Chapter 8 Sharing the Roadway - Delsea

Chapter 8Sharing The RoadwayEYou Are the Driver!As a driver, you will be sharing the roaGway with a variety of other vehicles andpedestrians. These other users present theirown special problems in every drivingenvironment. Many vehicles are small insize and, like pedestrians, have very littleprotection if a conflict with a largervehicle occurs, A. .L *'at problems might the motorcycXstand bicyclist have in this traffic scene?What should the car driver predict? Thischapter explores problems presented byother roadway users and explains yourresponsibility for protecting other less-.. 7hiprotected users.- ,t4 t8.1Sharing the Roadway withMotorcyclists8.2Motorcyclist Actions CanAffect You8.3Bicycles, Mopeds, andMotor Scooters8.4Pedestrians andSpecial Vehicles8.5Sharing the Road with TrucksTake it to the NETPHSchool.com/driverightCChapter 8 Sharing the Roadway 149

ilarine the Roadwav with Motorcvclists150 Unit 2 Controlling Your Vehicleven though many drivers willE never ride a motorcycle, they willbe safer drivers if they understandproblems involved in the cyclist'sdriving task. Motorcyclists have thesame privileges within the HTS asdrivers of other vehicles. They alsoshare an equal responsibility for followingsafe driving practices.Even though motorcycle registrationsmake up a very small percentageof all vehicle registrations, about2,000 cyclist fatalities occur each year.Injuries and deaths from motorcyclecrashes result primarily from theexposed position of the rider. Unlikethe driver of a larger vehicle, amotorcyclist has little or no protectionwhen conflicts occur.As a driver of a larger vehicle,you must accept the major share ofresponsibility for protecting motorcyclistsas they interact within theHTS. Show cyclists the same courtesyyou show other drivers.Wnp tlre IPDE ProcessMost low-risk drivers tend to be alertfor other cars and larger vehicles thatmight cause conflict. Because motorcyclesare smaller and are driven inseveral different lane positiohs, theyoften are not identified in time toprevent conflict. Make a specialeffort to use the IPDE Process.The Identify step is crucial fordrivers because motorcycles are moredifficult to see. Search all the zones soyou will not be surprised by the suddenappearance of a motorcycle.Predict actions of motorcyclists thatmight enter your path. Base yourdecisions on the problems that confrontthe motorcyclist, and executeyour actions. Use every techniquepossible before a closed zone orconflict occurs. The driver in theyellow car in the picture is lookingthrough the approaching car's windowsto see the motorcyclist or otherroadway users.to Look f- Motomycrld7wok for motorcp~~bts ir "-c fouuwing situations.Vehide Turning Left in Front ofMotorcydist When you plan to turnleft across one or more lanes of traffic,be sure your planned path of travel isclear. Even though the cyclist in thetop picture on the opposite page issignaling for a left turn, the car driver-Scan mrough the windows of other vehiclesto see motorcyclists or other roadway users.

should predict that the cyclist will continuestraight. The car driver shouldcomplete the left turn only after scanningfront and side zones and after thecyclist has entered his left-turn path.When you make left turns atnight, be especially watchful foroncoming vehicle headlights. Thesingle headlight of a motorcycle canbe confused with a larger vehicle thathas only one working headlight.Vehicle Turning Right at Intersectionor Driveway Drivers of larger vehicleswho do not check their rear zonesfrequently might not be aware of trafficto the rear. Therefore, they mayturn right directly in front of a motorcyclist,as the picture below shows.Motorcyclist Tuning Left Whenyou are approaching an intersectionand there is oncoming traffic, expectAre the Driver1How could you haveavoided a possible conflictwith this motorcyclist?Chapter 8 Sharing the Roadway 15 1

