Lesson 1 Limited-visibility Conditions and Extreme Weather

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1 Module 9 Adverse Conditions The following information is a review of the lesson you just completed. Take time to review and study this information. Remember, this important information will be needed to pass your upcoming assessment, so take the necessary time in order to feel secure about your knowledge of this segment. This is not a graded portion of the course, but should be completed as an additional exercise. Lesson 1 Limited-visibility Conditions and Extreme Weather Driving At Night Topic 1 Night-time Driving According to the National Safety Council, traffic death rates are three times greater at night than during the day, yet many of us are unaware of the hazards or aren t aware of effective ways to deal with them. Driving at night is more dangerous because of darkness. Ninety percent of a driver's reaction depends on vision, and vision is severely limited at night. Depth perception, color recognition, and peripheral vision are not nearly as good at night. Older drivers have even greater difficulties seeing at night. A 50-year-old driver may need twice as much light to see as well as a 30-year old. Another factor adding danger to night driving is fatigue. Drowsiness makes driving more difficult by dulling concentration and slowing reaction time. Tips for Driving at Night The National Safety Council recommends these steps if driving at night: Prepare your car for night driving. Clean headlights, taillights, signal lights and windows (inside and out) once a week, more often if necessary. Have your headlights properly aimed. Misaimed headlights blind other driver and reduce your ability to see the road. Don't drink and drive. Not only does alcohol severely impair your driving ability, it also acts as a depressant. Just one drink can induce fatigue.

2 Avoid smoking when you drive. Smoke's nicotine and carbon monoxide hamper night vision. If there is any doubt, turn your headlights on. Lights will not help you see better in early twilight, but they'll make it easier for other drivers to see you. Being seen is as important as seeing. Reduce your speed and increase your following distances. It is more difficult to judge other vehicle's speeds and distances at night. Don't overdrive your headlights. You should be able to stop inside the illuminated area. If you're not, you are creating a blind crash area in front of your vehicle. When following another vehicle, keep your headlights on low beams so you don't blind the driver ahead of you. If an oncoming vehicle doesn't lower beams from high to low, avoid glare by watching the right edge of the road and using it as a steering guide. Make frequent stops for light snacks and exercise. If you're too tired to drive, stop and get rest. If you have car trouble, pull off the road as far as possible. Warn approaching traffic at once by setting up reflecting triangles near your vehicle and 300 feet behind it. Turn on flashers and the dome light. Stay off the roadway and get passengers away from the area. Nighttime Precautionary Measures Some precautions to take when driving at night include: Cleaning windshield inside and out Cleaning all lights Reducing daytime speed Increasing following intervals Looking to right of on-coming vehicles Turning off interior convenience lights Using the proper high/low headlight beams Using parking lights only when parked If stopped beside road, take appropriate safety measures Using day/night switch on rear view mirror Headlight Alignment Properly aligned headlights are very important. When your low beams are aligned properly your: Beam hits roadway 100 to 150 feet ahead Illuminates area 300 to 500 feet ahead Load, load distribution, and vehicle height affect light beam distance 2

3 When your high beams are aligned properly your: Beam hits roadway 350 to 500 feet ahead Illuminates area 500 to 1800 feet ahead Load, load distribution, and vehicle height affect light beam distance Maximum safe speed 65 to 70 mph, based on ability to stop within lighted area Topic 2 - Bad Weather Driving Whether it's light rain or heavy snow, high winds or extreme heat, knowing how to adjust your driving and what car safety gear to have with you can mean the difference between being safe or becoming a statistic. During bad weather conditions, you should stay home and avoid driving, if possible. If you must go out, be extremely careful and drive appropriately for the conditions. Slow down. Posted speed limits are for "ideal" weather and maximum visibility. It can take twice the usual distance to stop your vehicle on even slightly wet pavement. Information on all Types of Weather When driving in severe weather, you should use extra precaution. Click on each of the weather conditions to get additional information and tips on that type of weather. Strong winds - create a problem called buffeting. These conditions occur on bridges, through mountain passes and ravines, and when being passed by large trucks. These wind gusts and blasts can cause total loss of vehicle control. If your vehicle encounters strong gusts of wind, do the following: Reduce speed Check for oncoming traffic Adjust lane position Do not over-steer responding to the gust Prepare to counter-steer Stay off the brake Use extra care and consider if a trailer, van or other "high-profile" vehicle should be operated at all Severe thunderstorms, hailstorms or tornadoes Listen to your car radio and be alert Find shelter by driving under an overpass or bridge If you spot a tornado, don't try to outrun it. Get out of the car; find shelter in a ditch or low-lying area and lie face down to protect yourself from flying debris. Hurricanes -- avoid low areas and move inland while there's still plenty of time. 3

