Florida Driver's License Handbook PDF

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$6.95 REPLA CEM COST ENT Florida Driver’s License HANDBOOK Handbook provided courtesy of Over 10 Million Happy Customers - Florida’s #1 Online Traffic School! A MESSAGE TO Remember, you share the road with other drivers and you need to be considerate, courteous, and PARENTS, safe. No matter who you are, no one is invincible. STEP-PARENTS, Always stay cautious, alert, and sober. You never knows what lies ahead. So, study and retain this AND GUARDIANS: handbook — it will help you gain the knowledge that you need to pass your DMV written exam available You and your teen are ONLINE at LowestPriceTrafficSchool.com and about to embark on a new become a safe driver in the years ahead. adventure by taking an exciting and important step Ken Underwood into his or her adulthood National Safety Commission LowestPriceTrafficSchool.com - obtaining a learner’s permit and later, a driver’s license. Your teen’s safety is our number one priority and, as such, LowestPriceTrafficSchool.com provides the INTRODUCTION & following services to assist your teen in becoming a knowledgable and safe driver: DISCLAIMER The Florida Driver’s Handbook covers many 4 hour Drug & Alcohol Course condensed and paraphrased points of Florida’s (required to get a permit – available ONLINE) laws and provides safety advice not covered in the laws. The handbook is not a legal authority and DMV Prep Course should not be used in a court of law. The Florida (recommended to learn the rules of the road) Driver’s Handbook is printed in volume and copies DMV Learner’s Permit Written Test already obtained will not reflect any changes made (required to get a permit – available ONLINE) by Legislature regarding fees or laws passed after the revision date. Additionally, we are providing you with this Driver’s License Handbook so your teen The National Safety Commission, Inc., d/b/a can learn Florida’s road rules to help him or her LowestPriceTrafficSchool.com, is an authorized prepare for passing the Learner’s Permit Test. We provider of the online Class E Knowledge recommend that you retain this copy for them to Exam (“DMV Exam”). It is not an employee or refer back to even after they obtain the learner’s representative of the Florida DHSMV and cannot permit so they can continue to gain knowledge and issue or guarantee the issuance of a driver license become a safe driver. to any person. Remember: Driving is a privilege and not a right. Protect yourself and others by knowing A Message to Students: the laws and driving safely. Learners Permits and Drivers Licenses open new opportunities, new freedoms, and new responsibilites. Indeed, as a licensed driver, you will have a responsiblity to protect yourself, your passengers, and others on the roads and highways. Curt W. “Today I passed This is no idle responsiblity. That means you and my written test others need to be buckled up before the wheels on the first try!” roll on each and every trip, no matter how short the distance. You also have a responsibility to be focused on the road — not distracted by phone calls — and, of course, never text and drive. The Florida Driver’s Hanbook 3  agencies and other entities permitted by law to The Florida Department of Highway Safety and get the information. Your medical information, Motor Vehicles created the text and graphics in this social security number, and emergency contact handbook with the exception of the introductory information are available only as specifically pages and the advertisements. Any reference authorized by law. to “DMV” on these introductory pages and ads refers to the Florida Department of Highway Safety We strive to ensure the accuracy of the information & Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) or DHSMV services we obtain during the licensing process. If you providers that are located in Tax Collector offices. discover any incorrect information, please call us at (850) 617-2000 or mail your request with your complete name, date of birth, driver license number, information about the error, and any Warning documentation to support your request to: Chief of the Bureau of Records, 2900 Apalachee Parkway Florida law prohibits using a false name, making MS 89, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0575. Some a false statement, concealing a material fact or information, such as reports of convictions we otherwise using fraud in an application for a driver received from a court, can only be corrected if we license or identification card. The penalty can received notification from the court that the report be up to five years in prison, a $5,000 fine, and was in error. suspension of any existing driving privilege for at least one year. In addition, it is illegal to permit or authorize an IMPORTANT LAW CHANGES unlicensed person to drive a motor vehicle. Doing FOR 2015 so can result in a 60 day jail sentence and a $500 fine. If the vehicle is involved in a crash resulting in § 48.03, Florida Statutes: Adds civil traffic cases bodily injury or death of any person, the person who to the types of court cases for which service of permitted the unlicensed person to drive shall have process may be made on a witness by US mail. his/her license suspended for one year. § 119.0712, Florida Statutes: Customer e-mail addresses collected by the DHSMV while conducting driver license and motor vehicle record transactions are exempt from the state’s Public Records public records laws. Florida law requires the DHSMV to collect certain § 316.614, Florida Statutes: Exempts a USPS personal information during the licensing process. rural letter carrier from safety belt usage This information, which identifies licensed requirements while performing duties on a individuals, is used for records management, driver designated postal route. improvement, financial responsibility, and law § 316.1964, Florida Statutes: Exempts a vehicle enforcement purposes. If you do not provide the displaying a Disabled Veteran “DV” license plate required information, you will not receive a driver from paying parking fees charged by a county, license or identification card. municipality, or any agency that provides timed Florida’s Public Records Law makes all records parking spaces. made or received by DHSMV in the course of its § 316.212, Florida Statutes: Allows for the use official business available for inspection, unless of golf carts on a two-lane county road located specifically exempted by law. Your personal within the jurisdiction of a municipality which has information, including name, address, and designated the road for use by golf carts. driver license number is exempt from public disclosure, but may be given to law enforcement 4 The Florida Driver’s Handbook § 316.228, Florida Statutes: Requires 18 inch square, red flags on all loads that extend beyond TABLE OF CONTENTS the sides of a vehicle or four feet or more beyond Message....................................................3 a vehicle’s rear. Introduction................................................................. 3 Public Records............................................................. 4 § 318.18, Florida Statutes: Increases the fine Law Changes for 2016................................................ 4 from $100 to $500 for a violation of unlawfully PART 1: DRIVING IN FLORIDA......................8 displaying vehicles for sale, hire, or rental. 1. Preparing to Drive: Your Vehicle...........8 § 320.02 & 322.08, Florida Statutes: Authorizes Getting Ready to Drive...................................... 8 DHSMV to collect $1 or more voluntary Equipment Standards....................................... 8 contributions for the Florida Breast Cancer Required Equipment......................................... 8 Coalition Research Foundation, Inc., through Equipment NOT Permitted.............................. 9 Bumper Height Requirements........................ 9 the vehicle registration, driver license and Keep Your Car in Good Condition.................. 9 identification card applications. Anti-Lock Brake System................................... 9 § 322.051, 322.08, 322.14, Florida Statutes: Trailers, Towing, & Load.................................. 10 Provides for DHSMV to accept military Drawbar or Towing Connection.................... 10 identification cards to meet certain Securing the Load............................................ 10 requirements for issuance of a driver license Projecting Load................................................ 10 Slow Moving Vehicle........................................ 10 or identification card. 2. Preparing to Drive: You—the Driver.... 11 § 322.08, Florida Statutes: Requires DHSMV, Physical Conditions......................................... 11 and their authorized agents, to provide each Drowsy Driving.................................................. 