Rules Of The Road

Use of lanes

Bicycle lanes:

Bicycles are considered vehicles and have the same rights-of-way of other motor vehicles. Bicyclists are also expected to obey the same traffic rules and regulations as vehicle drivers; however, many are children who may not know or obey the rules. Slow down when you approach bicyclists. Give them plenty of room when passing and be prepared to stop suddenly. Look for bicycles on all public roads except where prohibited by a sign and if you are driving in an area where there is a bicycle lane, DON’T drive in the bicycle lane! There are number of cyclists in California. Look out for them as well.

Amendment to CVC section 21204

In the past, a person was not allowed to legally ride a bicycle on the highway if the bicycle did not have a seat. A new amendment allows bicycles to be operated on a highway, if the bicycle was specifically designed by the manufacturer to be ridden without a seat.

Ending turns

Improper turns are a leading cause of collisions. Right turns are to be made as close as possible to the right-hand curb; a right turn should, as a result, end in the lane furthermost to the right. If you are turning right from a one-way onto a one-way, however, you may end the turn in any safe and open lane in your direction of travel. Left turns are to be made from the farthest left lane in your direction of travel (or a dedicated left-turn lane or left turn signal, if one is available), and may always be completed into any safe and open lane. Regardless of the direction that you’re turning, however, always take care to maintain your lane throughout the turn when two adjacent lanes allow simultaneous turns in the same direction.

Center left turn lanes:

Left turns–To make a left turn, drive close to the center divider line or into the left turn lane. Begin signaling about 100 feet before the turn. Look over your left shoulder and reduce your speed. Stop behind the limit line. Look left, then right, then left again, and make the turn when it is safe. When you turn left, do not turn too soon and “cut the corner” of the lane belonging to the vehicles coming towards you.

Example of a left turn:

Safety suggestion: While waiting to turn left, keep your wheels pointed straight ahead until it is safe to start your turn. If your wheels are pointed to the left and a vehicle hits you from behind, you could be pushed into oncoming traffic. A left turn against a red light can only be made from a one-way street onto a one-way street. Signal and stop for a red traffic light at the marked limit line. If there is no limit line, stop before entering the crosswalk. If there is no crosswalk, stop before entering the intersection. You may turn left into a left-moving, one-way street if there is no sign to prohibit the turn. Yield to pedestrians, bicyclists, or other vehicles moving on their green light.

Right turns–To make a right turn

Drive close to the right edge of the road. If there is a bike lane, drive into the bike lane no more than 200 feet before the turn. Watch for bicyclists or motorcyclists who may get between your vehicle and the curb. Begin signaling about 100 feet before the turn. Look over your right shoulder and reduce your speed. Stop behind the limit line. Look both ways and turn when it is safe. Do not turn wide into another lane.
Complete your turn in the right lane.

Example of a right turn:

DO NOT TURN WIDE

Right turns against a red light–Signal and stop for a red traffic light at the marked limit line. If there is no limit line, stop before entering the crosswalk. If there is no crosswalk, stop before entering the intersection. You may turn right if there is no sign to prohibit the turn. Yield to pedestrians, motorcyclists, bicyclists, or other vehicles moving on their green light.

No turn against a red arrow–You may not turn right or left against a red arrow.

Examples of right and left turns:

Always use your turn signals.
Left turn from a two-way street. Start the turn in the left lane closest to the middle of
the street. Complete the turn, if safe, in either lane of the cross street.
Use the center left turn lane if one is available.
A left turn may be made from the other lane, if permitted by signs or arrows. Right

turn begin and end the turn in the lane nearest the right-hand curb. Do not swing
wide into another lane of traffic. Watch for pedestrians, motorcyclists, and bicyclists

between your vehicle and the curb. Sometimes, signs or pavement markings will let
you turn right from another lane.

(Left image)-Left turn from a two-way street into a one-way street. Start the turn from the lane closest to the middle of the street. Turn into any lane that is safely open.

(Right image)-Right turn from a two-way street into a two-way street. Start the turn from the furthest right lane and turn right to the furthest right lane of the road.

Motorcycles

Don’t forget from our prior chapters, we studied that motorcycles may travel faster than automobile traffic on congested roadways, and can legally travel in the unused space between two lines of moving or stationary vehicles (“split lanes”). Anticipate cyclists under these conditions and be extremely cautious to avoid a collision.

Passing other vehicles

Special Situations:

Intersections and Railroad Crossings

It is also illegal-and dangerous-to pass within an intersection or within 100 feet approaching an intersection or railroad crossing. Not only this situation is hazardous to the other vehicles that might be crossing your path but also you are limited with your field of view.

Hills and Curves

It is also illegal as well as dangerous to pass upon the approach to a curve or to the top of a hill where the driver’s view is obstructed. If you can’t see what might be coming at you, you can’t know if it’s safe to proceed.

Bridges or Abutments

It is also illegal and dangerous to pass within 100 feet of a bridge, tunnel, or viaduct where the driver’s view is obstructed. To be safe, you must be able to see ahead for the entire distance of the pass before you cross into a lane of opposing traffic.

Oversized Vehicles

It is highly recommended to pass large trucks on their left side, where you will be more visible to the driver. However, on a multi-lane highway, considering the traffic conditions, for a better safety, it is recommended that you pass the truck on their right side. After you pass the truck, move ahead of it. If you linger alongside the truck, it will be very difficult for the driver to take evasive action if a hazard appears in the road ahead. Give oversized vehicles a wide berth when you pass.

Speed and Stopping Distance

Following Distance:

Most rear-end collisions are caused by drivers following too closely. To create the proper distance between you and the vehicle ahead, use the “three second rule.” When the vehicle ahead of you passes a reference point such as a sign, count “one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, and one-thousand-three.” If you pass the reference point before you finish counting, you are following too close. At faster speeds, the distance will be greater, but the ‘count’ stays the same. (At 55 mph you will travel 80-feet-per second, so three seconds will be about 240 feet. At 35 mph, you will travel 50 feet per second, so three seconds would be about 150 feet.) Increase this following distance to four seconds when driving in adverse conditions, when following a drunk driver, when following a truck or motorcycle, or when you encounter any unusual situations. Never stop your vehicle on a roadway and block the normal movement of traffic unless it is necessary for safe operation or in obedience to a law or emergency situation.

Braking Distance

Stopping is a crucial action when driving under any circumstances. It is always safest to decelerate and brake slowly so that the stop can be made safely at the desired stopping point. Applying smooth and even pressure on the brake pedal is the proper technique when braking. Perception time is the time you take to recognize the problem and decide to hit your brakes. The faster the speed, the farther your vehicle will travel before you recognize the problem and begin to react. Once you recognize a problem, it takes additional time to start to brake; this ‘reaction time’ is additional distance needed to complete the action of merely moving toward the brake. The braking distance varies with the speed the vehicle is traveling, weather conditions, the surface of the road, and the tread depth of the tires. The braking distance is calculated from the time you activate the braking system to the time that you successfully bring your vehicle to a complete stop.

Stopping Distance

Stopping distance includes all of the above steps and reactions. It is the complete, overall perspective, including the time of perception, reaction time, and braking distance. Total stopping distance equals a driver’s perception and reaction time plus the vehicle’s braking distance. If something is in your path, you need to see it in time to be able to stop. Good tires (plenty of tread, good contact with the road, properly inflated) and good brakes (have your front brakes checked every 10,000 miles, your rear brakes checked every 30,000, and NEVER allow the brake pads to wear under 20%!) will decrease your stopping distance, but even in the best conditions:

• At 50 mph, it takes about 250 feet to react to something you see and to bring the car to a stop. That’s half a city block.
• At 30 mph, it will take about 90 feet to stop. That is almost a quarter of a city block.

Therefore, if you can’t see 250 feet ahead, you should not drive as fast as 50 mph. If you can’t see 90 feet ahead, you should not drive 30 mph. By the time you see an object in your path, it would be too late to stop without hitting it. When deciding the speed that you should be traveling on the road, consider the overall road conditions. Never travel too fast or too slow for the road conditions. When you are driving down a street or roadway controlled by traffic control devices, or anywhere that stopping might occur, you should always allow a safe space cushion between you and the cars in front of you. Braking distances:

• 35 mph: it will take approximately 106 feet to bring your vehicle to a safe stop.
• 25 mph: 62 feet
• 45 mph: 162 feet
• 55 mph: 228 feet
• 65 mph: 306 feet

This is the average braking distance on dry pavement. Your total stopping distance is much higher; total stopping distance is the distance it will take you to recognize a problem, react to the problem by applying the brakes, plus braking distance (add additional feet in hazardous conditions).

Reckless Driving/Racing If convicted of reckless driving or engaging in a speed contest resulting in injuries to a person other than the driver, first-offenders would be subject to a misdemeanor charge, jail time between 30 days and 6 months or a fine between $500 and $1000 or by both that fine and imprisonment. The specified injuries which would incur these sentences are: loss of consciousness, concussion, bone fracture, protracted loss or impairment of function of a bodily member or organ, wound requiring extensive suturing, serious disfigurement, brain injury or paralysis.

Dangerous situations:

Listen For Traffic You Cannot See

When you are in a hazardous situation, you must be aware of more impending dangers. When your view is blocked or impaired, you must listen for any vehicles, trains, or transit rail trains that may be approaching. Then you ease your vehicle up until you feel and hear that you may continue.

Obtaining Maximum Visibility, Drive with Headlamps On

Whether you are driving during darkness or daylight or when you are driving on a slippery surface, you should use your headlights to let others be able to see your vehicle. Use your windshield wipers and washer fluid together to wash and wipe away whatever is on your windshield. Keep your windshield wipers on constantly to wipe away the elements. Every few minutes or whenever needed to see clearly, use your washer fluid so you are able to see.

Avoid Passing a Line of Cars

You should never attempt to pass a long line of vehicles. Your car needs a lot more space to pass multiple cars; it will most likely not be enough of a clearance to pass all of the vehicles safely. The risk of another vehicle ahead in the line of cars deciding to pass as you are passing is an additional hazard you may not be able to see in time. Never try to pass cars on your right; you might happen to find yourself pushed off the edge of the road and lose control of your car by uneven pavement.

Decrease Speed When Entering a Curve

When the road is wet due to rain, snow or ice, or whenever road conditions are poor, reduce your speed. When it has snowed or is snowing, curves can be the most hazardous place on the road, even on very large freeways or interstates. Curves are often shadowed by trees leaving the road icy, while the rest of the roadway is easy for you to handle.

Blind Intersections, Alleys, and Blind Railroad Crossings

The speed limit of these three areas is 15 mph unless otherwise posted. A blind intersection is an uncontrolled intersection where you cannot see 100 feet in either direction as you approach at about 100 feet. A blind railroad crossing is an uncontrolled railroad crossing where you cannot see 400 feet in either direction. The 15mph speed allows you to be able to stop your car very quickly so that you might avoid a collision with a car or train that you did not see. In alleys, other drivers exiting their garages or driveways may not see you driving toward them, and they might pull out unexpectedly. Once again, your 15mph speed will be slow enough to avoid an accident.

Avoiding Multiple Hazards

Identify hazards early by looking ahead of you 10-12 seconds; you will be able to see any hazards that will affect your driving. If you see brake lights or you see vehicles stopped or slowing on the roadway, prepare to come to a stop. Emergency vehicles and emergency flashers are indicators that something is happening on the roadway in front of you. Prepare by slowing down and make safe lane changes if needed. Be aware of your escape routes such as exits and cross streets so you will be able to avoid any potential hazards.

On A Curve

Never try to make any maneuver on a curve. It is impossible for a driver to see you on their approach, and it is impossible for you to predict what may be in your lane on or around the curve. Always adjust your speed in order to maneuver the curve and to anticipate any hazards that may be on the curve. Adjust your lane position to the far right side of your lane. Upon entering a curve, you must adjust your speed to be able to handle the degree of the curve as well as for preparing for any hazards that might be on the curve.

Stay Toward the Right of Your Lane:

In order to prepare for any hazards that may be on a curve, you should move your vehicle to the far right side of the lane that you are traveling in. If there is more than one lane going in your direction, move over to the right lane (if safe and clear) just in case a driver on the opposing side crosses over onto your side of the roadway. Always be prepared.

Right-of-way situations

Summary: Existing law requires a person under 18 years of age to wear a properly- fitted and fastened bicycle helmet while operating a bicycle or riding upon a bicycle as a passenger upon the streets or any other public bicycle path. This bill requires that persons under 18 years of age wear a helmet while operating a non-motorized scooter or skateboard, while wearing in-line or roller skates, or while riding upon a non-motorized scooter or skateboard as a passenger.

As of January 2003 California law requires all persons under 18 years of age to wear a properly-fitted and fastened bicycle helmet while operating a bicycle or riding upon a bicycle as a passenger, operating a non-motorized scooter or skateboard, wearing in-line or roller skates, or while riding upon a non-motorized scooter or skateboard as a passenger.

Mopeds:

A moped is a bicycle-like device with pedals and has a helper motor. The motor cannot be rated at more than two horsepower or enable the moped to travel more than 30 MPH. Don’t try to “overtake” this vehicle. They are much smaller and are at more at risk for having more severe collisions while on the road.

