A course plan for driver education

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A COURSE PLAN FOR DRIVER EDUCATION

A Project Presented to the Faculty of the School of Education The University of Southern California

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree Master of Science in Education

by Harry B. Saunders January 1950

UMI Number: EP46045

All rights reserved INFORMATION TO ALL USERS The quality of this reproduction is dependent upon the quality of the copy submitted. In the unlikely event that the author did not send a complete manuscript and there are missing pages, these will be noted. Also, if material had to be removed, a note will indicate the deletion.

Dissertation Publishing

UMI EP46045 Published by ProQuest LLC (2014). Copyright in the Dissertation held by the Author. Microform Edition © ProQuest LLC. All rights reserved. This work is protected against unauthorized copying under Title 17, United States Code

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Ed.

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6 3.57

T h is project report, w ritte n under the direction of the candidate's adviser an d ap p ro ved by h im , has been presented to and accepted by the F a c u lty of the School of E d u catio n in p a r t ia l f u lf illm e n t of the requirements f o r the degree of M a s t e r of Science in Education.

Date..............................

A d v is e r

Dean

ii TABLE OP CONTENTS CHAPTER

PAGE UNIT I. LAWS AND REGULATIONS HOW TO GET YOUR OPERATOR’S LICENSE

1. YOUR TEST:

How to pass the written license

examination 2. SLOW CURVE:

.................................

3

How to recognize traffic signs and

signals

...'..

3. YOUR CONDITION:

21

How to discover your physical

deficiencies and correct t h e m .............

27

UNIT II. ACTION HOW TO DRIVE SKILLFULLY 4. GADGETS:

How to check your car before starting . 37

5. LET'S GO!:

How to start, stop,and steer . . . .

6. HE WENT MTHAT-A-WAY” :How to maneuver your car 7.

THE OPEN ROAD:

THE UNUSUAL:

. 55

How to drive on two, three, and

four-lane highways 8.

46

...........................

65

How to drive in inclement weather

and on mountain h i g h w a y s ........................ 72 9.

10.

LOOK OUT WHEN IT’S DARK OUT:

How to drive at

n i g h t .........................

80

ALL ALONE:

84

How to solo d r i v e ......... UNIT III. UPKEEP HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR CAR

11.

THE BODY:

How to keep your car neat and clean

12.

THE FRAME AND RUNNING GEAR:

. 90

How to service your

c a r ............................................. 94

Hi 13.

POWER PLANT:

How to get the most economical wear

out of your car's engine and Its accessories

. . 100

UNIT IV. MONEY MATTERS HOW TO HANDLE THE BUSINESS OF OWNING A GAR How to purchase a c a r ........... 107

14.

NOTHING DOWN:

15.

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY:

How to insure your car.Ill

UNIT V. SHARE AND SHARE ALIKE HOW TO BEST UTILIZE THE FAMILY GAR ON OUR STREETS AND HIGHWAYS 16. SAY, DAD:

How to get the family car more often . 116

17. COURTESY IS CONTAGIOUS: and highways

How to share our streets

.......................

.....

121

BIBLIOGRAPHY.......................................... 128

iv LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS ILLUSTRATION

PAGE

1. A m Signals.............

5

2.

Ri g h t - o f - W a y ............ ..................

6

3.

Pedestrian Right-of-Way ......................

9

4.

Yielding to Those within an Intersection

5.

Gear-shift Lever Positions. . . . . . . . . .

6.

Turning When U n s a f e ............. .. ......... 57

7.

Turning Around on a NarrowS t r e e t .......... 59

8.

H i t c h - h i k i n g ............................ 124

...

24 48

V

PREFACE TO TEACHERS Your skill as a teacher of driver education can toe the ounce of care that is worth the pound of cure.

Every student

you will have is a potential accident going somewhere to happen.

Here is your opportunity to help make our community

free from unnecessary accidents. By following the sequence presented in this syllatous your job will be easier.

The content has been arranged in

an order that has.been developed during the past three years. The information received from the students that have been enrolled in driver education classes at Van Nuys High School during this time has helped tremendously in the formation of this course plan.