11 applicant for a motor vehicle registration or driver Emotions............................................................ 11 license the option to register emergency contact Road Rage.......................................................... 11 information and the option to be contacted with Distracted Driving............................................12 information about state and federal benefits Drinking & Driving............................................12 available as a result of military service. The Dangers of Drinking & Driving................12 Other Drugs and Driving.................................12 § 320.0848, Florida Statutes: Allows disabled Senior Drivers................................................... 13 veterans to provide USDVA Form letter 27-333 Florida 511 Traffic Info..................................... 13 or its equivalent to renew or replace a disabled 3. Occupant Protection......................... 14 parking permit. Seat Belts & Child Restraints......................... 14 § 627.041 & 627.728, Florida Statutes: Removes Leaving Children Unsupervised the four vehicle maximum to allow vehicle in Vehicles.......................................................... 14 owners to purchase, and insurers to issue, 4. Traffic Controls................................. 15 single policies that cover any number of private Pavement Markings......................................... 15 passenger motor vehicles. Edge Lines.......................................................... 15 White Lane Lines.............................................. 15 Yellow Lane Lines............................................. 15 Turn Lanes......................................................... 15 Reversible Lanes.............................................. 16 Palamadai K. Bicycle Lanes..................................................... 16 White Stop Lines............................................... 16 “The online tests Crosswalks......................................................... 16 offered by you were Other Markings................................................. 16 very useful. I received Traffic Signs....................................................... 17 my license!” Traffic Sign Colors........................................... 17 Traffic Sign Shapes........................................... 17 Regulatory Signs.............................................. 18 Warning Signs.................................................... 19 The Florida Driver’s Handbook 5  Informational Signs......................................... 21 Tips for Motorists.............................................44 Traffic Control Signals..................................... 21 School Buses..................................................... 45 Steady Signal Lights........................................ 21 School Crossings.............................................. 45 Flashing Signal Lights......................................22 Emergency Vehicles......................................... 45 Lane Signals......................................................23 Funeral Processions........................................46 Ramp Signals.....................................................23 Florida’s Move Over Law.................................46 Pedestrian Signals...........................................23 Public Transit.....................................................46 Zones of Caution.............................................. 24 Commercial Vehicles.......................................46 School Zone Signs & Signals......................... 24 Rules for Motorists...........................................46 Railroad Crossing Signs & Signals................ 24 Passing Commercial Vehicles........................ 47 Drawbridge Signs & Signals...........................25 Golf Carts........................................................... 47 Construction/Maintenance Signs Low Speed Vehicles......................................... 47 & Signals.............................................................25 7. Special Driving Situations................. 48 5. Driving Safely................................... 26 Night Driving......................................................48 Speed Limits..................................................... 26 Low Visibility......................................................48 Braking Distance.............................................. 26 Rain...................................................................... 49 Smooth Stops................................................... 27 Animals............................................................... 49 Making Turns..................................................... 27 Following Law Enforcement Instructions.. 49 Three-Point Turn............................................. 28 8. Handling Emergencies....................... 50 Intersections..................................................... 28 Defensive Driving..............................................50 Open Intersections.......................................... 28 Avoiding Rear-end Collisions.........................50 Right-of-Way...................................................... 28 Breakdowns.......................................................50 Roundabouts....................................................29 Vehicle Approaching in Your Lane................50 Driveways...........................................................29 Right Wheels Off Pavement...........................50 Traffic Lanes......................................................29 Overcorrection.................................................50 Safe Following Distances...............................29 Skidding.............................................................. 51 Following Distance for Trucks.......................30 Emergency Braking.......................................... 51 Blind Spots........................................................30 Brake Failure...................................................... 51 Passing................................................................ 31 Wet Brakes......................................................... 51 Passing on the Right........................................ 31 Jammed Gas Pedal.......................................... 51 Where You Must Not Pass............................... 31 Tire Blowout...................................................... 51 Being Passed..................................................... 31 Fire....................................................................... 51 Limited Access Highways............................... 31 Stalled on Railroad Tracks............................. 51 Entering & Leaving Interstate Highways..... 31 Submerged Vehicles........................................ 51 Interstate Safety Reminders.......................... 32 Your Responsibilities After a Crash............... 52 Parking................................................................33 Leaving the Scene............................................ 52 Parking Lights..................................................33 “Hit & Run” Penalties....................................... 52 Straight-in Parking...........................................33 First Aid............................................................... 52 Parking on Hills.................................................33 Where Parking is Not Allowed.......................33 9. Your Driving Privilege........................ 53 Backing Up.........................................................33 Insurance Laws.................................................53 The No-Fault Law.............................................53 6.Sharing the Road.................................. 34 The Financial Responsibility Law.................54 Sharing the Road with Pedestrians.............34 Vehicle Licensing..............................................54 Rules for Motorists...........................................34 Applying for Title, Plates & Registration.....54 Rules for Pedestrians......................................34 Renewal..............................................................55 Right-of-Way......................................................34 Violations of the License Law........................55 Pedestrian Safety Tips....................................34 Time Restrictions for Minors.........................55 Sharing the Road with Bicycles.................... 43 Littering..............................................................55 Rules for Motorists........................................... 43 Road Damage....................................................55 Rules for Bicyclists........................................... 