclists traveling slower than the flow of traffic must ride as close as possible to the right curb or edge of the road, unless:

* Passing a vehicle or another bicycle in the same direction.
* Preparing to make a left turn at an intersection, into a private road, or at a driveway.
* Avoiding a hazard or road condition (for example, pedestrians, animals, surface hazards).
* A lane is too narrow for a bicycle and a vehicle to safely travel side-by-side in the lane.
* Approaching a right turn.
* The road is a one-way road with two or more lanes. In this case, a bicyclist may ride near the left curb or edge of the road.

Drivers should follow at a safe distance. When it is safe, the bicyclist should move to a position that allows vehicles to pass.

Passing a Bicyclist

To safely pass a bicyclist that is in the travel lane, driver may need to change to another lane. In this case, pass safely and quickly, then return to your original lane. Leave space between your vehicle and the bicyclist.

When you cannot change lanes to pass a bicyclist, allow at least three feet between your vehicle and the bicyclist. Slow down if you cannot give three feet space. This will help you avoid putting the bicyclist in danger.

Drivers must also remember to:

* Give bicyclists enough space so they are not forced into parked vehicles or open vehicle doors.
* Only merge toward the curb or into the bike lane when it is safe.
* Merge safely behind a bicyclist when preparing to make a turn.
* Check for bicyclists when changing lanes or entering traffic. They may be hidden in a vehicle’s blind spot.
* Be careful when approaching or passing a bicyclist on a two-lane road.

For your own safety and the safety of your passengers, remember to go through the work zone carefully.

* Slow down.
* Allow extra space between vehicles
* Merge early.
* Expect sudden slowing or stopping.
* Watch for drivers changing lanes at the last minute.
* Avoid distractions.

Cones, drums, or other carriers will guide you through the work zone. Reduce your speed. Prepare to slow down or stop for highway equipment. Merge as soon as it is safe without crossing the cones or drums. Watch for bicycles if lanes are narrow or the shoulder is closed. Share the road when they are present. Watch for work zone speed limit and reduced speed limit warning signs. Do not stop or slow down to watch the road work. Obey special signs or instructions from workers (flaggers).

Fines and Double Fine Zones

Fines for traffic violations in work zone can be $1000 or more. Anyone convicted of assaulting a highway worker faces fines of up to $2000 and imprisonment for up to one year.

Certain roads are chosen as “Safety Enhanced-Double Fine Zones.” This is due to increased collision-related injuries and fatalities. Fines are doubled in these zones.

Fines are also doubled in highway construction or maintenance zones when workers are present.

Drivers must move over and slow down for emergency and road work vehicles. These include:

* Stationary emergency vehicles or tow trucks displaying flashing amber warning lights.
* Stopped Department of Transportation (Caltrans) vehicles, drivers must move over a lane (if it is safe) or slow down.

Vehicles with Hazardous Loads

A diamond-shaped sign on a truck means that the truck’s load may be dangerous (gas, explosives, etc.) Vehicles with these signs must stop before crossing railroad tracks.

Speed Limits and Reduced Speeds

California has a “Basic Speed Law.” This means that you may never drive faster than is safe for the road conditions.

There are also situations with specific speed limit laws and conditions where you should reduce your speed. Unless otherwise posted, the maximum speed limit is 55mph on a two-lane undivided highway and for vehicles towing trailers.

Heavy Traffic or Bad Weather

You must drive slower when there is heavy traffic or bad weather. At the same time, you should not block normal and reasonable traffic flow by driving too slowly. You may be cited if you do. I you choose to drive slower than other traffic, do not drive in the fast lane. Move to the right when another driver is close behind you and wishes to drive faster.

You must drive in the far-right lane or in a landmarked for slower vehicles when you:

* Tow a vehicle or trailer.
* Drive a bus.
* Driver a truck with three or more axles.

If no lanes are marked and there are four or more lanes in your direction, you may only drive in the two lanes closest to the right edge of the road.

Pedestrians, bicyclists, and other vehicles may experience sudden strong winds when they are passing you or you are passing them. Slow down and pass safely.

Around children

The speed limit is 25mph when you drive within 500 to 1000 feet of a school while children are outside or crossing the street (unless otherwise posted). Some school zones may have speed limits as low as 15mph.