Motorcyclists shouldnever assume that allother drivers see them.They should makeevery effort to be asvisible as posribk inthe traffic scene.152 Unit 2 Controlling Your Vehi,smaller vehicles to appear in yourpath. An approaching motorcyclistwho is about to turn left could beblocked from your view. Search yourfront zones and be aware of anylimited sight distance to your left.Be prepared to act to avoid conflict.Motorcyclist in Driver's Blind SpotBecause of its relatively small size, amotorcycle is often difficult to see inthe blind-spot areas behind yourvehicle. The roof-support columns onthe back and sides of vehicles add tothe problem. Always check the blindspots in your left- and right-rearzones by glancing over your shoulderbefore turning or changing lanes.Tailgating Motorcyclist The onlyway to know if you are being tailgatedby a motorcyclist is to check your rearzone often. When you see a tailgatingcyclist, try to avoid sudden braking.If the driver of the yellow car in thepicture brakes suddenly to let thecar on the shoulder in, the tailgatingmotorcyclist could lose control. Themotorcyclist does not have enoughfollowing distance to stop in time.Check your rearview mirrors oftenand increase your following distanceif a cyclist is following you.Motorcyclist Passing Vehicle onRight or Left Check your reartiewmirrors and blind spots fredently aspart of your visial search pattern.Anticipate that motorcyclists willpass you. The failure of many driversto check their rearview mirrors andblind-spot areas can easily lead toconflict with motorcyclists.Be especially aware of beingpassed on either the right or left atWatch for tailgating motorcyclists if you mustslow or stop suddenly.an intersection where there may bemore space. Even though motorcyclistsshould not pass at intersections,always watch for them so youcan avoid conflict. When you arebeing overtaken by a motorcyclist,maintain both your lane positionand your speed.Motorcyclist Meeting an OncomingVehicle You are more likely to seean oncoming motorcyclist in thedaytime if the motorcycle's headlightis on. Many states require that themotorcycle's headlight be on at alltimes. All motorcycles manufacturedtoday haw the headlight come onwhen the ignition is turned on.Whenever you see an oncomingmotorcyclist, stay on your side of theroadway until the motorcyclist haspassed. Remember also that havingyour headlights on at all times makesyou more visible to the cyclist.

never tailgate a cyclist before passing.The appearance of a very closevehicle in the cyclist's rearviewmirror could cause an unexpectedaction and result in conflict. Whenyou plan to overtake and pass amotorcyclist, stay well back untilyou start to pass.When the way is clear, executeyour passing maneuver. Use theentire left lane for passing, as the cardriver in the picture is doing. Whenyou can see the cyclist in yourrearview mirror, signal, check yourright blind-spot area, and return tothe right lane.Protecting MotorcydlstsUnlike a driver protected inside alarger vehicle, a motorcyclist is fdlyexposed to dangers that could causeinjury or death. For this reason,you must accept an extra share ofresponsibility for avoiding conflictswith cyclists. With a larger vehicleunder your control, you have thepower to cause far more harmthan a cyclist. Handle this powerwith respect.Develop an attitude of helpingothers who are less protected. Makeit your responsibility to demonstratehabits and behavior that show youcare for the safety of your fellowroadway users.Motorcyclists Can La& Experienceand Skill Be alert when approachinga cyclist. Predict judgment and controlerrors due to inexperience andlack of skill. Some motorcyclists riderented or borrowed cycles and mightnot have enough practice to developsound judgment and good control.Others, who own their own motorcycles,might not have receivedproper riding instruction.Handling Traits of MotorcyclesHelp protect motorcyclists by beingaware of the handling traits ofmotorcycles and how they operate.Use the entire lane when passing a motorcyclist.Chapter 8 Sharing the Roadway 153

Watch for a motorcyclist's balanceand stability problems. Predictthat the cyclist might swerve oreven fall. Give cyclists extra space byincreasing your following distance.IMotorcyclists lean when making turns. Watcha motorcyclist's shoulders to anticipate turns.IMake the Motorcyclist Aware of YouWhen following a motorcyclist, donot assume the cyclist is aware ofyour presence. Traffic and windnoises make it more difficult forthe cyclist to hear. Protective helmetsworn by cyclists might alsomuffle some'traffic sounds.The small size of the mirrorson the handlebars and the vibrationof the motorcycle can restrict themotorcyclist's view to the rear. Keepextra space in your front zone whenyou think a cyclist is unaware ofYour presence.Notice in the picture that the motorcyclistleans to the side when makinga turn. Control of a motorcycle isdifficult in a turn or sharp curve.The cyclist can have even moredifficulty handling the cycle in astrong wind, or if the roadway isrough or slippery.Increase Your Following DistanceA motorcyclist's balance and stability .depend on two small areas o kesthat grip the roadway. Wate f sand, ,oil, wet leaves, poiholes, or Ioosegravel reduce traction and canmake motorcycle control evenmore uncertain.154 Unit 2 Controlling Your Vehide