43 Driving Under the Influence (DUI).................55 Bicyclist Safety Tips.........................................44 Implied Consent Law.......................................56 Motorcycle Awareness....................................44 Penalties for DUI...............................................56 Rules for Motorcycle/Moped.........................44 Zero Tolerance..................................................56 6 The Florida Driver’s Handbook  Traffic Crashes...................................................56 12. Driver License Testing....................... 70 Three Crashes in Three Years Law................56 Testing Methods............................................... 70 Point System..................................................... 57 License Examinations..................................... 70 Mandatory Restriction for Minors................ 57 Vision................................................................... 70 Losing the Privilege to Drive.......................... 57 Class E Knowledge Exam................................ 70 Administrative Hearings................................. 57 Vehicle Inspection............................................ 71 Driving Skills Exam........................................... 71 PART 2: THE FLORIDA DRIVER LICENSE..... 59 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE.......................... 72 10. Getting Your License or ID Card.......... 59 Who Needs a Florida License to Drive?....... 59 Exceptions for the Florida Driver License... 59 Florida Driver License Classifications......... 59 Requirements for Class E License...............60 IMPORTANT INFO Learner’s License.............................................60 FOR MINOR DRIVERS Reciprocity.........................................................60 Traffic Law & Substance Abuse Education.60 Learners License Age 15–17 Parent’s Consent for Minors..........................60 Must always drive accompanied by a Physical & Mental Requirements.................. 61 licensed driver, age 21 or older, who Restriction Codes............................................ 61 rides in the closest seat to the right of Identification Requirements......................... 61 the driver. Primary Identification.....................................62 Must only drive during daylight hours Proof of Social Security Number..................63 during the first 3 months after earning Proof of Residential Address.........................64 learner license. After 3 months, may Identification Cards.........................................64 drive until 10 P M. ID Cards for Persons at/below Must have at least 50 hours driving Poverty Level.....................................................64 experience prior to getting Class E License Renewal...............................................64 License, and 10 hours should be at night. Renewal Issuance Requirements.................65 Renewal Options..............................................65 Licensed Driver Age 16 Military Renewal by Mail or Online...............65 Must not drive between 11 P M to 6 License/ID Card Replacement......................65 A M unless driving to or from work OR Replacement Requirements..........................66 accompanied by a licensed driver who Change of Address...........................................66 is age 21 or older. Name Changes..................................................66 Veterans..............................................................66 Licensed Driver Age 17 Veteran Designation on License or ID Card...66 Must not drive between 1A M to Exempt Fees for 100% Disabled US Vets....66 5A M unless driving to or from work OR Disabled Parking Permit.................................66 accompanied by a licensed driver who Selective Service..............................................67 is age 21 or older. Sexual Offenders & Sexual Predators..........67 Career Offenders..............................................67 Driving Record Points Any driver under the age of 18 who Florida Organ & Tissue Donor Program......67 accumulates 6 or more points within Voluntary Contributions.................................67 a 12 month period is automatically Emergency Contact Information..................67 restricted for one year to driving for Fees.....................................................................68 “Business Purposes ONLY.” 11. Driving School Providers................... 68 TLSAE Course Providers.................................68 Remember... Third Party Driver License Exams................. 69 Always carry your driver license with Advanced Driver Improvement Courses..... 69 you when driving, and always have Basic Driver Improvement Course............... 69 proof of vehicle registration and Licensed DUI Programs.................................. 69 insurance with you in the vehicle you Mature Driver Insurance Courses................. 69 are driving. The Florida Driver’s Handbook 7  1 PREPARING TO DRIVE: YOUR VEHICLE Getting Ready to Drive Before you start your engine: be sure vehicle is in park or neutral. adjust the seat so you can reach all controls. adjust all rear-view mirrors so that you can use them without having to lean forward or backward. move anything that blocks your view of mirrors or roadway. lock all car doors. put on your seat belt and make sure all passengers do the same. Equipment Standards The equipment on your car must meet certain standards. You may be stopped at any time by law enforcement for a vehicle inspection. Required Equipment Brakes Two braking systems. Each must be able to stop the car alone. The parking or emergency brake should be strong enough to hold the car on any hill. Low Beam Headlights Show objects 150 feet ahead. Visible from 1,000 feet. High Beam Headlights Show objects 450 feet ahead. Visible from 1,000 feet. Taillights Two red taillights. Visible from 1,000 feet. Brake lights Two red brake lights. Visible from 300 feet in the daytime. License Plate Light White light that makes the plate visible from 50 feet. Directional Signals Amber or white (front) or red (rear). Visible from 500 feet. Horn Heard from a distance of 200 feet. Mirrors At least one rear-view mirror with view 200 feet to the rear. Windshield Wiper In good working order to clear the driver’s view. Windshields* Must be safety glass and may not be covered or treated with any material that makes the windshield reflective or non- transparent. Must be free of any stickers not required by law. Side & Rear Windows* May not be composed of, covered by, or treated with any material which has a highly reflective or mirrored appearance and reflects more than 25% of the light (side windows) or more than 35% of the light (rear window). Tires Should have visible tread of at least 2/32 of an inch across the base with no worn spots showing the ply. *See FS §316.2953 and FS §316.2954 for details on window tint restrictions. 8 The Florida Driver’s Handbook  Equipment NOT Permitted Red lights visible from front or blue lights. For emergency/law enforcement vehicles only. A siren, bell, or whistle. A very loud muffler (heard from more than 50 feet) or one that emits smoke. Signs, posters, or stickers on the windshield or windows (except if required by law). A television that the driver can see. More than two spotlights, cowl or fender lights, fog lights, or other extra lights. Headsets/headphones worn by driver while operating a vehicle. Bumper Height Requirements Tires: Inspect often for proper inflation/tire Owners of automobiles and pickup trucks are pressure, even tread wear, and damage. required to have both front and rear bumpers Windows and Windshields: Keep the glass clean mounted within certain height levels. Height inside and out. limitations are governed by the net shipping weight of the vehicle, not the modified or altered weight. Rear window: If the rear window is covered The maximum allowable heights between the by or treated with any material that makes it pavement and bottom of the front and rear nontransparent, the vehicle must be equipped with bumper are: side mirrors on both sides that allow the driver a view to the rear of at least 200 feet. Vehicle Weight Front Rear Read Your Vehicle Owner’s Manual! It is an Cars < 2500 lbs. 22 in. 22 in. excellent resource for information specific to your Cars 2500–3499 lbs. 24 in. 26 in. vehicle, such as: what types of fluids your car Cars ≥ 3500 lbs. 27 in. 29 in. requires, what dashboard warning lights mean, Trucks < 2000 lbs. 24 in. 26 in. what your car services intervals are, and more. Trucks 2000–3000 lbs. 27 in. 29 in. Anti-Lock Brake System Trucks 3000–5000 lbs. 28 in. 30 in. Anti-lock brake system (ABS) prevents skidding and allows drivers to steer during an emergency braking EMISSIONS CONTROL DEVICES situation. ABS can help improve vehicle stability, It is illegal to tamper with, remove, or cause steering ability, and stopping capability. not to work any pollution control device on your vehicle. Tampering will damage your It is important to know if you have ABS because it vehicle and can cause increased air pollution, will affect the way you should stop in an emergency lower gas mileage, less vehicle efficiency, situation. With conventional