DOT Entry Level Driver Training – Safe Operating Procedures: Space Management
It is important for you to manage the space around your vehicle at all times. You must have sufficient space ahead so that you have the time and distance needed to stop suddenly if traffic in front of you suddenly stops or another hazard appears. It is also important to stay centered in your lane and avoid driving alongside other vehicles, in case a driver doesn’t notice you or it is very windy. There is not much you can do about traffic to your rear, but if someone is tailgating you, best practices are to increase your following distance, avoid sudden moves, don’t speed up or flash your brake lights, and signal early if you intend to turn or change lanes. When driving a large vehicle, don’t forget to look for obstacles overhead and at ground level, make sure you have enough time and space to cross traffic or merge into traffic, and don’t drive over railroad tracks if they stick up a lot or you have low clearance. You must know the limitations of your vehicle and consider them at all times to avoid getting in an accident, stuck under an overpass, or high-centered on tracks. Use caution and your good judgment to help make sure you get to your next destination on time.
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Learning Objectives
At the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Describe how to maintain space around your vehicle in various traffic conditions
- Explain how road conditions affect space considerations for your vehicle
- Identify the proper way to make turns in a long commercial vehicle
Specs
| Course Level | Fundamental |
| Languages | English |
| Compatibility | Audio, Video, MobileReady, Responsive |
Course Applies To
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