Their problems and their teacher’s prob­

lems were leads to the content of each chapter. This plan is written with the book, Sportsmanlike Driving, as the textbook for the class. An expression of thanks and appreciation goes to Cecil G. Zaun, Marshall R. Crawshaw, Warren Epinette, and Aloys Nicholson of the Health and Safety Section, Los Angeles City Schools, for their evaluation of the content of the material used.

Thanks are also due to those agencies outside the

school which have contributed so much material for this course plan?

Los Angeles Police Department, Automobile Club of

Southern California, and California Motor Vehicle Department.

Vi PREFACE TO STUDENTS Your career as an operator of a motor vehicle is just starting.

You have a normal expectancy of forty to fifty

driving years ahead of you.

That means that you have about

ninety-nine per cent of your driving days to look forward to. Waen you are behind the wheel, your life and the lives of

others are in your hands. The amount of control, courtesy, and concentration you apply to your driving will determine the safety and success , of your life behind the wheel. how to drive.

You have the ability to learn

Now letfs see if you can develop a little

judgment to go with it. A word missed or a lesson not understood may be the

difference between safety and tragedy.

Give your teacher

your complete attention during this course and you will not become an unnecessary statistic in the morning paper.

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UNIT I.

LAWS AND HEGUIATIONS.

The best way to become an expert driver is to develop self-control, high. quality skills, and good social attitudes from the start.

You must learn the laws and regulations

that govern the use of our streets and highways before you will be able to get a license to operate a motor vehicle legally.

To get this license you must take an examination

that consists of four parts:

the written examination, the

sign recognition test, the eye test, and the driving test. Your ability to pass this examination will give you the privilege of having an operator’s license.

Let’s see if you

can pass the examination with the highest possible score.

CHAPTER 1.

YOUR TEST

HOW TO PASS THE WRITTEN LICENSE EXAMINATION A.

MOTIVATION:

Rewards for learning how to pass the written

license examination. 1.

LESS WORRY?

You can go to take your test with confi­

dence that you will pass. 2.

FEWER TRAFFIC TICKETSJ

You will have studied all of

the laws concerning driving so that there will be no doubt about being within the law. 3.

A NECESSITY:

You must take and pass the written

examination before any of the other examinations are given for an operator's license. B.

DIRECTIONS?

Suggestions on how to pass the written

license examination. 1.

STARTING, STANDING, AND PARKING RULES AND PRACTICES? How to get off to a safe start, and park your car. a.

Follow this procedure when starting from a parking place. (1)

Look for cars approaching from the rear.

(2)

Give proper left turn signal before pulling slowly away from the curb.

(3)

Remember you do not have the right of way. (Veh. C. Sec. 543)

b.

Park according to local ordinances in cities,

o.

Park with all four wheels off the pavement, whenever possible, on a highway.

Leave an unobstructed width of highway opposite your car if you can not get all four wheels off of the road.

(Veh. G. Sec. 582, 583.)

Hever leave your car until you have stopped the engine and set the hand brake.

(Veh. C. Sec. 575)

You must not stop or park your car in any of the following places: (1)

(Veh. C. Sec. 586)

Within an intersection.

(2) On a crosswalk or sidewalk.' , (3) On the roadway side of any car parked at curb or edge of a highway.

the

(Double parking)

(4) Between safety zone and curb, or along the curb as shown by signs

in space or curb

ma rklngs. (5)

Within 15 feet of the driveway entrance to any fire station.

(6)

In front of a public driveway.

(7)

Beside or opposite any street or highway excavation when such stopping or parking would obstruct traffic.

(8)

In a tube or tunnel, or on a bridge or elevated.

(9)

Within 15 feet of a fire hydrant unless other­ wise Indicated.

ARM SIGNALS: a.

How to use arm signals.

Know your arm signals and where to use them.

t

I

LEFTTURN RIGHTTURN

i

Illustration Is

Arm Signals

b. Give your a m signals with your whole a m through a wide open window to make your intentions clear. o. Before you slow down, turn or change lanes, make sure that you can do so safely, then give the proper a m signal to advise others. d. Put a mechanical arm signal approved by the De­ partment of Motor Vehicles on your oar when an arm signal cannot be seen from the rear because of a trailer. e. Give a m signals at least 50 feet before turning, but it is not necessary to continue the signal while actually turning.