I Eotorcyclist Actions Can ~ffect YOUlthough you share the responsi-A bility for protecting motorcyclists,they have the primaryresponsibility for avoiding conflict.How motorcyclists ride, how theyuse protective equipment, and howthey handle special problems affectall other roadway users.How Motorcyclists RideBecause motorcyclists share the roadwayswith others and present specialproblems, they should develop saferiding skills. All states offer motorcyclesafety courses taught by instructorscertified by the MotorcycleSafety Foundation. Proper trainingand widespread helmet use havehelped reduce motorcycle fatalities.The student riders in the picture arepracticing balance and turns in amotorcycle-riding course taught by acertified instructor.With proper instruction andtraining-and an attitude of responsibilityand caring-motorcyclistscan become cooperative, low-riskusers of the HTS.Braking and AcceleratingA vehicle driver needs only to stepon the foot brake to stop a vehicle.However, a motorcyclist must operateseparate brakes for front and rearwheels. A lever on the right handlebar . .operates the front brake. This brake 3. Explain mo%arsuppliesmost of the braking power cyclists' specidfor stopping. A foot pedal controls riding problems.the rear brake. A cyclist must coordinateboth foot and hand brakes carefullyfor maximum braking. If eitherbrake is applied too hard it can lockand cause loss of control.A motorcyclist must coordinatethe hand throttle, hand clutch, andfoot-gearshift lever to accelerate' '- -" - ---J ,; -.- .. -='-r.i. .- - - . .- ..: s - ,.-'~.1-;-- ..,I . .. .. ---i...p-,.- -.- .p;-.i,;. .. >:. ->. . ,?,.*->-'.>.,-.>' .I :..*??#:z'~ $. QFx* -;3 ;{* ti: :.f .r.::':. . .Taking a certified training course can help motorcyclists reduce their risks.Chapter 8 Sharing the Roadway 155

states havepassed laws requiringmotorcyclists to wearI ~~almets. Should wearinhelmets be required blProtective gear helps protect a motorcyclist.smoothly. Balance problems can occur\if these actions are not coordinated.Loss of BalanceIUnlike four-wheel vehicles,a motorcycle might havedifficulty remaining uprightwhile in motion. Be alertand anticipate that thecyclist can lose control, especiallyif the roadway is wet orcovered with oil drippings.r Following DistanceMotorcyclists should increase theirfollowing distance to reduce risk ofcollisions. Increased following distancealso helps prevent cyclists frombeing hit by pebbles or dirt thrownback by the vehicle ahead. As a driver,check your rearview mirror often. Beaware of following motorcyclists, andavoid making sudden stops.Because other ~~~licles can severelyinjure motorcyclists in a collision,motorcyclists must make every effortto protect themselves. Cyclists canreduce or prevent injuries by usingprotective equipment, as has therider in the picture.A motorcyclist's protective equipmentincludes the following items:helmet-the headgear worn toreduce or prevent head injurieseye-protection-goggles or a faceshieldheavy shoes or bootsfull-length pants and jacket madeof durable materialfull-fingered glovesHelmets are required by law inmost states and are important in savinglives. In a collision, a cyclist whodoes not wear a helmet is far morelikely to suffer fatal neck and headinjuries than a rider who does weara helmet.Special Riding ProblemsWeather and roadway conditionspresent greater problems to cycliststhan they do to drivers of other vehicles.Allow extra time and space formotorcyclists in all adverse weatherconditions. When following motorcyclistswho are crossing railroadtracks or qarrying passengers, leave. Iextra space.Adverse Weather Conditions Amotorcyclist cannot cope with adverseweather conditions as wellas a driver in a four-wheel vehiclecan. For example, a puddle mighthide a pothole that jolts your vehicle.156 Unit 2 Controlling Your Vehicle

That same hidden pothole can throwa motorcycle out of control.Like drivers of other vehicles,the worst time for motorcyclists isimmediately after it starts to rain. Asrain mixes with dirt and oil on theroadway, traction is greatly reduced.Because balance is important formotorcycle control, reduced tractionis far more critical to motorcyclists.You can turn on your windshieldwipers when it rains. When dirt fromthe roadway splashes up on thewindshield, you can use windshieldwashers. A cyclist has neither device.Therefore, the motorcyclist's vision isgreatly reduced and can be distortedunder these conditions.Motorcyclists should use extracaution when riding on or crossingpainted lines on a wet roadway.Painted lines can become slipperywhen wet. Motorcyclists gain extratraction on wet roads by riding inanother vehicle's wheel track, as thepicture shows.Motorcyclist Crossing Railroad'Ikacks Railroad tracks are a specialproblem for motorcyclists. Motorcycletires can get caught in thegrooves of the crossing, causing themotarcyclist to lose balance. A cyclistshould cross railroad tracks as doseto a right angle as possible, as longas this does not cause the cyclist toenter another lane.Motorcyclists Carrying PassengersA motorcycle carrying two peoplerequires extra caution from othervehicle drivers. Be alert for a differencein acceleration, braking, andturning when a motorcyclist is carry-Motor~,,,,sts can gain traction on wet roadsby riding in another vehicle's wheel track.ing a passenger. A passenger can createbalance and control problems forthe cyclist by leaning the wrong wayin curves and turns.How Motorcyclists Can HelpOther Vehlclg DriversMotorcyclists should use all their .skills and techniques to reduce theirrisks of conflicts. However, nothingthe cyclist does should diminish thecaution other drivers must practicenear motorcyclists. Remember,you must always be ready to yieldto cyclists.Chapter 8 Sharing the Roadway 157