Near schools, look for:

* Bicyclists and pedestrians
* School safety patrols or crossing guards. Be sure to obey their directions. For the crossing guard’s safety, allow them to safety get to the side of the road before driving ahead.
* Stopped school buses and children crossing the street/
* Some school buses flash yellow lights when preparing to stop to let children off the bus. The yellow flashing lights warn you to slow down and prepare to stop.
* When the bus flashes red lights (located at the top front and back of the bus), you must stop from either direction until the children are safely across the street and the lights stop flashing.
* The law requires you remain stopped as long as the red lights are flashing. If you fail to stop, you may be fined up to $1000 and your driving privilege could be suspended for one year.
* If the school bus is on the other side of a divided or multilane highway (two or more lanes in each direction), you do not need to stop.

An intersection is considered blind if:

* It has no stop signs at any corner.
* You are within 100 feet of the intersection and you cannot see the road for at least 100 feet in both directions.

If your view is blocked, move slowly forward until you can see. The speed limit for a blind intersection is 15mph.

Alleys

An alley is any road no wider than 25 feet that is used to access the rear or side entrances of buildings or properties. The speed limit in any alley is 15mph.

Near Railroad Tracks

The speed limit is 15mph when you are within 100 feet of a railroad crossing and you cannot see the tracks for 400 feet in both directions. You may drive faster than 15mph if the crossing is controlled by gates, a warning signal, or a flagman.

At railroad or train crossings:

* Look in both directions and listen for trains. Many crossings have multiple tracks. Be ready to stop before crossing, if necessary. Cross railroad tracks only at designated crossings and only when it is safe to do so.
* Expect a train on any track, at any time, traveling in either direction. If you need to stop after crossing the tracks, wait until you can completely cross the tracks before you stop.
* Never stop on the railroad tracks. If you are on the tracks, you risk injury or death.
* Watch for vehicles that must stop before they cross train tracks. These vehicles include buses, school buses, and trucks transporting hazardous loads.
* When the crossing devices are active or a person warns you a train is coming, stop between 15 feet and 50 feet from the nearest track.
* Stop if you see a train coming or if you hear the whistle, horn, or bell of an approaching train.
* o not go under lowering gates or around lowered gates.
* Flashing red warning lights indicate you must stop and wait. Do not proceed over the railroad tracks until the red lights stop flashing, even if the gate rises. if the gates are lowered and you do not see a train approaching, call the posted railroad emergency toll-free number or 9-1-1. Be ready to give a detailed description of your location.

Light Rail Crossings

The train crossing rules apply. Light rail vehicles are very quiet and accelerate more quickly than trains.

Buses, Streetcars, Trolleys

The passing speed limit when a bus, streetcar, or trolley is stopped, and it is safe to pass, is no more than 10 mph.

Business or Residential Districts

The speed limit is 25mph, unless otherwise posted.

Near Animals

If you see a sign with a picture of an animal, be alert for possible animals on or near the road. If you see animals or livestock near the road, slow down or stop and proceed when it is safe. Be sure to follow directions from the person in charge of the animals. Do not swerve. You may lose control of your vehicle and cause an accident.

You must not:

* Smoke when a minor is in the vehicle. You can be fined up to $100.
* Dump or abandon animals on a highway. This crime is punishable by a fine of up to $1000, 6 months in jail, or both.
* Send or read text messages or emails while you are driving.
* Wear a headset or earplugs in both ears while driving.
* Drive a vehicle so loaded with property or people that you cannot control it, see ahead, or see to the sides of your vehicle.
* It is illegal to drive any vehicle with an unsecured load that is a safety hazard. Unsecured loads like ladders, buckets, and loose items in the back of pickup trucks can fall onto the road and be dangerous for other motorists, especially motorcyclists.
* Carry anything in or on a passenger vehicle with extends beyond the fenders on the left side or more than six inches beyond the fenders on the right side. Cargo that extends more than four feet from the back-rear bumper of the vehicle must display a 12-inch red or fluorescent orange square flag. At night, this cargo must be marked with two lights.
* Allow a person to ride in the back of a pickup or other truck unless the vehicle has seats. In this case, the passenger must use both the seat and safety belt.
* Transport animals in the back of a pickup of other truck unless the animal is properly secured. This prevents the animal from falling, jumping, or being thrown from the vehicle.
* Drive a vehicle equipped with a video monitor, if the monitor is visible to the driver and displays anything other than vehicle information, global mapping, external media player, or satellite radio information.
* Throw a cigarette, cigar, or other flaming or glowing substance from your vehicle.
* Put signs or other objects on the front windshield or back side windows that block your view. Do not hang objects on the mirror. Windshield and window sticker, etc. ar allowed only in these locations
* A 7-inch square on either the lower corner of the passenger’s side windshield or the lower corner of the rear window.
* A 5-inch square located in the center uppermost portion of your windshield of an electronic toll payment device.
* Interfere with a funeral procession. You an be ticketed if you interrupt a funeral procession. A funeral procession is led by a traffic officer and has the right-of-way. All vehicles taking part in the procession have windshield markers to identify them and have their headlights on.
* Operate a vehicle that has a visual or electronic product or device that makes it hard to read the license plate.
* After a license plate in any way.

