Podcast
Questions and Answers
What are the two main components of Smith's simple driving system?
What are the two main components of Smith's simple driving system?
Space for the car and visibility for the driver
What is the purpose of the 5-step formula developed by Smith?
What is the purpose of the 5-step formula developed by Smith?
To create a space cushion and maintain visibility.
According to Smith, how long can a driver using his 5-step formula expect to drive without skidding or swerving?
According to Smith, how long can a driver using his 5-step formula expect to drive without skidding or swerving?
5-10 years or 50,000 miles
What does Smith believe is essential for effective driving?
What does Smith believe is essential for effective driving?
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What does Smith emphasize about good drivers?
What does Smith emphasize about good drivers?
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What does Smith call his 5-step formula?
What does Smith call his 5-step formula?
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The five rules of Smith's system include: Aim high in steering, Get the 'Big' picture, Keep your eyes moving, Leave yourself an 'Out', and __________.
The five rules of Smith's system include: Aim high in steering, Get the 'Big' picture, Keep your eyes moving, Leave yourself an 'Out', and __________.
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Match the rule with its description: Aim high in steering.
Match the rule with its description: Aim high in steering.
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Match the rule with its description: Get the 'Big' picture.
Match the rule with its description: Get the 'Big' picture.
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Match the rule with its description: Keep your eyes moving.
Match the rule with its description: Keep your eyes moving.
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Match the rule with its description: Leave yourself an 'Out'.
Match the rule with its description: Leave yourself an 'Out'.
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Match the rule with its description: Make sure they see you.
Match the rule with its description: Make sure they see you.
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What is the first key of Smith's driving system?
What is the first key of Smith's driving system?
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How far ahead should a driver aim while driving according to Smith?
How far ahead should a driver aim while driving according to Smith?
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What happens if a driver has a 5-second warning?
What happens if a driver has a 5-second warning?
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Study Notes
Smith System Overview
- Developed by Smith, focusing on a logical and straightforward approach to driving safety and accident prevention.
- Key principles include creating space around the vehicle and ensuring visibility for the driver.
5-Step Formula
- Aims to maintain a space cushion and correct visibility while driving.
- Designed to help drivers avoid accidents for 5-10 years or approximately 50,000 miles without skidding or swerving.
Driving Philosophy
- Emphasizes eye-mind coordination over mere physical control of the vehicle.
- Highlights that good drivers can still make one-time costly mistakes leading to accidents.
Team Development
- Fashioned in collaboration with John H. Cummings and Dr. Reuel A. Sherman.
- The system promotes establishing driving rules as habits rather than relying on memory.
Five Rules of Defensive Driving
- Aim high in steering: Focus on the road ahead to analyze traffic effectively.
- Get the "Big" picture: Anticipate delays and make smoother stops/turns.
- Keep your eyes moving: Regularly check surroundings to spot hazards.
- Leave yourself an "Out": Always have an escape route and adjust speed according to conditions.
- Make sure they see you: Ensure visibility with signals, horn usage, and avoiding blind spots.
Rule Definitions
- Aim High in Steering: Center lane position, selecting appropriate lanes, and analyzing traffic for safe turns.
- Get the Big Picture: Recognizing potential delays in advance and executing smooth maneuvers.
- Keep Your Eyes Moving: Remaining aware of surroundings by checking all angles and avoiding distractions.
- Leave Yourself an Out: Maintaining distance from other vehicles, especially near intersections, to facilitate safe stops or swerves.
- Make Sure They See You: Proactively using signals and the horn to communicate intentions with other drivers.
Practical Driving Tips
- The five steps summarized visually emphasize proactive driving strategies, highlighting the importance of awareness and preparation.
- Interactions with the law include specific California Vehicle Code (CVC) regulations regarding lane changes and use of signals.
Legal Notes
- California law mandates signaling before lane changes and prohibits driving left of center when nearing intersections.
- Use of the horn is governed by CVC, which allows use when necessary for safe operation but forbids excessive use outside of safety contexts.
Aiming High Concept
- Aiming high equates to looking several seconds ahead, crucial for anticipating situations and making informed decisions while driving.
- A five-second forward focus enhances immediate path awareness, providing essential response time.
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Description
Explore the essential principles of the Smith System through these flashcards. This system emphasizes key rules such as maintaining space around your vehicle and enhancing visibility for safer driving. Perfect for anyone looking to enhance their defensive driving skills.
