Safe Driving

Questions and Answers

What is the proper way to wear a lap belt while pregnant?

As high as possible above the abdomen.

Over the shoulder straps.

As low as possible under the abdomen. (correct)

Across the middle of the abdomen.

In a crash, what is the first direction a person will be thrown if a car is impacted on the driver's side?

Towards the passenger's side door.

Towards the driver's side door. (correct)

Towards the center console.

Out of the vehicle.

Children under the age of 8, or shorter than 4 feet 9 inches, should be secured in a:

Forward-facing child passenger restraint system. (correct)

Rear-facing child passenger restraint system.

Standard safety belt.

Booster seat.

Which of the following is NOT a valid reason for a child under 8 to ride in the front seat of a vehicle?

The vehicle has side-facing jump seats in the rear. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason a child under 2 years old should not ride in the front seat of an airbag-equipped vehicle?

The airbag could deploy and injure the child. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended minimum age for a child to use a standard safety belt without a booster seat?

8 years old Signup and view all the answers

What is the most important factor to consider when deciding whether a child is ready for a booster seat?

The child's height. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following organizations can help you with the installation of a child passenger restraint system?

Both a and b. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if fog becomes too thick to drive safely?

Pull off the road and activate emergency flashers Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of law enforcement traffic breaks?

To remove hazards from the road and prevent collisions Signup and view all the answers

What increases your chance of survival during a collision?

Wearing both lap and shoulder seat belts correctly Signup and view all the answers

How should a shoulder harness be worn for maximum safety?

Across the shoulder and chest with little slack Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if your passenger is under 16 years old and not wearing a seat belt?

You can get a ticket for their violation Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical risk if a vehicle collides and you are not wearing a seat belt?

You could hit the dashboard or windshield Signup and view all the answers

When should you not brake suddenly while following a patrol vehicle during a traffic break?

When the officer has their emergency lights on Signup and view all the answers

What happens to a person’s body during a collision if they are not secured by a seat belt?

They continue to move at the same speed as the vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum recommended distance a driver should maintain from their vehicle's airbag cover?

10 inches Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason why leaving a child unattended in a vehicle is dangerous?

The vehicle's interior temperature can rise rapidly, leading to potential health risks. Signup and view all the answers

Which of these factors should NOT be considered when determining the safe speed for driving in California?

The driver's personal preference for speed Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to maintain a distance of at least 10 inches from the passenger-side air bag?

To avoid being injured by the airbag's force. Signup and view all the answers

What is the ideal maximum speed limit on most California highways?

65 mph Signup and view all the answers

Which of these factors is NOT mentioned in the text as a reason to reduce speed while driving in California?

The presence of school zones Signup and view all the answers

What is the main advantage of using an airbag in addition to a seatbelt?

Airbags can help reduce the impact of a collision. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it particularly important to be mindful of children seated next to a side airbag?

Children are more susceptible to serious or fatal injuries from airbag deployment. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you start to skid on a slippery surface?

Turn the steering wheel in the direction of the skid. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason to avoid driving during sunrise and sunset?

To avoid sun glare. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a recommended step to prevent skidding on a slippery surface?

Shift to a higher gear before going down a steep hill. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if a vehicle with one light drives toward you?

Drive as far to the right as possible. Signup and view all the answers

What is the best way to manage sun glare while driving?

Keep the inside and outside of your windshield clean. Signup and view all the answers

What type of skid is usually caused by braking too hard when going too fast?

Locked wheel skid. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action if you start to skid and your vehicle is equipped with ABS?

Apply firm pressure on the brake pedal. Signup and view all the answers

What is a skid?

When a vehicle’s wheels lose traction with the road. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you encounter a flooded road while driving?

Find another route if possible. Signup and view all the answers

Which precaution should you NOT take when driving in high winds?

Use cruise control for stability. Signup and view all the answers

What is an appropriate action to take if driving in heavy fog?

Increase your following distance. Signup and view all the answers

What driving condition is most dangerous due to hidden hazards and vehicle issues?

Flooded roads. Signup and view all the answers

When driving in high winds, which is NOT a recommended practice?

Maintaining a steady speed without adjusting. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following should you avoid when driving through heavy smoke?

Increasing your speed to cross quickly. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key action to take after driving through flooded water?

Test your brakes to ensure they work correctly. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to avoid using high-beam headlights in fog?

They can cause glare and reduce visibility. Signup and view all the answers

What should a driver do if their vehicle stalls on a railroad track with a train approaching?

Immediately exit the vehicle and call 911 after running away. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a forbidden action for minors while driving?