By riding offset, motorcyclists are more easily seen.Riding in Groups ~otorcyc~6tsoften travel in groups. When you seeone cyclist, be prepared to see others.Cyclists should not ride side by sidein traffic. They should be in an offsetposition, as the picture shows. Byriding offset, each cyclist is moreeasily seen by others and has morespace to swerve safely, if necessary.Like you, motorcyclists shouldprepare for turns by moving into thecorrect lane well before the turn. Ifthey are riding in groups, they shouldbe in single file they approhch,enter, and complete the turn:Being Visible in BaEGic Motorcyclistsshould position themselvesin traffic so other roadway users caneasily see them. Riding in lane position2 usually makes a motorcyclistmore visible. A rider in the correctposition is visible to the driver aheadas well as to oncoming drivers.Riding in lane position 2 alsoforces other drivers to use the otherfull lane to pass. This position addsa degree of safety to the passingmaneuver. It aIso reduces the chancethat the cyclist will be forced off theroadway.Motorcyclists should not ridebetween lanes of moving vehicles.This practice is dangerous for everyone.In many states it is illegal.Riding at Might It is far more difficultfor drivers of other vehicles tojudge the speed and position of amotorcycle at night. Because amotorcycle's taillight is relativelysmall, drivers behind may have difficultyseeing it.Motorcyclists should take addedprecautions when riding at night.They can make themselves morevisible by putting reflective tape onhelmets and clothing and by havingreflectors on the motorcycle.158 Unit 2 Controlling Your Vehicle

Bicycles, Mopeds, and Motor Scootersi@es and low-powered, two-4 wheel vehides continue to bepopular for tramportattion, recreation,and business. Bieycles useno gasdine, create no pollution,and provide exercise for the rider.Because of their small sizes, mopedsand motor scooters &eate very littlepolldon and provide an economicmeans of trampatation.Users of smaller two-wheelvehicks have the same privilegesand responsibiities as other drivers..Riders of these vehicles should usethe IPDE Process and develop avisual search pattern to help themselvesbe more aware of possible:conflicts with other roadway users.However, drivers of larger vehicles,with their greater protection, mustaccept the major responsibility faravoiding mnQict.Just as you have a major respansibilityfor proteding rnot~rqclbts,you should be even more cautiousand mwe of these smaller vehiclesbecause they are so unprotected.Bicyclists' ResponsibilitiesBicyclists must share the responsibilityfor avoiding conflictis with otherroadway users.3e a respor-rsible bicyclist by followingthese s&e-riding practices:Ww a helmet for protection.how and follow the lamregarding roadway riding, lanepogition, and sidewalk riding.* Obey dl signs, sipaIs, and laws.Wear light-colored clothing andhave lights and reflectors onbicycles when riding at night.Do not wear earphones whilebicycling. Wearing earphoneswhile bicyding or driving a motorvehicle is illegal in many states.Keep bicycles in safe operatingcondition.When riding at night use a headlightthat is visible for at least 500 feetReflective tape on the frame and findersof your bicycle, as well as on yourhelmet, adds safety for night riding.Protecting Bicyclists& a driver of a lager v&d% givebicyclists extra-space whenever p-si&. Some biqdists might not beable to control their bicycles well. -Whm follawing a bicyclist, be aweof the possible path the bicyclistmight take. Vehjae doors opening,railroad tracks, storm drains, potholes,puddles, and other roadwayhazards may Eause a bivclist toswerve into yaw path,Use the TPDE Process condyas you eneaiunter bicyclks. Samwide enough to indu& the sides .oftbe roadwa " 'as well.& sidewalks,T& m bdd r' to,yaG visual ~ar& . Ipattern a speaal aware&& iif bi& .. I&ts 9nd where they might be. Allowmore the and space for bicyclists tachange their intended parh of travel.BreventingGon£lictswithBi~tsPassing bicydists on a two-laneChapter 8 Sharing the Roadway 159