RIGHT-OF-WAY:

How to* know who has the right of way

at intersections. a.

Below are illustrated the most common right-ofway problems*.

White ear driven by you*.

Right-of-way at intersections FlRSTCAR RULE

□

J

SAME fiMp|

RULE ^

Y ielJlo cars in

IYU I J to

C&ron t 'ight

jyrtersectioh

Right-of-way at stop streets ENTERING STOPSrRffT

VfHiHONSToPSTREeT U

Y ie U ip c a r Si op At T/

$/fftand Yield

which has . Vi WAiiina |to enter-

istoppeddndJ

-t6caJrt

approachinj Left turn right-of-way

H E TURNS LEFT \R U L E {

[ITUfiNLFFT RULE

\ Yield t a c a r s in intersect/on* an d S i g n a l »

Illustration 2:

Yi'eM to Cars

approaching

Right-of-way

TRAFFIC IlLNESs a.

How to drive in the proper lane,

Follow these directions for driving in the proper lane. (1) Use the left half of the roadway for passing when it can be done safely on two-lane highways (2) Drive in the lane closest to the right edge of the highway. (3)

(Veh. C. Sec. 544)

On three-lane highway, use center lane for passing'and left turns only.

(4)

Use the other lanes on your side for passing on highways of four or more lanes.

Never

change lanes until it is safe to do so. (5) Stay in your own traffic lane, but if you have to leave it for any reason make sure you can do so safely, then signal. (Veh. C. Sec. 526) CURB MARKINGS! a.

How to park in the right place,

Follow these rules vftien parking at the curb. (1) Red means no stopping, standing or parking. (2) Yellow means stopping for loading or unload­ ing freight or passengers for a limited time only. (3) Ihite means stopping only for loading or unloading freight or passengers for a limited time only.

(4) b.

Green means a time limit parking only.

Park within the parking space markings provided on the street.

c.

Look for curb markings in the following places: (1)

Corners.

(2)

In front of theatres, fire plugs, fire sta­ tion and police station entrances, and hospitals.

EMERGENCY VEHICLES:

How to make way for emergency

vehicles. a.

Drive at once to the right side of the road and stop until the emergency vehicle passes, when you hear a siren.

b.

Avoid stopping in an intersection.

PEDESTRIANS:

How to make allowances in your driving

for pedestrians. a.

Yield the right of way for any pedestrian carrying a white cane or a white cane with a red tip.

b.

Never at any time drive through a safety zone, which is a space set aside for pedestrians and marked by raised buttons, signs or markers on a street or roadway.

c.

Yield the right of way to any pedestrian on a sidewalk you intend to cross.

STOPS:

(Veh. C. Sec. 560.1)

How to know when, where and how to stop.

9

Pedestrians' Right of W a y at Crosswalks

m

A ll vehicles must yield the rig h t of w ay to those pedestrians who a r e crossing the roadw ay w ith in any m arked OR unm arked crosswalk. (V .C . 560[ a ] ) Note that the crosswalk doesn't have to be m arked w ith lines or paint.

“A ” and “B ” m ust stop fo r the pedestrians w ho are crossing in any crosswalk, w h e th e r m a rk e d or u n ­ m a rked . (See Page 22)

Illustration. 3:

Pedestrian Right-of-Way

10 Come to a full stop in the following places and situations. (1)

When entering a through highway from a side road or from a building.

(Veh. C. Secs.

476, 577) (2)

Wherever there is a steady red traffic light or a traffic control signal with the word nST0Pn showing, stop and remain stopped until it turns green or ttOOM . You may turn right against a red light if the traffic permits.

(3)

At railroad MST0Pw signs.

(4)

At railroad crossing where wigwag or flashing signals, gates or watchmen show that a train is approaching.

(5)

When a street car is taking people on or letting them off where there is no safety zone, stop back of the nearest door or land­ ing platform and wait until the people have reached a safe place.

(If the street car

is stopped at a safety zone or if traffic is controlled by an officer or a traffic control signal device, you may go by at a speed of not more than 10 miles per hour provided it is safe to do so.) Sec. 571)

(Veh. C.

