Questions and Answers
You should only depend on the radio or an open window to keep you awake while driving.
False
What should you do if you recognize that you are close to sleep while driving?
Find a safe place to stop for a break.
How long should a brief nap be to help combat drowsiness while driving?
15 to 45 minutes.
In New York State, what could be the penalty for using a handheld mobile telephone while driving?
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What is the fine for a first offense of texting while driving?
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How often must vehicles be inspected?
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What should you do if the brakes pull to one side while driving?
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If the steering wheel has much free movement, there may be a problem with the ______.
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What is a requirement for tire tread depth?
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What should be done if the horn does not work?
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Which of the following are tips for driving defensively? (Select all that apply)
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The Move Over Act requires drivers to exercise care to avoid colliding with parked emergency vehicles.
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What is a common action aggressive drivers might take?
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If an aggressive driver confronts you, what should you do? (Select all that apply)
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How can one avoid becoming an aggressive driver?
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What constitutes road rage?
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What should you do if you encounter a work zone?
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What should you do when driving through a roundabout?
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What are symptoms of fatigue while driving?
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Who is most at risk for drowsy driving?
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What is an effective countermeasure against fatigue while driving?
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Study Notes
Tips for Driving Defensively
- Prepare by looking ahead and maintaining proper speed.
- Always signal before turning or changing lanes.
- Allow adequate space between vehicles.
- Wear seat belts and avoid driving when fatigued, medicated, or under the influence of alcohol.
Be Prepared and Look Ahead
- Keep both hands on the steering wheel and maintain a proper posture.
- Continuously scan the road and surroundings to anticipate potential hazards.
- Do not presume other drivers will stop at signs; assume they may not yield.
Move Over Act
- Requires drivers to avoid colliding with emergency vehicles with activated lights.
- Reduce speed when encountering these vehicles; move to another lane if safe to do so.
- Violations are treated as moving violations.
Aggressive Drivers and Road Rage
- Aggressive driving behaviors include speeding, reckless lane changes, and ignoring traffic signals.
- Road rage can escalate from aggressive driving and lead to violent confrontations.
When an Aggressive Driver Confronts You
- Avoid eye contact and remain calm; do not engage or challenge the driver.
- Report aggressive behavior to law enforcement with details about the vehicle and location.
To Avoid Becoming an Aggressive Driver
- Allow ample travel time and avoid high traffic periods.
- Do not drive when angry or tired; make your journey comfortable.
- Refrain from reacting aggressively; practice patience and forgiveness on the road.
Road Rage Defined
- A state of anger leading to potentially violent acts related to driving.
- Aggressive driving can escalate into road rage, which may lead to criminal actions.
Who Can Become Road Raged?
- Anyone can exhibit road rage when anger affects judgment and reactions.
- Engaging in threatening behavior towards others can result in severe legal penalties.
Road Rage Can Include
- Loud shouting, aggressive gestures, cutting off vehicles, chasing, and physical altercations.
Speed Regulations
- Abide by posted speed limits; maximum unposted limit is 55 mph (88 km/h).
- Safe driving speed may be lower in hazardous conditions.
- Minimum speed limits exist to maintain smooth traffic flow.
Allow Yourself Space
- Rear-end collisions are common due to tailgating; maintain safe distance.
- Use the two-second rule to determine following distance, increasing in poor conditions.
Seat Belts, Child Safety Seats, and Air Bags
- Mandatory seat belt use in New York State for adults; primary enforcement law applies.
- Specific regulations for child safety seats based on age and weight to ensure passenger safety.
Highlights of the NY State Occupant Restraint Law
- All front-seat occupants must wear seat belts; penalties for not complying.
- Children under 16 must use appropriate safety restraints; strict rules apply to younger children.
Restraint Law Restrictions
- Children over 4 feet 9 inches may use seat belts, and improper fitting necessitates booster seats.
- Air bags complement seat belts for safety; position yourself correctly away from air bags.
How to Drive Safely in Work Zones
- Speeding in work zones results in doubled fines; expect changing traffic conditions.
- Yield to flaggers and obey all posted signs in work zones to ensure safety.
Work Zone Tips
- Merge early into the correct lane when approaching work zones.
- Maintain a safe braking distance to prevent rear-end collisions.
How to Drive Through a Roundabout
- Roundabouts promote reduced speeds and improved safety compared to traditional intersections.
- Yield to pedestrians and cyclists; follow signage and signals appropriately.
Drowsy and Fatigued Driving
- Fatigue impairs reaction time and judgment, similar to the effects of drugs or alcohol.
Symptoms of Fatigue
- Indicators include drowsiness, difficulty maintaining focus, and drifting between lanes.
Who is Most at Risk?
- Young drivers, those driving long stretches without breaks, and individuals with sleep disorders face increased risks.
Effective Countermeasures
- Prioritize sleep, plan breaks, and avoid medications influencing alertness.
- If fatigue occurs while driving, find a safe place to rest; caffeine can help but is only temporary.
Using a Cellular or Mobile Telephone
- Using hand-held mobile devices while driving is illegal with fines and points penalties.
- Hands-free devices are permitted under state law.
Penalties for Texting, Electronic Device Use
- Texting or using portable electronic devices while driving is illegal with escalating fines for multiple offenses.
- Specific penalties apply to junior license holders caught using phones or texting while driving.### Vehicle Condition
- Annual vehicle inspections are mandatory but regular checks on safety equipment are also essential.
- Follow the owner's manual for routine maintenance schedules.
- Immediate repair by a qualified mechanic is crucial for any identified mechanical problems.
- Focus on maintaining brakes, steering, lights, tires, and horn for safe driving.
Common Problems and Equipment Checks
- Brakes: Check for pulled to one side, moisture, and ensure prompt adjustments.
- Steering: Limited free movement is expected; check power steering fluid level.
- Lights: Maintain cleanliness, replace broken lenses to avoid glare, and ensure proper headlight alignment.
- Tires: Minimum tread depth required is 2/32 inches; avoid driving on tires with cuts, bumps, or bulges.
- Glass: Keep windows clear, replace worn wiper blades, maintain defrosters, and ensure ample windshield fluid.
- Horn: Essential for warning other drivers; repair promptly if malfunctioning.
Brake Problems
- If brakes pull to one side, they may be wet or require adjustment.
- Lightly press the brake pedal to dry them if they are wet; seek professional help if issues persist.
- Changes in brake performance necessitate immediate inspection.
Steering Problems
- Steering wheel should not have excessive free movement.
- Check fluid levels in power steering systems regularly.
- Unusual whirring noises during sharp turns may indicate a problem.
Light Problems
- Keep headlights, taillights, and indicators clean and free from obstructions like dirt or ice.
- Promptly replace broken light lenses to prevent dangerous glare.
- Proper alignment of headlights is vital for optimal road visibility.
Tire Problems
- Legal minimum tread depth is 2/32nd of an inch (0.16 cm); tires have wear bars to indicate this.
- Driving on damaged tires (with cuts or bulges) is illegal.
- Regularly check tire pressure against standards in the owner's manual.
Glass Problems
- Ensure windows are clean for visibility; replace wiper blades as needed.
- Maintain functional defrosters and rear window defoggers.
- Always keep windshield washer fluid topped up.
Horn Problems
- The horn is crucial for safety and alerting others; it should work correctly.
- Repair the horn promptly if it malfunctions; usage should be appropriate, not for expressing frustration.
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Description
Test your knowledge on defensive driving tips with this flashcard set based on Chapter 8 of the New York Drivers Manual. Learn essential techniques to enhance your safety on the road, including preparation, vehicle maintenance, and awareness while driving.
