Safe Driving
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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?

    <p>The vehicle has side-facing jump seats in the rear.</p> 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?

    <p>The airbag could deploy and injure the child.</p> 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?

    <p>8 years old</p> 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?

    <p>The child's height.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Both a and b.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Pull off the road and activate emergency flashers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of law enforcement traffic breaks?

    <p>To remove hazards from the road and prevent collisions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What increases your chance of survival during a collision?

    <p>Wearing both lap and shoulder seat belts correctly</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should a shoulder harness be worn for maximum safety?

    <p>Across the shoulder and chest with little slack</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>You can get a ticket for their violation</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>You could hit the dashboard or windshield</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>When the officer has their emergency lights on</p> 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?

    <p>They continue to move at the same speed as the vehicle</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>10 inches</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

    <p>The driver's personal preference for speed</p> 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?

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

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

    <p>65 mph</p> 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?

    <p>The presence of school zones</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Airbags can help reduce the impact of a collision.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

    <p>Turn the steering wheel in the direction of the skid.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>To avoid sun glare.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

    <p>Drive as far to the right as possible.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Keep the inside and outside of your windshield clean.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Locked wheel skid.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Apply firm pressure on the brake pedal.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a skid?

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

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

    <p>Find another route if possible.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Use cruise control for stability.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Increase your following distance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Flooded roads.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Maintaining a steady speed without adjusting.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Increasing your speed to cross quickly.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Test your brakes to ensure they work correctly.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>They can cause glare and reduce visibility.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Immediately exit the vehicle and call 911 after running away.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Which of these is considered a common distraction while driving?

    <p>Engaging with children or pets in the vehicle.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Pull off the road safely before making the call.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Familiarize themselves with the technologies for better safety.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Sending or reading text messages.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Three seconds</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>It increases the risk of collisions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

    <p>When following motorcyclists on metal surfaces.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>To identify potential hazards.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended scanning distance ahead of your vehicle?

    <p>10 seconds</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Take your foot off the accelerator to create space.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

    <p>Driving using only your parking lights</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Turning your whole body to look over your shoulder</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should you use your high-beam headlights?

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

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

    <p>It can cause temporary blindness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of scanning your surroundings while driving?

    <p>To make informed decisions and react to hazards</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

    <p>They have enough time to react to a sudden stop</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>It increases the risk of being in an accident</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Maintain speed and merge right when safe</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can a driver reduce hazards from parked vehicles?

    <p>By keeping space between their vehicle and parked vehicles</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Yellow</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Reduce speed to create more space</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Slow down gradually</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can you prevent hydroplaning while driving?

    <p>Stay away from standing water</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>30 mph</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Shift into low gear and drive slowly forward</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Keep the front wheels straight and shift into low gear</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Turning the steering wheel sharply</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>They increase traction on snowy roads</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential danger of driving in heavy rainfall?

    <p>Underestimating the vehicle's stopping distance</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>10 inches</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>The temperature inside the vehicle can rise rapidly</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

    <p>During rain or snow conditions</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

    <p>Contact your vehicle dealer or manufacturer for advice</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>65 mph</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>The number of lanes on the freeway</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Turn your head over your right and left shoulders</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>High-beam headlights</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Look toward the right edge of your lane</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should you NOT do when checking your blind spots?

    <p>Only use side mirrors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which scenario necessitates checking behind you regularly?

    <p>When starting to park your vehicle</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>When driving in heavy rain</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>To prevent rear-end collisions</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Reduce your speed and look toward the right edge of your lane</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Safely pull over to the right shoulder</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Ensure the engine has the correct level of antifreeze</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Stay inside your vehicle with your seat belt on</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>A guardrail is present next to the shoulder</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Towing vehicles to private repair services</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Open the left door to check for oncoming traffic</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Tow your vehicle to a CHP-approved location</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>Stay inside your vehicle and wear your seat belt</p> 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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