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Section 3: Safe Driving
Every time you get behind the wheel, you accept
responsibility for your actions. You must obey Virginia’s traffic
laws, and ensure the safety of you, your passengers, and other
motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists on the roadways.
Hand Position
Sit straight but relaxed and place your hands on the steering wheel. If your steering wheel were a clock, your hands should be at the 8 o’clock and 4 o’clock positions. Hold the wheel with your fingers and thumbs. Avoid gripping it with your palms.
Speed Limits
A speed limit is the maximum legal speed you can travel on a road under ideal conditions. You may drive slower than the speed limit, as long as you don’t impede the normal movement of traffic, but it is illegal to drive any faster. By law you must drive slower where signs indicate a school zone speed limit or work zone speed limit is in effect, and/or if conditions such as road construction or bad weather make the posted speed unsafe. According to Virginia law, if you are driving 20 or more miles per hour (MPH) above the speed limit, or over 85 MPH, a law enforcement officer may charge you with reckless driving, regardless of the speed limit. It is considered a misdemeanor criminal offense if convicted of reckless driving. The court may require a fine, suspend your driving privilege and/or impose a jail sentence. If the violation results in death and the operator’s license was suspended or revoked at the time of the offense, it may be considered a felony, which carries more serious consequences. You are subject to an additional $100 fine if convicted of driving between 81 and 85 MPH in a 65-MPH zone. It is illegal to use radar detectors in Virginia.
Section 3:
Safe Driving
In this section you’ll learn about:
Hand position
Speed limits
Stopping
Yielding the right-of-way
Roundabouts
Changing lanes
Over-correcting
Turning
U-turns
Turn signals
Maintaining a space cushion
Searching
Blind spots
Sharing the road
Backing
Parking
Visibility
Lights
Hazardous conditions
Dangerous driving behaviors
Traffic crashes
Deer hazards
Traffic stops

Unless there is a speed limit sign stating otherwise, the
maximum speed limit for passenger vehicles and motorcycles
is 25 MPH for school, business and
residential areas; 35 MPH for unpaved
roads and 55 MPH for all other roads.
Some school zones may have automated
photo enforcement, as indicated by signs
with the message “Speed Photo Enforced”
or similar.
Stopping
You must always stop your vehicle:
at all stop signs, red traffic lights and flashing red signals
when entering a street or crossing over a sidewalk from
a driveway, alley, building or parking lot
at railroad crossings with flashing signals
when signaled by flaggers directing traffic
for pedestrians attempting to cross the street at a
crosswalk
at the direction of a police officer. If you don’t obey a
law enforcement officer’s signal to stop and the officer
pursues you and is killed as a direct result of the pursuit,
you will be guilty of a Class 4 felony.
at the scene of a crash in which you are involved
When approaching a stop sign and the car in front of you
proceeds, stop at the sign and proceed when the way is clear.
Stopping for School Buses
In the following pictures, the red vehicles
must stop and remain stopped until all
children are clear of the roadway and the
bus moves again.
You must stop for stopped
school buses with flashing
red lights and an extended
stop sign when you
approach from any
direction on a highway,
private road or school
driveway. Stop and remain
stopped until all persons
are clear and the bus
moves again.
You must also stop if the
bus is loading or unloading
passengers and the signals
are not on.
You do not have to stop if
you are traveling in the
opposite direction on a
roadway with a median or
barrier dividing the road
and the bus is on the
opposite side of the median
or barrier. However, be
prepared for unexpected
actions by persons exiting
the school bus.


Stopping Distance
Three factors determine the distance that it takes to stop
your vehicle: perception time, reaction distance and braking
distance.
Perception time: The time it takes you to recognize a hazard.
Reaction distance: The distance your vehicle travels between
the time you recognize a problem and the time you apply the
brakes.
Braking distance: The distance your car travels after you
apply the brakes.
Perception time, reaction distance and braking distance are
affected by weather, visibility, and your mental and physical
condition. Braking distance is also affected by how fast your
vehicle is traveling, the condition of your brakes and tires,
and the pavement condition. For example, wet pavement can
double your braking distance.
Section 3: Safe Driving
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Average stopping distance on dry, level pavement.

Source: Code of Virginia Section 46.2-880
Antilock Brakes
If your vehicle has antilock brakes, be sure that you understand how they work. Check your vehicle owner’s manual and practice braking before you go out on the road. Remember, never pump antilock brakes.

