ignal-Controlled Intersections
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A signal-controlled intersection is one that is controlled by traffic lights or signs. The traffic signals, signs, and/or right-of-way rules determine when to stop and when to proceed. When you come to a traffic signal or sign, always look left, then right, then left again for traffic before crossing. Follow the directions. Don't put yourself and others at risk by trying to "beat the light" or "jump the line."
The terrain you drive through can vary widely—freeway driving is quite different from mountain driving. Speed limits, reaction time, signaling distance, and passing rules depend upon the kind of road upon which you are traveling.
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Unless otherwise posted, the maximum speed limit is 65 mph. When traveling at 55 mph on dry roads, it will take about 400 feet to react to a hazard and bring your vehicle to a stop. By disregarding this fact, you subject yourself to extreme danger. Allow large vehicles extra distance when you merge ahead of them into their lane.
Signal at least five seconds before changing lanes to give other drivers time to make room. Although freeways eliminate risks associated with pedestrians and intersections, they have other hazards. You must be equally alert while driving on freeways as on high-density city streets.
Preview Open Roadway
The speed limit for most California highways is 65 mph, although it may sometimes be 70 mph. The faster the speed, the greater the distance needed between you and the vehicle ahead of you. Remember, an average vehicle needs a stopping distance of at least 400 feet when traveling at just 55 mph, so it is imperative that you allow yourself a huge space cushion for braking when you're out on an open roadway, even when the roads are dry. As with freeway driving, signal your intent to turn or change lanes at least five seconds before you do so.
The kinds of hazards you may encounter include narrowing roads, animals, slow-moving farm equipment, or changing speed limits as you drive through residential areas. If you want to pass a slow-moving vehicle, wait until you have a good stretch of broken center line on your side of the road and at least ten seconds of clear road ahead with no oncoming traffic. If all is clear, signal for at least five seconds, look in your rear-view and side mirrors, and do a head check to make sure no one is trying to overtake you. Then proceed to carefully pass.
Preview Mountains
Drive as fast as the road and present conditions allow and no faster. If poor weather has moved in or the roads are slick (as is often the case in the mountains), give yourself extra stopping distance and be alert for the unexpected. According to the California Driver Handbook, an average vehicle needs about 210 feet to stop while driving at 35 mph on a flat, dry surface. If you're driving down a steep incline, gravity increases your car's speed, so you will need even more time to stop.
You'll meet less traffic on these roads, but vehicles — especially ones laboring up a steep incline or encroaching on your lane — pedestrians, animals, and even rock slides can pop up behind blind curves or over the brow of a foothill. If others are driving too slowly for you, wait for passing lanes or turnouts rather than trying to pass on a mountain road.
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Preview Driving Distractions
The driving environment often includes distractions both inside and outside of the vehicle. Inattentive or erratic driving is a common cause of collisions in California.