You must:

* Use your headlights beginning 30 minutes after sunset.
* use your headlights until 30 minutes before sunrise.
* Dim your high-tea headlights to low beams within 500 feet of a vehicle coming toward you or within 300 feet of a vehicle you are following.

Getting a Ticket

If you are stopped by a law enforcement officer and cited (ticket) for a traffic violation, you sign the ticket as a promise to appear in traffic court.

If you do not keep your promise to appear in court, the failure to appear (FTA) goes on your driver record and DMV may suspend your driver’s license. You must clear all FTAs with the court and pay required fees.

Each time you are convicted of a moving traffic violation, the court notifies DMV. The conviction is placed on your driver’s record. Convictions reported by other states are also added to your driver’s record.

Evading Law Enforcement

It is a misdemeanor to use a motor vehicle to flee or attempt to evade law enforcement performing their duties. This is punishable by imprisonment in a county jail for 1 year or less.

A person convicted of causing serious bodily injury during the course of a law enforcement pursuit is subject to:

* imprisonment in a state prison for up to 7 years, or a county jail for 1 year or less.
* A fine between $2000 and $10,000.
* Both a fine and imprisonment

A person convicted of manslaughter resulting from evading law enforcement during a pursuit is subject to imprisonment in a state prison for a minimum of 4 to 10 years.

Speed Contests and Reckless Driving

A person convicted of reckless driving or engaging in a speed contest that causes injury to another person is subject to imprisonment, a fine, or both a fine and imprisonment.

Points on Your Driver’s Record

Traffic convictions and collisions stay on your record for 36 months (or longer, depending on the type of conviction).

Your license may be suspended when your driver’s record shows one of the following point totals:

* 4 points in 12 months
* 6 points in 24 months
* 8 points in 36 months

Traffic Violator School Convictions

If you are given a one-point traffic violation, the judge may offer you the choice to attend a traffic violator school to have the citation not reported to your insurance company but remain on your driving record. You can do this once in any 18-month period. The school will report your course completion to the court. You will also get a completion receipt.

If you are a commercial driver and are cited in a noncommercial vehicle, you may also be eligible to attend traffic school.

Suspension or Revocation

If you get too many negligent driver points, DMV will place you on probation, suspend and/or revoke your driving privilege. When this happens, you have the right to a hearing. Your suspension or revocation order will have more information about your right to a hearing.

DMV will revoke your driving privilege if you are convicted of a hit-and-run or reckless driving that resulted in injury. Courts have the authority to suspend a person’s driving privilege.

At the end of your suspension or revocation, you may apply for a replacement driver’s license.

What You Need to Know About Record Confidentiality

* Most information in your driving record is available to the public
* Records containing a physical or mental condition are confidential
* Certain government agencies can see your residence address. There are fewer restrictions for your mailing address.

Scan Your Surrounding

Always keep your eyes moving to scan your surroundings. Take in the whole scene. If you only look at the middle of the road, you will miss what is happening on the side of the road and behind you.

You should also keep a safe distance around your vehicle. This gives you time to react if another driver makes a mistake. Give yourself enough space on all sides of your vehicle to brake or maneuver if your need to.

Before changing lanes, look in your rearview mirror to check for nearby vehicles. Look over your shoulder to check your blind spots. There is more information about blind spots later in this section.

Know What is Ahead of You

Scan the road 10-15 seconds ahead of your vehicles so you can see hazards early and avoid last minute moves. Look beyond the vehicle ahead of you. Do not constantly look at the vehicle in front of you. This is known as a “fixed stare” and can be dangerous.