Using a cell phone to send or respond to text messages. Signup and view all the answers

What is the safest practice regarding cell phone use while driving?

Use the phone only if it is mounted and does not block your view. Signup and view all the answers

What should a driver do if a train is not approaching and their vehicle is on the tracks?

Dial the number on the railroad crossing post and report the vehicle's location. Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is considered a common distraction while driving?

Engaging with children or pets in the vehicle. Signup and view all the answers

What is the suggested action if a driver must return or make a call while driving?

Pull off the road safely before making the call. Signup and view all the answers

How should drivers approach the use of new vehicle technologies such as advanced driver assistance systems?

Familiarize themselves with the technologies for better safety. Signup and view all the answers

What is illegal for adult drivers concerning cell phone use while driving?

Sending or reading text messages. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended distance to maintain from the vehicle ahead to allow for a safe following distance?

Three seconds Signup and view all the answers

Why is it crucial to avoid staying in another driver's blind spot?

It increases the risk of collisions. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if a tailgater is following you closely?

Maintain your course and speed, then safely merge right to allow them to pass. Signup and view all the answers

When is it especially important to create more space in front of your vehicle?

When following motorcyclists on metal surfaces. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason to scan your surroundings while driving?

To identify potential hazards. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended scanning distance ahead of your vehicle?

10 seconds Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when a vehicle merges in front of you too closely?

Take your foot off the accelerator to create space. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to keep space between your vehicle and parked vehicles?

To avoid hitting them if they suddenly pull out. Signup and view all the answers

In which of these situations should you check your blind spots before proceeding?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action when driving at night and encountering a vehicle with overly bright headlights?

Look toward the right edge of your lane to avoid the glare Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is NOT a recommended practice when driving at night?

Driving using only your parking lights Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to check traffic behind you frequently when driving?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason to reduce speed in highway construction zones at night?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is NOT a recommended action when checking your blind spots?

Turning your whole body to look over your shoulder Signup and view all the answers

When should you use your high-beam headlights?

When driving on open country roads or dark city streets Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason to avoid looking directly into oncoming headlights at night?

It can cause temporary blindness Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of scanning your surroundings while driving?

To make informed decisions and react to hazards Signup and view all the answers

When is it particularly important to create space between your vehicle and the one in front of you?

When a vehicle merges too closely in front of you Signup and view all the answers

What does the three-second rule help a driver ensure?

They have enough time to react to a sudden stop Signup and view all the answers

Why is it critical to avoid driving in another driver's blind spot?

It increases the risk of being in an accident Signup and view all the answers

What should a driver do when a tailgater is behind them?

Maintain speed and merge right when safe Signup and view all the answers

How can a driver reduce hazards from parked vehicles?

By keeping space between their vehicle and parked vehicles Signup and view all the answers

What color represents blind spots in the chart related to driving safety?

Yellow Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you notice a vehicle merging closely in front of you?

Reduce speed to create more space Signup and view all the answers

What should you do first if your vehicle starts to hydroplane?

Slow down gradually Signup and view all the answers

How can you prevent hydroplaning while driving?

Stay away from standing water Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum safe speed in heavy rain if visibility is less than 100 feet?

30 mph Signup and view all the answers

When stuck in snow, what should you do while trying to free the vehicle?

Shift into low gear and drive slowly forward Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the first steps to take if your vehicle is stuck in mud?

Keep the front wheels straight and shift into low gear Signup and view all the answers

Which action should be avoided when your vehicle starts to hydroplane?

Turning the steering wheel sharply Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to carry snow chains when driving in snowy areas?

They increase traction on snowy roads Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential danger of driving in heavy rainfall?

Underestimating the vehicle's stopping distance Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum distance a driver should maintain from the airbag cover for safety?

10 inches Signup and view all the answers

Why is it dangerous to leave a child unattended in a vehicle?

The temperature inside the vehicle can rise rapidly Signup and view all the answers

What does the Basic Speed Law in California require drivers to do?

Drive no faster than is safe for current road conditions Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a situation where a driver should reduce their speed?

During rain or snow conditions Signup and view all the answers

What is a risk for children seated next to a side airbag?

They could suffer serious or fatal injuries if the airbag deploys Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you find yourself unable to maintain the recommended distance from an airbag?

Contact your vehicle dealer or manufacturer for advice Signup and view all the answers

What is the ideal maximum speed limit on most California highways?

65 mph Signup and view all the answers

What factor does NOT influence your speed according to California driving laws?

The number of lanes on the freeway Signup and view all the answers

What should you do to check your blind spots before changing lanes?

Turn your head over your right and left shoulders Signup and view all the answers

When driving at night on open country roads, what headlights should you use?