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Section 3: Safe Driving
When passing stationary vehicles that have activated
vehicular hazard warning signal flashers, displayed
caution signs, or been marked with properly lit flares or
torches, you are required to make a lane change and
proceed with caution.
When passing stationary vehicles in the process of trash
collection on a highway of at least four lanes, change to
a lane not next to the vehicle, if you can change lanes
safely. If on a highway of fewer than four lanes or if you
are unable to change lanes, slow down to 10 miles per
hour below the posted speed limit and pass at least two
feet to the left of the vehicle.
When passing a stationary mail vehicle, proceed
with caution and maintain a safe speed for highway
conditions.
Drivers are required to also change lanes and proceed
with caution for stationary vehicles displaying hazard
lights, warning signs, or flares.
You may not park within 500 feet of where fire trucks or
equipment are stopped answering an alarm.
Approaching vehicles – same direction
Never follow an emergency vehicle closer than 500 feet
when its lights are flashing.
When police, fire and rescue vehicles or ambulances
approach you from behind your vehicle using a siren,
flashing lights or both, you must immediately yield the
right-of-way. Safely pull over to the right edge of the road
and stop until the emergency vehicle has passed.
Approaching vehicles – opposite direction
When emergency vehicles approach you in the opposite
lane on an undivided highway, you must pull over to the
edge of the road and stop until the emergency vehicle
passes.
These requirements do not apply in highway work zones.
Roundabouts
Roundabouts are circular intersections with
an island in the center and have one or
more lanes. Entering traffic must yield the
right-of-way to pedestrians, and to traffic
already in the circle. Each road approaching
the roundabout is marked with a yield sign
and may also have yield line markings on the pavement.
Drivers must pay attention and obey the signs. After entering
the roundabout, drivers must travel in a counter-clockwise
direction.
When approaching a roundabout, slow down. Use your turn
signals to indicate where you want to go. If you plan to turn
right, stay to the right as you enter the roundabout. If you
plan to go straight, you may stay in either lane (if it is a dual
lane circular intersection). If you plan to turn left, stay to the
left as you enter the roundabout.
Yielding the Right-of-Way
Yield also means to stop if you cannot merge safely into the flow of traffic.
Examples of yielding the right-of-way:
When vehicles from different directions arrive at an
intersection at different times, the vehicle that arrives
first goes first.
When vehicles from different directions arrive at the
same time at an intersection with no signs or signals, the
driver on the left must allow the driver on the right to
go first.
If the traffic lights at an intersection are not working,
all vehicles coming to the intersection must stop. The
driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right.
Drivers entering an interstate from an entrance ramp
must yield the right-of-way to traffic already on the
highway.
Drivers entering any intersection or roundabout must
yield to traffic already in it.
When entering a roadway from a private road or
driveway, you must stop and yield to all traffic and
pedestrians.
You must yield to pedestrians or bicyclists who are
crossing a street within a clearly marked crosswalk or at
an unmarked intersection. Remember that turns on red
are especially hazardous to pedestrians. Avoid conflict
with pedestrians and bicyclists; permit them to cross the
street safely.
You must yield to funeral processions. Do not cut
through, join or interfere with a funeral procession.
Unless led by a police escort, the lead vehicle in a
funeral procession must obey all traffic signs and signals.
Other drivers in the procession may follow carefully
without stopping and may use hazard lights (flashers) to
indicate they are in the procession.
You must yield to all military convoys. Never cut
through or join a military convoy.
Yielding to Vehicles with Flashing Lights
Drivers must take specific actions when they see vehicles with
flashing or blinking blue, red, amber (yellow) or white lights on
roadways.
Stationary (Stopped) vehicles
When approaching a stationary emergency vehicle or
tow truck with flashing lights on a highway, proceed with
caution and, if reasonable, with due regard for safety
and traffic conditions, change to a lane not next to the
vehicle. If you are unable to safely change lanes, reduce
your speed and proceed with caution. Violations can
result in court suspension of your driver’s license and
demerit points on your driving record.

More information about driving safely through a roundabout
is available at the Virginia Department of Transportation web
site at http://www.virginiadot.org/info/faq-roundabouts.asp.
Tips for driving safely through a roundabout:
As you approach the roundabout, slow down; look for
the street and direction signs. This will help you know
which exit to take. These signs should be posted along
the roadside before you reach the roundabout.
When you arrive at the roundabout, yield the right-of-
way to pedestrians and bicyclists. You also must yield
to any vehicles already in the roundabout. Sometimes
your entry point will be controlled by a stop or yield
sign, or traffic signal. When the way is clear, you may
enter the roundabout.
While inside the roundabout, stay in your lane until you
are ready to exit. Use your vehicle’s right turn signal to
let drivers around you know what you want to do.
Do not change lanes or take an exit before checking
for vehicles that may be continuing through the
roundabout in the lane next to you or behind you.
Expect vehicles to be in blind spots you cannot see in
your rearview or side mirrors. Quickly glance over your
shoulder and check for any vehicles that may be in your
blind spot.
Changing Lanes
Before changing lanes, check your side and rearview mirrors for traffic approaching you from behind. Then, use your turn signal to let other drivers know you plan to change lanes. Check for other drivers who also may be moving into the same lane. Just before you begin moving into the other lane,
quickly glance over your shoulder and check for any vehicles
that may be in your blind spot.
Whether you are changing lanes, passing, entering or exiting a
highway, always use your turn signals and check traffic to the
rear and sides. When driving on a multi-lane highway, stay in
the right lane if you are driving slower than the traffic around
you. The left lane is for passing only.
When passing, use the left lane and avoid cruising. The left
lane is for passing only, not cruising.
Passing
When passing another vehicle:
check the traffic
ahead of you,
behind you and
in your blind spot
before you attempt
to pass. Signal and
then accelerate to
pass. Return to the
right lane as soon
as you can see the
front of the passed
vehicle in your
rearview mirror.
it is against the
law to exceed the
speed limit as you
pass.
complete the pass before you reach a No Passing zone.
If you’re still in the left lane when you reach the zone,
you’re breaking the law.
you may pass on the right if the vehicle you are passing
has signaled and is making a left turn. Be cautious
because the vehicle you are passing may be blocking
your view or blocking the view of other drivers. You
may not pass on the right if you must drive off the
pavement or main portion of the roadway to get around
the other vehicle.
when approaching or passing a person riding a bicycle,
moped, or power-assisted bicycle or other device,
reduce speed and pass at least three feet to the left.
When being passed, don’t speed up. Maintain a steady
speed or slow down.
Passing is unlawful and unsafe:
on hills, curves, at intersections or railroad crossings,
except on roads with two or more lanes of traffic
moving in the same direction
off the pavement or on the shoulder of the road
when a school bus is stopped to load or unload
passengers on a public road (unless a physical barrier
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Section 3: Safe Driving