Speed limits around children

Always drive more carefully near schools, playgrounds, parks, and residential areas because children may suddenly dart into the street. Within 500 feet of a school, the speed limit is 25mph while children are outside or crossing the street. No matter what the speed limit sign states, you should never driver faster than 25 mph when the school ground has no fence and children are outside.

• Sometimes lower speed limit signs are placed near schools – look for them
• Watch for bicyclists and pedestrians near schools
• Look for school safety guards and obey their directions. For the crossing guard’s safety, allow him or her to get safely to the side of the road before driving ahead.
• Look for stopped school buses and children crossing the street. Some school buses flash yellow lights when the bus is preparing to stop and let children leave the bus. This is a warning to you, Prepare to Stop!

If you’ve been in this position and you decided to speed pass the bus because you were in a hurry and the red lights were flashing – shame on you! I hope you’re learning your lesson!!!

Controlled vs. Uncontrolled Intersections

An uncontrolled intersection lacks the helpful direction of traffic signs and signals. Because motorists are not faced with a traffic control, it is not uncommon for them to misguidedly assume that they “have” the right-of-way at an uncontrolled intersection. Safe interaction with other users of the roadway, however, actually rests upon the caution and courtesy of each individual driver. Approach uncontrolled intersections slowly and carefully, especially where visibility is limited. And do your best to interact with others in a kind and considerate manner.

A controlled intersection is that signs or signals regulate how and when traffic may move through them. Traffic controls set a universal and common flow to sustain safety on the roads. Individuals aren’t entirely without decision-making power; drivers must still decide whether or not it is safe to take advantage of the opportunities offered by traffic guidelines. You should never proceed blindly through any intersection, ever.

School buses displaying flashing red lights

When you come to a school bus stopped on either side of the roadway with flashing red lights, you must stop. Children will be crossing the roadway to and from the school bus. Remain stopped as long as the red lights are flashing. Failure to do so is a violation of CVC 22454.5. You may be fined up to $1,000.00 and your driving privilege could be suspended for a period of one year for multiple violations of 22454 VC.

The driver of any vehicle meeting or overtaking from either direction a school bus that is stopped for the purpose of loading or unloading school children and displays flashing red lights, shall bring his or her vehicle to a stop immediately before passing the school bus, and shall not proceed past the bus until the flashing red lights cease operation. The driver of a vehicle upon a divided highway or multiple-lane highway need not stop upon meeting or passing a school bus that is upon the other roadway.

Respect the pedestrian right of way, share the road, pay attention to the turn lane rules and stay to right when moving slowly.

Illegal U-Turns

Never make a U-turn:

• At or on a railroad crossing.
• On a divided highway by crossing a dividing section, curb, strip of land, or two sets of double yellow lines
• Where you cannot see clearly 200 feet in each direction because of a curve, hill, rain, fog, or other reason.
• Where a “No U-Turn” sign is posted.
• When other vehicles may hit you.
• On a one-way street.
• In front of a fire station. Never use a fire station driveway to turn your vehicle around.
• In business districts. Areas with churches, apartments, multiple dwelling houses, clubs, and public buildings (except schools) are also considered to be business districts. Turn only at an intersection, unless a sign prohibits it, or where openings are provided for turns.

Blind Intersections and Alleys

• Blind intersections are intersections where you cannot see for 100 feet in either direction during the last 100 feet before crossing.
• Trees, bushes, buildings, or parked cars at intersections can block your view of vehicles coming from the side. Slow down to 15mph for a blind intersection. However, you may drive as fast as the posted speed limit if YIELD or STOP signs on the side streets give you the right-of-way.
• The speed limit in an alley is 15mph

Near Railroad Tracks

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

In Special Traffic Lanes and Entering Freeways

Sometimes different speed limits may be posted for different lanes of traffic. When entering freeways, you always have to yield and be very careful joining the rest of the drivers on the freeway.

Highway Speed

• The speed limit on most interstate highways in California is 65mph.
• For two-lane undivided highways and vehicles towing trailers, the maximum speed limit is 55mph.

In a business or Residence Districts

• The speed limit is 25mph unless signs show other limits

Animals on or Around the Road

• If you see animals or livestock, slow down. Obey the person in charge of the animals. If you see a stray animal in your path, slow down or stop, if it is safe to do so.

Frank, the goat, just got back from a busy day – his owner found him in the road earlier!
It’s a good thing Mike and Sara didn’t drive over him!

Different road conditions

As a driver, you must be prepared for all types of emergency situations. You must know what to do and what not to do.

Maintenance and Construction Areas:

Workers who must be on highways try hard to warn drivers of their presence by using orange signs, equipment, flags, cones, lights, and jackets. It is up to you to ensure your own safety as well as the safety of the workers while you are driving through work areas. The highway worker’s life is in the driver’s hands. Slow down, listen to the flagman and obey all construction speed limits and directions. One or more lanes may be closed where highway construction or maintenance work is going on. Orange signs will warn you that you are entering the work zone and will tell you which lanes are closed. A line of orange cones will indicate the closed or closing lane(s). Many times you will see a flashing arrow sign ahead, which directs you to merge to the left or right. Be alert and make your lane changes(s) early and safely. Do not cross the line of cones.

Environment

Things often found on or near the road can also limit what you see. Watch for any obstruction on or near the highway where you have less than full vision. Objects of almost any size may hide hazards from your view. A tree or truck could hide a pedestrian, an accident up ahead or other accident potentials. Signboards or buildings can also block a large vehicle or other hazards. Drivers often do not take note of shrubbery because it is not in their pathway. Bushes or shrubbery often hide vehicles, people, children, and animals, which could cross your path of travel. You want to watch for people, animals, bicycles, and other things darting in front of your roadway. When vision is limited, prepare yourself by covering your brake and be ready to stop.

Select speeds to position vehicle between clusters of vehicles:

When you are traveling within a group of vehicles, you should keep the proper following distance. Stay with the flow of the traffic; do not lag behind nor should you be tailgating the vehicle in front of you.

• If you are traveling in the center lane, position your vehicle directly in the center of the lane. This will keep a space cushion between you and the vehicles on your left and right sides.
• If you are traveling in the right lane, position your vehicle to the right side of the lane unless there is a row of parked cars on the right. This will give you a space cushion between you and the vehicles to your left side (though avoid driving in the right lane if there is no escape to the right, such as a shoulder). Move into the right lane when you are getting prepared to make a right turn or exit the freeway.
• Maintaining an appropriate space cushion is a safe practice, but drivers are required to remain fully within their lane. The proper distance will create a space cushion between you and the vehicles to your right side. Drivers must avoid driving beside or in the blind spots of vehicles in adjoining lanes.

Always make sure that you get eye contact with drivers directly around you, making sure that they see you. If you can see their face in their mirror, they will probably know you are there. Be aware of exits and crossings so you may take an alternative route to escape any hazards on the roadway. Never drive in another vehicle’s blind spots!

Select a lane position between traffic clusters to allow greatest maneuverability. Do not get yourself blocked in a cluster of vehicles. When you are blocked in, you do not have anywhere to escape to. Position your vehicle so that you are able to make lane changes or exit; keep your distance. Always leave room to escape the lane you are in; this will help you avoid any potential hazards on the roadway.

Different weather conditions

Driving becomes more difficult when visibility is reduced or when road surfaces are covered with snow, rain, or ice. In good driving conditions, the car responds to the control in the same manner time after time. When a change occurs on the road surface the car responds differently or fails to respond at all. You must adjust to changing conditions such as rain, fog, dust, sand, snow, or darkness. In a very heavy rain or snowstorm, you may not be able to see more than 100 feet ahead. When visibility is limited to this extent, you cannot safely drive faster than 30 mph, and sometimes, even that is too fast. In a very heavy downpour or storm of any kind, you may not be able to see well enough to drive. Pull off the road and wait until it is clear. In packed snow, cut speed in half or more; in ice, slow to a crawl. The ice is wet near the freezing point, so it is more slippery than at colder temperatures.

Rain

When rain is heavy, you have markedly reduced visibility because rain interferes with and distorts vision, so slowing down is incredibly important. If the wind is blowing, the situation can be worse. Other cars are difficult to see, particularly if their headlights are not on. California requires you to turn on your lights (low beams, never high beams) when visibility is poor, or you are driving in the rain, even in daylight. Also, running lights (the lights that often come on automatically when the ignition is turned on) are not the light to choose when driving in low-visibility conditions. These lights, while fine for good-weather driving, fail to turn on your tail-lights as well, so you can be nearly invisible in the rain from the back of your car!

Fog

Visibility is reduced in light or dense fog. Fog reflects light (imagine that each little tiny droplet of water [fog] becomes a tiny mirror), whether it is daytime or nighttime. Others can see you coming, but you can’t see them! In any fog, day or night, heavy or light, you must use low-beam headlights, and speed must be reduced. If you try to use your high-beam lights, the fog will reflect the projection of your lights, and you will not be able to see the roadway. Additionally, an added space cushion is necessary due to the second-by-second change in conditions. The changing intensity of fog makes it extremely difficult to judge distances accurately and to see objects in front of the vehicle. Use your windshield wipers in the fog to wipe away the water that will accumulate on your windshield. Also use your defroster to eliminate the fogging that happens on the inside of the windshield; both can block your visibility.

Reduce Speed When Entering a Fog Bank

Your field of vision will be limited and difficult when driving in a Fog Bank. Increase your following distance with the vehicle ahead of you and be prepared to stop within the space you can see ahead. Avoid passing or crossing lanes of traffic unless absolutely needed. If the fog becomes so thick that you can barely see ahead of you, pull completely off the road and don’t continue driving until you can see well. Turn off your lights and keep your foot off the brake pedal or someone may see your taillights and may think you are moving, and drive into your vehicle.

Watch for Slow-Moving Vehicles Ahead

Keep your eyes focused on the road. Watch for taillights ahead of you so you will see slow-moving vehicles on the roadway in time. The fog will slow everyone down, but not everyone slows down to the same speed, so watch out! If you have fog lamps you will be able to see the road a little better than other drivers who do not have them.

Snow

Safe driving on icy and snowy roads demands greater skill and effort. A car is designed basically to perform on dry surfaces. It will perform well in many adverse winter conditions if it is driven with care and at greatly reduced speeds. Wind-driven snow limits visibility; you must use low-beam lights, day or night, to see and be seen. In crusted snow and in heavy snow, cars will not skid sideways as easily as in packed snow, but it may be more difficult to get the car moving. Slushy snow has a bulk caused by water being held in suspension and may cause hydroplaning (rising up above the road and onto the water – this leads to decreased control). Snow packed down by traffic is much like ice; skids of any kind happen easily. Increase the space cushion and reduce speed; don’t try to start fast or stop fast.

Icy Spots

Following distances should especially be increased in cold weather. A day or two after a storm, there may be icy spots on the road on bridges, under overpasses, or on shady stretches. Ice on roadways is very dangerous and you must apply extra precautions. Watch the traffic ahead, reduce speed and handle the vehicle with a smooth easy hand. DO NOT brake or steer the vehicle hard or suddenly, as this will cause the vehicle to go into a skid.

Braking Distance

When conditions of rain, fog, and snow, you must allow more space between you and the vehicle(s) that you are following behind. You must know when to slow down and create a larger front space cushion. A vehicle, under the above conditions, will take twice as long or more to slow to a stop. This means that you must allow for that extra space by lowering your speed. If you fail to reduce your speed, you may be forced to brake too hard and the vehicle can go out of control. Always brake smoothly and evenly in adverse conditions.

Speed

In order to drive safely under conditions of rain, fog, and snow, you must slow your speed to a speed that will allow you the best control over the vehicle. In adverse conditions, the speed should be reduced well below the posted maximum speed limit. (For rain conditions, 5-10 miles per hour is recommended; in snow, drive even slower). Never exceed the speed of the cars driving around you; your speed can drop to 5 mph in very bad weather with poor visibility. If you find the road conditions are very bad, you should consider
getting off of the road until conditions improve.

Appropriate Use of Headlamps

• All cars need be equipped with at least two headlamps located at least one on each side of the front of the vehicle, and, except as to vehicles registered prior to 01/01/1930, they must be located right above or in advance of the front axle of the vehicle. The headlamps and all the lights in any headlamp unit should be at a height of not more than 54 inches or less than 22 inches.
• All motor vehicles should be able to operate during darkness or inclement weather or both with at least two lighted headlamps that comply with subdivision discussed above (e).
• As used in subdivision (f), “inclement weather” is a weather condition that is either of the following:
  • A condition that prevents a driver of a motor vehicle from clearly seeing a person or another motor vehicle on the highway within 1,000 feet.
  • A condition requiring the windshield wipers to be in continuous use due to rain, mist, snow, fog, or other precipitation or air moisture.

Your visibility needs to be as clear as possible. You want other drivers to see you on the roadway as well. Also remember to use low-beam headlights in adverse conditions, due to the moisture, snow and ice flying through the air in front of your vehicle. These particles can be blinding if you are using your high-beam lights. This is true when driving in the fog as well.

Watch for Areas Where Ice Collects

Look ahead and be prepared to slow down over bridges, around curves and in shaded areas, where the ice collects and freezes first and the longest. Preparing in advance will keep you from skidding.