4 Fog - When it comes to inclement weather, fog is one of the most visually limiting conditions. If you get caught in heavy fog, the best thing to do is to stop well off the road until visibility is better. Helpful Hints: Slow down. Fog makes it very difficult to judge speed. Do not believe your eyes -- glance at your speedometer to make sure you have slowed down. Turn on wipers, defroster and low-beam headlights. Using high beams can actually decrease your visibility. Moisture from fog can make roads slick, so brake smoothly. Crack your window and turn off the radio. Watch for slower moving cars and listen for engine sounds or car horns. If the fog is too dense to continue, pull completely off the road and try to position your vehicle in a protected area from other traffic. Turn on your emergency flashers. Consider installing "fog lights" if you drive often in fog. Heavy Rain - The road becomes slippery as water mixes with road oils, grease and dirt. Also, your car's tires tend to ride on the surface water, reducing traction. Slow down. Visibility is often impaired so turn on your lights. Use the defroster or air conditioner to keep windows and mirrors clear. On wet roads you may experience hydroplaning. Hydroplaning occurs when a thin layer of water causes your tires to lose contact with the road. It can happen even at relatively low speeds and, in the blink of an eye; you can lose control of your car. It's frightening, but don't panic. Helpful Hints: Keep both hands on the steering wheel Ease foot off the accelerator Don't slam on the brakes Without anti-lock brakes (ABS), if wheels lock-up and you begin to skid, simply release the brake pedal and then gently re-apply pressure. Steer gently in the direction you want the car to go. To avoid hydroplaning, slow down in wet weather. Be sure your tires have plenty of tread, proper inflation and consider getting "all- weather" tires that are specially designed for bad conditions. Lightning - With or without accompanying rain, lightning can be dangerous. If you're in your car during a lightning storm, DO NOT attempt to leave the vehicle and run for cover. The car's metal cage will conduct a charge into the ground and protect you. If you're in an open vehicle, such as a convertible, golf cart, tractor, motorcycle or bicycle, find safe shelter. Do not stand under trees or in small, isolated buildings because lightning will usually strike the tallest object around. Instead, crouch down on the balls of your feet. 4

5 Snow and Ice - Driving in snow and ice is a serious matter, and winter storms can strand drivers for hours before help can arrive. Being prepared could save your life. If possible, wait until plows have cleared the way. If you must drive in snow and ice, completely clear snow and ice from your vehicle before moving. Clear all windows, but don't use wipers on an icy windshield - ice can cut the blades. Helpful Hints: To help maintain traction as you are getting underway: (Automatic transmission) Put your car in "D2" and accelerate gently. Shift to "D" once you're moving. (Standard transmission) Use the highest gear, such as 2 nd or 3 rd, with which you can move the car without stalling. Accelerate gently. Avoid spinning the wheels. Clear an area around your tires and use an inexpensive, clay-type kitty litter to improve traction. Stopping on snow and ice may require up to 10 times the distance as stopping in normal conditions. Keep plenty of distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. Most importantly, don't "lock up" the wheels. (ABS brakes are specifically designed to help prevent wheels from locking.) Slow down considerably before entering a curve or making a turn. Take your foot off the gas and let the engine slow you down. Then brake - gently. Don't be overly confident with a four-wheel-drive vehicle. It won't stop any faster. With ABS brakes, press the pedal firmly and hold it. If your car is not equipped with anti-lock brakes, when the wheels lock don't slam on the brakes, ease off the brake pedal, and then gently re-apply pressure to avoid sliding as you stop. In snow and ice, slow down; avoid sudden maneuvers. Try to keep moving and keep your wheels from spinning, no matter how slow you must go to do so. Use tire chains where allowed by law. When driving downhill, use a low gear and let the engine help you keep the car in control. Remember that overpasses and bridges freeze before other pavement. Even if it seems warm enough for ice to melt, it still can be hazardous. If you begin to slide, don't slam on the brakes. Simply ease off the accelerator, then gently apply brake pressure and steer in the direction you want the car to go. Be ready to correct for a slide in the opposite direction. Blizzard Conditions - If you become trapped during a blizzard, DO NOT leave the car unless help is visible within 100 yards. It is easy to become disoriented and lost in blowing, drifting snow and whiteout conditions. If you live in an area where heavy snow is a problem, always carry a cell phone and call for help as soon as you become stuck. 5

6 Helpful hints: Tie a bright-colored cloth to your antenna; raise the hood. Start the engine; turn on the interior light and heater for about 10 minutes each hour. Beware of carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep the exhaust pipe clear. Slightly open a downwind window as a vent. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia. Clap your hands and move your legs to stimulate circulation. Use maps, newspaper or car mats for more insulation Topic 3 - Low Water Crossings /Flooding A low-water crossing is where a road, without a bridge, dips across a normally dry creek bed or drainage area. Motorists who attempt to cross these flooded low-water crossings are putting themselves, their vehicles, and any other occupants of their vehicles at deadly risk. Always take flood warnings seriously. Do not drive through standing water and never drive through rushing water. Water may be very deep in a flooded area and undercurrents can sweep away even the heaviest vehicles. Driving into floodwater at high speed is like hitting a wall. Watch fences, trees and buildings on the side of the road. If they appear unnaturally low, slow down immediately. The road is probably dangerously flooded. Nearly half of all flood related deaths occur in vehicles. Most of these deaths take place when people drive into flooded highway dips or low drainage areas. Fluid Dynamics Water weighs about 62.4 pounds per cubic foot and typically flows downstream at 6 to 12 miles an hour. When a vehicle stalls in the water, the water's momentum is transferred to the car. For each foot the water rises, 500 pounds of lateral force are applied to the car. For each foot the water rises up the side of the car, the car displaces 1,500 pounds of water. In effect, the car weighs 1,500 pounds less for each foot the water rises! Therefore, most cars will float in just two feet of water! The Human Element Most vehicles will become buoyant in two feet of water or less. People who have previously driven successfully through a flooded low water crossing often do not recognize that an increase of an inch or so in the water level may be all it takes to tip the balance of buoyancy against them! 6