BICYCLING ON WET ROADS Mbt or ritplnry madwry.-k.clpsd.Uyd#rglmnro-mbrskommablcyokdonatopsrots~wh.nthoMcyckwhml8mwrt~rhwklallowa~~ngdi8~neeumkrnm80 d01#.To pass a bi~ycli safely, move to lane position 2.160 Unit 2 Controlling Your Vehicleroadway presents a problem for bothdrivers and riders. Consider the positionof the cyclist in traffic when youplan to pass.Start your passing maneuver wellbehind the bicyclist. You should haveat least one-half lane between yourvehicle and the bicyclist, as the pictureshows. Be even farther away ifthe traffic lanes are narrow.Use these techniques to furtherprevent conflicts with bicyclists:Check rear zones and signal earlywhen you plan to slow or stop.Help others identify a bicyclist byadjusting your position. At night,use low-beam headlights or aflick of high-beam headlights sothat others can see the cyclist.Reduce speed and increase spacewhen you are unsure of a bicyclist'scontrol.Look for bicyclists before openingthe street-side door of yourvehicle.Large tricycles have become popularin many communities, especiallyin retirement areas. Even thoughthese tricycles are larger than mostbicycles and are more readily visible,they can present a hazard. Be alertfor and protective of riders of theselarge tricycles when they are a partof your traffic environment.Mopeds and Motor ScootemA moped is a two-wheeled vehiclethat can be driven with either amotor or pedal. Its name comes frommotor-drken bicycle and pedal-driven

icycle. Like a bicycle, a moped canbe pedaled and can be stopped witha hand brake. Like a motorcycle,a moped is powered by an engineand controlled by a hand throttle.A motor scooter is also a lowpoweredtwo-wheeled vehicle. It ismore powerful than a moped. Amotor scooter is similar to a motorcycle,though most motor scootersrequire no shifting.Moped and Motor ScooterRestrictions Most states requiremoped and motor scooter operatorsto have an operator's license. Mopedsand motor scooters are restrictedfrom certain high-speed roadways.Both the speed and the accelerationof mopeds are limited. Because theydo not accelerate to traffic speed asquickly as a motorcycle or other vehicles,they may be unable to keep upwith the traffic flow.Responsibilities of Moped and MotorScooter Drivers Even though thesevehicles are smaller than motorcycles,their drivers also can benefit fiom takinga rider-training course.In addition to observing laws andlocal requirements, moped andmotor scooter drivers should followthese guidelines:Wear protective clothing. At night,wear clothing that has reflectivetape on it, as the picture shows.Have the headlight on at all times.Position the vehicle in the lane soit can be seen by others.Keep a space cushion betweenthemselves and other vehicles.Use extra care when riding onwet or slippery surfaces.Reflective tape makes the motor scooter ridermore visible to other drivers at night.Concentrate on the driving taskand use the IPDE Process.Drivers of other larger vehiclesshould predict possible suddenactions from drivers of mopeds andmotor scooters. Be especially alertwhen driving near a moped ormotor scooter.Chapter 8 Sharing the Roadway 161

Objectives1. BKplain why youshould use extracaution and careto pmapde*.2 Lba as- wkeyon~~icttasee pdes*s*3. ECplaBl patdm&t~ fa91044~to dear the wayfor mergemyv&*,dl highway users, pedestrians- *e the most vulnerable.Motorists have a strong moral andlegal obligation to protect pedestriansin every situation.twmtrhnsMany pedestrians who do not driveare not fully aware of traffic laws andsignals. Children and older peopleare most at risk. Children are lessvisible to drivers and often lack thejudgment to know when it is safe tocross streets. Older people may nothear or see well and may be unawareof possible conflicts.Other adult pedestrians may justget careless. They are drivers of vehiclesand fully understand trafflc laws.However, when they are in a hurryor are trying to escape bad weather,they may take chances and forget therisks involved.Communicate with pedestriansso they will know you are there. Atap on the horn or a wave of yourhand can give the message that youare there. Use the IPDE Process continuallyand always be ready to yieldto pedestrians.Learn where you can expect to seepedestrians and be extra alert whenapproaching the following areas.Alleys and Driveways Approachinga sidewalk from an alley can berisky if a pedestrian or a bicyclistsuddenly appears. The driver in thepicture should expect movementfrom either side when approachingthe sidewalk.Make two stops when drivingfrom an alley. First, stop before thesidewalk and look both ways forpedestrians and bicyclists. Tap yourhorn as a warning. Second, be pre-162 Unit 2 Controlling Your VehicleBe especially alert for pedestrians as you drive out of an alley or driveway because Dullalngscan obstruct your view. Be prepared to stop.