Avoid Turning or Swerving Suddenly

You must keep a steady hold on the road, any sudden movements when traveling on icy or snowy roads may cause your vehicle to skid out of control. Always make very controlled and directed movements.

Avoid Applying Brakes Too Suddenly or Too Hard

Always apply your brakes evenly and slowly. This will allow you to slow or stop without an incident. If you brake too suddenly or too hard, you will send your vehicle into a skid and out of control.

Do Not Drive on Road Edge or Shoulder

Since snow covers the surface of the road and its sides, you cannot see what is under the layer of snow. You must never drive on the side of the roadway or on the shoulder; this is also where the snow will be the most built-up, due to the snow plows pushing the snow and ice off of the road and onto the side. Since no vehicles travel on this portion of the road, you will not know if there is ice under the snow, or if a vehicle is under all of that snow. Keep your vehicle positioned in the tracks of the other vehicles that have traveled before you.

Drive In the Tracks of the Car Ahead

Stay only on the paved portion of the roadway and follow the tracks of the vehicle that you are traveling behind or the tracks that are established from previous traffic. When it is snowing, raining, or the road is icy, the tracks of the previous traffic will provide more traction for you to drive upon, reducing your possibility of skidding off the roadway. You may still encounter bad spots that could cause your vehicle to spin or skid, however it can help since other vehicles have groomed the tracks.

Allow More of a Space Cushion

When the road conditions are less than perfect, you should double your dry pavement space cushion because your traction is greatly reduced.

Avoid Sudden Movements

Avoid sudden braking, steering, gear shifting, and speeding because these can send you into a spin. Always drive smoothly in bad weather conditions.

Do Not Change to a Lower Gear at Too Fast a Speed

Never change gears when you are going too fast. This will send your vehicle into a skid or a slide. You should slow down gradually by reducing your speed or gently use your brakes. When you are at a lower speed, then you can switch into a lower gear safely.

How to Stop Skidding

Avoid Braking Suddenly

Do not brake suddenly when you are in a skid; this will only complicate and make the situation worse. What you should do, however, is to pump your brakes lightly if you do not have anti-lock brakes. If you have anti-lock brakes, then you should just brake steadily and evenly.

Steer In the Direction Which the Rear End Is Skidding

If you are in a skid, steer in the direction that the back end of your vehicle is directed in. This will help you pull your vehicle out of the skid and allow you to get the vehicle under control. Once you turn in the direction of the skid, the back end will swing the other way, once again, turn in the direction of the skid (only this time, less turning will be necessary), then the back end will swing back, once again, turn in the direction of the skid, and so on. Each successive turn will be less than the previous one (as long as you don’t panic), until you are able to straighten out entirely. Brakes are NOT your friend here, but once you are under control again, do not drive so fast!

Avoid Over-steering

Do not jerk or make a quick movement with the steering wheel. You should only steer enough to be able to get the vehicle out of the skid. Over-steering will send your vehicle into another skid, but in the opposite direction of the last skid.

Keep the Clutch Engaged

If your vehicle has a standard transmission, you should engage the clutch. This will act as neutral. You do not want to take your vehicle out of gear.

Avoid Lifting Your Foot from the Accelerator Suddenly

You do not want to reduce your speed too suddenly. Reduce your speed gradually; ease off of the accelerator slowly and smoothly.

1. Obey the posted speed limit at all times. Not only are speeding tickets costly in and of themselves, they also can impact your insurance rates.

2. Signal your intentions early. Use turn signals, horn or lights to help other drivers understand your plans.

3. Continually scan for bicyclists, pedestrians, construction, traffic congestion, erratic drivers and changing road conditions. Check your mirrors every few seconds.

4. Be alert near parked cars. Someone could open a car door or pull out in front of you.

5. Don’t tailgate, or you’re more likely to crash into the car ahead of you if the driver suddenly brakes.

6. Steer clear of erratic drivers. If someone is tailgating you, let them pass.

7. When passing another car, get past the driver’s blind spot as quickly and safely as possible.

8. Always use caution when changing lanes. Cutting in front of someone, changing lanes too fast or not using your signals may cause an accident or upset other drivers.

9. Put away that cell phone while you’re driving! Avoid distracted driving altogether: don’t talk or text, eat, adjust the GPS, or fiddle with the stereo. Give the road your full attention.

10. In stormy weather, leave extra space between you and the car ahead.

11. Don’t drive through standing water. A small amount of water can disable a vehicle in seconds.

Don’t drive sleep-deprived. Be aware that some medications can cause drowsiness and make operating a vehicle very dangerous. If you do become drowsy, pull off the road and get some rest.

A person is prohibited from operating a motorized scooter unless that person has a valid class C driver’s license or an instruction permit. A person is also prohibited from altering or modifying the exhaust system of a motorized scooter in violation of specified noise restrictions and muffler requirements.

Driver distractions along with drunk driving and speeding are now the leading factors in vehicle crashes. Driving involves regular and intricate coordination between your mind and body. Any object or event that prevents you from operating your vehicle with full attentions is a distraction. A driver may be distracted by, Visual distractions, manual distractions and cognitive distractions. While driving, distractions can be inside the vehicle or outside the vehicle; they are both just as dangerous.

Let’s discuss the facts….

Inside the Vehicle:

Drivers who are angry, deep in thought, distracted by changing CDs, lighting a cigarette, dealing with fussing children, checking maps, or talking on a car phone are all very likely to be driving unsafely. Never turn toward a passenger to speak to them while driving, especially if they are in the back seat. Don’t have your radio turned up so loud that you are unable to hear an emergency siren. Some drivers without stereos try wearing stereo headphones, but wearing headphones in both ears while driving is illegal. Today, drivers are also driving while paying attention to computers, faxes, televisions, navigation systems, MP3 players, car phones, texting devices, etc., and these items make it even more dangerous on the road. Try not to daydream while driving and try to avoid distractions while driving. When behind the wheels your only priority should be driving.

Cell Phones:

California law requires the use of hands-free cell phones (unless you are using a walkie-talkie type phone.) Fines for using a hand-held phone start at a base fine of twenty dollars ($20) for the first offense and fifty dollars ($50.00) for the subsequent violations. This is a primary offense, which means that an officer can pull you over simply because he sees you using a hand-held cell phone. Drivers under the age of 18 are not allowed to even turn a cell phone on while driving. For them, even using a wireless device is illegal.Texting while driving with any communication device is also illegal in California.

It is estimated that cell phone and texting drivers are even more dangerous on the road than drunk drivers! Additionally, if you look in your rear-view mirror and see that the driver behind you is using his or her cell phone while driving, it would be a good idea to move out of your lane when safe so that the cell-phone-using driver can drive behind someone else. Also did you know that if you are driving behind a cell-phone user, add that extra second of space between you and his or her car – this may keep you from being involved in a collision caused by that driver’s inattentiveness.

Effective January 1, 2009 a new law will go into effect where writing, sending, or reading a text-based communication while driving will be against the law for all drivers in California and is punishable by a base fine for a first offense with an increasing fine for each subsequent offense. With the addition of penalty assessments, fines can be more than triple the base fine amount.

This new law applies to electronic wireless communications devices used to manually communicate with any person using text-based communication, including, but not limited to, communications referred to as a text message, instant message, or electronic mail.

Text Messaging and Cell Phones

Regardless of age, it is illegal to drive a motor vehicle while using an electronic wireless communication device to write, send, or read text messages, instant messages, and emails.

NOTE, as discussed previously: With certain exceptions, adults may not use a cell phone while driving unless hands-free equipment is used. Minors may not use a cell phone except in certain emergencies (refer to the “Minors and Cell Phones” section for additional information).

Cell phones can be a lifesaver in emergency situations. Use your cell phone in the following safe and responsible ways while driving:

• With hands-free devices (except minors).
• To call for help in an emergency.
• If your cell phone rings, do not answer it. Let the call go to voice-mail, if you have this feature.

Do not use your cell phone:

• During hazardous conditions.
• To engage in distracting conversations.

ACCIDENT CAUSATION

Mental and Physical:

If you show signs of mental or emotional disturbances, you may be unable to cope with a difficult situation that may cause serious anxiety, tension, aggression or anger with another driver. This, of course, adds to the possibility of an accident. There are things you can do to avoid this problem:

• Have regular medical checkups.
• Avoid driving in stressful traffic situations.
• Drive in familiar areas.
• Keep more distance from the cars ahead.
• Concentrate on the whole traffic scene.
• Don’t drive when emotionally upset or angry, worried, or daydreaming.
• Don’t drive when emotionally upset or angry, worried, or daydreaming.
• Do not drive if you are tired or sleepy.

Stopping often, fresh air, singing, or conversation can help avoid drowsiness for only a short time, but the best cure is to pull off the road and get some rest. Look for the signs of being over-tired: when your eyes feel heavy, yawning, and daydreaming are just a few of the warning signals. Driving while under the influence of alcohol is another serious problem on the road. It is a serious violation of the law to drive while or after having an alcoholic beverage. Set up a designated driver; do not take a chance with lives. If you have broken a leg, arm, or hip (and any other serious aches), you may be prevented from making quick road movements and judgments, so consider not driving at all until you are back in full health. If you have a physical problem, find a friend or relative to drive you where you need to go.

Eating

Do not eat while you’re driving – you can easily become distracted. If you’re hungry, park and eat at a restaurant or in a safe place so as not to cause a collision. If you can wait until you get home to eat, do so. You owe it to yourself and to others on the road to drive defensively.

Hygiene-Makeup & Combing Your Hair

Whatever you do – don’t put makeup on and groom yourself while driving! This is a very common mistake people can make. If you’re running late for work or where ever you’re going, do yourself and others on the road a favor by driving safely – put your makeup on and groom yourself, while you’re not driving. Someone in front of you can stop suddenly while you’re perfecting your makeup and you can cause a crash or even worse, you can injure someone on the road, riding a bicycle, or even just walking by. Please take care by NOT putting your makeup on while you’re driving a vehicle. A vehicle is a deadly weapon!

Changing Radio Stations

As silly as this may sound, many people have caused or have been injured because they were too busy changing radio stations while driving. If you have someone else in the vehicle with you, and you want to listen to another station, ask the passenger to change the station for you, while you’re keeping your eyes on the road. If no one is in the vehicle with you and you want to change the station, it is best to pull over where it is safe and find the station you’re looking for, if it’s that important to you. Yes, even (a minor distraction caused by) changing radio stations can cause a crash or an unwanted fatality – your life and other lives on the road are in your hands. Please drive carefully. Pay attention to the road and not your radio.

Watching Videos

A driver is allowed to drive a motor vehicle with a television receiver, video monitor, television or video screen, or any other similar means of visually displaying a television broadcast or video signal, if the equipment is designed, operated, and configured in a manner that prevents the driver of the motor vehicle from viewing the television broadcast or video signal while operating the vehicle in a safe and reasonable manner.

Adjusting Your Seat and Mirrors

Always adjust the seat, mirrors, and safety belt before starting your vehicle. You may have a collision if you to try to adjust them while you’re driving.

Wearing Glasses or Contact Lenses

Follow your eye doctor’s advice about glasses or corrective contact lenses. If your eye doctor tells you to wear them for driving, do it. If your license says that you must wear “corrective lenses,” wear them. Don’t be fooled to believe that you could drive without corrective lenses – it just isn’t the smartest thing to do and besides, It’s the law: Per section CVC14603 “No person shall operate a vehicle in violation of the provisions of a restricted license issued to him/her.”

Scenery can be very pleasant, but it also can cause serious distractions. It is too easy to watch the passing sight and forget that you are driving. Many drivers have driven off the roadway into parked vehicles or other objects, when their eyes have wandered off the road. Accident scenes cause problems for all drivers. Often, drivers slow and divert their attention to an accident scene and create an additional accident! Do not take your attention off the surrounding driving conditions when your car is in motion. When there is something usual happening on the side of the road, this is the most important time to pay particular attention to the traffic in front of you, because the car in front of you may be slowing unnecessarily. If you were to hit the car in front of you, you would be at fault, even though they slowed down unnecessarily. Some drivers look for a particular store or address while passing through a business district, and they might stop in the middle of the roadway. Drivers sometimes ignore driving and road conditions, which causes other drivers to slow down with them and wait until they leave the road. This disrupts the flow of traffic. If you are not sure of where you are going, pull off of the road; do not block the flow of traffic. When driving around stores and on busy streets (especially in the city), avoid driving in the right-hand lane unless you are planning a right-hand turn into a driveway, parking lot or corner. The right-hand lane is the lane most likely to be affected by confused or lost drivers.

Environment

Things often found on or near the road can also limit what you see. Watch for any obstruction on or near the highway where you have less than full vision. Objects of almost any size may hide hazards from your view. A tree or truck could hide a pedestrian, an accident up ahead or other accident potentials. Signboards or buildings can also block a large vehicle or other hazards. Drivers often do not take note of shrubbery because it is not in their pathway. Bushes or shrubbery often hide vehicles, people, children, and animals, which could cross your path of travel. You want to watch for people, animals, bicycles, and other things darting in front of your roadway. When vision is limited, prepare yourself by covering your brake and be ready to stop.