7 Few people, including Public Safety and Rescue personnel, appreciate the power of flowing water. Fewer people realize how fast water can rise in a small stream to flood a low-water crossing area. More than half of all low water crossing vehicular related deaths occur at night. Under conditions of low-visibility the vulnerability of the driver and passengers to the hidden danger is greatly magnified. High volumes of moving water play havoc on bridges, roadbeds, and other structures. What may appear as a normal road, may in fact, be a death trap. Therefore, observe all posted warnings and barriers. Flash Flood Warnings A flash flood watch means flash flooding is possible within the flash flood watch area. When a flash flood watch is posted, persons in the watch area should take precautionary measures. Keep informed and be ready for quick action if flash flooding is observed or a warning is issued. Motorists and pedestrians in or passing through the advisory area should: Keep abreast of road conditions through the news media. Avoid crossing flooded roads, and allow extra time to reach your destination. Avoid steep terrain where mudslides can occur. Be aware that heavy rainfall can reduce visibility to zero. Be aware that roadbeds may have been scoured or even washed away during flooding creating unsafe driving conditions. Be aware that driving too fast through low water will cause the vehicle to hydroplane and lose contact with the road surface. Tips on Flooding If your vehicle stalls, abandon it and immediately seek higher ground. Six inches of rapidly moving floodwater can sweep you off your feet, and two feet of water can carry away the average car. Here are some additional tips on flooding. Cars and emergency vehicles can easily stall in the water and be carried away in any current! Most vehicles will be swept away by less than two feet of running water! Do not try to cross a flooded road or stream in your vehicle! Heed all flood and flash flood warnings issued by the National Weather Service. Do not drive around barricades at low-water crossings. Be especially vigilant at night or when traveling on unfamiliar roads. Do not cross flowing water. Observe any water level indicators at low-water crossings, remembering that six inches of water may be enough to cause you to lose control of your vehicle. 7

8 Appreciate how fast water can rise. Be aware that beneath the water's surface, roadbeds may have been washed away. If you choose to abandon your vehicle, respect the force of the water. Six inches of fast-moving water will knock you off your feet. Topic 4 - Hot Weather Temperatures Your car is designed to operate in a wide range of temperatures. It has a system to keep the engine cool in hot weather. However, in extreme conditions, your engine can develop problems. Quick Tips During hotter months, it's a good idea to keep extra coolant, at least one gallon of water, jumper cables and a flashlight in your vehicle. You should also: Check the battery, belts and hoses. Check oil often. Have your air-conditioning system checked and serviced by a qualified technician. Inspect your coolant and water level and ratio to be sure it is at the proper 50/50 level when the car is cool. Never leave children or pets unattended in a car even for a short time. The temperature inside a closed vehicle - even with windows down - can reach dangerous levels very quickly. Cover metal and plastic parts on child seats and safety belts to prevent burns. When driving in hot weather it's particularly important to keep an eye on the lights and gauges. If your temperature gauge moves up, turn off your air conditioner and turn on your vehicle's heater to its highest and hottest setting. It will be uncomfortable, but it will help draw some of the heat away from the engine. If you are stopped in traffic put the car in "park" and lightly step on the gas to help circulate coolant. If the temperature light goes on or if the gauge enters the red zone, immediately pull off the road to a safe spot, well away from traffic. Do not drive any further - not even to the next exit. Driving with an overheated engine can cause serious damage to the engine. Radiator Cap Do not attempt to remove the radiator cap itself. The pressurized coolant is extremely hot and will spray out with great force. Do not pour water over the radiator or engine, since the dramatic change in temperature could cause damage. After the engine cools a bit, add a mix of coolant and water to the reservoir to bring it up to its proper level. 8

9 Children or Pets Even when not stranded due to a breakdown, summer heat can pose dangers. Never leave a child or pet in a parked car in summer heat. Even an outside temperature in the 80s can quickly bring a car interior to well over 140. Bring a cell phone for emergency calls, but don't use it while driving. Vapor Lock Gasoline is a liquid when it is pumped to your engine. During very hot weather, the gasoline might boil and turn to a vapor. A condition called vapor lock develops. Your engine cannot use vaporized fuel, and if it receives fuel in this form, it stops running or "locks." If your engine becomes vapor locked, turn it off; let it cool, so the fuel in the fuel line from your gas tank will cool as well. Since the vaporized gasoline cools and returns to its liquid state, you should be able to restart your engine. Temperature Light Your temperature light will warn you when your engine is too hot. Your temperature light might go on when you are: Pulling a heavy load uphill Using a bad thermostat In stop-and-go traffic Using your air conditioner in very hot weather If your temperature light appears, turn off your air conditioner if it is on. If the light does not go out after a few moments, turn on your heater. The added heat will be uncomfortable, but this action will help cool your engine. If the temperature light still stays on, park your car and turn off your engine. Let your engine cool and then check for leaks in your cooling system. To avoid being scalded, do not open your radiator when your engine is hot. Topic 5 - Cold Weather Temperatures Reliable transportation is especially important in the winter. Not only should you keep your vehicle in top operating condition all year round - for safety and fuel economy, it is especially important to get it winterized to avoid any unpleasant or dangerous situations while traveling in frigid weather. Preparing Your Vehicle for Cold Weather You should be prepared for cold weather by performing the following tasks prior to driving. 9