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Section 3: Safe Driving
When two vehicles are
approaching each other
and signaling to turn left,
both vehicles should turn in
front of each other so that
the passenger sides of the
vehicles are beside each
other.
U-Turns
U-turns are not legal everywhere. Before you make a U-turn, check for No U-Turn or No Left Turn signs. In business districts, cities and towns, U-turns are allowed only at intersections. Never make a U-turn on a highway.
When making a U-turn, turn on your left-turn signal, stop,
and yield for approaching traffic. When the way is clear,
proceed into the outside or right hand lane traveling in the
opposite direction.
Turn Signals
When you plan to change lanes, turn, or enter or exit a highway, first give the proper turn signal. Using your turn signal, which is required by law, communicates your intended movement to drivers around you. Develop a good habit and use turn signals or hand signals even if no other traffic is on the road.
When you plan to turn, signal three or four seconds, 100 feet,
ahead of your turn. Be aware that drivers planning to turn into
your lane may not know exactly where you will turn; drivers
may pull out in front of you. Be alert.
After you complete the turn or lane change, be sure the turn
signal stops flashing.
Right Turn
Left hand and
arm pointing
upward
Slow or Stop
Left hand and
arm pointing
downward
Hand Signals
Left Turn
Left hand and
arm pointing
straight out
or unpaved median separates traffic going in either
direction) or on a private road
when a solid line marks the left side of your lane
when approaching a crosswalk and the vehicle
ahead of you or the lane next to you is stopped
Over-correcting
Over-correcting occurs when the driver turns the steering wheel more sharply than expected, causing the rear wheels of the vehicle to slide toward the outside of the turn. This may result in the loss of vehicle control.
Most over-correction crashes are single vehicle crashes and
are often preventable. A driver should remain alert at all
times. Reduce speed and use extra caution while driving on
curved roads. If you veer off the road, curved or straight, do
not panic. Gradually reduce your speed, look in the direction
you want to go, slowly steer back onto the roadway.
Turning
To make a right turn you should be in the lane furthest
to the right. Signal your intent to turn by using the proper
turn signal. You should signal at least three or four seconds,
100 feet, ahead of the turn. Look to your left and right to
check the intersection for pedestrians and traffic. Then brake
smoothly before and during the turn. If there is a red traffic
light or a stop sign at the intersection, come to a complete
stop before you make the turn. Turn into the lane closest to
the curb unless pavement markings lead you otherwise, and
then change lanes if needed.
To make a left turn you should be in the furthest left lane
possible, turning into the leftmost lane on the intersecting
road, unless pavement markings lead you otherwise; or,
unless multiple left turn lanes are provided. If multiple left
turn lanes are provided, you should choose the lane that will
best serve your need once you enter the intersecting road.
Signal your intent to turn by using the proper turn signal. You
should signal at least three to four seconds, 100 feet, ahead of
the turn. Look in all directions, checking the intersection for
pedestrians and traffic coming from the opposite direction.
Keep your front wheels pointed straight ahead until you are
actually going to make the left turn. This prevents you from
being pushed into oncoming traffic if another vehicle crashes
into you from behind. When the way is clear, make the left
turn, yield to any vehicles (including bicycles and pedestrians)
approaching from the opposite direction.

Maintaining a Space Cushion
Space around your vehicle gives you distance to react in
emergencies and avoid a crash. Create a space cushion
around your vehicle by staying in the middle of your lane.
Make sure there is enough room ahead of your vehicle and
behind it for other vehicles to pass or stop safely.
Use the two-, three- and four-second rule to determine if
you are following far enough behind the vehicle ahead of
you.

Following Distance
At these speeds and on dry surfaces, this distance,
in seconds, allows the driver to steer and brake out
of a problem area.
2 seconds Under 35 MPH
3 seconds 35-45 MPH
4 seconds 46-70 MPH
* The space cushions above do not work if you’re speeding
over 70.