High-beam headlights Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended action when approaching another vehicle with bright headlights at night?

Look toward the right edge of your lane Signup and view all the answers

What should you NOT do when checking your blind spots?

Only use side mirrors Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario necessitates checking behind you regularly?

When starting to park your vehicle Signup and view all the answers

In which situation should you switch to low-beam headlights?

When driving in heavy rain Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of checking what is behind you while driving?

To prevent rear-end collisions Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if an oncoming vehicle’s lights are too bright?

Reduce your speed and look toward the right edge of your lane Signup and view all the answers

What action should you take if your vehicle becomes disabled on the freeway?

Safely pull over to the right shoulder Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding the actions to take in extreme cold conditions?

Ensure the engine has the correct level of antifreeze Signup and view all the answers

What should you do after calling for roadside assistance if your vehicle is disabled?

Stay inside your vehicle with your seat belt on Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstance is it safer to exit your vehicle on the freeway?

A guardrail is present next to the shoulder Signup and view all the answers

What service does the California Highway Patrol Freeway Service Patrol (CHP FSP) NOT provide?

Towing vehicles to private repair services Signup and view all the answers

What should you NOT do if your vehicle stops working on the freeway?

Open the left door to check for oncoming traffic Signup and view all the answers

If the CHP FSP cannot start your vehicle, what is the next action they will take?

Tow your vehicle to a CHP-approved location Signup and view all the answers

What is an appropriate action if you are waiting for assistance after your vehicle has become disabled?

Stay inside your vehicle and wear your seat belt Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Air Bags

Air bags enhance safety, functioning as a supplement to seat belts.
Maintain a distance of at least 10 inches from airbag covers to ensure safe deployment.
Measure from the steering wheel center to your breastbone; seek dealer advice if unable to maintain distance.
Passengers should also sit at least 10 inches away from the passenger-side air bag; side air bags pose risks to children.

Unattended Children and Pets

It is illegal to leave children aged six or younger unattended in a vehicle.
Children may be left with someone who is at least 12 years old.
Leaving children or animals in a hot vehicle is dangerous as temperatures can rise rapidly, leading to dehydration or heat stroke.

Manage Your Speed

Adhere to California's Basic Speed Law: never drive faster than safe for road conditions.
Speed should adapt to road factors such as vehicle count, surface conditions, presence of bicyclists/pedestrians, weather, and traffic congestion.
Unless posted otherwise, maximum speed on most California highways is 65 mph.

Seat Belt Usage

Ensure lap belts fit snugly across hips; reposition if necessary to prevent sliding during a crash.
Pregnant individuals should wear lap belts low beneath the abdomen and position shoulder straps correctly.

Child Restraint System and Safety Seats

Children require federally-approved child passenger restraint systems based on age, height, and weight.
Children under 2 years old should use a rear-facing restraint; they cannot sit in front seats of airbag-equipped vehicles.
Children under 8 or less than 4 feet 9 inches tall must be secured in the rear seat.
Exceptions for front seat placement include lack of rear seat and medical reasons.

Traffic Situations

In thick fog, pull off the road, activate emergency flashers, and wait for conditions to improve.
Law enforcement uses traffic breaks to manage conditions safely; drivers should turn on flashers, match officer speed, and maintain distance.

Protect Yourself and Your Passengers

Wearing seat belts is mandatory for drivers and passengers, with fines applicable for non-compliance.
Proper seat belt use can significantly increase survival chances during collisions.
Correct usage includes wearing the shoulder strap across the shoulder and chest, avoiding slack, and not placing straps under the arm or behind the back.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Awareness of surroundings enhances decision-making and hazard reaction while driving.
Visual zones around vehicles:
- Green: Area ahead
- Blue: Area beside
- Yellow: Blind spots
- Red: Area behind

Scanning Your Surroundings

Maintain a scanning habit, looking at least 10 seconds ahead to avoid hazards and last-minute maneuvers.

Tailgating (Following Too Closely)

Tailgating restricts visibility, increasing collision risks during sudden stops.
Employ the three-second rule to maintain a safe following distance for reaction time.
If merged in closely, ease off the accelerator to create space ahead.

Knowing What is at Your Side

Stay aware of surrounding vehicles and avoid remaining in their blind spots.
Accommodate merging vehicles, regardless of right-of-way.
Maintain distance from parked vehicles to allow safe maneuvers.
Always check for oncoming traffic at intersections, even with stop signs or red lights.