As you scan ahead, be alert for vehicles and hazards around you. This prepares you to react quickly to changes in the road ahead. On the freeway, be ready for rapid changes in road conditions and traffic flow. Watch for signals from other drivers. Expect merging vehicles at on-ramps and interchanges. Know which lanes are clear so you can use them, if you need to.

Tailgating (Following Too Closely)

Tailgating makes it harder for you to see the road ahead because the vehicle in front of you blocks your view. You also will not have enough time to react if the driver in front of you brakes suddenly.

If a vehicle merges in front of you too closely, take your foot off the gas pedal/accelerator. This creates space between you and the vehicle ahead without needing to slam on your brakes or swerve into another lan.

Use the _three-second rule” to void tailgating. When the vehicle ahead of you passes a certain point, such as a sign, count three seconds. If you pass the same point before you finish counting, you are following too closely.

Allow for more space when:

* A tailgater is behind you. Allow extra space ahead and do not brake suddenly. Slow down gradually or merge into another lane to prevent a collision with the tailgater.
* The driver behind you wants to pass. Allow enough distance in front of your vehicle so the driver will have space to merge in front of you.
* Driving on slippery roads.
* Following motorcyclists or bicyclists on wet or icy roads, metal surfaces (bridge gratings, railroads tracks, etc.), and gravel. Motorcyclists and bicyclists can fall easily on these surfaces.
* Towing a trailer or carrying a heavy load. The extra weight makes it harder to stop.
* Following large vehicles that block your view ahead. The extra space allows you to see around the vehicle.
* You see a bus, school bus, or a vehicle with a placard at railroad crossings. These vehicles must atop a railroad crossings.
* Merging onto a freeway.

To maintain enough space on each side of your vehicle:

* Do not stay in another driver’s blind spot. The other driver may not see your vehicle.
* Avoid driving directly alongside other vehicles on multilane streets. Other drivers might enter your lane or change lanes without looking and crash into you.
* If possible and safe, make space for vehicles entering freeways. Even though you have the right-of-way, this can help prevent collision.
* At freeway exits, do not drive alongside other vehicles. A driver may decide to exit suddenly or swerve back into the freeway.
* Keep space between your vehicle and parked vehicles. Someone may step out from between them, open a vehicle door, or pull out suddenly.
* Be careful when driving near motorcyclists or bicyclists. Always leave plenty of space.

Always check each side of your vehicle at intersections, crosswalks, and railroad crossings. Other vehicles, bicyclists, or pedestrians may be approaching.

At intersections:

* Look both ways, even if other traffic has a red light or a stop sign
* Look to the left first. Vehicles coming from the left are closer to your than vehicles coming from the right.
* Look to the right.
* Take one more look to the left. There may be a pedestrian, bicyclist, or vehicle you did not see the first time.
* Do not rely on traffic lights. Some drivers do not obey them. Before you enter an intersection look left, right, and ahead for approaching traffic.

Blind Spots

Every vehicle had blind spots. These are areas around the vehicle that a driver cannot see when looking straight ahead or using the mirrors. For most vehicles, the blind spots are at the sides, slightly behind the driver.

To check your blind spots, look over your right and left shoulder out of your side windows. Only turn your head when you look. Do not turn your whole body or the steering wheel.

Check your blind spots before you:

* Change lanes
* Turn at an intersection.
* Merge with traffic.
* Back up.
* Leave a parking space.
* Parallel park.
* Pull out from the curb.
* Open your car door.

Know What is Behind You

Check traffic behind you often to know if another vehicle is tailgating you. Be careful if you are being tailgated. Find a way to avoid the tailgater. Change lanes and allow the tailgater to pass you and the car in front of you.

Check behind your vehicle before you:

* Change lanes. Make sure you are not getting in the way of vehicles in the lane you want to enter. Check your blind spots.
* Reduce your speed.
* Turn into a side road or driveway.
* Stop to pull into a parking space.
* Drive down a long or steep hill. Watch for large vehicles because they can gather speed very quickly.
* Back up. Backing up is always dangerous because it is hard to see behind your vehicle. Back up slowly to avoid collisions. Do not depend only on your mirrors or only looking out a side window.