10 Radiator coolant: read the label on your antifreeze to be sure you make the right blend of water and antifreeze. The antifreeze keeps your radiator from freezing and cracking; the water, even in winter, keeps your car from overheating. Battery condition: Your car needs three to four times more starting power in winter than in summer. Have a mechanic do a complete battery draw-and-load test. If your battery fails, a recharge may save it for another year; otherwise, invest in a new one. Windshield washer fluid: Frozen fluid in the washer tank is dangerous. Use a premixed commercial fluid, check that the hoses are clear, and clean the washer nozzles out with a thin piece of wire. Electrical system: Make sure the distributor cap, points, condenser, ignition coil, spark plugs, and spark-plug cables are in good shape. Borderline components that still function in summer will give out in cold weather. Hoses and belts: If they are cracking or fraying, replace them. Tires: If you have all-season tires, be sure the tread is still good enough to give you traction on slippery roads. Otherwise, put on snow tires. Important: If you have a front-wheel-drive car, the snow tires go on the front. Store summer tires on their sides, not on the tread (storing on the tread causes a flat spot and an unbalanced tire). Windshield: Apply anti-fogging compound to the inside. Cleaning: Clear dead bugs off the radiator by hosing it from the inside of the engine compartment. Pick out the dead leaves and debris from the fresh-air intake box of the ventilation. Stock up: Buy flares, a scraper and brush, chains, and a military-style collapsible trench tool for emergencies. Keep a lock de-icer at home and/or at the office. Effects of Cold Weather Extreme cold temperatures are a big danger when driving. Stalled vehicles, accidents and other circumstances can subject you to the cold weather while driving. Prolonged exposure to the cold can cause frostbite, hypothermia, or in extreme cases death. Infants and the elderly are most susceptible to extreme cold. You should become familiar with the conditions of both frostbite and hypothermia. Frostbite occurs when the skin becomes cold enough to actually freeze. A loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in extremities, such as fingers, toes, ear lobes, or the nose are symptoms of frostbite. Hypothermia (Low Body Temperature) can occur during longer periods of exposure when the body temperature drops below 95 degrees. A person will become disoriented, confused, and shiver uncontrollably, eventually leading to drowsiness and apparent exhaustion. In severe cases, death is possible. Be prepared and know the signs for frostbite and hypothermia. Frostbite affects the extremities, such as fingers and toes. 10

11 If a body part has been frostbitten once, it is more susceptible to frostbite again, even in milder conditions. Redness and a burning sensation are indications frostbite will occur unless the extremity is warmed. Numbness is an indication that frostbite has already taken place. If frostbite is discovered, hold the affected part tightly against the warm skin or another part of the body; (for example place frozen fingers under arm). When thoroughly warmed, keep covered and make an effort to keep area from freezing again. Exposed skin can freeze within one minute at wind-chill equivalent temperatures below -25 F. Remember hypothermia can happen to anyone! Helpful Tips Here are some helpful hints when driving in cold or blizzard conditions. Always fill the gasoline tank before entering open country, even for a short distance, and stop to fill-up long before the tank begins to run low. Keeping your tank as full as possible will minimize condensation, providing the maximum advantage in case of trouble. A cellular phone can be very useful to you or another stranded motorist in case of an emergency. Clear all windows and lights of frost and snow. Drive with your headlights on. Stock your car with basic winter driving equipment: a scraper and brush, small shovel, jumper cables, tow chain and a bag of sand or cat litter for tire traction. Keep an emergency survival kit in the car. It should include the following: o Waterproof poncho o Swiss Army-style knife o Fire extinguisher o Tool kit o Jumper cables o Solar blanket o Gloves o Heavy boots and warm clothing o Tire repair canister o First-aid kit with sterile pads, aspirin, sting relief pad and instructions o A gallon of drinking water (replace every year or when the shelf date expires) o Spotlight/flashlight and extra batteries o Road flares or reflective triangles o Empty, approved gas container o Strong rope or tow chain 11