Here’s how the following distance
rule works.
Glance at the vehicle ahead
as it passes a fixed object,
such as an overpass, sign,
fence, corner or other fixed
mark.
Begin counting the seconds
it takes you to reach the
same place in the road.
If you reach the mark before
you have counted off two,
three, or four seconds,
depending on speed, you’re
following too closely. Slow
down and increase your
following distance.
For bad weather conditions,
heavy traffic, poor
pavement or if your vehicle
is in poor condition, add
extra seconds to increase
your following distance.
Drivers need to change following distance when speed or
road conditions change. Hand response time is close to a
half second. Foot response time is normally three-quarters
of a second. This does not take into account any delay in
perception time as a result of the driver being tired, on
medication, distracted, etc. Road conditions, speed, driver
alertness, and the weight of the vehicle you are driving all
change the ability to stop.
Increase your following distance when driving:
behind a large vehicle that blocks your vision
in bad weather or heavy traffic
when exiting an expressway
behind a motorcycle or bicycle
when being tailgated
Tailgating is when one driver follows another too closely.
If you find yourself in this situation, do not brake suddenly.
If possible, move over to another lane, or gently tap your
brakes to flash your brake lights and slow down. This should
encourage the tailgater to pass you or slow down.
Help the driver behind you by maintaining a safe following
distance and a steady speed. Tap your brakes to warn the
driver behind you when you plan to slow down or stop.
Searching
Searching means looking at the entire scene for anything that might come into your path. As you search the road, avoid staring at one thing. Keep your eyes moving and learn to read the road and your surroundings.
Looking ahead will help you identify risks early and provide
you with more time to react. Expert drivers try to focus
their eyes 20 to 30 seconds ahead. In the city, that equals
approximately one block. Avoid staring at the middle of the
road. Scan from side to side, checking for traffic signs and
signals, cars or people that might be in the road by the time
you reach them.
Search for clues on the road. Look for exhaust smoke, brake
or back-up lights and turned wheels on vehicles. Clues like
these warn that the vehicles may pull into your path. Watch
for pedestrians, bicyclists and other slow moving vehicles that
may be in the road ahead.
When driving in rural areas, watch for hidden intersections
and driveways, curves, hills and different road conditions.
Watch for other vehicles, especially trucks, oversized and slow-
moving farm vehicles, and bicycles.
Check from left to right and then left again before entering
an intersection. Whenever you reach a place in the road
where other cars, people or animals may cross your path, look
both ways to be sure it is clear. These include intersections,
crosswalks, shopping centers, construction areas and
playgrounds. At any intersection, look to the left first, since
cars coming from the left will be closer to you. Then look to
the right and take one more quick look to the left before you
drive through.
Look behind. Use your rearview mirror to check the traffic
behind you frequently, about every 10 seconds. This will alert
you if someone is moving up too quickly or tailgating you.
Check the traffic behind you when changing lanes, backing up,
slowing down quickly or driving down a long, steep hill.
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Section 3: Safe Driving

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Section 3: Safe Driving
overtaken from the rear by a faster-moving vehicle, bicyclists
riding side-by-side must move into a single-file formation as
soon as they can do so safely. Bicyclists may also be riding in
either direction on sidewalks.
Bicyclists are subject to many of the same laws as drivers,
however, some may not know or obey the rules. Slow down
when you approach bicyclists. Using marked bicycle lanes is
prohibited by motor vehicles, including while passing. State
law requires motorists to pass cyclists with at least three feet of
clearance. If the lane is not wide enough to allow for a three-
foot clearance, the motorist must change lanes to pass safely.
Give bicyclists plenty of room when passing and be prepared
to stop suddenly. Check your blind spots. A bicycle’s small
size allows it to slip into your blind spot easily. Always check
for bicyclists before you pull out, change lanes, turn, back up,
open the door, or proceed through an intersection.
Mopeds: It is against the law to operate a moped faster
than 35 MPH or on an interstate highway. Any person who
operates a moped faster than 35 MPH is considered to be
operating a motorcycle which must meet Virginia registration
requirements. In addition, the operator would be required to
hold a valid driver’s license with a motorcycle classification or
a driver’s license restricted to operating motorcycles only.
Moped riders must be at least age 16 and obey all rules of the
road. They must carry some form of government-issued photo
identification (does not have to be a driver’s license) that includes
name, address and date of birth. As a driver, treat moped riders
with the same care given to any other vehicle driver.
Riders and passengers must wear helmets, and use eye
protection if the moped does not have a windshield. The
moped must be titled and registered with DMV.
Although you do not need a driver’s license to operate a
moped, you may not operate a moped if you have been
declared a habitual offender and your license is suspended or
revoked for driving while intoxicated.
Motorcycles: More than half of all fatal motorcycle crashes
involve automobiles. Many crashes are caused by the
motorist’s failure to see a motorcycle in traffic.
Look twice for motorcyclists. In more than half of all
crashes involving motorcycles and automobiles, the
other driver didn’t see the motorcycle until it was too
late. Drivers are conditioned to look for four-wheeled
vehicles; but they don’t expect to see two-wheeled
vehicles. A motorcycle’s size also makes it difficult to
see.
Check your blind spots. A motorcycle’s size allows it
to slip into your blind spot easily. Always check for
motorcycles before you pull out, change lanes, turn,
back up or proceed through an intersection.
Never tailgate a motorcycle (or any other vehicle). Allow
yourself plenty of braking distance by adding an extra
second to the following distance rule. In inclement
weather, double this distance.
Blind Spots
Blind spots are danger areas where vehicles around you cannot be easily seen. Before driving, adjust your vehicle’s mirrors. Make sure the inside rear view mirror frames the entire back window. Adjust both side mirrors so you can barely see the sides of your vehicle.
The best way to see a car in your blind spot is by quickly
turning your head and glancing over your shoulder to ensure
the way is clear before changing lanes or passing another
vehicle.
Avoid driving in someone else’s blind spot. This can be just as
dangerous as not checking your own blind spot. Speed up or
drop back; but, don’t stay in the other driver’s blind spot.
Sharing the Road
Drivers share the road with many other users: moped and motorcycle riders, trucks and buses, recreational vehicles and other vehicles of all shapes and sizes. Drivers also share the road with vulnerable road users including pedestrians and those on bicycles, wheel chairs, skateboards, roller skates, scooters, animals and animal-drawn vehicles. It is illegal to drive distracted and carelessly around vulnerable road users. It is your responsibility to adjust your driving to avoid others’ mistakes and assure everyone’s safety.
Pedestrians are especially prone to serious injury when struck.
Be careful around schools, playgrounds
and in residential areas where people may
be playing or crossing the street.
Be especially aware of pedestrians when
making a right or left turn. They have
the right-of-way. Allow pedestrians to
completely cross the street before beginning your turn.
Passing at a crosswalk is illegal. You may not see
pedestrians crossing the road in front of other vehicles.
Be alert for pedestrians crossing the road. Stop and
remain stopped until pedestrians have passed the lane in
which your vehicle is stopped.
Drivers are required to come to a full stop for a
pedestrian using a cane or guide dog, as this indicates
blindness or vision impairment. Remember that the
elderly and people with disabilities may move slowly.
Bicycles: Bicycles are considered vehicles and have the same
right-of-way as motor vehicles. Bicyclists are
allowed to ride in the center of the lane,
when necessary, such as when they are about
to turn left or when the lane is too narrow to
share side-by-side with a car. Bicyclists are
legally allowed on all public roads except
interstates and most freeways (limited access
highways). Bicyclists may ride no more than two abreast
and may not impede the normal flow of traffic. When being