11 (6)

When you. come to a school bus that has stopped on the highway outside of a business or residence district to take children on or let them off, you must stop whether you are coming from either direction.

After

you have stopped you may proceed at not more than 10 miles per hour. (7)

Whenever necessary for the safety of pedes­ trians crossing the street.

Do not pass

another car which has halted to permit a pedestrian to cross the street. (8)

Whenever any police officer tells you to.

(9)

If you have a collision or accident, remain at the scene until you have rendered all assistance possible.

b.

Stops are never made without a signal given in advanc e .

9.

SPEED: a.

How to drive at the right speed.

Avoid driving your vehicle upon a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable or prudent, having due regard for the traffic and the surface and width of the highway, and, in no event, at a speed which endangers the safety of persons or property.

b.

(Veh. C. Sec. 510)

Control your speed for greater safety according to the following signs.

12 (1)

Drive 15 miles per hour or less when: (a)

Passing a school building or school grounds during school recess, or while children are entering or leaving school during opening or closing hours, or while the playgrounds are in use by school children.

(b)

Passing a railroad crossing where you can not see the tracks for 400 feet in either direction.

(c)

On a curve when you can not see the road 100 feet ahead.

(d)

At a blind intersection where you can not see cars on the cross street for a distance of 100 feet away.

(2)

Drive 25 miles per hour or less when: (a)

In any business or residence district, except where the limit is 15 miles per hour.

(b)

On the grounds of a school, or Federal, State, county or municipal institution.

(c)

Passing any public park or playground where speed limit signs are set up.

(3)

Drive 45 miles per hour or less when: (a)

Pulling a trailer or semi-trailer behind your car.

(Veh. 0. Sec. 515.5)

(b)

On highways going through cities where signs have been posted.

(4)

Drive 55 miles per hour or less at all other places except where it has been found that this is too fast and signs have been put up showing that only a slower speed is safe.

(5)

Avoid driving at a speed upon a highway that is so slow as to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic.

10.

PASSING: a.

How to overtake other cars in traffic.

Apply these rules when you wish to pass a vehicle on the left. (1)

Where a highway Is divided by a double white line, no passing over the double line is permitted.

Where there is a solid white

line and a broken white line is nearest your side of the road you may pass over the lines, if it can be done safely. (2)

(Veh. C. Sec. 525-b)

Before.you turn out to go around the other car, make sure there is time enough to pass and return to the right-hand lane before meeting any car coming In the other direction.

(5) Pass at a safe distance to the left and do not return to the right-hand lane until you are sure that you are safely out of the way of the driver behind you.

(4)

Give a left-turn signal to tell the driver ahead and the one behind you that you are going to turn out.

(5)

Get baok on the right-hand side of the road­ way before getting dangerously near any car coming from the other direction, and in no case nearer than 100 feet.

(Veh. G. Sec. 530)

(6) Avoid cros & ng to the left side of the high­ way to pass on hills, curves, or within 100 feet of intersections, railways, crossings, bridges, or tunnels.

(Veh. C. Sec. 530)

(7) Never speed up when another vehicle tries to pass you. (8)

(Veh. C. Sec. 528)

Reduce your speed or stop as may be necessary when you meet or overtake any animal or livestock on the highway.

ACCIDENTS AND GRIMES:

(Veh. G. Sec. 532)

How to conduct yourself if you

are involved in an accident of any kind.

(Veh. C.

Secs. 480, 481, 482, 483, 484, 419, 420.9) a.

Stop and render aid.

b.

Notify local law authorities or a California Highway Patrolman if anyone is hurt or killed.

c.

Identify yourself and show your driver license and registration certificate to the other party to the accident.

d.

Make a full written report on the accident to the California Highway Patrol within 24 houra in case of injury or death.

If the accident is in

a city make your report to the local police de­ partment . e.

Make a full written report on departmental report form SR-1 to the Department of Motor Vehicles, Financial Responsibility, Sacramento, within 10 days of any accident involving death, injury or damage in excess.of $100 to the property of any one person, including yourself.

Loss of your

driver1s license may result from failure to do so. f.

If you hit a pa iked car or damage other property, make an effort to find the owner and identify yourself .

