Fitness, Health, & Driver Education. Search this site. Driver Education. Behind-the-Wheel Lessons. Chapter 3: Basic Vehicle Control. In this chapter, you will learn steps to take before, during, and directly after entering a vehicle to maintain maximum safety. You will also learn how to control a vehicle.
- Chapter 3 Drivers Ed Quiz
- Drivers Ed Chapter 3 Basic Vehicle Control Manual
- Chapter 3 Basic Vehicle Operation
Summary
In this chapter, you will learn techniques and procedures for driving safely in urban environments. You will learn how to use a three-second following distance and how to cover the brake in tight driving situations. You will also learn how to maintain safety when you interact with pedestrians and tailgating drivers.
Chapter Outline
Section 1: Adjusting to Urban Traffic
Driving in a city can be difficult because of high-density traffic. City driving presents more hazards and hazards that are closer together than do other types of driving. City drivers need to use strong visual skills to identify hazards and to predict points of conflict early. Drivers must also communicate with other drivers, adjust vehicle speed and position, and execute smooth, low-risk maneuvers.
Section 2: Following and Meeting Traffic
In city driving, maintaining a space cushion is very important. In normal situations, drivers need to use a three-second following distance. To deal with tailgating, drivers need to increase their own following distance to 4 seconds and move slightly to the right to give the tailgater a better view. Flashing the brakes is important before slowing or stopping. To avoid conflict with oncoming traffic in the wrong lane, drivers need to flash the headlights, blow the horn, and move right.
Section 3: Managing Space in Urban Traffic
To stay safe in urban traffic, drivers need to look ahead more than one block. Covering the brake can help a driver stop more quickly in traffic. Covering the brake involves holding the foot over the brake pedal. For safety, drivers should also always choose the best lane of travel for each driving situation.
Section 4: Special Urban Situations
Chapter 3 Drivers Ed Quiz
Drivers who are turning from a one-way street should turn from the nearest lane going in the direction they want to go. If another driver is going the wrong way down a one-way street, it is important to steer right, sound the horn, and flash headlights, if possible.
Drivers Ed Chapter 3 Basic Vehicle Control Manual
Online Materials
Chapter 3 Basic Vehicle Operation
Take the Self-Test to assess your knowledge of this chapter.