Blind Spots

Blind spots prevent visibility on sides and slightly behind the vehicle.
Check blind spots by turning your head to look over shoulders before:
- Changing lanes
- Merging
- Backing up
- Pulling out from parking

Knowing What is Behind You

Constantly check mirrors and physically turn your head to see behind before changing lanes or slowing down.

Understanding Road Conditions

Darkness

Use high-beam headlights in rural or dark areas, dimming them when approaching other vehicles.
Adjust driving speed and distance under dim conditions.

Sun Glare

Clean windshield to minimize glare and use polarized sunglasses.
Avoid driving during sunrise or sunset when glare is intensified.

Skids

Skids occur when tires lose traction; control may be compromised.
- Slippery Surface Skids: Caused by ice or snow; slow down, and leave space in front. If skidding occurs, remove foot from accelerator and steer in skid direction.
- Locked Wheel Skids: Result from hard braking; apply firm pressure on brakes for vehicles with ABS.

High Winds

Higher risks for larger vehicles; reduce speed, maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel, and avoid cruise control during gusty conditions.

Fog or Heavy Smoke

Avoid driving in heavy fog; if necessary, drive slowly with low-beam headlights, increase following distance, and use windshield wipers as needed.

Disabled Vehicles on Railroad Tracks

If vehicle stops on tracks with an approaching train, exit and run away diagonally from the tracks and call 911.

Avoid Distractions

Common distractions include phone use, adjusting music, and interacting with passengers.
Handheld cell phone use is illegal while driving; use only in hands-free mode when necessary.

Minors and Cell Phones

Minors are prohibited from using cell phones or electronic devices while driving, except to call for emergency help.

Familiarize with New Technology

Technological advancements are leading to more self-driving and ADAS-equipped vehicles.

Awareness of Surroundings

Essential for safe driving to make informed decisions and react to hazards.
Color-coded vehicle zones:
- Green: Ahead
- Blue: Next to
- Yellow: Blind spots
- Red: Behind

Scanning the Road

Continuously scan the road 10 seconds ahead to anticipate hazards.
Tailgating hinders visibility and reaction time; use the three-second rule for safe following distance.
Create space ahead when being tailgated and safely change lanes to allow a driver to pass.

Side Awareness

Avoid staying in another driver’s blind spot and alongside other vehicles.
Make room for vehicles entering freeways and be aware of rapid changes from other drivers.
Keep a safe distance from parked vehicles and always check both ways at intersections.

Blind Spots

Areas around the vehicle not visible through mirrors, typically at sides and slightly behind.
Always check blind spots by turning your head before changing lanes, merging, or backing up.

Rear Awareness

Frequently check traffic behind using rearview and side mirrors to avoid rear-end collisions.
Important when changing lanes, turning, or adjusting speed.

Understanding Road Conditions

In darkness, utilize high-beam headlights carefully; dim them for oncoming traffic.
Reduce speed in poor visibility conditions, such as rainstorms or at construction sites.
Keep mirrors and lights clear of mud and snow to maintain visibility.

Hydroplaning

Occurs when vehicles lose contact with the road due to water.
To prevent, drive slowly and steer clear of standing water; ease off accelerators instead of braking if hydroplaning occurs.

Stuck in Snow or Mud

Shift to low gear and avoid wheel spinning.
Use forward and backward motions to free the vehicle; place materials under tires for extra traction if needed.

Flooded Roads

Be cautious of excessive water; flooding can occur suddenly.

Airbags

Important safety feature; maintain at least 10 inches distance to ensure effectiveness.
Special care for children near airbags to prevent serious injury.

Unattended Children and Pets

Illegal to leave children under six unattended in a vehicle; can only be left with someone at least 12 years old.
Vehicles can heat up quickly, posing dangers to unattended children and pets.

Speed Management

Basic Speed Law in California: Never exceed safe driving speed, considering conditions and surroundings.
Key factors: road surface, weather, traffic volume, and pedestrian presence; adapt speed accordingly.

Overheating Conditions

In extreme heat, monitor the vehicle’s temperature; avoid high speeds and excessive AC use.
In extreme cold, ensure the engine has proper antifreeze levels and use defrosters to prevent fogging.

Disabled Vehicle Protocol on Freeway

Pull over to the right shoulder and exit safely away from traffic.
Dial 511 for roadside assistance, return to the vehicle if needed, and use emergency flashers.

California Highway Patrol Freeway Service Patrol (FSP)

Offers free roadside assistance during commuter hours.
Services include providing gas, jump-starting batteries, towing to permitted locations, and reporting collisions.
FSP will not tow to private businesses or service motorcycles.

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Description

Learn about the safety precautions to take when it comes to air bags in vehicles, including safe distances and additional measures to ensure safety.