12 Lesson 2 - Roadway and Vehicle Technology Topic 1 - Highway Safety Design Features Safety Features Wide, clearly marked lanes In your state, there is an effort to create wide and clearly marked lanes for higher traffic areas. These safety-enhanced lanes make your everyday driving easier to maneuver your vehicle. Rumble Strips - Rumble strips are raised or grooved patterns constructed primarily along paved shoulders. When vehicle tires pass over the strips, they produce a sudden rumbling and vibration in the car. Both the sound and the vibration alert fatigued or distracted drivers that they are beginning to drift off the road. New Design Median Barriers The median barrier is a tapered concrete barrier that is used in many narrow highway medians, to prevent vehicle crossovers into oncoming traffic. The basic reason for the median barriers is to redirect a vehicle that hits it. The vehicle's wheels and sheet metal on the impacting side ride upward to prevent vehicle rollover. Break Away Sign Support Posts - the Department of Transportation continues to be proactive in providing safer roadsides for the traveling public. Sponsored projects have resulted in the development of many crashworthy breakaway supports for signs, flashing beacons, and mailboxes. These devices reduce the probability of injury when an errant vehicle impacts them. New Design Guard Rails - This device is saving lives across the United States by bringing vehicles that impact the end of a guardrail to a controlled stop. When struck, the impacting vehicle forces the extruder terminal along the guardrail, shearing the wooden posts and curving the end of the guardrail away from the traffic right-of-way as it brings the vehicle to a controlled stop. Kinetic energy generated by the impact is absorbed by the force required to flatten the guardrail in the extruding process. Crash Attenuators - As the impacting vehicle passes through the array, its speed is slowed by transfer of its momentum to the sand, allowing for safe, steady deceleration. Sand and plastic parts from the system will scatter in the direction of impact. Topic 2 - Automotive Technology Features New vehicle technology aids the driver in maintaining balance control when performing avoidance maneuvers and increased protection should a crash occur. Enhanced control is provided through technologies such as the following: Anti-lock brake systems that are designed to allow steering and simultaneous braking without losing vehicle balance. Anti-lock brakes do not necessarily 12

13 shorten stopping distance on dry pavement, but generally shorten stopping distances on wet surfaces where traction loss can be a serious problem. Traction control systems are designed to activate brake sensors that do not allow the wheels to spin. The process is basically the reverse of anti-lock brakes. The device allows acceleration input without loss of vehicle balance. Suspension control systems adjust vehicle balance at struts or shock absorbers through adjustment of fluid or air pressure when too much weight is suddenly transferred to a given shock or strut. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) compares where a driver is steering the vehicle, with where the vehicle is actually going. When ESP senses a disparity between the two, it selectively applies any one of the vehicle s brakes to reduce the discrepancy and help the driver retain control and stability. Crumple zones and side impact panels protect occupants by allowing structures to collapse at different rates, reducing the risk of penetration into the passenger compartment or spreading forces over a wider area. Improved door latches and locks are designed to stay closed under the most severe conditions, unlike door fasteners of the early 1960s which resembled the fasteners found in the interior of the typical home and generally flew open in a crash. Tempered glass in motor vehicles has literally eliminated the facial disfigurement associated with partial ejection through laminated plate glass formerly used in windshields. Headlights have undergone dramatic improvements in terms of level of illumination, focus, and reliability over the past 15 years. Visibility enhancements have been added to warn of the approach of objects to the rear in larger vehicles, and infrared devices are being used to enhance night vision. Performance on all Types of Vehicles Topic 3 Vehicle Performance Vehicles of different sizes and power handle differently. Small vehicles like a motorcycle are light and can accelerate quickly. Large trucks and recreational vehicles take lots of power just to accelerate to highway speeds. They also take a long distance to stop. A driver must be aware of these differences. Trucks - help transport nearly everything we eat, wear, and use in our daily lives. They are an essential part of our national economy. Keep in mind that truck drivers often face the problem of tight scheduling and drive over long periods of time. This may lead to fatigue and/or loss of sleep. Another factor to be aware of is that large trucks making right turns move out to the left to begin making a right turn. Always check a truck s turn signal before beginning a pass. Not being alert to this can lead to being caught in a right turn squeeze that can result in vehicle damage. Always keep out of the open space of a tractor-trailer making a right 13

14 turn. Following large trucks is a challenge. Drivers of large trucks sit high above the road and have an excellent view of the roadway ahead. Their view to the sides and to the rear is often restricted. There are large blind spots around every large truck called no-zones. No-zones are where truck drivers cannot see other vehicles and where most collisions occur. These no-zones are in front beside the truck, to the sides of the truck, and to the rear of every large truck. Be careful not to drive in these no-zones. A driver in the no-zone is at risk because the truck driver cannot see a vehicle in that area. When following a large truck, increase following distance to allow clear sight distance ahead. Stay far enough back so the side-view mirrors of the truck can be seen. If the side-view mirrors cannot be seen, the truck driver cannot see a following vehicle. Trains - many railroad fatalities occur each year because drivers ignore crossing signals or drive around the end of crossing gates. Most railroad fatalities occur at crossings without signals or gates. The major cause of mishaps at railroad crossings is inattention. Drivers who cross the same tracks frequently may forget to look both ways. Sport utility vehicles a very popular vehicle in America. They are four-wheel drive family vehicles, with a big enough motor to go fast. Sport utility vehicles are susceptible to rollovers when making sharp turns at high speeds. They also are heavy, and this gives the driver added protection in a collision. Recreational vehicles and trailers remember the stopping distance for a vehicle pulling a trailer is much greater than for a vehicle alone. This means you should increase your following distance. Follow this helpful information when following an RV or car/trailer: Automobile + 20-foot trailer = 6 second following interval. 35-foot RV = 6 second following interval. These vehicles also require a wider area to turn. Keep this in mind and give them extra space upon approaching one that is turning. Motorcycles are small vehicles that accelerate quickly. Danger exists because the motorcyclist is exposed and is offered no protection should a collision occur. To stop a motorcycle, the motorcyclist must operate separate brakes for front and rear wheels. A motorcyclist must coordinate the hand throttle, hand clutch, and front gearshift lever to accelerate smoothly. Unlike four-wheel vehicles, a motorcycle might have difficulty remaining upright in motion. When near a motorcyclist, increase following distance. When being followed by a motorcycle, check the rearview mirror often. Be aware of following motorcyclists and avoid making sudden stops. A motorcyclist cannot cope with adverse weather conditions as well as a four-wheel vehicle can. Remember this and increase the space around motorcyclists in bad weather. Bicyclists, mopeds, and motor scooters Bicycles are treated as vehicles in this state. Motorists must yield the right-of-way to cyclists at intersections when passing and when turning. Avoid making right turns in front of a cyclist traveling on the shoulder and yield to a cyclist preparing to make a left turn. Bicycles are legally entitled to use the road. Construction Vehicles these are found at or nearby construction sites. They are very large and loud. Proceed with caution around them. Many construction 14