Visual Habits

As you drive, search the road for hazards that might cause a problem; plan your moves in time to avoid a collision with cars around you. Always check your mirrors and look over your shoulder when making a lane change. While driving, see the road, the vehicles around you, conditions of the road, and environmental hazards so that you are prepared to respond safely.

Other Drivers & Passengers/Pets

Other drivers’ good driving habits benefit you on the roadway. They may help keep you from making a mistake. Good drivers help sustain the ideal driving skills; they set the driving standard that all drivers should imitate. Other drivers’ bad driving habits can hinder you on the roadway. Drivers of other vehicles may not have the same skills that you do, or they may not be as aware as you are. This is where good defensive driving comes into play. You must watch for: Other drivers making unsafe turns in front of you (cover your brake if it looks like the other driver might turn in front of you unsafely) Other drivers not seeing your vehicle when they are making a lane change (don’t drive in other drivers’ blind spots! Either pull up or pull back, but never put the first third of your car next to the back third of the other guy!) Other drivers neglecting traffic signs or signals (expect the other guy to make the mistake, especially at intersections) Other drivers not yielding to vehicles or hazards (good manners are a sign of maturity and responsibility in a driver. Unfortunately, the DMV does not test for these, so expect the occasional irresponsible or immature action on the road.) Other drivers’ poor skills affect your safety. You can compensate for their shortcomings by being aware of all the elements around you. Drivers’ behavior can be predictable. If you watch the traffic around you and know how to react properly, you will be able to avoid an accident with another vehicle. Watch for unusual movement: unsafe drivers don’t just flip a switch and become road hazards. You should be able to pick out the hazardous drivers long before you get anywhere near them.

Passengers/ Pet distraction

When you have children or pets in the car, you may be distracted by them. Before you start driving, first get your passengers settled and make sure everyone is fully comfortable and they won’t require your attention while driving. Never take your eyes off the road to look at you passengers. If your passengers require your attention, pull over first

Intersections

The possibility of a crash is greater at an intersection than at any other place on a street or highway. Intersections are dangerous because the paths of many drivers cross here. Forty percent of all collisions and 25% of all fatal collisions take place at intersections.

When view is blocked (blind intersections)

Vehicles, trees, bushes, or buildings at intersections can block your view of cars coming from the side. You need to approach an intersection slowly enough (15 mph) to be able to stop if a car pulls out suddenly. Look for approaching cars on side streets. Look for pedestrians and cross traffic. Check all oncoming traffic; left, right, and left again. If the road is clear, cross the intersection.

Turns

When you drive in city traffic, you should look at least one block ahead. Look for vehicles coming towards you and wait until it is safe to turn. Turning is most common at intersections, where drivers want to turn onto a cross street. Yield to vehicles already in the intersection or just entering it. Make sure you can see before crossing and intersection. Look both ways, left first since cars coming from the left are closer to you. Look to the right, and then take one more look to the left before you pull out, just in case there is someone you didn’t see the first time. Never turn before looking for pedestrians and vehicles that might cross your path. Try not to over- or under-steer the turn (your car should NEVER cross the yellow lines of the perpendicular road. Make sure that all four tires of your car enter your lane of choice, and do not make lane changes right after your turn!)

Freeways

Freeway accidents are often caused by poor driving habits. Some of these include:

• Driving too fast for conditions
• Following too closely (Tailgating)
• Following too closely (Tailgating)
• Making poor decisions
• Failure to give right-of-way to merging and entering traffic
• Failing to recognize when driving performance is being lessened by fatigue
• Making unsafe lane changes
• Making sudden braking movements
• Cutting off other drivers
• Not slowing properly to hazards, slowing traffic, or construction on the roadway
• Failure to drive in accordance with road conditions

Space Cushion

The space cushion is the area around your vehicle. Be alert to vehicles on either side, to the front, and to the rear of your car. Check the other traffic lanes by using your mirrors. Turn your head to look quickly to the side, checking over your shoulder before changing lanes. Leave enough space between you and the vehicle ahead for safe stops. The forward space is your ‘control space.’ Always maintain a three-second distance between you and the car in front of you. Look through his windows to see the traffic in front of him if you can, so that you have even more time to respond to something hazardous ahead.

Increase your distance between you and the car in front of you if you are being tailgated, if conditions are poor, or if any drivers around you are using their cell phone while driving (especially if they are driving behind you). The space to the side of your car is also important. While you cannot control the other car, you can control where you are in relation to the other car. Never place your car in a position where the other driver cannot see you in his/her mirrors (don’t drive in the other driver’s blind spot).
You CAN control this. The space behind you is incredibly important as well, but you do not have as much control over this. If you are being tailgated, your best option is to signal right and merge safely to the next lane so the tailgater can move on and tailgate someone else. If there is no lane to your right, then simply slow down to create more space in front of you so the tailgater is encouraged to pass you. Crazy drivers behind you can hurt you; crazy drivers in front of you can’t hurt you!.

Common Sense Driving

In this section, we will discuss what’s considered ‘common sense’ while driving.

Riding in the trunk

It is illegal for a person driving a motor vehicle to knowingly permit anyone to ride in the trunk of their vehicle. Additionally, it is illegal for any passenger to ride in the trunk of a vehicle.

Looking in Front of You

You’re going to pay attention to the road because you know that while driving a motor vehicle, as tempting as it may be to look off on the side of the road to see that girl or guy of your dreams, remember that you are driving and that there are many people who count on you to do the right thing by concentrating and scanning the road.

Looking Behind You

Looking behind you is as important as looking in front of you, while driving forward. It’s a good idea to check traffic behind you often. It is very important to check behind you before you change lanes, slow down quickly, or drive down a long or steep hill. (We will talk more about looking)

Driving Hazards

Water on the Road

When you notice a lot of water on the road the safest act is to slow down. In a heavy rain at speeds of 50 mph or more, your tires will be riding on water (Hydroplaning) and can lose all contact with the road. The smallest change of direction or a gust of wind will throw your vehicle into a skid. If your vehicle starts to hydroplane; don’t panic; just slow down gradually–do not apply the brakes.

Also, if you have an off-road vehicle, you need to be cautious when driving through deep water.

-If you have to cross deep water, do not overload the trunk of your vehicle, as this will bring your front tires off the ground to a degree and reduce your ability to steer.

-Shift to a lower gear so that your speed drops, reducing the likelihood of water being splashed into the engine compartment and stalling your vehicle. Driving fast may be tempting, but it is also dangerous, as you may end up hydroplaning and losing control of the vehicle.

Slippery Roads

As soon as you see the rain drops, slow down, especially after a dry spell. Road are most slippery after a dry spell, because oil and dust are compounding on the roads and have not washed away. During a rain shower, the road surface is likely to be most slippery in the first 30 minutes after the shower begins. A slippery road is very dangerous and will not give your tires the grasp they need. Drive slower than the speed limit. Adjust your speed as follows:

• Wet road –go five–ten miles slower.
• Packed snow –go five–ten miles slower.
• Ice –slow to a crawl.

Obtain maximum visibility

You must maximize your visibility when driving on slippery surfaces.

Use your low beam headlightsif it is raining or sprinkling (to prevent glare).

Use your windshield wipers to remove film and dirt from the windshield.

Speed

• Keep below dry-road speed when surfaces are slippery. Speed limits have been set based on dry-road conditions. It takes four times as long to stop on a wet road as it does on a dry road.
• Decrease speed when entering a curve if surfaces are wet, as your grip will be lessened and you’ll have no control over your direction. If the corner is sharper or longer than you thought, you may find yourself sliding or skidding.
• Keep your speed steady and slower than a dry-road speed. Don’t forget, per the basic speed law, if driving in the rain; drop your speed 5 to 10 mph.
• Some road surfaces are more slippery than others when wet and usually have warning signs posted. Here are some clues to help identifying slippery roads:
• On cold, wet days, shade from trees or buildings can hide spots of ice. These areas freeze first and dry out last.
• Bridges and overpasses tend to freeze before the rest of the road does. They can hide spots of ice.
• If it starts to rain on a hot day, the pavement can be very slippery for the first several minutes. Heat causes oil in the asphalt to come to the surface. The oil makes the road slippery until the rain washes the oil off the surface of the road.

Skids on Slippery Surfaces

Watch for areas where ice collects. Ice tends to form not only in shady areas such as tunnels, but also on bridges and overpasses which, being more exposed to the cold air, tend to freeze before other road areas. A road that is normally safe can become dangerous when it is slippery. Ice and packed snow on the road can cause your vehicle to skid, especially if you are driving too fast or going downhill.

How to Avoid Skidding:

• Avoid braking suddenly-pump brakes lightly but fast. Avoid braking suddenly-pump brakes lightly but fast.
• Keep the clutch engaged and avoid suddenly lifting your foot from the accelerator. . If you don’t, you will send the vehicle into a skid. IF you have any steering control and need to stop, you could drive into something “soft” to reduce speed, such as a snow bank or bushes. If there is nothing soft around, steer around hazards and look for the softest thing to hit if it looks like you cannot just coast to a stop.
• Steer in the direction the rear end is skidding. If you go into a skid with your back end swinging around, take your foot off the pedals and steer in the direction the back end is going.
• Avoid over steering.Don’t steer for too long in the same direction as the back end is swinging around, otherwise you will over steer and either starts fishtailing or spinning around.
• Do not change to a lower gear at too fast a speed. If you need to change to a slower gear, make sure you are traveling at the correct speed. If you are moving too fast, you will create a sudden slowing of the vehicle and it may spin out of control.
• Do not drive on road edge or shoulder. Stay away from the road’s edge or shoulder, you may get stuck in snow or mud.
• Avoid applying brakes too suddenly or too hard. In the same way, apply the brakes gradually to avoid skidding or hydroplaning.
• When to use chains. Only use snow chains when driving through snow that is hard to pass through without them. If you have grip without them, they won’t make your traction any better, they will only damage the roadway.
• Watch for areas where ice collects.
• Avoid turning or swerving suddenly. Make gentle turns rather than yanking on the steering wheel or swerving to avoid something, which will send you into a spin.

If the brakes get wet, dry them by lightly pressing the gas pedal and brake pedal at the same time so that the vehicle drives against the pressure of the brakes. Don’t overdo this process; perform this light pressing only until the brakes dry.

If you cannot control your vehicle on a slippery surface, try to find something to stop the skid. Try to get a wheel on dry pavement or on the shoulder of the road.

Acceleration Skids

Sometimes when you need to get moving, your tires may have difficulty gripping because they are on a soft, moveable, or slippery surface. If you are trying to get underway and the wheels are spinning, shift to second gear so the wheels don’t spin so fast, and accelerate gradually with a slow but steady increase in pressure on the accelerator.

How to “Rock Out”:

If the Acceleration Skids process described above doesn’t work when you are stuck in mud or snow, you can always “Rock Out”.

• Start slowly in low gear. Try to move forward slowly in a slow gear with the front wheels straight. Drive forward gently as far as you can until the wheels spin.
• Shift rapidly to reverse and back up until wheels start to spin. Shift back to low gear. The idea is to prevent the wheels from spinning, and when they do, change direction quickly by going into low gear and moving forward again slowly.
• Repeat movement in rapid succession. Keep repeating this pattern, rocking the vehicle forwards and backwards until you have enough of a clear runway to build up speed and escape from the snow or mud.

Locked Wheel Skids

This type of skid is usually caused by braking too hard at a high rate of speed and locking the wheels. NO matter which way the steering wheel is turned, the vehicle will skid. First you want to unlock the wheels by taking your foot off the brake. Then, straighten the front wheels as the vehicle begins to straighten out. Gradually slow the vehicle until you are at a safe speed to continue your driving.

Managing Mechanical Failures:

If your accelerator becomes stuck you should:

• Shift to neutral and expect the engine to rev very high.
• Apply the brakes and look for a way out of the traffic flow. You need to use your horn and hazard flashers to warn other drivers around you.
• Keep your eyes on the road.
• Once you have lined up the vehicle to go off the road and no longer need to steer, switch off the ignition. If you have power brakes and steering, these will become sluggish. Use the handbrake to bring the vehicle to a halt if necessary.
• Try to drive the car safely and quickly off the road. Leaving your vehicle in the read way is not just waiting for a collision to happen, but asking for one to happen.
• Stop and turn off the ignition. WARNING: Turning the ignition off while the vehicle is moving may lock the steering wheel; you will not have control of the steering.

Power Steering Failure:

• If your entire steering system fails, shift to a lower gear and apply the brakes.
• If your power steering fails, signal and look for an opening. Then use both hands to pull hard on the steering wheel so you can move over to the side of the road.

Drive Defensively to Avoid Collisions

What is defensive driving? It is driving to defend yourself against possible collisions caused by bad drivers, or drunk drivers (that doesn’t mean YOU! Or does it?), poor weather, and heavy traffic.

If you look ahead, and keep your eyes moving, you will spot a hazard more easily. Once you have seen the hazard and decided what to do, act. Never “wait and see.” Never think that everything will be all right. Children playing in the street may not see you. The boy on the bike may ride in front of you. The man opening a car door in your lane may not see you. If you have a collision, you may not be legally at fault; however, you may be morally at fault, if you could have prevented the collision, but didn’t. Remember, you can prevent most collisions if you drive defensively.