Anticipate the motorcyclist’s movements. Although a
motorcycle is not as wide as the lane, the rider will use
the entire lane as traffic situations and road conditions
change. A slight change or debris on the road surface
can be a major obstacle for a motorcyclist. Expect the
motorcycle to make sudden moves within the lane.
Never drive beside a motorcycle in the same lane.
Yield to motorcycles. The size of a motorcycle can
cause you to misjudge the motorcycle’s speed and
distance. Before pulling out into traffic, check twice for
motorcycles and use extra caution before you pull out
in front of one.
If you want to obtain a motorcycle learner’s permit or license,
refer to the Virginia Motorcycle Operator Manual (DMV 2) at
dmv.virginia.gov.
Light Rail: There is a light rail train system in Norfolk called
The Tide. Light rail trains share the road with motor vehicles
and bicyclists, and they intersect with motor vehicle traffic at
27 locations along the 7.4 mile route. Stay safe when driving
around The Tide by obeying the tips below.
Pay attention to changing traffic patterns and always
follow the roadway.
Never drive around lowered crossing gates.
Always look both ways before turning across train
tracks.
Expect trains on any track at any time.
Always obey signs and traffic signals.
Never stop, pass or shift on train tracks.
Don’t cross train tracks unless you have enough room to
cross without stopping and can clear the tracks to a safe
distance.
For more info about light rail safety, visit www.gohrt.com or
call (757) 222-6100.
Low Speed Vehicles: These electrically- or gas-powered
four-wheel vehicles have a maximum speed ranging from
21 to 25 MPH. Low speed vehicles may be operated on
public roads with speed limits of 35 MPH or less by licensed
drivers or learner’s permit holders accompanied by a licensed
driver. Low speed vehicles must comply with all federal
safety standards and must meet Virginia’s requirements for
passenger vehicle registration and insurance coverage. Golf
carts are not classified as low speed vehicles.
Trucks, Tractor-Trailers, Buses and RVs: Trucks, tractor-
trailers, buses and recreational vehicles (RVs) – including
motor homes, campers and travel trailers – are longer, higher
and wider than other vehicles. They accelerate slowly and
require greater stopping and turning distances. Plus, there are
danger areas around these vehicles where crashes are more
likely to occur. These areas are called No-Zones. No-Zones
on the side, front and rear also include blind spots where your
car disappears from the driver’s view. Learning the No-Zones
can save your life.
Side No-Zones: Trucks, tractor-trailers, buses and RVs
have big No-Zones on both sides that are dangerous
because these vehicles must make wide turns. These
No-Zones or blind spots are much larger than your car’s
blind spots. If you can’t see the driver’s face in his side
view mirror, then
he can’t see you.
Rear No-Zone:
Trucks, tractor-
trailers, buses and
RVs have huge
No-Zones directly
behind them. The
driver can’t see
your car behind
his vehicle and you
can’t see what’s
happening in
traffic ahead of his
vehicle. If the truck,
bus or RV brakes or
stops suddenly, you
have no place to go and could crash into the vehicle’s
rear-end. Always maintain a safe following distance.
Front No-Zone: You could get rear-ended by a truck, bus
or RV if you cut in front too soon after passing the vehicle
or if you cut in front and then suddenly slow down. The
truck, bus and RV drivers would be forced to slam on
their brakes. These vehicles need nearly twice the time
and room to stop as cars. A truck and its trailer may be as
long as 65 feet and it may take you more than half a mile
of clear road to pass. When passing, look for the entire
front of the truck in your rearview mirror before pulling
in front. And then, maintain your speed.
Wide Turns: Trucks, buses and RVs sometimes need to
swing wide to the left or right to safely make a turn. They
can’t see the cars directly behind or beside them. In fact,
their blind spots may stretch up to 20 feet in front of
the cab and approximately 200 feet behind the vehicle.
Never try to squeeze between a truck, bus or RV and the
curb or another vehicle.
Light to Medium Trailers: These trailers are attached to
mid-sized cars and trucks with safety chains and a trailer hitch.
Large side mirrors are generally needed to increase visibility.
Towing a trailer places additional stress on the vehicle; it takes
the vehicle twice as long to pass, stop, accelerate and turn.
Remember the No-Zones described under Trucks,
Tractor-Trailers and RVs.
Before driving a vehicle with a light to medium trailer
attached, perform a safety inspection before each trip. Ensure:
the pin securing the ball mount to the receiver is intact
the hitch coupler is secured
safety chains are properly attached
the electrical plug is properly installed
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Section 3: Safe Driving