pared to stop again as you look fortraffic just before you enter the street.Business Districts Many collisionsinvolving pedestrians occur at intersectionsand crosswalks in businessdistricts where there is often a highvolume of traffic. Many pedestriansassume that drivers will yield theright-of-way to anyone in the crosswalk.Drivers, however, are oftenlooking at traffic signals and othervehicles and may not see the pedestrianin time to avoid a conflict.Rain and snow often causepedestrians to be more concernedabout protection from weather thanprotection from traffic. Be extra alertunder these conditions. It is oftendifficult to identify pedestrians atnight and during adverse weatherconditions.Residential Areas Many residentialstreets are used by children as playareas, as the picture shows.Regardless of the legal aspect ofchildren playing in the street, it is thedriver's responsibility and obligationto make the utmost effort to preventconflict. Search for pedestrians comingfrom between parked vehicles onresidential streets.Jogging Areas Although joggers aresafer using a sidewalk or a joggingpath, expect to see them on streetsand in traffic lanes. Joggers shouldyield to moving traffic-but do notexpect this to happen. Always beready to slow, steer around, or stopfor joggers.Watch for children playing on the street.The Driver as a PedestrianAs soon as you step out of yourvehicle, you are a pedestrian. You nolonger have the protective shield ofyour vehicle. Because you understandtraffic rules and laws, you should bea responsible pedestrian.Exercise special care at night.Wear something white or carry alight, particularly in rural areas. Tryto be where drivers expect to seeyou. Do not walk into traffic lanesfrom between parked vehicles.Regardless of the behaviorspracticed by some pedestrians, youshould always demonstrate anISTEPPINGOFF ME CURB Many pdostrians whowe struck at 1-ow am hit just as thy stepfnto tho 8troet They opten walk into the sfde of amoving whlcle they do not 808.Chapter 8 Sharing the Roadway 163

Be alert for parklngspaces designated for"Handicapped ParkingOnly." Do not park inthese spaces.attitude of responsibility in yourdriving. Remember how destructivea large vehicle can be to these lessprotectedusers. Exercise special carewhenever pedestrians are around.Parking LotsParking lots present a high-risk areafor drivers, riders, and pedestrians.Like many residential streets, parkinglots sometimes are used as recreationalareas. Even though drivers are travelingat low speeds, a bicyclist or a skateboardercan cause conflict. Manyproperty damage collisions and injuriesoccur in parking lots, even at veryslow speeds. As a pedestrian in parkinglots, you should look for brake lightsand backup lights on parked vehicles.Follow these guidelines to loweryour risk when driving in parking lots:Obey parking-lot speed limits.Follow the routes for traffic flow.Do not drive diagonally acrossparking-lot lines.Be alert for pedestrians, bicyclists,roller-bladers, and skateboarders.Avoid tight parking spaces. Tryto avoid parking in end spaces.Drive far enough into the spaceso the front or rear of yourvehicle will not extend intothe path of moving traffic.Position your vehicle properly inthe parking space.Secure the vehicle properly.Continually scan in all directionswhen backing out of a parkingspace. If vision is blocked by alarge vehicle, tap the horn beforeyou back out.Watch for others who may backout toward you and may not seeyour vehicle. The drivers in thepicture nearly collided becausethey were not aware that theother driver was backing out.Special-Purpose VehiclesBesides sharing the roadway withcyclists and pedestrians, you mustalso share it with an increasingnumber of special-purpose vehicles.Some special-purpose vehicles canbe expected at different times of theBe alert when leaving a parking space.164 Unit 2 ContmIling Your Vehicle

Allow extra space to increase your sight distance, and use caution when passing.year. For example, snow plows canbe expected in winter months incold climates. In rural areas large,slow-moving farm machinery shouldbe expected. When mobile homesare being transported, they often arepreceded and followed by vehiclesthat carry a "Wide Load" sign. Useextra caution when meeting or passingsuch vehicles.A recreational vehicle is a typeof vehicle used mainly for pleasureand travel. Some of the more commontypes of recreational vehiclesare vans, motor homes, campers,travel trailers, pickup trucks, andsports utility vehicles. Because oftheir size, some of these vehicles candecrease your sight distance or completelyblock your view. Mow theselarger vehicles extra space in trafficand increase your following distance.BusesLocal buses and school buses are thetwo most common types of busesyou will encounter. Laws governingschool buses are more strict than thosegoverning local buses. School busesusually stop for students right in thelane of traffic. Most states requiretraffic going in both directions on atwo-way street to stop when a schoolbus stops to load or unload passengers.A school bus has flashing red lightsand, in some states, a STOP sign thatswings out from the side of the bus.Some buses have flashing yellow lightsbefore the flashing red lights begin.Do not proceed until all the lightsstop flashing, the STOP sign is withdrawn,and the bus begins to move.Most states do not require trafficfrom either direction to stop for'local buses. When stopping to dislcharge or pick up passengers, localbuses usually pull in toward the curbout of the lane of traffic. However,just because a stop is not requiredfor local buses, it is your responsibilityto keep alert for pedestrians nearthe bus who might cause a conflict.Chapter 8 Sharing the Roadway 165