15 vehicles move slowly starting out, and, because of heavy loads they haul, acceleration takes longer. Remember the following to drive safely with construction vehicles: Do not tailgate. Driver may not see you in his side mirrors. Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and any construction vehicle. If a construction vehicle is behind you: Keep checking the rear view mirror. Do not stop quickly unless absolutely necessary. Construction vehicles need a lot of braking distance. Oversized vehicles Be prepared to share the road with a number of special purpose vehicles. Snowplows can be expected in winter months. When mobile homes are being transported, they are often preceded and followed by vehicles that carry a Wide Load sign. Use extra caution when meeting or passing such vehicles. Allow extra space to increase sight distance. Use caution when passing. Farm machinery in rural areas, large, slow-moving farm machinery should be expected. The machinery is allowed to cross or be driven on roads to get to the fields or back to the farm. Farm machinery and vehicles which travel at 25 mph or less must display a slow moving vehicle emblem when using a public highway. This emblem is an orange triangle surrounded on each side by a strip of red. Be prepared to adjust speed or position when this sign is seen. Pass with caution and remember the operator of the farm machinery cannot hear other vehicles. Horse-drawn vehicles when encountering horse-drawn vehicles, adjust speed. The horse-drawn vehicle should display a slow-moving vehicle emblem on the rear. Pass with caution. While passing, do not use horn and do not rev the engine because this may scare the horse and cause an accident. 15

16 Lesson 3 - Emergencies Topic 1 - Off -Road Recovery Emergencies At some point, it is likely that you will be put in an emergency situation. Errors on your part or vehicle malfunctions create driving emergencies. It is important to think through some of these problems and develop automatic responses to help you avoid a collision. Driving Off the Road When your tire leaves the edge of the roadway, returning to the road can be a very dangerous maneuver. If the shoulder is paved it is easier to recover from this mistake. However, many times the shoulder is lower than the roadway and isn t paved. Many fatal accidents occur during this situation because the driver either brakes too suddenly and rolls the vehicle, or tries to return too quickly to the roadway and crosses into other traffic. Off -Road Recovery If you run off the shoulder and need to return to the roadway: Do not panic and steer too much Ease off the accelerator and brake gently to 5 or 10 mph. Avoid hard braking. Straddle the edge of the roadway Check traffic to your front and rear If traffic is clear, return to roadway with one wheel at a time to prevent crossing the roadway Limit your steering inputs to less than ½ turn of the wheel Use less input when the edge of the road is high Target the center of the lane to avoid crossing over to the other lane If the traffic is too heavy, drive completely off the roadway, stop your vehicle and wait for the appropriate gap before you re-enter. Topic 2 - Emergency Swerving Any driver can wind up in an emergency situation because of another driver's error. Drivers need to be able to identify an emergency, predict its consequences, and make and execute decisions quickly. To avoid collisions, it is helpful to develop automatic responses, such as emergency swerving and off-road recovery. 16

17 Swerving should only be used as a last second response when you believe that braking will not avoid a collision. If you are traveling more than 30 mph and you encounter an obstacle, realize that you can travel to a new path faster than you can brake. Stop/Swerve Decisions At some point you will have to decide whether to stop or swerve. When making this decision you should understand what the vehicle most likely would do in each situation. At 30 mph or more, the traction created by the vehicle s tires most likely will turn the vehicle sideways faster than braking traction can stop it. If you choose to swerve, make certain your movements will not affect any other vehicle on the roadway. How to Execute Emergency Swerving If the decision has been made to swerve rather than stop, you should follow these steps. Look immediately for the escape path. The steering wheel should be turned decisively and sharply in the direction of the swerve. Immediately afterwards, counter-steer your vehicle to stabilize. Now, straighten the wheel, and continue driving in a straight course. Entering a Curve Too Fast Topic 3 Roadway Hazards Slow down before entering a curve and avoid braking in the curve. If you do enter a curve too fast, don t jam on the brakes; instead, brake gently. If you have not come to the curve yet, brake more firmly. If into the curve, brake, but don t lock the wheels. At the midway point into the curve, you should gently accelerate which will help stabilize your vehicle. Potholes Potholes are bowl-shaped openings that usually have raveled edges and can be up to 10 inches deep. They occur when the top layer or asphalt surface of the roadway has worn away, exposing the concrete base. You should watch for potholes and avoid them whenever possible. Either drive around them if possible without interfering with other traffic. If not, straddle them at a slower speed. 17

