lesson 13.3 ROADWAY HAZARDS Be aware of the condition of a roadway surface and objects that may end up in lanes of traffic.

Describe how to reduce vehicle damage caused by potholes. OBJECTIVE

Roadway Hazards Potholes in the Roadway Potholes can develop as water collects in cracks in the roadway. You can lose control of your vehicle—and severely damage it—if you hit a pothole at a fast speed.

This driver has just hit a pothole. How might driving through a pothole create a dangerous situation for you and other drivers?

Objects on the Roadway Decide whether to steer around, brake, straddle, or drive over the object. Straddle the object only if your vehicle can clear it. Would you steer around, brake, or straddle the box in the middle of the road? Explain your reasoning.

Explain what to do if you enter a curve too fast. OBJECTIVE

Driving Around a Sharp Curve Driving too fast in a curve can cause you to lose control. The standard warning sign may not indicate exactly how sharp the curve is. The warning sign might not have an advisory speed sign. The copyright holder has not granted permission to display this photograph in a downloadable format. You may view the photograph in the Drive Right Presentation for this lesson on your Keys to Teaching Success disc. The copyright holder has not granted permission to display this photograph in a downloadable format. You may view the photograph in the Drive Right Presentation for this lesson on your Keys to Teaching Success disc.

Brake gently as soon as you realize that you might be entering a curve too quickly. If you are not yet in the curve, brake more firmly. If you are already in the curve, apply the brakes but do not lock the wheels. About halfway through the curve, look to your target area and accelerate gently to help stabilize your vehicle.

Tell how to escape from a vehicle that is sinking in water. OBJECTIVE

Vehicle in Deep Water Never attempt to drive through deep water on the roadway. If your vehicle goes into deep water: Open the window that is the farthest from the water. Power windows might short circuit in water, so open these windows immediately, before the water level rises. Unfasten your safety belt. Check your passengers and have them unfasten their safety belts. Exit promptly through the open window.

If the windows will not open, attempt to exit through a door. Do not panic if the door is slow to open. Pressure will equalize as water enters your vehicle and then you can open the door.

If your vehicle is totally submerged underwater, some air will be trapped for a brief time toward the highest point of the vehicle creating an air pocket. During nighttime conditions, the location of the air pocket will tell you in which direction to swim to reach the surface. Try to get a full breath or two of air while locating a window or door that is facing up. Open the window or door and leave your vehicle.

drive green Tire Pressure System Beginning in 2008, all new cars in the United States must have a tire pressure system to tell a driver when a tire is low. This saves tires, increases traction, and improves mileage.

lesson 13.3 review How do potholes increase driving risk? Why is it important to keep your wheels from locking if you enter a curve driving too fast?