brake lights, turn signals, and license plate lights are
functioning properly.
Before pulling a trailer on public roads, find a location such as
a vacant parking lot to practice and get the feel for how your
vehicle and trailer will handle.
When driving a vehicle with a light to medium trailer
attached:
always allow for the added length of the trailer when
you change lanes
if your trailer starts to sway, slow down
when backing up, place your hand on the bottom of the
steering wheel. If you cannot see where you are backing
up, have someone outside to help guide you. To back
the trailer to the left, use your left hand to move the
wheel left. To back the trailer to the right, use your right
hand to move the wheel to the right.
Backing
The most common mistake that drivers make when backing up is failing to look both ways behind them. Mirrors do not give you a full view. To see as much as possible, turn your body and head to the right and look out through the rear window. Back up slowly and check for pedestrians and approaching traffic by glancing quickly to either side.
Parking
When parking on a public road, move as far from traffic as possible. If you park on a shoulder, pull over as far on the shoulder as possible. If you park next to a curb, pull close to it. You may not park more than one foot from the curb. On a two-way street, park on the right side of the road. On a one-way road, park on either side.
Parking on a hill
With a curb: Turn
the front wheels
of your vehicle to
prevent it from rolling
into the street.





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Section 3: Safe Driving
Without a curb: Turn the front wheels so that if the vehicle rolls, the rear of the vehicle will roll away from traffic.
Be aware of other traffic when exiting your vehicle. Look
for other cars, bicyclists, and pedestrians before opening the
door.
You may not park:
beside another parked vehicle (double parking)
on crosswalks or sidewalks
in front of driveways
within areas where parking is prohibited by curbs
painted yellow or No Parking signs
in a parking space reserved for disabled persons
in striped access aisles adjacent to a parking space
reserved for disabled persons
on the hard surface of a road when no curb is present
within 15 feet of a fire hydrant
within 20 feet of an intersection
in a bike lane
within 15 feet of the entrance to a fire, ambulance or
rescue squad station
within 500 feet of where fire trucks or equipment are
stopped answering an alarm
within 50 feet of a railroad crossing
in such a way that you block or create a hazard for
other vehicles in a designated traffic lane
Visibility
Most of what you do while driving depends on what you see. To be a good driver, you need to know what to look for, where to look, and how to adjust to possible problems. The single biggest contributor to crashes is failing to identify a risk. Always know where other vehicles are positioned around you. You must look down the road, to the sides, and behind your vehicle. You must also be alert for unexpected events, especially pedestrians and bicyclists. You must use your headlights at night and at other times when it’s hard to see. You must be alert and pay attention to what is going on around you.
Parking uphill
— no curb
Turn front
wheels right
Parking
downhill — no
curb Turn front
wheels right
Parking uphill
— with curb
Turn front
wheels left
Parking
downhill — with
curb Turn front
wheels right

Lights
Virginia law requires motorists to use headlights during
inclement weather such as rain, fog, snow or sleet when
visibility is reduced to 500 feet. You must use your headlights
whenever you use your windshield wipers as a result of bad
weather. Using headlights at all times, including during the day,
increases your vehicle’s visibility.
Hazardous Conditions
Driving becomes hazardous when visibility is reduced or when the road surface is covered with rain, snow or ice. Reducing your speed should be your first response to decreased visibility and dangerous road conditions. Increase your space cushion by doubling your normal following distance (refer to the Maintaining a Space Cushion section for more information). Turn on your headlights.
Night Driving
At sunset, as soon as light begins to fade, turn on your
headlights to make your vehicle more visible to others. You
must use headlights from sunset to sunrise.
Use low-beams when driving in cities and towns, except
on streets where there is no lighting. Switch to low-beams
whenever you meet oncoming traffic to avoid blinding the
other driver. When following, use low-beams whenever you
are within 200 feet of the vehicle ahead.
Use high-beam headlights on highways, unless another
vehicle is within 500 feet coming toward you. If the high-
beams of an oncoming car are on, avoid looking directly at
the bright lights. Glance toward the side of the road, then
look quickly ahead to determine the other vehicle’s position.
Keep doing this until you have passed the other vehicle. Even
if the other driver does not dim his headlights, do not turn on
your high-beam headlights.
Fog
Fog reflects light and can reflect your own headlights back into
your eyes. Use low-beam headlights in heavy fog and look
for road edge markings to guide you. Even light fog reduces
visibility and your ability to judge distances, so slow down.
Rain
Driving in heavy rain can be as hazardous as driving in fog,
especially if the wind is blowing. Other vehicles to the rear
and in blind spot areas are especially difficult to see when it’s
raining.
Use your low-beam headlights to see and be seen. In light
rain or drizzle, turn on your windshield wipers to improve
visibility; using wipers for sprinkles may smear the windshield
and make it harder to see, so make sure you have windshield
washer fluid.
When rain begins, during the first half-hour, roads are more
likely to be slippery due to oil on the road surface mixing
with water. Use caution when driving through ponded water,
and avoid it if possible. Ponded water can cause vehicles to
hydroplane or otherwise lose control.
Snow
Remove snow and ice from your entire car, including the roof,
hood and rear of the vehicle, before you start driving. Snow
and ice left on the car can fly off when the vehicle is moving
and create a hazard for other motorists. Be sure to clear all of
your windows, mirrors and front and rear lights of snow or ice
so you can see and communicate with other drivers.
Equip your car with all-weather snow tires or chains to help
prevent skidding and reduce stopping distance.
Driving on packed snow is similar to driving on ice. When you
brake, apply the brakes gently. Slow down before stopping or
turning.
When driving on slippery surfaces and you need to stop,
release the accelerator and apply brakes gently. You have
the most traction and control when the front tires are rolling.
Keeping a slow, steady speed – rather than hard braking – will
allow you to control your vehicle.
Watch for ice on bridges and in shady areas. Bridges freeze
before other road surfaces.
Dangerous Driving Behaviors
Aggressive Driving
This dangerous driving behavior is defined by Virginia law as the intent to harass, intimidate, injure or obstruct another person while committing one or more traffic offenses such as failing to stop or yield the right-of-way, avoiding a traffic control device or failing to give way to an overtaking vehicle.
When aggressive drivers are behind the wheel, these
high-risk drivers take out their anger on other motorists.
Their frustration levels run high while their concerns for fellow
motorists run low. They break the law by running stop signs
and red lights, speeding, tailgating, weaving in and out of
traffic, passing on the right (including on the shoulder and
unpaved portions of the road), making improper and unsafe
lane changes, as well as making hand and facial gestures,
screaming, honking and flashing their lights.
Protect yourself. If you see an aggressive driver, stay out of the
way. Don’t challenge the aggressive driver by speeding up or
trying to out-maneuver him. Avoid eye contact and ignore his
gestures and shouting.
Remember, if you are convicted of aggressive driving, your
license could be suspended for ten days or for as long as six
months.
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Section 3: Safe Driving