You should think about every “near miss” or collision you have had. Decide what went wrong and who made the mistake. Could you have avoided the collision or near collision? What did you do wrong? By asking yourself these questions, you can see if you need to change your driving habits. Such change might help you avoid a serious collision later on.

No driver or passenger wants to get into an accident. Collisions can be very deadly and dangerous; not to mention how costly this can be!  No matter how careful and cautious you are while driving, statistics have shown that you’re likely to be involved in a collision at least once during your driving career.   In this lesson we will discuss ways to avoid collision; as much as possible:

Keep Your Car Visible

The driver’s blind spots are shown here. If you look only in your mirrors, you cannot see vehicles in these blind spots, if you only look in your mirrors. Turn your head to see if a vehicle is in one of these blind spots. Do not linger in another driver’s blind spot. As quickly as you can, drop back or pass the vehicle.

The shaded areas are your blind spots

What Is the Road Condition?

The faster your speed, the less control you have of your vehicle. Rather than driving at the legal posted speed limit, consider adjusting you driving speed for road conditions or whatever affects the safe operation of your vehicle. For example, should you drive 35 mph (the posted speed limit) on a curve down an icy mountain road? Many inexperienced drivers do not adjust their driving speed for the road conditions; that causes them to have more “out-of-control” collisions than experienced drivers.

Traffic Speeds

Collisions are more likely to happen when one driver goes faster or slower than the other cars on the road.
If you drive faster than other traffic, you increase your chances of being involved in a collision. Studies have shown that speeding does not save more than a few minutes in an hour of driving time.

Driving slower than other vehicles or stopping suddenly can be just as dangerous, as speeding, if not more dangerous because you may cause a rear end collision or cause other drivers to swerve to avoid hitting your vehicle. If you are in the fast lane and you notice vehicles moving to the right lane to pass you, or a line of vehicles are forming behind you, the best thing to do is move into the right lane, when it is safe, and let the vehicle(s) pass.

Here are some interesting statistics that is reported by CHP for most recent years:

a. Types of violation

In 2010, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs resulted in 477 fatal collisions, which represented 18.9%of the total reported by California’s Statewide Integrated Records System (SWITRS). And driving at an unsafe speed resulted in 435 fatalities; which represented 15.9% of the total reported by California’s Statewide Integrated Records System (SWITRS).

b. Gender

In 2010 men represented 70.5% of the fatalities which was accounted for 1,915 fatalities, reported by California’s Statewide Integrated Records System (SWITRS).

c. Age groups

In 2010, the 25-34 age groups had the highest percentage of drivers in fatal crashes with 447 fatalities, representing the highest percentage of 16.5%. The second highest age group was 45-54 age groups with 432 fatalities, representing the second highest at 15.9% reported by California’s Statewide Integrated Records System (SWITRS).

d. Time of Day

In 2010 in California, there were a total of 2,478 fatal collisions: 445 of these occurred between 6:00pm and 8:59pm, which represent the most dangerous time of day at 17.7%. The second deadliest time of day was 9:00pm to 11:59pm at 13.6% reported by California’s Statewide Integrated Records System (SWITRS).

a. Types of violation

Speeding is one of the most widespread factors contributing to traffic crashes. In 2010, speeding was a major contributing factor in 32% % of all fatal crashes, and 10,395 lives were lost in speeding-related crashes. The second highest violation percentage was driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or mediation resulted in 7,052 fatal collisions; which accounted for 15.9% of the total reported by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) database.

b. Time of day

3:00pm up to 5:59pm proved to be the deadliest 3-hour periods throughout 2010, with 4,867 fatal collisions, representing 16.1%. The second deadliest hour of the day in 2010 was 6:00pm to 8:59pm with 4,806 fatal collisions at 15.9% (according to National Highway traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) database.

c. Age groups

In 2010, the 25-34 age groups had the highest percentage of drivers in fatal crashes with 5,538 fatalities, representing the highest percentage of 16.8%. The second highest age group was 45-54 age groups with 5,079 fatalities, representing the second highest at 15.4% reported by National Highway traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) database.

e. Gender

For every age group, the fatality rate per 100,000 populations was lower for females than for males. Male represented 22,902 of the fatalities in 2010 which was 69.6%, reported by National Highway traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) database.

Common Causes of Collisions

Collisions occur for many reasons and regularly a combination of them. A driver’s mental or physical condition, the environment, and visual obstructions all contribute to collisions.

What are some common causes of Collisions?

1. Unsafe speed

• Collisions are more likely to happen when drivers are driving at different speeds on the road. If you drive faster than other traffic, you increase your chances of being involved in a collision. Studies have shown that speeding will only cut a few minutes on your arrival to your destination. The faster your speed, the less control you have of your vehicle. Rather than driving at the legal posted speed limit, consider adjusting you driving speed for road conditions or whatever affects the safe operation of your vehicle. For example, should you drive 35 mph (the posted speed limit) on a curve down an icy mountain road? Many inexperienced drivers do not adjust their driving speed for the road conditions; that causes them to have more “out-of-control” collisions than experienced drivers.
• Driving slower than other vehicles or stopping suddenly can be just as dangerous, as speeding, if not more dangerous because you may cause a rear end collision or cause other drivers to swerve to avoid hitting your vehicle. Thus driving slower than the flow of traffic, you will most likely interfere with traffic and receive a ticket. If you are in the fast lane and you notice other vehicles moving to the right lane to pass you, or a line of vehicles are forming behind you, the best thing to do is when it is safe, move into the right lane and let the vehicle(s) behind you pass.

2. Driving on the wrong side of the road

Always follow the traffic lane colors. Traffic lanes are often referred to by number. The left or “fast” lane is called the “Number 1 Lane.” The lane to the right of the “Number 1 Lane” is called the “Number 2 Lane,” then the “Number 3 Lane,” etc.

Example of numbered traffic lanes

Drive in the lane with the smoothest flow of traffic. If you can choose among three lanes, pick the middle lane for the smoothest driving. To drive faster, pass, or turn left, use the left lane. When you choose to drive slowly or enter or turn off the road, use the right lane.
If there are only two lanes in your direction, pick the right lane for the smoothest driving.
Do not weave in and out of traffic. Stay in one lane as much as possible. Once you start through an intersection, keep going. If you start to make a turn, follow through. Last minute changes may cause collisions. If you miss a turn, continue until you can safely and legally turn around. And always remember you must drive on the right side of the road.

3. Improper turns

Improper turns have been the cause of thousands of serious car accident every year. This can place a car directly in front of or into the path of an oncoming automobile. That is why the simple oversight of not looking before making a turn is one of the top causes of car accidents and often leads to major personal injuries or distressing deaths.

Just remember, if you are making the wrong turn and cause the accident, from a legal standpoint, not only you cause the grief for the families of the injured in the accident, but possibly could be facing imprisonment.

When turns are improperly executed at intersections, expect severe collisions. You are asking for trouble when you make a left turn from the wrong lane. The proper left turn to avoid a collision with another vehicle is from the farthest left lane in the direction you are traveling.

Examples of Improper Turns That Can Lead To Car Accidents

• Turning when there is a “No Turn on Red” sign at a red light.
• Turning at a stop sign or red light without coming to a complete stop or yielding to traffic or pedestrians.
• Making a left at a red light where doing so is prohibited.
• Turning without signaling, which is also called “Improper Turn Signal Use.”
• Turning without having the right-of-way.

4. Violation of the right-of-way rules

Right-of-way rules, together with courtesy and common sense, help to promote traffic safety. It is important to respect the right-of-way of others, especially pedestrians, motorcycle riders, and bicycle riders. Never assume other drivers will give you the right-of-way. Yield your right-of-way when it helps to prevent collisions.

Respecting the right-of-way of others is not limited to situations such as yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks, or watching carefully to ensure the right-of-way of bicyclists and motorcyclists. Motorists must respect the right-of-way of others by not violating traffic laws, such as failing to stop at a stop sign or traffic light, speeding, making unsafe lane changes, or illegal turns. Statistics show that right-of-way violations cause a high percentage of injury collisions in California.

5. Violation of stop signals and signs

Any time you come to a place where people may cross or enter your path or one line of traffic meets another, you should look to the left and right sides of your vehicle to make sure no one is coming. Always look to each side of your vehicle at intersections, crosswalks, and railroad crossings.

Look both ways even if other traffic has a red light or a stop sign:

• Look to the left first, since vehicles coming from the left are closer to you than vehicles coming from the right.
• Look to the right.
• Take one more look to the left in case there is a vehicle or a pedestrian you did not see the first time.
• Do not rely on traffic signals. Some drivers do not obey traffic signals so before you enter an intersection, look left, right, and ahead for approaching traffic.

6. Driver distractions (discussed in more depth later)

• Mental : When you are wrapped up in deep thoughts, upset, worried, angry, your attention won’t adequately be on the road to anticipate or respond to unforeseen events. You will make needless mistakes, like passing without checking your blind spot or stomping on the accelerator instead of the brake. You will most probably drive similarly to your emotions and irrationally.
• Physical :Many numbers of physical problems may contribute to collisions. Driving while tired or ill can precipitate collisions. Also falling asleep at the wheel will slow down your reaction time as well as making rational decisions complicated.
• Environment: Environmental hazards include everything from potholes in the road to rain, fog, snow, windstorms, black ice, or road construction. You must constantly be aware of your environment.
• Visual Habits: One frequent visual habit that contributes to collisions is not looking over your shoulder before moving into another lane. Also another habit is using peripheral vision when turning right on a red light at an intersection, instead of looking directly for oncoming traffic or pedestrians. Make sure you are wearing your required prescription lenses when driving. These habits are controllable and easy to resolve: wear prescription lenses and look before you act; don’t’ just assume you own the road and it is it clear.
• Other Drivers: Last but not least, other drivers can do any of the above, especially if they are under the influence of alcohol, drugs or tired, upset or distracted. Their turn indicator control may have been snapped off, they may tailgate as a matter of principal, or they may switch lanes every few seconds at twice the posted speed limit. Whatever the reason, other drivers can result in grief for you unless you remain alert at all times. Fall back or pull off the road if you have to; you ultimate goal should be to avoid collisions with such drivers.
• Changing Lanes: There are numerous situations through changing lanes that can cause collisions. Always be alert when changing lanes, change your lane cautiously and don’t take short cuts. We will be discussing turns and changing lanes in more detail later in this chapter.

Visual Search (Scanning)

To avoid last minute moves, you should look down the road 10 to 15 seconds ahead of your vehicle. In the city, 10 to 15 second is about one block. On the highway, 10 to 15 seconds is about a quarter of a mile. A driver needs to look that far ahead to see hazards early. Constantly staring at the road just in front of your car is dangerous.
If you look far enough ahead, you will be able to see important things such as someone getting into a parked car.
Every motor vehicle, other than a motorcycle, must be operated with headlamps whenever weather conditions prevent a driver from clearly discerning a person or other motor vehicle on the highway from a distance of 1000 feet, or when driving in conditions that require windshield wipers to be in continuous use. Such conditions may exist during sunsets, sunrises, and during fog and snow.
Take in the whole scene: Looking 10 to 15 seconds ahead does not mean looking only at the middle of the road. It means looking at the side of the road as well.

Looking from side to side helps you to see:

• Cars and people that may be in the road by the time you reach them.
• Cars and people that may be in the road by the time you reach them.
• Signs giving you directions

Scan the road with your eyes. Check all mirrors, and then turn your head before changing lanes because mirrors have blind spots. These blind spots can hide a motorcycle or bicycle. Watch for things about to happen like: a ball rolling into the street; a car door opening; a swerving bicycle.

Slowing Down

When you slow down suddenly, take a quick glance in your mirrors. You should also turn your signal on, check your mirrors and look out for pedestrians when you are preparing to turn into a side road, a driveway, or when you are stopping to pull into a parking space.

Watch for Clues in the Road

Look for exhaust smoke, brake or back-up lights and turned wheels on vehicles. Clues like these indicate that the vehicles may pull into your path. Watch for pedestrians, bicyclists and other slow moving vehicles that may be in the road ahead.

As you are looking for clues also look out for the possibility of sharing the road with an impaired driver, if you notice that you are sharing the road with a suspected impaired driver, it is safest to be driving behind him/her.

When Driving in Rural Areas

Watch for hidden intersections and driveways, curves, hills and different road conditions. Watch for other vehicles, especially trucks, oversize and slow-moving farm vehicles.

Check from Left to Right before Entering an Intersection

Whenever you reach a place in the road where other cars, people or animals may cross your path, look to both sides to be sure that the way is clear. These include intersections, crosswalks, shopping centers, construction areas and playgrounds. At any intersection, look to the left first, since cars coming from the left will be closer to you. Then look to the right and take one more quick look to the left before you drive through.