18 Objects on Roadway The safest move while driving is to avoid all obstacles on the roadway, no matter how insignificant they may look. A box in the road may be empty; on the other hand, it may have something sharp or even worse inside. Avoid these types of objects as a rule and you will be much safer in your driving experience. Deep Water If you are inside a vehicle that goes into the water, you should know the following: If it's deep water (deeper than the car is tall) GET OUT! The car will descend to the bottom and hit the bottom with the end that is closest to the engine. It will then probably fall so that the roof is down, and if there is anything but a hard bottom (like sand, mud, silt...) the roof of the passenger compartment will be completely buried, entombing the passengers. If you are inside the vehicle and can't use the doors, kick out a window or the windshield. If it's shallow water, open a door on the upstream side and be prepared to abandon ship. If the water is higher than the center of the wheels and there is a current it is probable that you will roll. If you don't get the door open before you get completely down you will not be able to open the door -- the current will hold it shut. DO NOT try to exit on the downstream side -- you're risking the vehicle rolling and pinning you or having the vehicle hit a downstream obstacle and pinning you. Don't drive into water deeper than your axles. Avoid Head-on Collisions Topic 4 Collisions Remember these principles in case you need to make split-second decisions to avoid a head-on collision: Always drive to the right to get out of the way, since the driver of the other vehicle is likely to move back into his or her lane after recovering control. Honk the horn and flash the headlights if possible. These actions might alert the driver ahead. Avoid slamming on the brakes and skidding when driving off the road. If the choice is between a head-on and hitting a fixed object such as a tree or utility pole, it s always safer to hit the fixed object, which has no momentum of its own. If you must hit an object or oncoming vehicle, aim as far to the right as possible, where the collision forces are much less intense. 18

19 Hit Something Soft Not Hard What if you can t avoid hitting something? Even then, you may have some choices. If you have a chance to choose what you hit, the best thing to hit is something soft, like bushes or shrubs. The next best choice is a vehicle that is moving in the same direction as you. Pick a stationary object rather than one that is coming at you. A target that will absorb energy, such as a parked car, is better than one that is rigid, such as a wall. Whatever you hit, try to sideswipe it rather than hit it head-on. You can t control all that happens on the road. But being prepared for an emergency by driving defensively, keeping an escape route open, and knowing how to handle your brakes and steering wheel in an evasive maneuver can help you avoid becoming a victim of the unexpected. Steer to Avoid Oncoming Traffic If an oncoming vehicle veers into your lane for any reason, slow down right away and sound your horn. Be prepared to stop or drive off the road. Remember that driving into a ditch is far less dangerous than driving into a head-on collision. Blow-outs Topic 5 Vehicle Malfunctions With a front or rear tire blowout, do not over-react. Look where you want to go and steer there, holding the steering wheel firmly. Gradually ease off the accelerator and gently brake. Once you have slowed down, steer the vehicle off to the side of the road. Blowouts can cause tremendous steering and wheel vibration. Do not be alarmed. Remember, gentle braking will improve stability and reduce steering and wheel vibration. Rear wheel blowouts can cause the back of the car to fishtail. Do not over-correct your steering. Just brake gently and steer where you want to go. Accelerator Sticking If your accelerator sticks, do not panic. Shift to neutral, slow down, pull over and stop. Then, turn the key off and try to work the pedal free with your feet. Engine Failure Should your engine fail, you can still steer your vehicle, it will just be harder to steer. You should follow these steps: 19

20 Shift to Neutral when the engine first begins to stall. Move your vehicle from the roadway. Do not try to brake. Turn on your hazard flashers. Try to restart your engine while you are moving to the shoulder, if it does start, shift into a forward gear and proceed, using caution when entering the roadway. If the engine doesn t restart, move onto the shoulder or curb and once parked, try to start the engine again. If the engine fails to start, raise the hood and leave the flashers on. Power Steering Failure Most vehicles have some form of power assistance for steering to reduce the force necessary to operate the control. If the engine stalls, you will lose your power assistance and you will have to apply a great deal more force to the steering wheel to maintain control. Try shifting to neutral and restarting the engine, then return the shift lever to drive. Car Fire You should always carry an A-B-C type fire extinguisher that is designed to control fires involving fuel, oil and grease. Most vehicle fires start in the engine compartment. You should take these actions should a fire occur in your vehicle. Steer off the roadway, staying away from buildings and service stations. Park the vehicle and turn of the engine. Have all passengers move at least 100 feet from the vehicle. If you think the fire is small enough to control, use the fire extinguisher to try to put it out. If the fire is out of control, leave the hood closed, move away from the vehicle and call the fire department. Brake Failure Vehicles manufactured in the past 30 years have a two-circuit hydraulic brake system, and total brake failure is very rare. If one half of the system fails, the brake warning light will usually come on when you apply the brakes and you will have to push much harder to slow or stop the vehicle. Even if the brake pedal goes right to the floor, do not give up. It will still have stopping power. You can help slow the vehicle by using the parking brake. Try to avoid having the rear wheels lock, as this will cause the vehicle to spin around. By adjusting the parking brake release, you will make it easier to vary the pressure and avoid lock. 20