leld to emergency vehicles at all times.Use the following guidelines toprotect pedestrians near buses:Expect to see school buses morefrequently in mornings and afternoonsduring school openingand closing times.Identrfy school buses by theiryellow color, and then be preparedfor stops. Expect somelocal buses to be used as schoolbuses. Although you are notrequired to stop for local buses,exercise caution when youapproach them.Expect pedestrians hurrying tocatch a bus to be unaware ofyour presence. Communicatewith horn and eye contact.Search areas around stopped orparked vehicles that might hidepedestrians.Give buses extra space. Whenpassing a stopped bus, be sure nopedestrian who is blocked fromview will enter your path.Reduce speed and cover thebrake, if needed, to give yourselfmore time to respond.L_._ srgency VehiclesAlways yield to emergency vehicleswith sirens and flashing lightsregardlessof the direction the vehicleis traveling. When you see the lightsor hear the siren, pull over to theright as far as possible. Stop if thereis space and it is safe to do so. Thedrivers in the picture have pulledoff the roadway and stopped.If you are in heavy traffic, movein the direction other drivers aremoving. Leave as much space forthe emergency vehicle as possible.Some drivers become carelessabout their response to emergencyvehicles. They fail to pull over orstop. Not only are they puttingthemselves and the emergencyvehicle at risk, but they may beharming others who are waitingfor the emergency vehicle.1 1 ,R&wIt, ,...1. Why should y o w w 6 ~ ~, caaimi*~L rh'whd ~ L Z sbddB43-qxmteo s!Wpede&gryg? '3, What &ep~ sWd ~021- -. . .f ~ ~ e l ~ ~ , ~ h renwgeaq'tf&i&? . .>166 Unit 2 Controlling Your Vehicle

8.5Sharing the Road with Trucksucks help transport nearly every-- I thing we eat, wear, and use in ourdaily lives. They are an essential partof our national economy.Tppes of TtucksThe three main classifications oftrucks are light, medium, and heavy.Most trucks are light or medium andare the types you commonly see asservice trucks, pickup trucks, anddelivery trucks. Heavy trucks includedump trucks and tractor trailers.Ractor RailersA truck that has a powerful tractorthat pulls a separate trailer is called atractor trailer. The tractor is the frontpart that includes the engine and thecab. The most common size tractortrailer is the tractor-semitrailer. Thisis a tractor that pulls one trailer andTo avoid conflict, keep out of the open spaceto the right of a tractor-semitrailer making aright turn.is commonly called an "eighteenwheeler." Next in size is the doubletrailer, two trailers pulled by a tractor.The largest trucks, triple trailers, consistof three trailers pulled by a tractor.Even though most truck driverspractice a high degree of safe-drivingbehavior, be aware that there aretimes when drivers suffer fromfatigue or loss of sleep. Drivers oftenface the problem of tight schedulingand drive over long periods of time.Large Trucks MakingRight TurnsMany drivers following a tractorsemitrailerassume that if the truckmoves to the left it is preparing tomake a left turn. However, drivers oflarge trucks usually swing out to theleft as the first step in making a rightturn. If you begin to pass on the rightat that time, you could be caughtin the "right-turn squeeze:' as thepicture shows. Always check a truck'sturn signals before you start to pass.Following Large lh~cksDrivers of large trucks sit high abovethe road and have an excellent viewof the roadway ahead. However, theirview to the &des and rear is often.restricted by the size of their rig.Large trucks often create visibilityproblems for other drivers. Whenyou follow a large truck, the truckcauses a line-of-sight restriction.There are large blind spots infront, to the sides, and to the rear!! Objectives$ 1. ~ e&e "no-zones". % around large.? trucks.- +? 2. Explain precautionsto take- 'Iwhen following$ large trucks.i?; 3. List guidelines to- follow when pass-- ing large trucks.Chapter 8 Sharing the Roadway 167