Before you back u or back out of a parking space:

* Check in front and behind the vehicle before you get in.
* If you have kids with you or there are kids nearby, know where they are. Make sure they are away from your vehicle and in full view before moving your vehicle.
* Check your blind spots. As a safety measure, look over your right and left shoulders again while backing up.

Darkness

When driving at night, make sure you can stop in the distance lit by your headlights. Use you high-beam headlights when possible. This includes open country or dark city streets. Do not use high-beam headlights in areas where they are illegal. Dim your lights to avoid blinding the driver of an oncoming vehicle with your high-beam headlights.

If another vehicle’s lights are too bright:

* Do not look directly into the oncoming headlights
* Look toward the right edge of your lane.
* Watch the oncoming vehicle out of the corner of your eye.
* Do not react to the other driver by keeping your high-beam headlights on. This only makes it harder for both of you to see.

When it is raining at night, use your low-beam headlights. Do not drive using only your parking lights.

When you drive at night, remember:

* Pedestrians and bicyclists are much harder to see at night. Stay alert.
* Motorcycles are also harder to see at night. Reduce your speed in highway construction zones.
* When you leave a brightly lit place, drive slowly until your eyes adjust to the darkness.
* When a vehicle with one light drives toward you, drive as far to the right as possible. It could be a bicyclist, motorcyclist, or vehicle with a missing headlight.

To help manage sun glare:

* Keep the inside and outside of your windshield clean.
* Make sure your windshield wipers are in good working order.
* Make sure your wiper fluid is full.
* Wear polarized sunglasses.
* Maintain enough space between your vehicle and the vehicles around you.
* Make sure your car visor works and is free of anything that would restrict use.
* Be aware of pedestrians. You may have difficulty seeing them.
* Try to avoid driving during sunrise and sunset.Adjust your

Wet road speed:

Go 5 to 10 mph slower

Packed snow speed:

Reduce your speed by half

Ice speed:

Slow to a crawl.

Here are situations where the road may be more slippery:

* Shade from trees or buildings can hide icy spots on cold, wet days. These areas freeze first and dry out last.
* Bridges and over passes tend to freeze before the rest of the road. They can hide icy spots.
* If it starts to rain on a hot day, the pavement can be very slippery for the first several minutes.

Slippery Roads

Slow down at the first sign of rain, drizzle, or snow on the road. This is especially true if it has been dry, because oil and dust have not washed away.

Turn on your windshield wipers, low-beam headlights, and defroster. In a heavy rainstorm or snowstorm, you my not be able to see more than 100 feet in front of your vehicle. If you cannot see farther than 100 feet, it is not safe to drive faster than 30 mph. You may have to stop from time to time wipe mud or snow off your windshield, headlights, and taillights. If you drive in snowy areas, carry snow chains for your tires. Snow chains give your tires more traction. Carry the correct number of chains. Make sure they fit your wheels.

Slow down when there is a lot of water on the road. If you drive faster than 50 mph in heavy rain, your tires can lose all contact with the road and your vehicle will be riding on water. This is called “hydroplaning.” A slight change of direction, applying the brakes, or a gust of wind could throw your vehicle into a skid. If your vehicle starts to hydroplane, slow down gradually. Do not use the brakes.

Flooded Roads

It may not be possible to determine the depth of the flood by looking. If the water is deep, the road may be too dangerous to cross. It is best to find another route. If you have no other option but to drive through a flooded road, drive slowly. After you have made it through the water, check your brakes to make sure they work correctly.

It is important to understand the dangers of water on the road, including:

* Being swept off the road.
* Floating debris and unseen hazards.
* The road collapsing.
* Vehicle malfunctions (for example, brake failure).
* Electrocution if there are fallen power lines.

High Winds

High winds can be a hazard while driving. This especially true for larger vehicles such as trucks, camper, and vehicles with trailer.

When driving in high winds:

* Reduce your speed. This give you better control over your vehicle. You will have more time to react if your vehicle gets hit by a strong gust of wind.
* Maintain a firm hand position on the steering wheel. Strong wind gusts are unpredictable. Iy you are not holding the wheel properly and a gust hits, it can jerk the steering wheel out of your hands.
* Be alert. Look ahead and watch for any debris on the road. Give yourself enough time to react to road hazards.
* Do not use cruise control. Maintain maximum control of the accelerator if a gust occurs.
* Be proactive. It may be safer to pull over and wait for the storm to pass.

