Driving (General Knowledge)

The general knowledge about regulations and info about driving

Graduated Driver Licensing Program

A system that gradually introduces driving privileges to new drivers, consisting of three stages:

1\. Learner's stage: Obtained by passing the written test, allowing the driver to practice with a licensed adult.

2\. Restricted stage: Requires passing a road test, imposing nighttime driving restrictions and limits on the number of passengers.

3\. Full stage: Achieved after successfully completing the restricted stage, removing the restrictions.

Minimum Age for Class 5 License

The **minimum age** requirement to obtain a Class 5 driver's license in Nova Scotia is **16** years old.

Identification Documents

Required documents that serve as proof of your identity, residency, and legal entitlement to be in Canada when applying for a driver's license, including:

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\-**Valid passport or birth certificate**

\- **Nova Scotia Health Card** or other government-issued identification

\- **Proof of residency**, such as utility bills or lease agreements

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Vision Requirements

Minimum visual acuity and peripheral vision standards that must be met to obtain a driver's license, including:

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 Visual acuity of at least 20/30

Sufficient peripheral vision to detect objects and hazards

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Written Examination

A knowledge test that assesses your understanding of road signs, traffic rules, and safe driving practices. It covers topics such as:

\-Traffic signs and their meanings:

\-Right-of-way rules

\-Speed limits: Parking and stopping regulations

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Practical Examination

An on  An on-road driving test to evaluate your driving skills, ability to follow traffic laws, and application of safe driving techniques. It assesses your competence in various areas, including:

1) Vehicle control (steering, braking, accelerating)

2)Lane changing and merging

3)Intersection navigation and turning

4) Defensive driving and hazard perception

Right Of Way

The legal priority given to certain road users to proceed first in specific traffic situations. Some examples include:

\- Yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks and at intersections

\- Allowing emergency vehicles with flashing lights or sirens to pass - Giving way to vehicles already in a roundabout

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Speed Limits

The maximum speed allowed on different types of roads and in various areas, as determined by traffic regulations. Examples include:

 - Residential areas: 50 km/h

\- Urban areas: 60 km/h

\- Highways: 100 km/h

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Passing and Overtaking

Maneuvers used to safely and legally overtake slower vehicles on the road, following these guidelines:

\-Ensure clear visibility and sufficient space to complete the maneuver safely

\- Signal your intention to pass

\- Move into the passing lane, maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle being passed

\- Return to the original lane only when it is safe and clear

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School Buses

Drivers must come to a complete stop when a school bus is displaying its flashing red lights and extended stop arm, indicating that students are boarding or disembarking. This rule applies on both sides of the road, except for divided highways where vehicles traveling in the opposite direction are not required to stop.

Emergency Vehicles

Drivers must yield the right-of-way and move to the right side of the road to allow emergency vehicles with flashing lights or sirens to pass. It is essential to:

\- Pull over safely and clear the way promptly

- Do not block intersections or impede the progress of emergency vehicles

Yielding to Pedestrians

Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and at intersections, giving them the right-of-way

It is important to: - Stop before the crosswalk when a pedestrian is waiting to cross - Wait until the pedestrian has safely crossed before proceeding

Roundabouts

Circular intersections where traffic flows counterclockwise, and drivers must yield to vehicles already in the roundabout before entering. Key points to remember include:

Key points to remember include:

\- Yield to traffic already in the roundabout

\- Use appropriate signals when entering, changing lanes, and exiting the roundabout

\- Maintain a reduced speed and watch for pedestrians

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Following Distance

The recommended space you should maintain behind the vehicle in front of you to ensure a safe stopping distance. In general:

\- Keep a minimum two-second following distance in ideal conditions

- Increase the distance in adverse weather or poor visibility

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Defensive Driving

A driving technique that involves staying alert, anticipating potential hazards, and taking proactive measures to avoid accidents. Defensive driving includes:

\- Maintaining a safe speed and following distance

- Scanning the road for potential hazards

\- Being prepared to react to unexpected situations

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Distracted Driving

Engaging in activities that divert your attention from driving, such as using a cell phone, eating, or adjusting vehicle controls. Avoid distractions by:

\- Keeping electronic devices out of reach or using hands

\-free options

- Pulling over to a safe location if you need to attend to something

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Impaired Driving

Operating a `vehicle` under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications that impair your ability to drive safely. Never drive if you are impaired and always designate a sober driver.

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Adverse Weather Conditions

Challenging weather situations that require adjustments to your driving behavior and increased caution. Here are specific considerations for various weather conditions:

\- Snow: Reduce speed, increase following distance, and use winter tires or chains if necessary.

\- Ice: Drive slowly, avoid sudden maneuvers, and use caution on bridges and shaded areas.

\- Fog: Reduce speed, use low-beam headlights or fog lights, and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front.

\- Rain: Slow down, increase following distance, and use windshield wipers and headlights.

Traffic Violations and Demerit Point System

Consequences of traffic violations, including fines, license suspensions, and the accumulation of demerit points based on the severity of the offense. Demerit points are assigned for various violations, and when a certain threshold is reached, it can result in license suspension.

Driver's Responsibilities

The legal obligations of drivers, including obeying traffic laws, practicing defensive driving, maintaining a safe vehicle, reporting collisions, and notifying authorities of address changes.

Insurance and Vehicle Registration

The importance of having valid insurance coverage and the process of registering a vehicle with the appropriate authorities in Nova Scotia to legally operate it on the road.

Parking and Stopping

Rules and regulations regarding parking and stopping vehicles in different situations and locations, including:

\- Parking in designated areas and following parking signs and regulations

- Prohibited parking in fire lanes, disabled spots without proper authorization, etc.

\- Proper use of handbrake and turning off the engine when parked

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Safe Driving Practices

Techniques and habits that promote safe driving, including maintaining focus, observing traffic laws, anticipating potential hazards, using turn signals, adjusting speed to road conditions, and avoiding aggressive behaviors.

Vehicle Maintenance

Regular maintenance and upkeep of your vehicle to ensure its safe and efficient operation, including:

 -Checking tire pressure and tread depth regularly

- Changing oil and filters as recommended by the manufacturer

- Ensuring proper functioning of lights, brakes, and other essential components

Collisions and Breakdowns

Procedures to follow in the event of a collision, breakdown, or other emergency situation on the road, including:

 - Safely moving vehicles out of the traffic flow if possible

- Exchanging information with involved parties in a collision - Contacting appropriate authorities or roadside assistance in case of breakdowns

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Driver Education

The importance of enrolling in a driver's education course to gain knowledge, skills, and practical driving experience, including:

 - Classroom instruction on traffic laws, signs, and safe driving techniques

- Behind-the-wheel training to practice driving skills under supervision

\- Preparing for the written and practical driving examinations

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Insurance Coverage

The importance of having valid insurance coverage to protect yourself, your passengers, and other road users in the event of an accident or damage. Insurance coverage includes:

\- Liability coverage for injuries and property damage - Accident benefits coverage for medical expenses and rehabilitation

\- Comprehensive and collision coverage for vehicle damage

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Vehicle Registration

The process of registering a vehicle with the appropriate authorities in Nova Scotia to legally operate it on the road, including providing required documentation and paying registration fees.

Road Signs and Road Markings

Signs and markings on the road that convey important information and instructions to drivers, including:

 - Regulatory signs (e.g., stop signs, speed limit signs) - Warning signs (e.g., curves, slippery road) - Informational signs (e.g., route markers, exit signs)