brakes, you pump breathing difficulties. the brakes in order to stop in an emergency Keep Your Car in Good Condition situation where traction is lost and the vehicle Brakes: Check to see that the pedal stays well slides. However, drivers with ABS need to press above the floor when you step on it. If the car pulls to down hard on the brake pedal, hold it, and steer one side when you use the brakes or if you hear any out of danger. In an emergency situation, the ABS scraping or squealing noises, your brakes may need automatically pumps the brakes at a faster rate than to be repaired. the driver could. Removing steady pressure from the brake pedal or pumping the brakes will disengage or Lights: Replace burned-out bulbs and keep “turn off” the ABS. lenses clean. The Florida Driver’s Handbook 9 You can determine if the car has ABS by looking for highway if the load is not secure. The load must not a lighted ABS symbol on the dashboard right after be able to drop, shift, leak, or otherwise escape. starting the engine, checking the owner’s manual, You must use a close-fitting cover when hauling or asking the dealer. loads which could fall or blow onto the roadway (e.g., dirt, sand, gravel). Trailers, Towing, & Load Every truck carrying logs or pulpwood must use lock chains to securely fasten the load. Equipment Requirements: Trailer, semitrailer or pole trailer weighing Projecting Load 3,000 pounds or less: A load that extends beyond the sides of a vehicle REAR—two reflectors, one at each side.* more than four feet or more beyond its rear must be A brake light if the trailer or load blocks clearly marked. During the day, red flags at least 18 the brake lights on the towing vehicle. inches square must mark the extremities of the load. Trailer or semitrailer weighing more than 3,000 pounds: From sunset to sunrise, and during any rain, smoke, FRONT—two clearance lamps, one at or fog: each side. two red lamps on the back of the load which EACH SIDE—two side marker lamps, one can be seen from at least 500 feet to the rear; at or near the front and one at or near the two red reflectors on the rear which can be rear. Two reflectors, one at or near the seen from 100 to 600 feet when directly in front and one at or near the rear. front of low beam headlights, and located to REAR— two clearance lamps, one show the load’s full width; at each side, and two reflectors, one at or one red lamp on each side of the load, visible near the front and one at or near the rear.* from at least 500 feet to show maximum Brakes that can be operated by the overhang of load. driver in the towing vehicle. They must be designed and connected so that they will If the trailer or motor vehicle is transporting logs, automatically stop the trailer if it breaks long pulpwood, poles, or posts that extend more away from the towing vehicle. than four feet beyond the rear of the load, you must Pole trailer weighing more than 3,000 pounds: have one amber strobe-type lamp equipped so that EACH SIDE—one side marker lamp and one the lamp is visible from the rear and both sides of clearance lamp. the projecting load. The lamp must be operational REAR—two reflectors, one at each side.* and seen any time of day or night. * Every motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, and pole Passenger vehicles must not be driven on any highway trailer must have two or more stop lamps (one with a load extending beyond the fenders on the left stop lamp is permitted on vehicles built before side of the vehicle or extending more than 6 inches January 1, 1972). beyond the line of the fenders on the right side. Drawbar or Towing Connection Slow Moving Vehicle The drawbar or towing connection must: be strong enough to pull all towed weight; Farm vehicles designed for operation not be more than 15 feet long unless you at speeds less than 25 mph must are towing poles, pipes, machinery, or other display this sign on the rear when objects that cannot be easily taken apart; using public highways (not limited have a white flag at least 12 inches square access/interstates Also these vehicles can only be attached to it if it is chain, rope, or cable. operated during daylight hours unless equipped with the proper lights/reflectors required for Securing the Load night driving. You must not drive or move any loaded vehicle on the 10 The Florida Driver’s Handbook  PREPARING TO DRIVE: YOU–THE DRIVER 2 Driving an automobile is a huge responsibility. In Emotions order to drive safely, you must be fully engaged: hands on the wheel, eyes on the road, and your Emotions can have an effect on driving safely. You mind on driving. Anything that affects your physical may not be able to drive well if you are worried, or mental condition can impair your ability to drive. excited, crying, angry, or depressed. Emotions can distract you from your driving because your mind Physical Conditions is “somewhere else.” Your emotional state can alter the way you react—or overreact—to driving It is important that you get regular vision, hearing, situations. Take time to calm down and get focused and general physical check-ups. Get treatment for before driving. illnesses and avoid driving when sick. Remember that whenever you are prescribed medication, you Road Rage should ask your doctor or pharmacist how it can affect your driving. Road rage is violent or visibly angry behavior by a driver which can result in crashes or other incidents Drowsy Driving on roadways. Signs of road rage include: sudden acceleration or braking, Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk following too closely, driving. Do not drive when you are tired. It is risky cutting off other drivers, to drive drowsy because fatigue (being sleepy) can: preventing other vehicles from merging into slow down your thought processes and your lane, reaction time; excessively hitting the horn or flashing affect your judgment and vision; headlights, impair your senses and abilities; shouting obscenities or threats, cause micro-sleeping (“nodding off”) making obscene hand gestures, or falling completely asleep. intentionally causing a crash, The two main causes of drowsy driving are lack of getting out of a vehicle in an attempt to start quality/quantity of sleep and driving at times of the a confrontation, day when you would normally be sleeping. Avoid using a weapon or threatening to use driving drowsy! a weapon, 1. Don’t drive at times when you would normally throwing objects from the vehicle. be asleep. 2. Get a good night’s sleep before you travel. 3. On long trips, take a break every 100 miles or K.H. 2 hours. St. Augustine 4. If you think you might fall asleep— find a safe place to stop and take a nap. “I’m so glad I found this Online 5. Use the “buddy system” and switch drivers DMV exam and when needed. Amazing course!” †Florida Law states that a driver must move out of the left lane when being overtaken from behind by another vehicle traveling at a higher rate of speed. The Florida Driver’s Handbook 11 If another driver is threatening you or intentionally driving dangerously around you, remain calm and Drinking & Driving try to put as much distance between you and them If you drink alcohol—even just one drink—your as possible. Slow down and let them pass.† Do not chances of being in a crash are much greater than make eye contact; do not make obscene gestures. if you did not drink any alcohol. No one can drink If you need help, call *FHP (*347) or 911. alcohol and drive safely, even if you have been driving for many years. Distracted Driving Distracted driving is extremely risky behavior Because drinking alcohol and driving is so that puts not only you and your passengers in dangerous, the penalties are very tough. People danger, but also pedestrians and bicyclists sharing who drive after drinking risk heavy fines, higher the road. Focused attention on driving helps to insurance rates, loss of license, and even jail prevent crashes. In 2014, nearly 3000 crashes sentences. A DUI conviction will remain on your were caused by teen drivers who were not paying driving record for 75 years. attention. (Source: DHSMV.) Drinking & Driving is Dangerous There are three main categories of driver Alcohol reduces all of the important skills distraction: necessary to drive safely, such as judgment, reaction, vision, and concentration. Alcohol is CATEGORIES OF DISTRACTION absorbed into the lining of the stomach and then Visual taking your eyes off the road passes directly into the bloodstream and reaches your brain within minutes after consumption. Manual taking your hands off the A person’s judgment is the first thing affected steering wheel after drinking an alcoholic beverage. Cognitive thinking about anything other than driving Even one drink of alcohol can affect your driving. Texting requires all three types of distraction, Alcohol slows your reflexes and reaction time, making it one of the most dangerous of distracted reduces your ability to see clearly, and makes you driving behaviors.