Driving and Crashes.
Defensive Driving information at http://www.afuntimetrafficschool.com.
The Collision Prevention Formula:
Recognize the hazards: Continuously scan the road ahead and behind checking your mirror every 5 to 8 seconds. · Understand the defense: Continuously scan the road for possible hazards. Play the "what if" game by thinking "what if" the driver in front of me stops suddenly? "What if" someone runs a red light at the next intersection?
Know, Show, Slow, Go
Know the rules for intersections and know which way you plan on going before you arrive at the intersection. Show your intentions with signals and proper lane position before entering it. Slow down as you approach the intersection, have your foot over the brake. Go only after you've checked to make sure the coast is clear. Don't assume that the other driver knows what to do at the intersection or that the driver will follow the rules.
The weight of your car is the major determining factor in how long it takes you to stop. The heavier the car, the longer it takes to stop. On average, at 65 miles per hour it will take you the length of a football field to stop -- that's completely stop -- your car. Remember, automatic breaking systems (ABS) only help to stop without swerving in a skid stop, not in a shorter distance.
The Three Second Rule.
Follow the Three Second Rule. Watch the vehicle ahead of you pass a fixed object or point, like a pole or mile marker. Begin counting: "One thousand and one, one thousand and two. one thousand three". If your car reaches that marker before you finish counting you are following too closely. Ease up and check again. The three second rule allows time for perception and reaction time,it does not include the braking space.
In adverse conditions, use
The Three Second Plus Rule: add one second following distance for each adverse condition.
Adverse conditions include:
· Driving at night, in fog, rain or snow.
· Driving behind a truck or vehicle making it difficult for you to see ahead.
· Driving behind a motor cycle. · Driving through an intersection.
