Everyday Driving Tips (Chapter 8)

TL;DR

Scan widely, signal early, keep space cushions, and drive predictably to reduce surprises for everyone.

Scope

Routine safety habits: scanning, signaling, space cushions, courtesy interaction, hazard anticipation.

Learning Objectives

• Build consistent mirror & shoulder check habits.
• Maintain space cushions around vehicle.
• Apply proactive hazard anticipation.
• Practice courtesy to reduce unpredictable maneuvers.

1. Scanning & Observation

Systematic glance pattern: front, mirrors, instrument cluster, blind spots when needed. Look several seconds ahead; identify potential conflicts early.

Scan cycle visual

Use a repeatable scan cycle to reduce surprises.

2. Signaling Discipline

Signal before braking or lateral movement; maintain signal through maneuver; cancel promptly.

3. Space Cushions

Keep time-based following gap; adjust lateral position to avoid clustering. Maintain escape route to one side.

4. Courtesy & Predictability

Yield voluntarily to defuse aggressive merges; avoid abrupt lane changes; use calm, consistent pacing.

5. Hazard Anticipation

Watch for door openings, sudden stops, pedestrians stepping between parked cars, turning vehicles without signals.

Quick Self-Check

• What comprises a robust scan cycle?
• Why maintain an escape route?
• When to activate turn signal?

Proceed to quiz.

3 things to remember

• Use a repeatable scan cycle (front → mirrors → gauges → sides/blind spots when needed).
• Keep an escape route; don’t get boxed in.
• Signal before braking or moving laterally; cancel promptly after.

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Quick Flashcards

Quick Review

What is a good scan pattern?

Front, mirrors, instruments, and blind spots when needed.

Why keep an escape route?

To avoid being boxed in and to have space for evasive action.

When should you signal?

Before braking or lateral movement, and cancel promptly after.