** However, this is not the less alert. You will have trouble judging distance, only cause of distracted driving. Other common speed, and movement of other vehicles. You will distractions include: also have trouble controlling your vehicle. talking on a cell phone; watching an object, person, or event outside Do Not Drink and Drive! of the vehicle; Before drinking, designate a sober driver. reaching for an object; If you are the designated driver, do not drink. interacting with passengers; One drink is one too many. eating or drinking; If you are impaired—and did not designate unsecured pets; a driver—take a taxi, call a sober family grooming; member, or use public transportation to get adjusting radio or climate controls; home safely. lighting a cigarette; Remember, friends don’t let friends drive daydreaming. drunk. If you know someone who is about to drive impaired, take their keys and help them **It is illegal in Florida to operate a motor get a safe ride home. vehicle while texting. In 2014, there were over 1600 citations Other Drugs and Driving Besides alcohol, there are many other drugs both issued in Florida for texting and driving. legal and illegal—prescription, over-the-counter, (Source: DHSMV.) controlled substance, marijuana—that can affect a person’s ability to drive safely. 12 The Florida Driver’s Handbook These drugs can have effects like those of alcohol, Florida GrandDriver provides information about or even worse. Some drugs taken for headaches, various steps drivers may take to maintain colds, and allergies can make you too drowsy to independence as long as possible, as well as drive. Energy pills and diet pills can make you actions one can take to stay mobile in their dizzy, unable to concentrate, and affect your vision. community when no longer driving. To learn Other prescription drugs can impair your reflexes, more, search for “Florida GrandDriver” on the judgment, vision, and alertness in ways similar DHSMV website. to alcohol. Florida 511 Traffic Info Be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist about Always be prepared! The Florida 511 Traveler the effects your prescription may have on driving. Information System is a toll-free service by the Read the labels on over-the-counter medicines to Florida Department of Transportation that provides determine if their side effects can impair real-time traffic information on crashes, travel your driving. times, congestion, lane closures, severe weather, and construction on Florida’s interstates, toll Never drink alcohol while you are taking roads, and other major metropolitan roadways. medication. These can multiply the effects of alcohol or have additional effects of their own. There are four convenient ways for motorists to These effects not only reduce your ability to be receive traffic updates:* a safe driver but could cause serious health Call 511 (English and Spanish). problems—even death. Visit FL511.com. Get the free “Florida 511” app. Senior Drivers Follow any of the 12 statewide, regional, or As we age, physical changes require us to adapt so roadway-specific feeds on Twitter. that we can continue to drive safely. Older drivers should: *Use these resources before driving—or when Get regular medical and eye exams to identify pulled over in a safe place such as a rest area— physical and mental conditions that may not while operating a motor vehicle. affect driving. Ask the doctor or pharmacist how medications—especially when taken in combination with other medications— affect driving. Consult with a doctor about an exercise program to maintain the flexibility and strength needed for safe driving. Make vehicle adjustments as necessary. If it becomes difficult to turn the steering wheel, get a steering knob. If you have difficulty turning your head to check blind spots, get a larger side mirror. Avoid wearing sunglasses in dim or dark A.M. conditions. Avoid risky driving times: “The DMV Prep Course was a great Dusk, dawn, and nighttime. way to quickly learn Bad weather. the rules and regulations for Rush-hour traffic. the driver’s test.” Fast-paced highways. The Florida Driver’s Handbook 13  3 OCCUPANT PROTECTION Seat Belts & Child Restraints School buses purchased new prior to Seat belts save lives, but only if worn correctly every December 31, 2000. time you are in a motor vehicle! You are far more Buses used for transportation of persons for likely to be killed in a crash if you are not wearing a compensation. seat belt. In a crash, your seat belt keeps you: Farm equipment. from being ejected from the vehicle; Trucks of a net weight of more than 26,000 from being thrown against other passengers, pounds. your steering wheel, or windshield; A seat belt (without booster seat) may only behind the wheel, where you can control be used for children 4–5 years of age when the vehicle. the driver is not a member of the child’s immediate family and the child is being Wear both the lap belt and the shoulder belt. transported as a favor or in an emergency. Wear your lap belt around your hips and wear your shoulder belt across your chest. Your seat belt will It is the parent or guardian’s responsibility to supply not work if it is tucked behind you. Airbags are not the proper child restraint when transporting a child a substitute for seat belts! in a vehicle for hire (e.g., taxi, bus, limousine). Florida law requires that all drivers, all front seat The best child seat is one that fits your child, fits passengers, and all passengers under the age of your car, and that you will use correctly every time. 18 wear seat belts.* Children under age 4 must Read the car seat’s instruction manual and the be in a safety seat, and children ages 4 and 5 portion of your vehicle’s owner manual on car seat must be in either a safety seat or a booster seat. installation. In passenger vehicles, children under Drivers will be charged with a seat belt violation 13 should be secured in the rear seat; airbags if any passenger under the age of 18 is not can injure or kill young children in the front seat. restrained with a seat belt or child restraint device. Never place a rear-facing car seat in front of Passengers 18 years old or older will be charged an airbag. with the violation if they fail to wear a seat belt when required by law. Leaving Children Unsupervised in Motor Vehicles In 2014, over 26,000 teen drivers in Florida received citations for seat belt violations. (Source: DHSMV.) Never leave a child unattended or unsupervised in a motor vehicle; it is extremely dangerous and Each passenger on a school bus equipped with can result in the child’s injury or death! Florida safety belts or restraint systems shall wear a law states that a parent, legal guardian, or other properly adjusted and fastened safety belt at all person responsible for a child younger than 6 times while the bus is in operation. years of age must not leave the child unattended or unsupervised in a motor vehicle for a period in Florida law exempts the following from the seat belt excess of 15 minutes or for any period of time if requirements: the motor of the vehicle is running, the health A person certified by a physician as having a of the child is in danger, or the child appears to medical condition that causes seat belt use to be in distress. A violation of this law is a second be inappropriate or dangerous. (Keep a copy of degree misdemeanor and can result in a fine of up certification while driving/being driven.) to $500. Violations that cause great bodily harm, Employee of a newspaper home delivery permanent disability, or permanent disfigurement service while delivering newspapers. to a child are considered a third degree felony. *Some exemptions apply to cars manufactured prior to 1968 and trucks prior to 1972. 