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Limit long distance driving. Stop at least every two
hours for rest.
Stop at a safe place and take a nap. As little as 10 to 20
minutes of sleep can make a big difference.
If possible, drive with a companion and switch drivers
when necessary. Always let a well-rested person drive.
Avoid driving from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Rolling down a window, chewing gum, turning up the radio,
or consuming caffeine, energy drinks or other stimulants do
not prevent drowsy driving and are not reliable methods for
staying awake. Drowsy driving is a type of impaired driving
and puts the driver and everyone else on the roadway at risk
for harm. If you observe a drowsy driver, find a safe place to
stop or ask a passenger to call law enforcement. Be able to
describe the location, vehicle and actions you observed.
Drunk and Drugged Driving
Legally, drivers age 21 or older are considered to be driving
under the influence (DUI) if your blood alcohol content
(BAC) is .08 percent or higher. If your driving is impaired, you
can be convicted of driving under the influence with a BAC
lower than .08 percent. If under age 21, you can be convicted
of illegal consumption of alcohol if your BAC is at least .02
but less than .08. If your BAC is .08 or higher you could be
convicted of a DUI. If your driving is impaired because you
are under the influence of any drug, you may face the same
penalties as driving under the influence of alcohol.
Researchers estimate that between the hours of 10 PM and
2 AM three out of every ten drivers are drunk. More than
one-third of these drivers have been drinking at someone
else’s home. Nearly 50 percent of the drivers arrested for
DUI are social to moderate drinkers. Don’t think that it won’t
happen to you. In your lifetime, there’s a 50-50 chance that
you’ll be involved in an alcohol-related crash.
Just one alcoholic drink can affect your driving ability
because even a small amount of alcohol affects the brain’s
functions – particularly vision, judgment, and coordination.
Because alcohol affects your judgment and driving ability,
your chances of being in a crash are seven times greater if you
drive after drinking than if you drive sober.
Twelve ounces of beer is the same as a shot of liquor or a
five-ounce glass of wine.
Only time can decrease intoxication. Coffee, cold showers or
exercise will not sober you up.
Alcohol-related crashes are not accidents. They can be
prevented! The only way to avoid the risks of drinking and
driving is to decide before you start drinking that you are not
going to drive. Remember, alcohol affects judgment. Making
the decision not to drive is a lot more difficult after one or
two drinks.
Distracted Driving
Driving requires your full attention. There are many
distractions that may prevent drivers from focusing on
driving: changing the music selection/podcast/GPS, talking to
passengers, observing outside surroundings, eating, using a
cell phone and more. When on the road, drivers should not
use cell phones, computers or other distracting devices except
to report a crash or emergency. Before engaging in distracting
behavior, pull over and stop the vehicle in a safe location.
Virginia law prohibits drivers from holding cell phones or
any other wireless communication devices while driving
except in a driver emergency or the vehicle is lawfully parked
or stopped. A mobile phone or other telecommunications
device may be used for navigation, as long as the driver is not
entering information or holding it while driving.
Annually, driver distraction accounts for roughly 17 percent
of all traffic crashes in Virginia. Why is distracted driving so
deadly? Because while the driver is distracted, the vehicle may
move into a high risk situation. The driver then loses precious
seconds before recognizing the situation and must make an
emergency maneuver. Young distracted drivers are even more
susceptible. Failure to maintain proper control, following too
closely, and not yielding the right-of-way are common actions
of young distracted drivers. Inexperience in handling or
controlling a vehicle during an emergency situation combined
with distracted driving (cell phone use, other passengers, eyes
not on the road, etc.) puts them at greater risk of a crash.
Don’t let this happen to you. Take the following precautions.
Keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the
wheel at all times.
Set or adjust the controls on the vehicle and other
devices as soon as you get in the car and before you
begin driving.
Do not use a cell phone.
Drowsy Driving
Constant yawning, head nodding, heavy eyelids, difficulty
remembering the last few miles driven, missing road signs or
exits, unplanned lane changes, driving off the road or hitting
rumble strips are all signs of drowsy driving. Driving while you
are sleepy increases your crash risk as you struggle to process
complex information coming from different places at once.
You may make careless driving decisions, have trouble paying
attention or actually fall asleep while driving.
To avoid drowsy driving:
Get plenty of quality sleep before a trip.
Avoid alcoholic beverages and heavy foods.
Beware of medications that can impair your driving
ability.

