Driving Safety Guidelines

Starting Up at Intersection

• Always check left, right, and then left again before moving into the intersection.
• Inspect rear-view mirrors for surrounding traffic.

Stopped in Traffic

• Maintain a car length of space from the vehicle ahead.
• This space allows for maneuvering around a stalled vehicle and provides a safety cushion if the vehicle ahead turns.

Post-Departure Timing

• After the car ahead starts moving, count to three before you begin to move.
• This ensures awareness of your surroundings; additionally, check rear-view mirrors.

Following Distance

• Maintain a four to six second following time for speeds under 30 mph.
• For speeds over 30 mph, increase the following time to six to eight seconds to avoid fixation on the lead vehicle.

Eye-Lead Time

• Aim for eight to twelve seconds of eye-lead time to optimize road awareness.
• Keeping your eyes focused ahead helps anticipate potential hazards.

Scanning Steering Wheels

• Check if parked cars along the curb are occupied.
• Occupied vehicles pose a risk as the drivers may exit or pull out unexpectedly.

Approaching Stale Green Lights

• Establish an imaginary point of decision when approaching intersections with a stale green light.
• Be prepared to stop at this point if the light changes, enhancing situational awareness.

Importance of Eye Contact

• Make eye contact with individuals near your path to ensure safe interaction.
• Utilize the horn and lights as communication tools when eye contact is not possible.

Pulling from Curb

• Perform a left shoulder glance when pulling away from the curb to ensure safety.

Use of Mirrors

• Check mirrors approximately every five to eight seconds to maintain awareness of your surroundings.