14 The Florida Driver’s Handbook  TRAFFIC CONTROLS 4 Pavement Markings Lines, symbols, and words are painted on roadways to help direct drivers and control traffic flow. You must know what the different lines, colors, and symbols mean and obey them. Unless you are turning, exiting a highway, or changing lanes, always stay between Edge Lines the lines marking your lane. Edge Lines Solid lines along the side of the road mark the edge of the pavement. Single solid white line. Marks the right edge of the pavement. Single solid yellow line. Marks the left edge of the pavement on divided Broken White Line highways and one-way streets. White Lane Lines White lane lines separate lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. Single broken white line. You may cross this line to change lanes when it is safe to do so. Solid White Line Single solid white line. You may travel in the same direction on both sides of this line, but do not cross the line unless you must do so to avoid a hazard. Also used to discourage lane changes near intersections. Double solid white lines. Crossing a double solid line is not allowed. Yellow Lane Lines Double White Lines Yellow lane lines separate lanes of traffic moving in opposite directions. Single broken yellow line. Stay to the right of the line. You may temporarily cross this line when you are passing a vehicle in front of you. Double solid yellow lines. Vehicles moving in either direction must not cross these lines (unless turning left when it is safe to do so). Broken Yellow Line Double yellow lines–solid on right, broken on left. Passing or crossing is not allowed in this lane except when turning left. Double yellow lines–broken on right, solid on left. Passing is permitted in this lane when safe to do so. Turn Lanes Double Yellow Lines Arrows are often used with white lane lines to show which turn may be made from the lane. Lane is marked with a curved arrow and the word “ONLY”: you must turn in the direction of the arrow. Lane is marked with both a curved and straight arrow: you may either turn or go straight. Double Yellow Lines (limited passing) Two-way roadway with center lane: drivers from either direction may use the center lane for left turns; you must not use for passing. Turn Lanes The Florida Driver’s Handbook 15  Center Turn Lane Reversible Lanes Some highways have reversible traffic lanes to help handle rush-hour traffic. The direction of traffic is normally reversed at set times each day. These lanes are marked with special pavement markings, lane signals, and signs. Reversable Lane Bicycle Lanes Some roads have pavement markings that show lanes specifically designated for the exclusive use of bicycles or for shared use. Bike Lane Exclusive bike lane. Solid white lines separate these bike lanes from motor vehicle travel lanes. Often marked with bike lane signs/symbols. Shared-use lane. Marked with “sharrows.” These markings alert motorists that bicyclists may use the entire lane, indicate to bicyclists where to ride, and discourage bicycling in the wrong direction. Sharrow White Stop Lines Stop lines show where you must stop for a stop sign or red light. You must stop your vehicle before any part of it crosses the line before the crosswalk. Crosswalks Stop Line & Crosswalk Marked with solid white lines and sometimes filled with white diagonal or perpendicular lines. Shows where pedestrians should cross. Motorists must always yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalk. Other Markings Curbs are often marked yellow in no parking zones near fire hydrants or intersections. Yellow or white diagonal stripes mark fixed obstructions (medians, no parking zones, etc.). It is unlawful to park in or drive through areas that have pavement markings indicating fire lanes or safety zones. Right-of-way rules tells motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists who goes first and who must wait in different traffic situations. The law says who must yield (give up) the right-of-way. Michael K. “Your school is the best and I wont hesitate to recommend it to others.” 16 The Florida Driver’s Handbook Traffic Signs Traffic Sign Colors Red Stop. Do not enter. Wrong way. Orange Construction and maintenance warning. Yellow General warning. Advisory of unexpected roadway conditions. Fluorescent High emphasis warning of school, pedestrian, and Yellow Green bicycling activity. White/Black Regulatory. Green Guide, or directional information. Blue Motorist services guidance. It is also used to identify parking spaces for disabled drivers. Brown Areas of public recreation, cultural, and historical significance. Traffic Sign Shapes Octagon Triangle Diamond Pennant Stop Yield Warn of existing or No passing zones possible hazards Crossbuck Round Pentagon Rectangle (Vertical) Rectangle Railroad crossing Railroad School advance/ Regulatory (Horizontal) advance warning school crossing Guide The Florida Driver’s Handbook 17 Regulatory Signs Regulatory signs control traffic; they set limits or give commands and are enforceable by law. Stop sign. You must bring your vehicle to a complete halt at the stop line. If there is no stop line, stop before entering the crosswalk. If there is no marked crosswalk, stop before entering the intersection at a point near the intersecting roadway where you have a clear view of approaching traffic. 4-Way Stop. Traffic from all four directions must stop. The first vehicle to reach the intersection should move forward first. If two vehicles reach the intersection at the same time, the driver on the left yields to the driver on the right. Yield. You must slow down and give vehicles crossing your path the right-of-way. If the way is clear, you may move forward slowly without stopping. Do Not Enter. On one-way streets and roadways that you are not allowed to enter. You may see this sign if you enter an expressway ramp in the wrong direction. Turn around! Wrong Way. You are going the wrong way on an expressway exit ramp. Do not drive past this sign! Turn around immediately. No Passing. You are entering a no passing zone. Pass with Care. You are allowed to pass, but do so with caution. NO symbol. Red circle with red slash. The sign shows what you are not allowed to do. No U-Turn. You cannot make a complete turn to go in the opposite direction where this sign is displayed. No Right Turn. You must not make a right turn at this intersection. Speed Limit. Your speed must not exceed the posted speed in this area. Speeding Fines Doubled. Posted in active school and work zones. Your fines will be doubled if you are cited for speeding in this area. Must Turn. You cannot go straight ahead. You must turn either to the right or left. One Way. You may travel only in the direction of the arrow. Divided Highway Ahead. Stay to the right of the divider. No Turn on Red. You may not turn right or left during the red light. You must wait for the green signal. Left Lane Must Turn. Traffic in left lane must turn left at the intersection ahead (also Right Lane Must Turn). 18 The Florida Driver’s Handbook Turn Lanes. At the intersection ahead, traffic in left lane must turn left and traffic in adjoining lane may turn left or continue straight ahead. No Turns. You must not turn either to the right or to the left at this intersection. Center Turn Lane. The center lane is shared for left turns in both directions of travel. Begin Right Turn. When entering a right turn lane you may encounter bicyclists traveling straight; you must yield to the bicyclists. BEGIN RIGHT TURN LANE Exit Speed. This sign lists the maximum recommended safe speed for an exit ramp YIELD TO BIKES on an expressway. Slow down to the posted speed. Slower Traffic Keep Right. Slower driving traffic must stay in right hand lane unless passing. Slower traffic must move out of left hand lane when being overtaken by a faster vehicle. Restricted Lane Ahead. A diamond-shaped marking shows that a lane is reserved for certain purposes or certain vehicles, such as buses or car-pool vehicles during rush hour traffic. Also used in bike lanes. Emergency Stopping Only. You must only stop for emergencies. No Parking on Pavement. If you stop, you must always park off the pavement of the highway. Parking by Disabled Permit Only. Parking in this space is only for vehicles displaying an official disabled parking permit and transporting a person with a disability. Move Over. When approaching stopped emergency or service vehicles with flashing lights, you must move over or reduce speed to 20 mph below posted limit. Warning Signs These signs give you advance notice of possible hazards. Drive with caution. Reduction of Lanes. There will be fewer lanes ahead. Right lane ends and traffic must merge left. Drivers in the left lane should allow others to merge smoothly. Divided Highway Ahead. The highway ahead is divided by a median or physical barrier. Keep to the right. Divided Highway Ends. The divided highway on which you are traveling ends 350 to 500 feet ahead. You will then be on a roadway with two-way traffic. Keep to the right. Merging Traffic. You are coming to a point where another traffic lane joins the one you are on. Watch for other traffic and be ready to yield the right-of-way when necessary. The Florida Driver’s Handbook 19  Pavement Ends. The paved surface ahead changes to a gravel or earth road. Low Clearance. Do not enter if your vehicle is taller than the height listed on the sign. Slippery Surface. In wet weather, drive slowly. Do not speed up or brake quickly. Make turns at a very slow speed. Dip. There is a low place in the road. Go slowly and be ready to stop and turn around if the dip is filled with water. Bicycle Crossing. A bike-way crosses the roadway ahead. Watch for bicyclists. Pedestrian Crossing. Watch for people crossing the street. Slow down or stop to yield for pedestrians. Animal Crossing. The animal pictured on the sign is common in this area; watch for animals crossing the road particularly during twilight and night-time hours. Truck Crossing. Watch for trucks entering or crossing the highway. Narrow Bridge. The bridge is wide enough to accommodate two lanes of traffic, but with very little clearance. Stay in your lane One Lane Bridge. The bridge is wide enough for only one vehicle at a time. Make sure the bridge is clear of oncoming traffic before you cross. Soft Shoulder. The ground on the side of the road is soft. Don’t leave the pavement except in an emergency. Right Curve. The road will curve to the right. Slow your speed and do not pass other vehicles. Double Curve. The road will curve to the right, then to the left. Slow your speed and do not pass other vehicles. Winding Road. There are several curves ahead. Drive slowly and carefully and do not pass other vehicles. Cross Road. A road crosses the main highway ahead. Look to the left and right for other traffic. Side Road. Another road enters the highway from the direction shown. Watch for traffic from that direction. Sharp Right Turn. The road will make a sharp turn to the right. Slow your speed and do not pass other vehicles. Hill/Downgrade. The road goes downhill ahead. Slow down and be ready to shift to lower gear to control speed. 