Involved in a Collision

If you are involved in a collision:

• STOP immediately. You need to make sure no one is injured and need your help. If you do not stop, you may be convicted of “hit and run” and possibly face a severe punishment.
• Call 9-1-1, if anyone is hurt.
• After checking for any injury, move your vehicle out of the traffic lane
• Exchange your information with the other driver. Show your driver license, registration card, evidence of financial responsibility, and current address to the other driver, persons involved, or police officer.
• In case of any injury or death, you (or your insurance agent, broker, or legal representative) must make a written report to the police or CHP within 24 hours of the collision.
• You (or your insurance agent, broker, or legal representative) must make a written report to the DMV within 10 days.
• Common courtesy; if you hit a parked vehicle or other property, leave a note with your name, phone number, and address in or securely attached to the vehicle or property you hit. Report the collision to the city police or, in unincorporated areas, to the CHP.
• You must call the nearest humane society, the police or CHP, if you kill or injure an animal, Refrain from moving the injured animal or leave an injured animal to die.

When to Report a Collision:

When you have a collision, report it to the DMV within 10 days if:

• More than $750 in damage was done to the property of any person.
• Anyone was injured (no matter how slightly) or killed.

Use your rear-view mirror to check the traffic behind you frequently, about every 2 to 5 seconds. This will alert you if someone is moving up too quickly or tailgating you. Check the traffic behind you when changing lanes, backing up, slowing down quickly or driving down a long, steep hill. But, don’t take your eyes off the road for more than an instant.

Below are a few driver distractions:

• Eating
• Putting on makeup
• Text messaging
• Cell phones
• Navigation devices
• Scenery/window shopping
• Radio/music/ear buds or headphones
• Passengers (including children/pets)
• Other vehicles/hazards

Things You Must Not Do:

• Do not smoke at any time when a minor is in the vehicle. You can be fined up to $100.
• Do not dump or abandon animals on a highway. This crime is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, six months in jail, or both.
• Do not operate a cell phone without the use of a hands-free device (minors, refer to the “Minors and Cell Phones” section for pertaining information).
• Do not drive a motor vehicle while using a wireless communications device to write, send, or read text based communications.
• Do not wear a headset or earplugs in both ears while driving.
• Do not drive a vehicle so loaded, either with property or people, that you cannot control it, or see ahead or to the sides of your vehicle.
• It is illegal to drive any vehicle with an unsafe, unsecured load that is a safety hazard (CVC 24002a). Unsecured loads (ladders, buckets, and loose items in the back of pickup trucks) can cause danger for other motorists, especially motorcycles, when they fall onto the road.
• Do not carry anything in or on a passenger vehicle which extends beyond the fenders on the left side or more than 6 inches beyond the fenders on the right side. Cargo extending more than 4 feet from the back of the vehicle must display a 12-inch red or fluorescent orange square flag or two red lights at night.
• Do not allow anyone to ride on any part of your vehicle not intended for passengers.
• Do not allow anyone to ride in the trunk of your vehicle. Convictions will result in penalties for both the driver and the person(s) riding in the trunk.
• Do not allow a person to ride in the back of a pickup or other truck, unless the vehicle is equipped with seats and the person uses both the seat and a safety belt.
• Do not transport animals in the back of a pickup or other truck unless the animal is properly secured.
• Do not leave a child or an animal unattended in a hot vehicle (refer to the to the “Unattended Children in Motor Vehicles” section “Hot Weather Risks” section).
• Do not tow anyone who is riding a bicycle, in a wagon, on roller skates, roller blades, skis, sled, toy vehicle, skateboard, etc.
• Do not litter the roadside. The fine is $1,000 and you may be forced to pick up what you threw away. Littering convictions show on your driving record.
• Do not wear eyeglasses with temples wide enough to keep you from seeing clearly to the sides.
• Do not drive a vehicle equipped with a video monitor, if the monitor is visible to the driver and displays anything other than vehicle information or global mapping displays.
• Do not honk your horn unless it is a safety warning to avoid a collision.
• Do not throw any cigarette, cigar, or other flaming or glowing substance from your vehicle.
• Do not shoot firearms on a highway or at traffic signs.
• Do not block your view by putting signs or other objects on the front windshield or the back side windows. Do not hang objects on the mirror. Windshield/window stickers, etc., are permitted in these locations only:
• A seven-inch square on either the passenger’s side windshield, lower corner; or the lower corner of the rear window.
• A five-inch square on the lower corner of the driver’s side window.
• The side windows behind the driver.
• Do not drive any motor vehicle into a designated wilderness area (CVC §38301.5).
• Do not drive with illegally tinted safety glass. If you have sun-sensitive skin, you may use removable sun screens during daylight travel, provided you have a letter from your physician.
• Do not block or hinder a funeral procession. Vehicles taking part in a funeral procession have the right-of-way, and if you interfere, obstruct, or interrupt the funeral procession, you are subject to a citation (CVC §2817). A funeral procession is led by a traffic officer. All vehicles taking part in the procession have windshield markers to identify them and have their headlights on.
• Do not ride, or allow a child to ride, a “pocket bike” on a public street or highway. These vehicles are not manufactured or designed for highway use, and they do not meet federal safety standards.

Things You Must Do:

• You must drive as far to the right as reasonably possible on narrow mountain roads. If you cannot see at least 200 feet ahead, honk your horn.
• You must use your headlights 30 minutes after sunset and leave them on until 30 minutes before sunrise.
• You must dim your lights to low beams within 500 feet of a vehicle coming toward you or within 300 feet of a vehicle you are following.
• You must turn on your headlights if snow, rain, fog, dust, or low visibility (1,000 feet or less) requires the use of windshield wipers.
• If you are involved in a collision, you must move your vehicle out of the traffic lane (unless it is disabled) when it is safe to do so. Law enforcement may tow or impound your vehicle if it is left in an unsafe area and causes safety concerns.

• You must stop. Someone could be injured and need your help. If you do not stop, you may be convicted of “hit and run” and could be severely punished.
• Call 9-1-1, if anyone is hurt.
• Move your vehicle out of the traffic lane if no one is injured or killed.
• Show your driver license, registration card, evidence of financial responsibility, and current address to the other driver, persons involved, or police officer.
• You (or your insurance agent, broker, or legal representative) must make a written report to the police or CHP within 24 hours of the collision if someone is killed or injured.
• You (or your insurance agent, broker, or legal representative) must make a written report to the DMV within 10 days.
• If you hit a parked vehicle or other property, leave a note with your name, phone number, and address in or securely attached to the vehicle or property you hit. Report the collision to the city police or, in unincorporated areas, to the CHP.
• If your parked car rolls away and hits another vehicle, try to find the owner and report the incident to authorities as mentioned above.
• If you kill or injure an animal, call the nearest humane society, the police, or CHP. Do not try to move an injured animal or leave an injured animal to die.

Reporting a Collision

When you have a collision, report it to the DMV within 10 days if:

• More than $750 in damage was done to the property of any person.
• Anyone was injured (no matter how slightly) or killed.
• Each driver (or the driver’s insurance agent, broker, or legal representative) must file a report with the DMV using the Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California (SR 1) form. Go online at www.dmv.ca.gov or call 1-800-777-0133 and ask for the SR 1 form. The CHP or police will not make this report for you.

BACKING UP SAFELY

Children:

Before you enter your vehicle, check around it for any children playing behind, on the sides, or in your area. Once you sit behind the wheel of your vehicle, it will be much harder for you to see any children. If you see children playing around your vehicle, tell them that you are going to back up and to stay away from your vehicle. Also look for bicycles and animals; pets are hard to see and no one wants to run over their pet or the neighbor’s pet. Once you get into your vehicle, you must still watch behind and beside your vehicle while you are backing up.

Look in your rear-view mirror, your side view mirrors, and then while you are backing up, turn to look over your right shoulder so you are positioned to see directly behind your vehicle. Turn your body and look out the rear window. Always be aware and careful of pedestrians while you are backing up.

Small Objects:

Before you enter your vehicle, you need to walk around your vehicle looking not only for children but for small objects such as balls, bikes, toys, etc. Children’s toys can cause damage to your vehicle or get lodged under your vehicle, rendering your vehicle inoperative. If you find objects in your path, remove them. Let the children know that you found the object and then tell them that you are backing up and for them to stay out of the way of the vehicle.

Pedestrians:

Always be careful of pedestrians when backing up. As you exit a driveway over a sidewalk, pedestrians walking on the sidewalk have the right of way, so wait for them to cross safely before proceeding.

Whatever pedestrians and bicyclists are doing, you must BE ALERT and drive responsibly. Both pedestrians and bicyclist are more vulnerable to injury than those in vehicles

Find Parking Spaces That Do Not Require Backing:

If at all possible, find a parking space that does not require you to back out of when you want to leave. Street parking is usually the safest and easiest parking place to use. Sometimes when you find a parking place in an un-crowded lot, it is wisest to back into the stop so that when it is time to leave (and it is possibly more crowded), you can simply pull out of the spot easily.

First and most important we need to know what each line and color means. Examples of lane markings:

(1) First picture on the left is: solid yellow line, which means, no passing if solid yellow line is on your side. (2) Middle picture: Double solid lines means, DO NOT pass. (3) The third picture from left is: Broken yellow line on the driver side which means; may pass if movement can be made safely.

Line Colors

Solid yellow lines next to broken line : A solid line next to a broken line allows drivers on the broken-line side of the road to pass and prohibits drivers on the solid-line from passing.
Broken yellow lines: A broken yellow line in the center of the road separates traffic that is going in both directions. You may cross over it to pass another vehicle when it is safe or to turn left into a road or driveway.
Two solid yellow: Two solid lines on a two-lane roadway mean no vehicle may overtake or pass another vehicle. Drivers may cross the lines only to turn into a road or driveway when it is safe to do so. U-turns are permitted across these lines, if there are no posted signs prohibiting the maneuver.

Two sets of solid double yellow lines spaced 2 feet or more apart: When two sets of double solid lines are spaced two or more feet apart on a roadway, they represent a solid wall. You may neither turn across them nor overtake or pass another vehicle over them. Cross only at plainly marked openings.

Solid white lines: White lines separate lanes going in the same direction.

Broken white lines: Broken white lines separate traffic lanes moving in the same direction. There is no restriction on passing, turning, or changing lanes.

Double white lines are two solid white lines that indicate a lane barrier between a regular use and a preferential use, such as a carpool lane. Never change lanes while in these lanes; wait until a single broken white line appears. You may also see these parallel lines in or near freeway on and off ramps.

Traffic lanes are often referred to by number. The left or “fast” lane is called the “Number 1 Lane.” The lane to the right of the “Number 1 Lane” is called the “Number 2 Lane,” then the “Number 3 Lane,” etc.

When there is more than one lane on your side of the road, choose the lane appropriate for what you want to do. If your turn is coming up soon, make sure you are in the correct lane in order to avoid missing your turn. The middle lane may allow for less stop-and-go since this is not usually a turning lane. If you need to travel slowly, turn right, or enter/exit the street, you should use the left-hand lane (unless another lane is designated for these maneuvers). On a three-lane, two-way highway that designates one lane of traffic for each direction, the middle lane is used for vehicles making left urns or passing.

Example of numbered traffic lanes

Drive in the lane with the smoothest flow of traffic. If you can choose among three lanes, pick the middle lane for the smoothest driving. To drive faster, pass, or turn left, use the left lane. When you choose to drive slowly or enter or turn off the road, use the right lane.

If there are only two lanes in your direction, pick the right lane for the smoothest driving.

Do not weave in and out of traffic. Stay in one lane as much as possible. Once you start through an intersection, keep going. If you start to make a turn, follow through. Last minute changes may cause collisions. If you miss a turn, continue until you can safely and legally turn around.

Select a lane position between traffic clusters to allow greatest maneuverability. Do not get yourself blocked in a cluster of vehicles. When you are blocked in, you do not have anywhere to escape to. Position your vehicle so that you are able to make lane changes or exit; keep your distance. Always leave room to escape the lane you are in; this will help you avoid any potential hazards on the roadway.

Changing Lanes

Changing lanes includes:

• Moving from one lane to another.
• Entering the freeway from an on-ramp.
• Entering the road from a curb or the shoulder.

Before changing lanes, signal, look in all your mirrors, and:

• Check traffic behind and beside you.
• Glance over your left or right shoulder to make sure the lane you want is clear.
• Look for all vehicles, motorcyclists, and bicycle traffic in your blind spot.
• Be sure there is enough room for your vehicle in the next lane.

Once you choose a lane, position your vehicle in relation to other vehicles. Within legal limits, keep pace with the rest of the traffic. Driving slower or faster will cause conflicts. As you drive, remain ahead of or behind other vehicles, rather than in their blind spots. You are less likely to be sideswiped by a driver who tries to occupy the same space you are in. By staying in a driver’s blind spot, you restrict that driver’s motion in the event he/she needs to take evasive action.

If you have to, speed up or slow down enough to bring into view any vehicle that is lurking in your blind spot. You may even want to change lanes if someone consistently hovers in your blind spot

Parking on a Hill

On a sloping driveway, turn the wheels so the vehicle will not roll into the street and causing a collision if the brakes fail.

On a downhill road, turn your front wheels into the curb or toward the side of the road. Set the parking brake to prevent a collision.

On an uphill road, turn your front wheels away from the curb and let your vehicle roll back a few inches. The wheel should gently touch the curb; this will stop your vehicle from rolling down by using the curb as a block. Set the parking brake.

When there is no curb on an uphill or downhill street, turn the wheels so the vehicle will roll away from the center of the road if your brakes fail.
Another safety measure we recommend is to always set your parking brake and leave the vehicle in gear or in the “park” position.

