Chapter 3 – Driving Behaviors

35 question-and-answer flashcards covering Connecticut Chapter 3 driving behaviors, safety practices, laws, and dangerous driving behaviors.

What is the recommended hand placement on the steering wheel?

Both hands should be on opposite sides—left hand between 8-10 o’clock and right hand between 2-4 o’clock.

How far ahead should safer drivers look in city traffic and on the highway?

At least 12 seconds ahead—about one city block in city traffic and about four blocks (¼ mile) on the highway.

What does “blocking the box” or causing “gridlock” at an intersection mean, and why is it prohibited?

Entering an intersection without enough space on the other side, thereby obstructing traffic or pedestrians; it is illegal because it impedes the flow of traffic.

What must drivers always do when approaching a railroad crossing?

Slow down, look up and down the tracks for trains, and be sure there is room on the far side before crossing.

What color are all temporary work-zone signs?

Orange background with black letters or symbols.

What penalties can result from speeding or illegally using a hand-held cell phone in a Connecticut work zone?

Fines up to $1,000, license points, possible driver-retraining requirement, and doubled distracted-driving fines.

What is Connecticut’s “Vulnerable User’s Law”?

It increases penalties for drivers who injure or kill pedestrians, bicyclists, wheelchair users, highway workers, etc.; drivers must give at least 3 feet when passing.

When an emergency vehicle approaches with sirens or flashing red/blue lights, what must you do?

Pull as far right as possible and stop until the emergency vehicle has passed or otherwise directed.

Under the “Move Over Law,” what must drivers do when any vehicle is pulled over on a highway or road?

Slow below the posted speed limit and move over one lane if it is safe.

What minimum distance must you give when passing a bicyclist?

At least 3 feet between your vehicle and the bicycle.

Why should you avoid sounding your horn near bicyclists?

The horn may startle them and cause them to swerve into your path.

What key characteristic makes motorcycles difficult to see?

Their small size allows them to disappear easily into blind spots.

If a motorcycle’s turn signal is flashing, should you assume it will turn?

No; motorcycle signals may not self-cancel. Wait until the motorcycle actually begins its turn.

What following distance is recommended when driving behind a motorcycle, especially in wet conditions?

At least 3–4 seconds (or more in wet weather).

What are “No-Zones” around large vehicles such as trucks and buses?

Danger areas—including blind spots—where crashes are more likely; if you cannot see the driver’s face in the side mirror, the driver cannot see you.

How much more stopping time and space do trucks, buses, and RVs need compared to cars?

Nearly twice as much time and room.

What is the purpose of the “three-second rule,” and how is it applied?

To check if you’re following too closely: after the vehicle ahead passes a fixed point, count to three; if you reach the point before “three,” you are too close.

Name at least three situations when you should increase your following distance to four seconds.

On slippery roads, behind motorcycles, when being tailgated, in low visibility, when following trucks or emergency vehicles, when towing, at railroad crossings, or when stopped on a hill.

If you are being tailgated and cannot move right, what should you do?

Wait for a clear road ahead, then slow down gradually to encourage the tailgater to pass; never brake suddenly.

What checks must you make before changing lanes or merging?

Use rear-view and side mirrors, then look over your shoulder toward the blind spot; move one lane at a time if crossing multiple lanes.

What is the general lane rule when making turns?

Turn from the lane closest to your intended direction and enter the lane closest to the one you left.

Is it legal to back a vehicle in any travel lane?

No; backing is illegal and unsafe except when parallel parking or making a K-turn/three-point turn.

What is hydroplaning, and how can you prevent it?

When tires ride on a film of water, losing traction; prevent by slowing down on wet roads.

What is “road rage,” and how does it relate to aggressive driving?

Road rage is violent behavior that aggressive driving can escalate into.

What should you do if a hostile motorist tries to pick a fight?

Avoid eye contact, get out of the way, and drive to a public, well-lit place or police station if pursued.

List at least five common in-car distractions.

Calling/texting, adjusting radio/GPS/climate controls, eating or drinking, talking to passengers, attending to children/pets, grooming, reading maps, picking up objects.

If you crash because you were distracted, who is responsible?

You—the driver are solely responsible for safe vehicle operation.

How does fatigue affect driving ability?

It impairs vision and judgment, slows reaction time, increases crash risk, and can cause irritability.

Give three warning signs that you are too fatigued to drive safely.

Frequent yawning, drifting from lane, trouble focusing, rubbing eyes, missing signs/exits, daydreaming, or turning up the radio to stay awake.

What is the best way to prevent fatigue while driving?

Get adequate sleep before driving.

What is Connecticut’s “zero tolerance” alcohol law for drivers under 21?

Penalties apply for a BAC of .02% or higher (any measurable alcohol).

What happens to a 16- or 17-year-old on a first offense for violating Connecticut’s cell-phone law?

30-day license suspension plus a $175 license-restoration fee and a moving-violation charge.

Who must complete the DMV-certified Operator Retraining Program for repeat offenses?

Drivers 24 or younger after two moving/suspension violations, and drivers 25 or older after three such convictions.

When you hear an emergency vehicle approaching from any direction, what must you do?

Pull to the right side of the road and stop.

The “No-Zone” area refers to what?

The danger zones around large trucks with significant blind spots where crashes are more likely.