20 The Florida Driver’s Handbook Advisory Speed Sign. The highest safe speed you should travel around the curve ahead is the one posted. Advisory speed signs may be used with any warning sign. Speed Reduction Sign. Advance notice to upcoming speed limit change. Yield Ahead. Yield sign ahead. Slow down and be prepared to stop at yield sign or adjust speed to traffic. Traffic Signal Ahead. Alerts you to traffic signals at the intersection ahead. Slow down; poor visibility is likely. Stop Sign Ahead. Slow down and be ready to stop at the stop sign. Two-Way Traffic Ahead. The one-way street or roadway is about to change to two- way traffic; there will be oncoming traffic. Roundabout Circle. Provides advance notice of a roundabout. Prepare to slow down and possibly yield. Informational Signs Green Guide Signs give information about directions and distances. East-West routes have even numbers and North-South have odd numbers. Mile markers indicate your location on an interstate and match with exit numbers. Blue and White Service Signs direct you to services, such as gas, food, motels, and hospitals. Brown and White Signs point out scenic areas, parks, and areas of cultural/ historical significance. The Florida Department of Transportation’s 511 Traffic Information Service provides bilingual (English and Spanish) real-time traffic information. Traffic Control Signals Traffic signals are placed at intersections to keep traffic moving and to help prevent crashes. Drivers, pedestrians, and bicycle riders must obey these signals except when an officer is directing traffic. If traffic signal is out of order, treat the light/ intersection as a four-way stop sign. Steady Signal Lights Red Light Come to a complete stop at the stop line. Remain stopped until light turns green. Don’t stop too far away from the stop line. Some signals change only when a car is at the stop line. The Florida Driver’s Handbook 21  After stopping, you may turn right if there is not a NO TURN ON RED sign and the way is clear. You may turn left from a one-way street onto a one-way street that has traffic moving to the left. Before turning, you must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in the crosswalk and oncoming traffic. Running (driving through) the red light is against the law and is extremely dangerous! Yellow Light Warning—the light is changing to red. Stop if you can safely do so. It is extremely dangerous to be in an intersection when the light turns red. Green Light Go, but only if the intersection is clear. Yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk and vehicles still in the intersection. Approach at a speed that will allow you to slow down if the light changes. Red Arrow Do not make the movement shown by the arrow until the green light appears. After stopping, you may turn right if there is not a NO TURN ON RED sign and the way is clear. You may turn left from a one-way street onto a one-way street that has traffic moving to the left. You must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in the crosswalk and to oncoming traffic. Yellow Arrow (steady) The green arrow is ending or the light is about to turn red. Stop if you can safely do so. Yellow Arrow (flashing) Left turns are allowed in the direction of the arrow. The oncoming traffic has a green light. Yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. Green Arrow You may make a turn in the direction of the arrow. If the red light is illuminated at the same time, you must be in the proper lane for such a turn. You must yield the right-of-way to vehicles and pedestrians in the intersection. Flashing Signal Lights Flashing Red Light. Used at dangerous intersections. Treat it like a stop sign. Flashing Yellow Light. Used at, or just before, dangerous intersections. Also used to alert you to a warning sign such as a school crossing or sharp curve. Proceed with caution. 22 The Florida Driver’s Handbook Lane Signals Lane signals are used: when the direction of the flow of traffic changes during the day. to show that a toll booth is open or closed. to show which lanes are opened or closed. Red X. Never drive in a lane under the red X. Yellow X. The lane signal is about to turn red. Green Arrow. You may use this lane and you must also obey all other signs and signals. Ramp Signals Ramp Signals: control the rate of vehicles entering an expressway. alternate between red and green; you must wait for the green signal before entering the expressway. Pedestrian Signals Pedestrian signals show words or pictures to indicate when it is safe—or not—to use the crosswalk. WALK or “walking person.” You may begin to cross the street. DON’T WALK or “raised hand.” You may not begin crossing. If you are already in the crosswalk when this signal begins flashing, you should finish crossing the street. Countdown Signal. Shows a countdown time period based on walking speed and crossing distance. The countdown starts at the beginning of the “DON’T START” or flashing hand phase and ends with a zero and a “DON’T WALK” or solid red hand. School Zone Signs & Signals School Sign. You are near a school. Watch for children at all times, not just during school hours. School Crossing. Slow down and watch for children crossing the road. Stop if necessary. Obey signals from any crossing guards. Begin School Zone. Do not exceed the school zone speed limit during indicated times or when light is flashing. End School Zone. Marks the end of a reduced speed school zone. The Florida Driver’s Handbook 23  Railroad Crossing Signs & Signals There are several signs, signals, and pavement markings that indicate highway- railroad crossings. When you see any of these, slow down and be ready to stop. Do not stop on the tracks or within 15 feet of the crossing. Any driver or pedestrian approaching a railroad-highway grade crossing must stop within 50 feet, but not less than 15 feet, from the nearest rail of the railroad when: the warning devices are flashing. the crossing gate is lowered. a human flagger is warning of an approaching train. an approaching train is clearly visible. Pavement Marking. Markings may be painted on the paved approach to a crossing before the stop line. Advance Warning Sign. This is usually the first sign you see when approaching a highway-rail intersection. Crossbuck Sign. These are yield signs; you must yield the right-of-way to trains. A sign below the crossbuck will show the number of tracks if there is more than one track. Flashing Red Light Signals. At many crossings, the crossbuck sign has flashing red lights and bells. When the lights begin to flash...stop! A train is approaching. Gates. Many crossings have gates with flashing red lights and bells. Stop when the lights begin to flash and before the gate lowers across your road lane. It is against the law to drive around or under a crossing gate—either down or while being opened or closed—and it is extremely dangerous. Remember: Slow down when approaching railroad crossings. Be prepared to stop especially when following buses or trucks; many are required to stop at railroad crossings even when gates are up/lights are not flashing. If there is more than one track, make sure all tracks are clear before crossing. In heavy traffic, make sure there is room for your vehicle on the other side of the track before crossing. Trains often appear to be traveling at a slower speed than they actually are, and they cannot stop quickly. Don’t try to “beat the train;” the train always wins. Drawbridge Signs & Signals Drawbridges are mechanical bridges over navigable waters that raise or turn to allow marine traffic to go under them. Flashing Yellow Signal. When the yellow light is flashing, the drawbridge is in operation. Slow down and prepare to stop. 24 The Florida Driver’s Handbook Drawbridge Signal Red. Come to a complete stop at the marked stop line. The bridge is in operation and the roadway is closed to all pedestrian and motor vehicle traffic. Yellow. The