• 

  Down Hill

• 

  Up Hill

• 

  No Curb, Up Hill or Down Hill

Special Parking Circumstances

When on a level street and parking alongside a curb, the front and back wheels needs to parallel and within 18 inches from the curb. If there is no curb, park parallel to the street.

Make sure you always turn the engine off when leaving your car even if it’s for just a few minutes.

• Don’t park where you see the “No Parking” sign.
• On a marked or unmarked crosswalk, sidewalk, partially blocking a sidewalk, or in front of a driveway.
• Within 3 feet of a sidewalk ramp for disabled persons or in front of or on a curb that provides wheelchair access to a sidewalk.
• If you don’t have a disabled placard or special plates, don’t park in a disabled person parking space.
• In a space designated for parking or fueling zero-emission vehicles which will have proper signs.
• In a tunnel or on a bridge, except where permitted by signs.
• Within 15 feet of a fire hydrant or a fire station driveway.
• On or within 7½ feet of a railroad track.
• Between a safety zone and the curb.
• “Double parking” (Parking in the street when all legal parking places at the curb are taken.)
• On the wrong side of the street.
• At a red curb.
• On a freeway, except:
  • On a freeway, except:
  • When an officer or device requires a stop, or signs indicating stops/parking is allowed.

When Passing Another Vehicle:

• Check the traffic ahead of you, behind you and in your blind spot before you attempt to pass. Signal and then accelerate to pass. Return to the right lane as soon as you can see the front of the passed vehicle in your rearview mirror.
• It is against the law to exceed the speed limit as you pass.
• Complete the pass before you reach a No Passing zone. If you’re still in the left lane when you reach the zone, you’re putting yourself, and the people around you in danger.
• You may pass on the right if the vehicle you are passing has signaled and is making a left turn. Be cautious because the vehicle you are passing maybe blocking your view or blocking the view of other drivers. You may not pass on the right if you must drive off the pavement or main portion of the roadway to get around the other vehicle.
• If you are traveling slower than the traffic around you on a multi-lane roadway, drive in the right-hand lane.
• When approaching or passing a person riding a bicycle or moped, pass at a safe distance and at a reasonable speed.

Passing in the Center Left Turn Lane:

You are not allowed to pass in the center left turn lane of a city street. You may only cross the lane in order to turn into or out of a driveway. With the amount of random traffic situations and hazards in a city, this kind of law is needed to reduce collision.

Passing in or Near an Intersection:

Passing is not permitted within 100 feet of an intersection. Someone making U-turn 30 feet from an intersection, for instance, could cause oncoming vehicles, or those turning right at the intersection, to come to an abrupt halt. This could result in a pile-up or at least a traffic snarl at the intersection.

Passing is Prohibited:

• Within 100 feet of intersections or railroad crossings.
• On, or near a crest of a hill or a curve, where the driver’s view is obstructed in a way as to create a hazard in the event of an approach of the oncoming vehicle.
• Off the pavement or shoulder of the road.
• Whenever a solid line marks the left side of your lane.

Do not move into the portion of the lane farthest from the passing vehicle. It might invite the other driver to cut back into your lane too early.

Passing

Space to Cross or Enter

Whenever you cross or enter city or highway traffic from a full stop, you will need a large enough space (from vehicles approaching in either direction) to get up to the speed or other vehicles.

Your space needs to be about half a block on city streets and a full block on the highway. If you are crossing lanes or turning, make sure the view of your path ahead is not being blocked by other vehicles or people or to the sides of your vehicle.

You don’t want to be caught in an intersection with traffic coming at you. Even if you have the green light, do not start crossing the intersection, if there are vehicles blocking your way.

Practice extremely caution when turning left; do not start your turn just because an approaching vehicle has its right turn signal on. The driver may plan to turn just beyond you, or the signal may have been left on from an earlier turn. This particularly is true of motorcycles. Their signal lights often do not turn off automatically. Always wait until the other driver actually starts to turn before you continue.

Space to Exit

Crossing one or more lanes in a mad dash to make a freeway exit at the last minute can cause a pile-up as other drivers swerve frantically to avoid colliding with you or as you hit the exit ramp at too high a speed. Collisions can also occur if you slowdown in the middle of the freeway, waiting for an opening in order to cross over to the exit ramp. In order to allow yourself enough time, watch the signs, know where you are, and move over to the exit lane in a timely fashion. If you don’t see the exit until too late, don’t try any heroics. Calmly take the next exit and head back. It’s better to lose 10 minutes than the rest of your life.

Space to Pass

As with joining any line of traffic, wait until you have a large enough gap between vehicles before entering and accelerating quickly up to the speed of the rest of traffic. Refrain from passing other vehicles, including motorcycles and bicycles, on two-lane roads. It is dangerous.

Remember: At highway speeds of 50 to 55 mph, you need a 10 to 12 second gaps in oncoming traffic to pass safely. You must judge whether or not you have enough room to pass whenever you approach:

• An oncoming car.
• A hill or a curve.
• An intersection.
• A road obstruction.

Be patient when passing a bicyclist. Slow down and pass only when it is safe. Do not squeeze the bicyclist off the road

Oncoming Vehicles

At 55 mph, you will travel over 800 feet in 10 to 12 seconds. So will an oncoming vehicle. That means you need over 1600 feet (or about one-third of a mile) to pass safely. It is hard to judge the speed of oncoming vehicles one-third of a mile away. They don’t seem to be coming as fast as they really are. A vehicle that is far enough away generally appears to be standing still. In fact, if you can really see it moving closer to you, it is probably too close for you to start to pass.

Recovering from Hydroplaning

Hydroplaning:

Hydroplaning results from a combination of driving too fast, bad tires, and accumulated water on the road (by the time your car starts to hydroplane, it is too late to change the latter two components, so you are forced to slow down the car, slowly).

Hydroplaning can happen at the posted or below the posted speed limit.It occurs when the wheels of the vehicle ride on top of the water, the tires are no longer on the pavement, and results in the loss of vehicle control.

As a safety measure, you should slow your speed to a safe speed that will allow the wheels to maintain contact with the road.

If you feel the vehicle start to hydroplane, you should lift off the accelerator slowly and not attempt to brake, as this could cause the vehicle to go completely out of control.

One way to avoid hydroplaning is to slow down, keep your tires in good condition, avoid the “outside” lanes when driving in the rain (they tend to flood or gather water first), and avoid flooded roadways.

If the water is too deep, the vehicle can stall, stranding you in a very dangerous situation.

Recovering from Fish-tailing

Don’t panic. When you panic you make stupid, irrational decisions. Turn into the direction the car is sliding, but don’t overcompensate – and ease off the steering as the tail end starts returning to the back of the vehicle. Remember to take your foot off the gas, since if you keep pressing it most likely the tires will spin, leading to even less traction.
As the tail end starts to recover (hopefully) ease off the steering and start steering straight again. If you keep steering hard, the tail will simply slide out the other way and you will have accomplished nothing. It’s also how lots of these situations lead to crashes. When you recover, pull over, put the car in park, and give yourself a few minutes to collect your thoughts. Don’t continue until you feel safe to do so. Another note to you: Rollovers are actually pretty hard to achieve. The vehicle needs to have a high centre of gravity (usually) and have a sudden deceleration at the lowest point of the vehicle. Inertia then carries the higher parts over, rolling it. An example would be a Tahoe sliding into a curb at 30mph. The curb stops the tires, the body of the truck wants to keep going (inertia) and therefore the truck flips. So, this shouldn’t be the first thing on your mind unless you are in an area (and going at a speed) where the vehicle could do such a thing.

Returning to road from uneven surface

Learning to safely drive a car off the road and back onto it is an extremely important skill for all drivers. Nearly every driver will, at some point in their life, encounter a situation in which they must drive off the road. Knowing how to handle it can drastically increase your chances of avoiding a serious crash.

Stay On Paved Portion of the Roadway

You must always stay on the paved portion of the roadway. Do not drive on the shoulder or center divide. The unpaved portion of the road may, at higher speeds than a crawl, send your vehicle into a slide or skid due to the loose gravel or dirt. In bad weather, you never can tell what the conditions of the shoulder or the divide may be. There could be anything just lying there and you will hit it. Do not park or stop on the side of the road when the weather and road conditions are hazardous; another vehicle may not see your vehicle due to the poor visibility, and they may collide into your vehicle.

When the road is wet due to rain, snow or ice, or whenever road conditions are poor, reduce your speed. When it has snowed or is snowing, curves can be the most hazardous place on the road, even on very large freeways or interstates. Curves are often shadowed by trees leaving the road icy, while the rest of the roadway is easy for you to handle.

Drive In the Tracks of the Car Ahead

Stay only on the paved portion of the roadway and follow the tracks of the vehicle that you are traveling behind or the tracks that are established from previous traffic. When it is snowing, raining, or the road is icy, the tracks of the previous traffic will provide more traction for you to drive upon, reducing your possibility of skidding off the roadway. You may still encounter bad spots that could cause your vehicle to spin or skid, however it can help since other vehicles have groomed the tracks.

The Scary Stats

Nearly half of all fatal, single-vehicle crashes are the result of a rollover. In most cases, this is caused by a driver who has driven off the road and then jerked the steering wheel to correct. This then causes the vehicle to flip over. In 2006, this killed 9,362 people.

Knowing how to handle your vehicle when an emergency occurs is a big part of being a safe, smart, and skillful driver.

Two Wheels at a Time

The key to safely driving off the road and safely returning involves gradually moving off and back on the road. The turning of the steering wheel should be slight. This reduces the chance of erratic vehicle behavior when your tires encounter an uneven or unpaved shoulder.

• When driving off the road, turn the wheel slightly to the right so that both of your right-side tires exit the road. DO NOT BRAKE. Your feet should be off both the brake and the accelerator pedals. Basically, you’re “coasting”.
• Turn the wheel slightly back to the left so that your car is driving parallel to the road.
• Start braking and ease the two left wheels off the road.
• Steer straight and come to a stop.
• Follow the procedure below if you need to return to the road while still moving.
• At this point, all four wheels are off the road surface and you are traveling parallel to the road.
• Steer gently to the left until you feel the front left tire enter the road. At this point, steer gently back to the right (counter steer) in order to straighten the car. At this point, the rear left tire will have entered the road.
• Steer gently to the left until both of your right wheels are back on the road. As soon as they enter the road, steer gently back to the right.
• Straighten out the car in the middle of the lane.

Listen For Traffic You Cannot See

When you are in a hazardous situation, you must be aware of more impending dangers. When your view is blocked or impaired, you must listen for any vehicles, trains, or transit rail trains that may be approaching. Then you ease your vehicle up until you feel and hear that you may continue.

Avoid Crossing Roadways

If at all possible, do not cross a roadway. Make other maneuvers that do not put you, your passengers, and others on the roadway in danger. It is almost impossible to cross a busy roadway without an incident or a close call since you have so many things to look for when crossing and you do not have the right-of-way.

Avoid Unsafe Passing of Multiple Vehicles

You should never attempt to pass a long line of vehicles. Your car needs a lot more space to pass multiple cars; it will most likely not be enough of a clearance to pass all of the vehicles safely. The risk of another vehicle ahead in the line of cars deciding to pass as you are passing is an additional hazard you may not be able to see in time.

Never pass vehicles on your right (of course, there are always exception to the rules); there are situations when passing on the right is allowed, such as (VC 21754):

• When driving on a one-way street.
• When driving on a highway divided into two roadways where traffic is restricted to one direction upon each of such roadways.
• When driving on any highway outside of a business or residence district with unobstructed pavement of sufficient width and clearly marked for two or more lines of moving traffic in the direction of travel.
• When driving on a highway within a business or residence district with unobstructed pavement of sufficient width for two or more lines of moving vehicle in the direction of travel.
• When the vehicle being passed is making or about to make a left turn.

Consider Postponing Driving Until Conditions Clear

Whenever there is heavy traffic or the weather is poor, and the overall condition of the roadway is poor, you should consider rescheduling or postponing your trip, and wait until the conditions have improved. This will actually save you in the long run.

Keep Headlights and Taillights Clean

You must clean your headlights and taillights clear of dust, dirt, snow, ice, and debris. This is so you will have complete visibility and others will be able to see your

vehicle. When your lights are covered, you do not have the full visibility and illumination that you need to see and be seen. This is especially important to do when driving under bad weather and road conditions.

Obtaining Maximum Visibility: Drive With Headlamps On

Whether you are driving during darkness or daylight or when you are driving on a slippery surface, you should use your headlights to let others be able to see your vehicle. Use your windshield wipers and washer fluid together to wash and wipe away whatever is on your windshield. Keep your windshield wipers on constantly to wipe away the elements. Every few minutes or whenever needed to see clearly, use your washer fluid so you are able to see.

Earlier in the lesson we reviewed that driving a motor vehicle is an extremely dangerous task that most people do every day. This statement applies to everyone on the road, cautious and careless drivers; but most dangerous to those careless or inattentive drivers behind the wheels. In this chapter we will discuss the consequences of careless driving.

Insurance

Auto insurance in CA is mandatory.