Fog or Heavy Smoke

It is best to avoid driving in heavy fog or smoke. Consider postponing your trip until the fog clears.

If the fog becomes too thick to drive safely, consider pulling off the road. Activate your emergency flashers and wait for conditions to improve.

If you must drive in heavy fog or smoke:

* Drive slowly.
* Use your low-beam headlights. High-beam headlights will reflect back and cause glare.
* Never drive using only your parking or for lights.
* Make sure you can stop within the space you can see ahead.
* Increase your following distance.
* Use your windshield wipers and defroster as necessary.
* Avoid crossing lanes or passing traffic unless absolutely necessary
* Listen for traffic you cannot see.

Hills and Curves

You never know what is on the other side of a steep hill or a sharp curve. Slow down so you can stop for hazards if you need to. If your view is blocked, assume there is a vehicle on the other side. Only pass a vehicle in front go you if the hill or curve is at least one third of a mile away. You need at least that much room to pass safely.

Tailgating

Following the vehicle in front of you too closely

Unnecessary lane changes:

Weaving in and out of freeway lanes.

Distractions:

Eating, grooming, talking on a cell phone, texting, reading, etc.

Things that cause traffic congestion

* Tailgating
* Unnecessary lane changes
* Disractions
* Driving a poorly maintained or malfunctioning vehicle
* Running out of fuel or battery change

Law Enforcement uses traffic breaks to:

* Slow or stop traffic to remove hazards from the road.
* Respond to emergencies.
* Prevent collisions in heavy fog or unusually heavy traffic.

Traffic Breaks

During a traffic break, the officer turns on their rear emergency lights and slowly weaves across lanes.

To be helpful during traffic breaks:

* Turn on your emergency flashers to warn other drivers.
* Slowly decrease your speed to the same speed as the officer. Do not brake suddenly unless necessary to avoid a collision. Keep a safe distance from the patrol vehicle ahead of you.
* Do not try to drive past the patrol vehicle. Do not speed up until the officer turns off their emergency lights and traffic conditions allow you to return to your normal speed.

Seat Belts

You and your passengers must wear seat belts. You can get a ticket if you do not. If your passenger is under 16 years old, you can also get a ticket if they are not wearing their seat belt.

Wearing the lap belt and shoulder harness of a seat belt will increase your chance of survival in most types of collisions.

When you are in a collision, your vehicle stops. But you keep moving at the same speed you were traveling. You only stop when you hit the dashboard or windshield. If you are struck from the side, the impact could push you back and forth across the seat. Seat belts and shoulder hardnesses keep you in better position to control the vehicle. They may also minimizes serious injuries.

It is important to wear the seat belt correctly:

* Wear the shoulder harness across your shoulder and chest. There should be little, if any, slack. Do not wear the shoulder harness under your arm or behind your back. Wearing the harness the wrong way could cause serious internal injuries in a collision.
* Adjust the lap bely so that it is snug and lies low across your hips. Otherwise you might slide out of the belt in a crash. This could result in injury or death.
* If you are pregnant, wear the lap belt as low as possible under your abdomen. Place the shoulder strap between your breasts and to the side of your abdomen’s bulge.

Child Restraint for Children under 2 years old:

Secure in a rear-facing child passenger restraint system. This applies unless the child weighs 40 pounds or more is 3 feet 4 inches or taller.

Child Restraint System and Safety Seats

You must secure children with a federally-approved child passenger restraint system or safety belt. The requirements depend on the child’s height and age.

A child in a rear-facing child passenger restraint system may not ride in the front seat of an airbag-equipped vehicle.

Your local law enforcement agency or fire department can check the installation of your child passenger restraint system. As your child grow, check to see if the child passenger restraint system is the right size.

Child Restraint for Children under 8 years old, or who are less than 4 feet 9 inches tall:

Secure in federally-approved child passenger restraint system in a rear seat,

In some cases, children under 8 years old may ride in the front seat of a vehicle in a federally-approved child passenger restraint system. They may ride in the front seat if:

* There is no rear seat.
* The rear seats are side-facing jump seats.
* The rear seats are rear-facing seats.
* The child passenger restraint system cannot be installed properly in the rear seat.
* All rear seats are already occupied by children 7 years old or younger.
* Medical reasons prevent the child from riding in the back seat.