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When attending a social event where alcohol will be
consumed, plan ahead for a sober ride home by using
alternative transportation or having a sober driver.
Combining alcohol with other drugs usually multiplies the
effects of both and can have a disastrous effect on your
ability to drive. One drink taken when you are on another
drug – even an aspirin, or allergy or cold medicine – could
have the same effect on your driving ability as drinking several
alcoholic beverages.
Almost any drug can reduce your ability to drive safely.
It’s not just illegal drugs that cause problems. Many over-the-
counter medications and prescription drugs for headaches,
hay fever, colds, allergies or nervous conditions can cause
drowsiness and dizziness. This includes syrups, drops, sprays,
pills and tablets. They often affect driver alertness and slow
reaction time. Although the possession of marijuana and
marijuana products (over the age of 21) is legal, driving
under the influence of marijuana is still illegal. Smoking or
consuming cannabis will affect how you drive.
Read the label before taking any drug or medicine. Look for
warnings about side effects. If you’re uncertain about the
effects of a drug, ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice.
Remember that, while the effects may vary among users, no
drug is harmless.
Traffic Crashes
If you are involved in a traffic crash, you must:
stop at the scene of the crash or as close to the scene
as possible without blocking traffic. Drivers must move
vehicles from the road immediately if the vehicles are
able to be moved, no one is injured and the driver is
capable of safely doing so.
be careful when exiting your vehicle. Keep your vehicle
between you and moving traffic if possible.
give any help you can if someone is injured. Do not
attempt to move an injured person from a wrecked
vehicle unless you have the necessary medical training
or there is an immediate danger such as fire.
report the crash to the police as quickly as possible.
Motor vehicle crashes involving property damage,
personal injury or death must be reported to the police.
exchange information with other people involved
in the crash as soon as possible. Be sure to get the
following information:
name, address and driver’s license number of
other drivers
license plate numbers of other vehicles
name and address of anyone who was injured
name and address of each witness
name, address and insurance policy number of
other vehicle owners
notify your insurance company immediately.
Law enforcement officers are required to forward a written
crash report to DMV when a traffic crash results in injury or
the death of any person or total property damage is in excess
of $1,500. All crash information will be recorded on the DMV
records of each driver involved in the crash.
You must make a reasonable effort to find the owner of an
unattended vehicle or other property damaged in a crash.
If you cannot locate anyone, leave a note that can be found
easily at the scene of the crash. Include your name, telephone
number, the date and time of the crash, and a description
of the damage. You must also report the crash to the police
within 24 hours.
Deer/Large Animal Hazards
Tens of thousands of crashes with deer, elk, and bears take place in Virginia each year, resulting in fatalities, injuries and costly vehicle damage. To avoid hitting a deer or other large animal:
Be alert at dusk and dawn especially in the fall.
Slow down if you see a large animal near or crossing the
road. Large animals frequently travel in groups; there
are likely others nearby.
Use the horn to scare the animal away.
If a collision with a deer or other animal is unavoidable,
do not swerve. Brake firmly, stay in your lane, and come
to a controlled stop.
If you hit a large animal, report it to law enforcement.

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Section 4: Seat Belts, Air Bags and Child Safety Seats
Wearing seat belts, also called safety belts,
can double your chances of surviving a crash and more than
double your chances of avoiding serious injury.
Seat Belts
Under Virginia law, the driver and all front seat passengers must wear safety belts. A driver transporting anyone younger
than age 18 must ensure that the passenger is properly
secured in a safety belt, booster seat or child safety seat no
matter where the child is seated in the vehicle.
Remember to wear your lap belt low on your lap and against
your thighs. Wear your shoulder belt over your shoulder and
across your chest. Never wear your shoulder belt behind your
back or under your arm. Your shoulder and lap belts should
be snug. Pregnant women are much safer if buckled up by
wearing the belt as low on the pelvis as possible.
Exception: A waiver of the seat belt requirement may be
granted by a licensed physician if the use of a safety belt is
not reasonable due to the driver’s or passenger’s physical or
medical condition. The person granted the waiver must carry
the physician’s signed written statement identifying the person
with the waiver and the reason for the waiver.
Section 4:
Seat Belts, Air Bags and
Child Safety Seats
In this section you’ll learn about:
Seat belts
Air bags
Child safety seats
Traffic Stops
If you are stopped by a police officer:
Remain calm.
Pull your vehicle to the side of the road in a safe
location and park.
Stay in your vehicle. Do not get out unless the officer
asks you to.
Turn on your flashers.
If you are pulled over at night, turn on your vehicle’s
interior lights.
Turn off your engine, radio, and any other device that
could block communication with the officer.
Roll down your window so that you can communicate
with the officer. An officer may approach your vehicle
on the driver or passenger side for safety reasons.
Keep your safety belt fastened and ask your passengers
to keep their belts fastened.
Keep your hands in plain view, preferably on the
steering wheel. Ask your passengers to keep their
hands in plain view also.
Do not make any movement that will make the officer
think you are hiding or reaching for something.
Carry proper identification: a valid driver’s license,
proof of vehicle registration and proof of insurance. If
the officer asks for these documents, tell him where
they are and reach for them slowly, keeping one hand
on the steering wheel.
If the officer is driving an unmarked car or is not in
uniform, you may ask to see his or her identification.
Answer the officer’s questions fully and clearly. If you
disagree with the officer, do not discuss your point of
view at that time. You will have your chance to make
your case in court.
You will be asked to sign the citation. Sign the citation;
this is not an admission of guilt. Refusal to sign the
citation may result in your arrest. Or, you may be
required to go to the police station.