light is about to turn red. Stop if you can safely do so. The bridge is about to start operation. Green. Proceed with caution. Gates. Many drawbridges have gates with flashing red lights and bells. Stop when the lights begin to flash and before the gate lowers across your road lane. Not only is it against the law to drive around or under a crossing gate—either down or while being opened or closed—it is extremely dangerous. Construction/Maintenance Signs & Signals Various traffic control devices are used in road construction and maintenance work areas to direct drivers and pedestrians safely through the work site. Be prepared to reduce your speed and use caution when directed to do so by a sign, flagger, or law enforcement officer. Failure to do so is illegal and is dangerous to those working in the construction zone. (Signs will indicate where speeding fines will be doubled when workers are present). Construction and Maintenance Signs. The signs—usually diamond shaped and/or orange in color—notify drivers of unusual or potentially dangerous conditions near work areas. Channeling Devices Barricades, vertical panels, drums, and cones. Alert drivers of unusual or potentially dangerous conditions in highway and street work zones. Guide drivers safely through the work area. May be equipped with warning lights at night. Stripes on barricades and panel devices slope downward in the direction traffic must travel. Flashing Arrow Panels. Used both during the day and at night to give advance warning and directional information when it is necessary to move to another lane. Flaggers. Are people who work in roadway construction/maintenance zones to stop, slow, or guide traffic safely through the area. Flaggers wear bright colored/ fluorescent vests or jackets and use red flags or signs to direct traffic through work zones. The Florida Driver’s Handbook 25  5 DRIVING SAFELY Speed Limits However, driving too slowly is also against Florida Obeying speed limits improves safety by reducing law. You must not drive so slowly that you block the probability and severity of crashes. Speed limit or delay traffic moving at normal, safe speeds. signs tell you the maximum safe speed when both You should drive with the flow of traffic, within the weather conditions and visibility are favorable. speed limit. When driving slower than the flow of traffic, keep right so others may safely pass. On Speeding is extremely dangerous. The faster you highways, when the posted speed limit is 70 mph, drive, the greater the impact or striking power of the minimum speed limit is 50 mph. your vehicle: When you double the speed of a car, you Braking Distance increase its force of impact four times. When you triple the speed of a car, you Perception Distance: how far your vehicle travels— increase its force of impact nine times. in ideal conditions—from the time your eyes see a hazard until your brain recognizes it. Perception Speeding is against the law. You must obey the distance can be affected by mental and physical speed limit and you are responsible for knowing the conditions, medication, as well as visibility and the speed limit when you are driving. (The “speeding hazard itself. The average perception time for an buffer” is a myth; you are not “allowed” to drive alert driver is ¾ second to 1 second. up to 10 mph over the speed limit.) Observe and obey posted speed limit signs. Speeding is the #1 Reaction Distance: how far you will continue to citation written for teens. (Source: DHSMV.) travel after seeing the hazard until you physically hit the brakes. The average driver has a reaction Florida Standard Speed Limits time of ¾ second to 1 second. At 50 mph this School Zones 20 mph accounts for 55 feet traveled. Municipal, Business, or 30 mph* Residential Area Braking Distance: how far your vehicle will travel— in ideal conditions— while you are braking. At 50 Streets and Highways 55 mph* mph on dry pavement with good brakes, it can take Rural Interstate 70 about 158 feet. mph** Total Stopping Distance: the total minimum Limited Access Highways (see 70 mph definition pg. 34) distance your vehicle will travel—including perception distance, reaction distance, and *maximum speed except where otherwise braking distance—until you can bring your vehicle posted. to a complete stop. At 50 mph, you will travel **on some rural Interstate highways. a minimum of 268 feet...nearly the length of a football field. Speed limits show the fastest speed you may drive under ideal conditions. You are responsible High speeds greatly increase stopping distances for adjusting your driving speed to the weather, and severity of crashes. The faster you drive, the roadway, and traffic conditions. For example, greater the impact or striking power of your vehicle. during a storm, you should drive slower than the Double your speed from 20 to 40 mph, the posted speed. The safest speed is the one that braking distance and impact are 4 times greater. allows you to have complete control of your Triple the speed from 20 to 60 mph, the vehicle and avoid collisions. braking distance and impact are 9 times greater. (Stopping distance is equal to a football field.) 26 The Florida Driver’s Handbook  END ZONE END ZONE Quadruple your speed from 20 to 80 mph, Turning a corner may seem to be a simple the braking distance and impact are 16 operation, but many traffic crashes are caused by times greater. drivers who do not turn correctly. 1. Slow down to a safe turning speed. Smooth Stops 2. Move into the correct lane as you near the Stopping suddenly is dangerous and usually intersection. The correct lane for a right turn caused by not paying attention to the traffic flow or is the right-most lane. following others too closely. Sudden stops make it 3. You must activate your turn signal at least difficult for drivers behind you to avoid a rear-end 100 feet before making your turn. Allow time collision. for drivers around you to see your signal Check mirrors and blind spots for traffic to before you move. the rear. 4. Obey NO TURN ON RED or STOP HERE signs. Release accelerator to allow vehicle to slow. 5. Yield to bicyclists when crossing a bike lane Press brake pedal to activate brake lights and to pedestrians who may be crossing your and use a steady pressure for a smooth stop. path. 6. Stay in the proper lane during your turn. Yield Making Turns the right-of-way to vehicles and bicycles You must use vehicle directional signals or coming from the opposite direction. hand signals to show other drivers that you 7. Finish your turn in the proper lane. Turn right are about to turn. into the right lane of the roadway entered. Turn signals are required by law when A left turn may be completed in any lane changing lanes or overtaking lawfully available—or safe—for the desired a vehicle. direction of travel. You must give a turn signal for at least 100 feet BEFORE you Monica B., make your turn. It is against the law to use Port Orange, FL your directional signals to tell “This was a very drivers behind you that they convenient way to take the Learner’s can pass. Permit course.” Hand signals must be given from the left side of the vehicle. The Florida Driver’s Handbook 27 Never make “last minute” turns. If you reach an stop. Always stop behind stop lines. After a intersection where you wish to turn and are not in complete stop, you must yield the right-of-way to the proper lane, drive to the next intersection and all other traffic already in the intersection and to then make the turn from the proper lane. pedestrians. Move forward only when the road is clear. Three-Point Turn The first vehicle to stop should move Sometimes you will need to turn around in a very forward first. small space. Use a three-point turn only if the road If two vehicles reach the intersection at is too narrow for a U-turn and you can’t go around the same time, the driver on the left yields the block. to the driver on the right; at a two-way stop, the turning vehicle yields to the vehicle To make a three-point turn: going straight. 1. Move as far right as possible, check traffic, and signal a left turn. Turn the steering wheel Right-of-Way sharply to the left and move forward slowly. Right-of-way rules tell you who goes Stop at the curb. first and who must wait in different conditions. The law says who must yield (give up) the right-of-way. Every driver, motorcyclist, moped rider, bicyclist, and pedestrian must do everything possible to avoid a crash. Open Intersections An open intersection is one without traffic control signs or signals. When you enter an open intersection, you must yield the right-of-way if: a vehicle is already in the intersection; you enter or cross a state highway from a secondary road; you enter a paved road from an unpaved road; or you plan to make a left turn and a vehicle is approaching from the opposite direction. When two cars enter an open intersection at the same time, the driver on the left must yield to the 2. Shift to reverse, tu