Stay out of the No-Zoneswhere truck drivers cannotsee you.of every large truck. These blind-spotareas, called no-zones, are wheretruck drivers cannot see other vehiclesand where most collisions occur. Thepicture at left shows these no-zones.When drivers travel in a truck'sno-zones, they put themselves at ahigh degree of risk because theycannot be seen by the truck driver.When you are following a largetruck, increase your following distanceto allow clear sight distanceahead. Stay far enough back so youcan see the sideview mirrors of thetruck. If you can't see one of thedriver's sideview mirrors, then thedriver can't see you.PatdRgLaw-kSWhenever possible, plan to pass alarge truck when the driver shiftsgears to gain speed. Passing is moreeasily done when you leave a STOPsign or a traffic light. Do not beginto pass until you are both clear ofthe intersection.Use the following guidelines whenpassing large trucks:Check front and rear zones,signal a lane change, and changelanes smoothly.Stay in lane position 2 during thepassing maneuver, and completeyour pass as quickly as possible.After you can see both headlightsin your rearview mirror, signal,check over your right shoulder,and return to the right lane.CAUTION: In many trucks, thefiont no-zone can extend over 20feet. Be sure you are well beyondthat distance before you return tothe right lane.Do not slow during or aftercompleting the pass. Maintainyour highway speed.Passing a large truck during rainor snow increases your level of risk.Both traction and visibility arereduced. When passing under suchconditions, flash your headlightsso the truck driver will know youare passing.Meeting Large Thrd

Chapter 8Review1. Sharing the Roadway with Motorcyclists1. Why do drivers have responsibility for protectingmotorcyclists? (150)2. How would you use the IPDE Process toprotect motorcyclists while driving? (150)3. In what situations should you look formotorcyclists while driving? (150-152)2. Motorcyclist Actions Can Affect You4. What is the difference in acceleration andbraking abilities between motorcycles andother vehicles? (155)5. What protective equipment should motor-IndividualsInvestigate Research driving rules or laws in yourstate as they pertain to motorcyclists. Make a listof rules or laws that motorcyclists must follow thatare not required of other drivers.Interview Interview someone you know whodrives a truck for a living. Ask the person howdriving a truck is different from driving a car.Write a report based on your conversation. (If youdon't know anyone who drives a truck, interview aperson who drives a motorcycle. Ask how drivinga motorcycle is different from driving a car.)cyclists wear? (156)Observe 'Ikaffic Observe the traffic for fifteen6. What are motorcyclists' riding problems? minutes at a busy intersection in your area. Make(156-157) a record of the different types of vehicles you see3. Bicycles, Mopeds, and Motor Scooters (including cars, trucks, bicycles, motorcycles, etc.)7. How can you help protect bicyclists? (160) Compare your results with those of your classmates.8. What guidelines should moped and motor Groupsscooter drivers follow when riding? (161)Debate Break your group into two and discuss4. Pedestrians and Special Vehicles the pros and cons of having two-wheeled vehicles9. Why should you use extra caution and care (such as motorcycles, mopeds, and motor scooters)to protect pedestrians? (162)share the roadways with other vehicles.10. In what areas will you see pedestrians? Use Technology Make a group video about(162-163)bicycle safety. Share the video with your class.11. What procedures should you follow to clearthe way for emergency vehicles? (166)5. Sharing the Road with Trucks c12. What are the "no-zones" around large trucks?(167-168)13. What precautions should you take whenfollowing large trucks? (167-168)14. What guidelines should you follow when passinglarge trucks? (168),

ch"M~. -.-. -1 p'2 /-it .-ii,,&&LL.a*Check Your Knowledge Review Voca b u k ~Multiple Choice Copy the num6 - Copy the number of each detence below on a sheet of paper. Choose the letter Match the definition in list A with the termof the answer that best completes the statement or defines in list B;.answers the question.List A- .I. Why do car drivers have responsibility 7. two-wheeled vehicle that can be driven either, : avoiding collisions with motorcyclists? with a motor or pedal(a) Cars need less stopping distance. 8. large bld-spot areas where mtck drives Bg(b) Motorcycles maneuver more easily.cmot see other vehicles(c) Car drivers have more protection. 9. items a motorcyclist wears to p~oted head,(d) Motorcyclists have less experience.eyes, and body5. Which of the following is NOT a safe practice 10. truck that has a-pawea tractor that pulls afor bicyclists?separate trailer(a) wearing a helmet!B 11. large vehicle used for pleasure md tzavel(b) obeying signs, signals, and traffic laws pdy#ifi ..-;: 12.-type of tractor trailer commonly cded an(c) having reflectors on bicycles"eighteen wheeler"(d) listening to music with headrecreational vehlde3. When meeting a truck on a two-lane road,protective equipment(a) flash your headlights. %~=.&tractor-semitrailer(b) pull off the road and stop.2:z-(c) move to lane position 3 and drive straight Think Critical

Chapter 8ReviewChapter 8 Shadg the Roadway 171'