21 Do not pump your brakes. It is the wrong thing to do with a modern brake system. If the vehicle pulls to one side, grasp the wheel firmly, counter-steer and shift to a lower gear. After the car has stopped, do not drive any further. Call for help. Headlight Failure If your headlights suddenly go out, immediately slow down to keep your original course, pull over and stop. Check the headlight switch and the dimmer switch. If these do not work, put on the parking lights or emergency flashers. 21

22 Lesson 4 - Traction Loss/Skid Topic 1 Condition of the Road Surface Traction Traction or adhesion is the grip between the tires and the road surface that allows a vehicle to start, stop, and/or change direction. As speed increases, traction between the tires and the road decreases. With decreased traction, the possibility of skidding or sliding increases. If asked about traction loss, skidding, or problems of directional control, most drivers think of winter with wet snow or ice-covered roads. In fact, skidding is a major contributor to traffic crashes at all times of the year. For instance, run-off roadway events with subsequent loss of control and crashes account for more than 50 percent of all occupant deaths. This lesson will address the causes of traction loss, detection of the onset of a loss of directional control, and measures to correct the problem. Road Surface Conditions The condition of the road affects traction. Traction between the tires and the road does not remain constant. Rough roads and roads with potholes cause your vehicle to bounce and lose traction. Here are some other road conditions that decrease the level of traction: Ice, snow or frost Wet roads, particularly the first 15 minutes of rain after a long dry period when drops of oil and rubber particles have collected on the surface Hard rain or water standing on the road Mud near farm entrances, construction sites, and truck crossings Wet leaves Broken or uneven road surfaces Sand or gravel frequently found on curves in rural areas A Curve banked the wrong way. Vehicle Factors Topic 2 Traction Loss Causes Vehicle factors and the condition of your vehicle affect traction loss. Common factors include: Brakes being unevenly adjusted 22

23 o Brakes pulling in one direction or the other can cause a skid, as can wheels out of alignment when brakes are applied o Tires with worn tread o Front and rear pairs not matched to size o Front and rear tread depth or type Different pressure on opposite sides have effect similar to uneven brake adjustment since one tire will drag more than others. Driver Actions Common driver actions that affect traction are: Sudden steering action on a slippery surface Abrupt or sudden changes in vehicle speed A panic stop or applying the brakes too hard on hills, curves, or slippery surfaces Sudden engagement of the clutch on a slippery surface Keep in mind that most driver-induced skids are caused by: Excessive speed Coupled with excessive steering input Improper braking when turning Balance Sudden shifts of vehicle balance to the left, right, front, or back causes traction loss. Sudden shifts in vehicle balance can also be created by simultaneous steering, braking and/or acceleration. Traction loss compounds the consequences in a crash. Topic 3 Traction Loss Considerations When Brakes Are Applied Too Hard or Quickly Weight Moves to Front of the Car Weight Movement or Brake Force Causes o A noticeable drop of the hood o A noticeable rise of the rear deck o And a forward movement of driver and passengers When Acceleration is Applied Too Hard or Quickly Weight Moves to the Rear of the Car 23

24 Weight Movement or Acceleration Force Causes o A noticeable rise of the hood o A noticeable drop of the rear deck o And a rearward movement of driver and passengers When Steering is Applied Too Hard or Quickly Weight Moves to the Opposite Corner of the Car Weight Movement Causes o A noticeable drop and tilt of the hood o A noticeable rise and tilt of the rear deck o Driver and passenger movement to the car s corner Detecting Traction Loss The first indication of traction loss should be motion-based sensory stimuli. That is, sensing slight vehicle movements and body tensions that pull away from your intended path of travel. By the time a driver is visually aware that the rear or front of the vehicle is not headed in the desired direction (or sliding rather than stopping), the situation is typically more difficult to correct. Early movement detection begins with proper seating, safety belt fit snugly, left foot on dead pedal, and grasping the steering wheel with both hands in a balanced position. This seating position allows the vehicle to more readily communicate changes in motion to the driver. When seated in this manner, employing an aggressive visual search to detect conditions that could reduce available traction should require minor corrections of accelerator, brake, or steering wheel to bring the vehicle back to the intended path of travel if it moves away from the targeted path of travel. Recognizing Traction Loss Topic 4 Traction Loss Correction You as the driver must understand the process of traction loss and begin to recognize which part of the vehicle is losing traction in order to activate the technology needed to correct the problem. The old concepts of steering into it should no longer be used. Besides the fact that it does not work for under-steer situations, it makes the driver try to identify what the back of the vehicle is doing. In a vehicle with a short wheelbase, this delays the process of 24