MODULE 4 DRIVING CONDITIONS

THE CONDITIONS THAT DRIVE US This sessions presents defensive driving skills and techniques necessary to avoid collisions and violations “in spite of the conditions around you.” We have no control over the surrounding conditions. We can only evaluate these conditions, and decide how to act.

FIVE DRIVING CONDITIONS BEYOND THE CONTROL OF THE DRIVER Light Weather Road Traffic Other Drivers ADVERSE CONDITIONS RESULTS IN THREE DRIVING HAZARDS 1. Limited or reduced visibility 2. Limited or reduced traction 3. Limited or reduced driving space

REDUCED OR LIMITED VISIBILITY What causes reduced or limited visibility? – Too much light, too little light, time of day, weather. Sun glare, snow glare, others headlights, work zones, rain, fog, dust, snow, etc. What can we do to minimize limited visibility problems? – Sunglasses or visor. Look to side of road, not directly at others headlights. Always turn your headlights on. Reduce speed, never overdrive headlights.

REDUCED OR LIMITED TRACTION What are some causes of reduced or limited traction? – Poor tire inflation, worn treads, poor breaking, black ice, wet leaves, sand, oil, fresh asphalt, bumps, etc. What can be done to reduce hazards? - Slow down, ensure tread and inflation is good, pay attention, increase following distance.

REDUCED OR LIMITED DRIVING SPACE Where would you find reduced driving space? – Traffic congestion, parking lots, work zones, turns/curves/intersections, toll plazas How do we practice defensive driving in these areas? – Increase following distance, slow down, use the what if strategy, check mirrors frequently, scan road ahead (1-2 blocks in the city, seconds down the highway)

Driving Around Larger Vehicles To drive safely around larger vehicles, we must understand and respect some of the differences between their vehicles and ours. Blind Spots: Larger vehicles have larger blind spots in general. Blind spots on the sides, and rear of large vehicles present hazards. Remember to keep a safe following distance. If you can’t see both side mirrors from behind, chances are the driver of the truck can’t see you. Turning: Large vehicles need more room to turn. Some of the intersections they travel are not made for such a large vehicle. Use caution, as they may need more room to make the turn than is allowed.

TRAINS In 2003, there were 300 fatalities and 2,000 nonfatal injuries resulting from automobiles colliding with trains. – Pay attention to signage, flashing lights and gates – Always expect, and look for a train when approaching – If you are in a stream of traffic, make sure you can clear the tracks before driving over. If traffic stops, you don’t want to be trapped. – Never shift gears on tracks. Shift down prior to entering to prevent a stall while on the tracks. – Never race a train!! – Some vehicles such as buses, hazmat carriers, etc. must stop prior to crossing. Be prepared to stop when behind these vehicles.

MOTORCYCLES In 2001, 3,042 fatalities occurred involving motorcycles, and 65,000 riders and passengers were injured. When traveling behind a motorcycle, give extra following distance. They may stop abruptly, or skid due to road surface. Scan closely at intersections, and these vehicles are harder to see due to their smaller size. Motorcycles turn signals are sometimes hard to see. Watch to see if the rider leans in one direction, as the rider may be trying to change lanes. Never try to share a lane with a motorcycle.

EMERGENCY VEHICLES Always respect emergency vehicles, by attempting to pull as far to the right as possible and coming to a complete stop.

SCHOOL BUSES School buses mean children. Always expect the unexpected. Slow down Amber lights mean the bus is about to stop. Red lights mean the bus is stopped. Never pass a bus with an extended stop arm and flashing red lights!