Keep in mind that the minimum liability coverage required by the State of California may not sufficiently protect you. Sure, you may have paid $500 less than your friend each year on liability insurance, but before you congratulate yourself for saving some money, consider that your friend may be adequately protected while you are not. Any damages that exceed the limits of your policy will come out of YOUR pocket. The savings you think you obtained by purchasing the minimum amount of coverage will be wiped out by the extra costs you will have to pay beyond what your insurance covers. If you have just the minimum, consider purchasing the highest level of liability coverage that you can comfortably afford to protect your property and assets.

Remember – should you ever get involved in a collision; the issue will not be how much you saved on your insurance, but whether or not you have enough coverage. $$$$$$$$$$

Now, how can you save on insurance while still being adequately covered? In addition to the insurance variables listed above, you can shop around. Insurance rates can vary from insurer to insurer for the same exact type of coverage. However, be sure to research an insurance company before purchasing a policy. Increasing your deductible is another good way to lower your rates. With a higher deductible, you’ll save on your premium; though you’ll have to pay more out of your pocket should you get into a crash. The savings in the long run will add up, however. Besides raising your deductible, examine what your insurance covers and see what you do not need. If you have an older car, the value of your car will determine whether or not collision or comprehensive coverage is worthwhile, especially since repair costs can easily exceed the value of your vehicle. You may not need towing coverage, particularly if you are a member of an automobile club. Also, if you already have sufficient health insurance, you do not need medical coverage under your auto insurance.

No Fault – In a no fault insurance system (like in New York), the driver in a collision is always personally liable for much of the costs of his or her own medical bills and vehicle damage resulting from the collision. There is rarely an attempt to establish fault in the collision, and the liable party is normally not in question. Comparative negligence usually does not apply, and there are fewer legal battles.
NOTE: More than 250,000 traffic collisions occur each year in California.

Insurance Requirements

The law states that you must be financially responsible for your actions whenever you drive and for all the motor vehicles you own. Most drivers choose to have a liability insurance policy as proof of financial responsibility. If you have a collision not covered by your insurance, or you do not have insurance, your driver license will be suspended. If the driver is not identified, the owner of the motor vehicle involved in a collision will have his or her driver license suspended.

The minimum amount your insurance* must cover per collision is:

• $15,000 for a single death or injury.
• $30,000 for death or injury to more than one person.
• $5,000 for property damage. Call 1-800-927-HELP, before you purchase insurance to confirm that your agent/broker and insurer are licensed by the California Department of Insurance.

If you are visiting California or have just moved here, be aware that not all out-of-state insurance companies are authorized to do business in California. Before you drive here, ask your insurance company if you are covered in case of a collision. If you have a collision in California, all three of the following conditions must be met to avoid the suspension of your driving privilege:

• Your liability policy must provide bodily injury and property damage coverage which equals or exceeds the required limits stated in this section.
• Your insurance company must file a power of attorney allowing the DMV to act as its agent for legal service in California.
• You must insure the vehicle before you come to California. You cannot renew the out-of state policy, once the vehicle is registered in California.

Financial Responsibility

The California Compulsory Financial Responsibility Law requires all drivers and every owner of a motor vehicle to maintain financial responsibility (liability coverage) in case of a collision (if the driver of a vehicle involved in a collision is not identified, the vehicle’s owner will have his or her license suspended).

There are four forms of financial responsibility:

• A motor vehicle liability insurance policy.
• A deposit of $35,000 with the DMV.
• A surety bond for $35,000 obtained from a company licensed to do business in California.
• A self-insurance certificate issued by the DMV.

You need to carry proof of financial responsibility with you when you drive. If you do not carry proof of financial responsibility and are involved in a collision or citation stop, you may have to pay a fine and the court may impound your vehicle. If you do not have appropriate financial responsibility, you may lose your driver’s license for four years.

As of January 2006, the DMV no longer has the option of canceling the registration of any vehicle when it is determined that the vehicle is not covered by a valid form of financial responsibility. Instead, the DMV is mandated by law to cancel the registration. In addition, the DMV may charge a reinstatement fee to cover the cost of reinstating the registration after cancellation.

CONTRIBUTING FACTORS THAT CAN CAUSE COLLISIONS:

There are many factors that can cause collision; however here is list of some controllable situations:

• Driving too fast for conditions
• Tired
• Feeling overly emotional
• Inability to focus on driving by, easting, putting on your makeup or shaving
• Poor vision
• Medicated/alcohol level
• Electronic devices
• Scenery and window shopping
• Radio/music/ear buds or headphones
• Getting involved with the passengers
• Following too closely (Tailgating)
• Inattentive driving
• Making poor decisions
• Failure to give right-of-way to merging and entering traffic
• Failing to recognize when driving performance is being lessened by fatigue
• Making unsafe lane changes
• Making sudden braking movements
• Cutting off other drivers
• Not slowing properly to hazards, slowing traffic, or construction on the roadway
• Failure to drive in accordance with road conditions

• Always use your low-beam headlights when driving on a road where a head-on collision is a possibility; this makes you more visible.
• Flash your headlights (switch from high to low repeatedly) and blow your horn to alert the oncoming driver in case that driver fell asleep or is day dreaming.
• If the crash is imminent, make it anything but a head-on crash (the force in a head-on crash is four times force of the either of the two cars crashing separately or as a “glancing” hit, so:
  • Grip the steering wheel firmly – don’t let go of the steering wheel.
  • Turn the wheel in the direction the car needs to go (right is nearly always best!)
  • In a continuing motion, quickly counter steer in the opposite direction to stabilize the car (continue countermotion to maintain control. . . left, right, left, right, gradually to straight.)
• Your car can take a glancing hit on the side much better than a head-on hit by a moving car, so don’t turn too sharply, but do not allow the other car to hit the front of your car if you can prevent it.

When to Apply Brakes:

When to apply the brakes depends upon where you are and what you are doing. If you are at an intersection and you are at a full stop, you should keep your foot firmly on the brake pedal, so that the impact doesn’t send you into the vehicle in front of you. If you are driving and moving on a roadway, slow down as soon as you see the vehicles approach, so you can gain distance from you and the vehicle in front of you, but do not completely stop.

Most rear-end accidents can be avoided by:

• Following other cars at a greater distance
• Watching the driving distance created by the cars around you
• Avoiding quick stops
• Looking 10-15 seconds ahead of your car at all times
• Look at not only the car in front of you, but watch the car in front of him, too! (watch for brake lights)
• Never accelerate toward a brake light (Your response to a brake light – any brake light in front of you – should always to lift up off the accelerator.)
• To keep the vehicle behind you from rear-ending you when there is slowing traffic; tap a couple of times on your brakes to warn the driver behind you that you will be braking.

Signal Early for Turns, Stops, and Lane Changes:

It is important that the drivers behind and around you are aware of your movements on the road. Make sure that you signal early enough (100 feet for a turn, five seconds for a lane change) to warn others of your intentions to turn, stop, or make a lane change. This will help keep them from rear ending your vehicle, or from making any unsafe maneuver around you.

Brake Smoothly and Gradually:

It is important that you leave yourself a safe amount of space cushion between you and the traffic in front of you. Therefore, if the traffic suddenly slows or stops, you will be able to come to a safe and smooth stop gradually. This allows vehicles behind you enough time to stop without rear-ending your vehicle. Do not slam on your brakes suddenly – this may cause the car behind you to not have enough time to brake and they may end up rear-ending you. Don’t stop at an intersection with a yellow light if it is unsafe to do so; sometimes your best action at a yellow is to cover your brake and coast through the intersection. If the driver behind you is tailgating you, stopping suddenly at the light will cause them to rear-end you.

Keep Pace with Traffic when Possible:

You should drive with the flow of traffic up to the speed limit of the road. Driving slower and forcing others to pass you is unsafe. If you are passing multiple vehicles on a roadway, there is a good chance you are going faster than the flow of traffic and you are causing unnecessary hazards. Traveling too slowly may also put you in a situation where a car is unaware of your slow speed and they may rear-end you.

CHECK MIRRORS OFTEN FOR FOLLOWING DISTANCE OF OTHER VEHICLES

Before Changing Lanes, Check Direction of Travel:

When changing lanes, make certain that the lane you are intending to use is travelling in your direction. Do not change lanes into opposing traffic lanes – you will be in a head-on collision. You will know that the lane travels in the other direction by noting the color: yellow lines, broken or solid, denote opposite directions of travel.

After Stopping, Keep Brake Pedal Depressed:

Your brake light is a great warning tool to other drivers that you are stopping or have stopped. Therefore, it is important that when you come to a stop, you keep your foot on the brake pedal to keep other drivers from rear-ending you. Sometimes flashing your brakes while stopped (waiting to make a turn on a street with no turning lane) when you see cars approaching is a good way to warn the other drivers that you are stopped. Once they too stop, keep your foot on the brake pedal until you are ready to turn.

Keep Rear Lights Clean and Working:

It is important that all of your taillights and brake lights are operating correctly. If there is a crack, fix it – at the very least, make sure that the light is RED when operating (use of red cellophane can work in a pinch). Without proper taillights, it is impossible for other drivers to see your car in inclement weather, to see your intention to turn, or to see that your car is stopped up ahead. The build-up of dirt lessens the proper intensity of your lights. Clean all of your lights when they become dirty; do not put covers on your lights that ‘black out’ the bulb. When filling your gas tank, clean your windows, check your tires, and check your lights.

Side Impact Crash Avoidance:

This kind of crash is the most likely to seriously injure you (they are more common than head-on collisions and more violent than most rear-end collisions), but side-impact collisions are actually the easiest to avoid. You can avoid them best by:

• Look left-right-left at every intersection – even the little ones.
• Cover your brake as you approach every intersection.
• Use your low-beam headlights whenever you drive.
• Expect others to turn in front of you.
• Expect others to run yellow and even red lights – watch for them.

“Beware of the Fresh Green Light!” When a light turns green, look one more time at the oncoming cars in the cross street to make sure that they are stopping. If there is any doubt in your mind, wait until you are sure. The greatest percentage of fatal intersection accidents occur in the first three seconds of a green light.

Protecting Yourself When A Collision Cannot Be Avoided – Side Impact Collisions.

Definition & Purpose of the NOTS Program:

The Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) is an automated system that identifies as negligent those motorists who are repeatedly cited by law enforcement or involved in collisions. The underlying assumption is that motorists who repeatedly drive in a negligent manner become accustomed to unsafe driving techniques, ultimately becoming a menace as their repertoire of bad habits grows.

Negligent Operator Points:

The DMV keeps a public record of all your traffic convictions and collisions. Each occurrence stays on your record for 36 months, or longer, depending on the type of conviction. Courts may not dismiss serious traffic violations through completion of a traffic violator school or any other court-approved program of driving safety. Serious traffic violations are those that would result in the assessment of two negligent operator points, such as DUI, hit-and-run, reckless driving, etc.

NOTS actions are based on the number of negligent operator “points” drivers add to their driving record within certain time periods. Negligent operator points are added to the driving record upon receipt of conviction notices from courts and reports of responsible collisions from law enforcement which indicate that the driver was at fault or was responsible to any degree or in any amount for the collision. The initial reporting of the responsibility for a collision by law enforcement can be refuted by credible evidence presented by the driver at a hearing.

DUI and its Additional Impact:

Effective January 1, 2007, your DUI will again report on your driving record since it occurred within the past 10 years. The department’s EPN program automatically generates and mails a driver record to the employer for newly enrolled drivers, or upon any action or activity updated to the record, or annually for currently enrolled drivers.

Although employers will not automatically be notified of a DUI that reappears on a driving record when the new law takes effect on January 1, 2007, the DUI violation will appear on the next printout DMV provides to your employer.

Current law requires your insurance company to electronically report your insurance information to DMV. Once your insurance company notifies the department that your policy has been cancelled, you will receive a notice indicating that your vehicle registration will be suspended if new insurance information is not submitted within 45 days.

In addition to proof of insurance for registration, if you are required to maintain a California Insurance Proof Certificate (SR 22) for your driver license, you will need to have your new insurance company file a new SR 22 with DMV immediately to avoid the suspension of your driver license based on the cancellation of your insurance proof certificate.

If necessary, individuals unable to obtain insurance through their regular insurance company may have any agent or broker make an application to the California Automobile Assigned Risk Plan (CAARP). You may contact CAARP directly by calling 1-800-622-0954.

There are many innocent individuals that are injured and killed due to the ignorance of those that drink and drive or drive under influence. Please be a responsible person and DON’T DRINK And DRIVE or DON”T DRIVE IF YOU ARE UNDER INFLUENCE OF ANY DRUGS.

Collisions on Your Record:

Collisions on Your Record:

• Law enforcement, unless the reporting officer states another person was at fault.
• You or another party involved in the collision, if any one person has over $750 in damage, or if anyone is injured or dies.

It does not matter who caused the collision; the DMV must keep this record.

Collisions, Insurance, and Minors:

If you are under 18 years of age, your parent(s) or guardian(s) must sign your driver license application and assume financial responsibility for your driving. When you reach age 18, your parent(s) or guardian(s) liability automatically ends.
If you are involved in a collision, your parent(s) or guardian(s) may be liable for civil damages and you may also be fined.
EXCEPTION: Your parent(s) or guardian(s) can have your driver license cancelled at any time while you are a minor.