Children who are 8 years old or older, or who are at least 4 feet 9 inches tall:

May use a properly secured safety belt that meets federal standards.

Air Bags

Air bags are a valuable safety feature on many vehicles. They can help keep you safer than a seat belt alone.

Ride at least 10 inches from the airbag cover, as long as you can maintain full control of your vehicle. Measure from the center of the steering wheel to your breastbone. Contact your vehicle dealer or manufacturer if you cannot safely sit 10 inches away from the air bag. They may have advice about additional ways to move back from your air bad. Passengers should also sit at least 10 inches away from the passenger-side air bag.

Children seat next to s side air bag may be at risk serious or fatal injury.

Unattended Children and Pets

It is illegal to leave a child who is 6 years old or younger unattended in a vehicle. A child may be left under the supervision of a person who is at least 12 years old.

It is dangerous and illegal to leave children or animals in a hot vehicle. The temperature inside a parked vehicle can rise rapidly when it is sitting in the sun. This is true even if a window is left slightly open. Too much exposure to heat can lead to dehydration, heat stroke, and death.

Regardless of the posted speed limit, your speed should depend on:

* The number of vehicles on the road.
* The speed of other vehicles on the road.
* The road surface --- smooth, rough, graveled, wet, dry, wide, or narrow.
* Bicyclists or pedestrians on or crossing the road.
* Weather --- rain, fog, snow, wind, or dust.

Choose Between Hazards

Sometimes there will be dangers on both sides of the road at the same time. For example, parked cars to the right and oncoming cars to the left.

If one danger is greater than the other, give more space to the most dangerous situation. Suppose you are on a two-lane road with an oncoming vehicle to the left and a bicyclist ahead to your right. Instead of driving between the vehicle and the bicyclist, take one danger at a time. Slow down and let the oncoming vehicle pass. When the vehicle has passed, move to the left to allow plenty of space (at least three feet) to pass the bicyclist. If there is a steady flow of oncoming vehicles, use as much of the left lane as you safely can pass the bicyclist.

Skids

If one or more of your tires traction with the road and your vehicle starts to slip, this is known as a skid. There are a few different types of skids.

To prevent skidding on slippery surface:

* Drive slowly
* Slow down as you approach curves and intersections
* Avoid fast turns
* Avoid quick stops
* Leave enough space between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you
* Shift to low gear before going door steep hill
* Avoid areas like ice patches, wet leaves, oil, or deep puddles

If you do start to skid:

1. Slowly remove your foot from the gas pedal/accelerator
2. Do not use the brakes
3. Turn the steering wheel in the direction of the skid

Slippery Surfaace Skids

Ice and packed now on the road can cause your vehicle to skid. This is even more likely if you are driving too fast or going downhill.

If you are skidding on a slippery Surface and cannot control your vehicle, find a way to stop the skid. Try to get a wheel on dry pavement or on the shoulder of the road.

If your brakes get wet, you can dry them by lightly pressing the gas pedal/accelerator and brake pedals at the same time. This will cause your vehicle to drive against the pressure of the brakes. Only do this until the brakes dry.

Locked Wheel Skids

A locked wheel skid is usually caused by braking too hard when you are gong too fast. If this happens, you vehicle will skid no matter which way the steering wheel is turned.

If your vehicle is not equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), step on the brake gradually until you are at a safe speed. If you press the brake pedal and it sinks to the floor, quickly pump the brakes by gently applying and releasing pressure on your brake pedal. As you are pumping the brakes, down shift your vehicle into a lower or neutral gear to slow down. Then try using your emergency or parking brake to stop.

To get out of a locked wheel skid:

1. Remove your foot from the brake to unlock the wheels.
2. Straighten the front wheels as the vehicle begins to straighten out.

Follow these steps if your wheels drift off the pavement:

1. Grip the steering wheel firmly
2. Remove your foot from the gas pedal/accelerator
3. Brake gently.
4. Check for traffic behind you
5. Carefully steer back onto the pavement

Do not pull or turn your steering wheel with too much force. This may cause you to drive into oncoming traffic

Follow these steps if your gas pedal/accelerator become stuck:

1. Shift to neutral.
2. Apply the brakes.
3. Keep your eyes on the road.
4. Look for a way out of traffic.
5. Honk your horn and turn on your emergency flashers to warn other drivers.
6. Try to drive the car safely off the road.
7. Stop and turn off the ignition.