Text · page 35 of 130
Read the whole document on one page (all 130 pages, each with its own heading)
• Always leave yourself a way to avoid a collision. Do not select problem routes if you can avoid them, and if you cannot, make sure you know where there are safe areas to avoid potential accidents. Basic Safety Rules Following the basic safety rules of your training will help you to avoid accidents. Remember some of the basic safety training such as: • Reaction time – Average of ¾ of a second is the time that elapses between the time you become aware of a danger and the movement of your feet to the brake in preparation to stop. • Reaction Distance – In feet, equals MPH speed. For example, 30 MPH has a reaction distance of 30 feet. Keep this in mind when on the highway and moving at higher speeds. • Stopping Distance – In feet, equals 3 times the MPH speed. For example, 30 MPH has a stopping distance of 90 feet. Keep this in mind when on the highway and moving at higher speed. Inclement weather such as rain, snow and ice can increase this distance. Make sure you are taking the weather conditions into account when leaving space between yourself and the vehicle in front of you. The proper distance is stated earlier in the manual. • Distance Traveled – In one second, the distance traveled is 1.5 times the MPH speed. For example, 30 MPH travels 45 feet in one second. • Know Hazardous Locations on Routes – Blind turn locations and intersections, Low overhanging tree branches, low overhangs at entrances to hospitals, apartment buildings, and shopping centers. • Do Not Take Unnecessary Chances – Running yellow and red lights is responsible for more accidents, injuries, and fatalities than any other driver error. • Do your best to always keep both hands on the wheel. Basic Control of the Vehicle To drive safely, you must be able to control the vehicle speed and direction. Safe operation of a vehicle requires skill in: • Accelerating – Speed up smoothly and gradually so the vehicle does not jerk. Rough acceleration can cause mechanical damage. Speed up very gradually when the traction is poor as in rain or snow. If you use too much power, the drive wheels may spin, and you can lose control. If the drive wheels begin to spin, take your foot off the accelerator. 34 | P a g e – E r i e C o u n t y G o i n g P l a c e s P o l i c y a n d P r o c e d u r e