With With Defensive driving basics

 Maintain proper levels for all fluids.  Make sure all tires are in good condition, are properly inflated, and have proper tread depth.  Check regularly for cracked hoses, belts and frayed wires.  Make sure windows, mirrors, directional signals, head, tail, and brake lights are clean and not broken.

 Stay alert to changes  Look well ahead  Observe the entire situation 1a

 Recognize potential hazards  Decide on an appropriate response  Carry out your plan 1b What would your response to this situation be?

 Slow Down on Rain-slicked Streets  Hydroplaning is a frightening experience and can cause serious and fatal crashes  Maintain a Safe Following Distance- minimum 4 seconds  Look out for road construction and detours as most road construction take place during the summer  Slow Down Even in Good Weather  Watch out for children playing in the streets, people will be out cycling, skating or walking What is the number one cause of vehicle crashes in the US ?

 REDUCE YOUR DRIVING SPEED IN ADVERSE ROAD AND/OR WEATHER CONDITIONS  ENTER CURVES SLOWLY  REDUCE YOUR SPEED BEFORE ENTERING AN EXIT/ENTRANCE RAMP  DRIVE SLOWLY WITH A LOADED TRAILER  SLOW DOWN IN WORK ZONES

 Keep the windshield and mirrors clean and clear  Use mirrors  Constantly scan traffic to the front and sides 2a

 Look 10 to 12 seconds ahead in the city  Look further ahead on the highway 2b What should you be looking for ?

 Use mirrors before changing speed or position in traffic  Signal all turns and lane changes 2c

 Keep signal on until move is completed  Keep lights on for safety  Avoid distractions 2d What are some common distractions ?

 Keep your eyes moving – continually scan  Check all mirrors  Watch the taillights 3a

 Bikes and pedestrians  Driveways, alleyways, parking lot entrances/exits  Overhead wires, delivery vans, and dumpsters 3b

 Make sure there’s enough space  When stopped in traffic, wait to proceed until the vehicle ahead has moved 3c

 Watch your speed  Plan your route accordingly 3d

 Avoid unmarked or low clearance underpasses  Approach carefully  never assume the marked height is correct 4a

 Watch for signs of road repair  Watch for “bridging”  If there isn’t enough space, pull over and use another route 4b

 It takes longer to cross due to additional length and slower acceleration  Go slow and watch for vehicles, pedestrians, people, bikes, etc.  At busy unmarked intersections stop, assume you don’t have the right of way 5a

 When approaching a controlled intersection stop two times  First, at the stop sign or light  Second, after easing forward to a point where you can clearly see oncoming traffic 5c

 Size up the traffic conditions  Signal early  Watch for an opening 6a

 Build up speed  Watch the mirrors  Watch for oncoming traffic 6b

 Signal early  Get into the turn lane as soon as possible 6c

 Check mirrors  Shift down to a lower gear  Make the exit 6d

Drive Drive Safely Or Not At All At All