If you are not able to do so, leave a

note with your name and address and name and address of the owner of the car you are driving. Notify your local law authorities or the California Highway Patrol within 24 hours. 12.

LICENSE PROTECTION! a.

How to keep your driver’s license.

If you break the laws of the state or show that you are not capable of driving safely your license may be revoked.

b.

Protect your driver's license by avoiding any of the following crimes for which your license may be revoked.

(1)

Manslaughter (killing anybody while driving).

(2)

Driving while drunk so that some one is in­ jured or killed.

(3)

Driving while under the influence of narcotics.

(4)

Any felony in which a motor vehicle is used.

(5)

Hit-and-run driving where some one is injured or killed.

(6)

Reckless driving, drunk driving, or hit-andrun driving, three times within one year or any combination of these charges.

Comply with the written restrictions on your driver's license. If you commit any of the following offences your driver's license will be revoked by the juvenile court judge: (1)

Driving a car while under the influence of liquor or drugs.

(2)

Reckless driving.

(3)

Hit-and-run driving.

(4)

Violated the speed law twice within six months.

(5)

Stolen a motor vehicle or used one in com­ mitting a felony.

(6)

Manslaughter (killing anyone while driving).

You must never:

17 (1)

Garry or have in your possession any canceled, suspended, revoked or false operator1s li­ cense.

(2)

Lend your operator’s license to any other person or permit them to use it.

(3)

Use an operator's license issued to some one els e.

(4)

Use a false or fictitious name in applying for an operator's license.

(5)

Give a wrong or false age in applying for a license.

(6)

Have a picture or copy of your license made which looks enough like a license to have it mistaken for one.

13.

SOURCES FOR THIS CHAPTER:

Where to get further

assis tance. a.

Vehicle Gode, State of California.

b.

Vehicle Code Summary, State of California.

o.

The Uniform Vehicle Code. U. S. Public Roads Administration, Washington, D. C., 1945.

C.

ACTIVITY ASSIGNMENTS:

Projects to aid you in passing the

written license examination. 1.

PERFORM: tion.

Take the written operator's license examina­

18 2.

MAKE UP:

Answer with a question concerning the motor

vehicle code as your name is called for roll to test your familiarity with the code. 3.

OBSERVATION!

Record the number and kinds of traffic

law violations in a definite locality over a period of time and then you will he more familiar with the questions that may he asked in the operator’s license examination. 4.

ATTEND TRAFFIC COURT:

Visit the court to find out

what the common violations are and then return to class and determine ways you can keep yourself from "being a violator. EVALUATION:

Samples of ways in which you can test your­

self on the written examination. 1.

TRUE-FALSE:

’' or false. T F a. ( ) ( )

Place an X in the correct space for true

You may park your'car in a green zone for a limited time.

b.

( )( )

You must come to a full stop before you pass a school bus stopped on either side of the highway, outside a business or residence district, to take on or let off children.

c.

( )( )

You may pass another car which has stopped at a crosswalk for a pedestrian.

19 d.

T F ( ) ( )

Iflfrien driving on a highway with several lanes you should straddle the white line, driving in two lanes at onoe.

e.

( ) ( ) You should finish a right turn as close to the right hand side of the road as you can.

f.

( ) ( )If you have an injury accident, whether your fault or not, it is your duty to make a written report to the California Highway Patrol, or the local police de­ partment .

g.

( ) ( ) You must bring your car to a full stop whenever necessary for the safety of anyone walking across the street.

h.

( ) { ) You should not park your car facing the wrong way, even in front of your own home*

i.

( ) ( ) The speed limit in a business or resi­ dence district is 35 miles per hour,

j.

( ) ( ) You are breaking the law and making an accident possible if you cut the comers on your left turns,

k.

( ) ( ) You may leave your car parked with the motor running if you are coming back to the car In a few minutes.

A person whose license Is restricted to wearing glasses may have the license taken away from him if he drives without glasses. You may cross a double white line if the broken line is on your side. Two cars reach an intersection at the same time.

A car coming from your right

must wait for you.

CHAPTER 2.

SLOW CURVE

HOW TO REC00NI2E TRAFFIC SIGNS AND SIGNALS A.

MOTIVATION:

Outcomes of recognizing traffic signs and

signals.

1.

MORE COMFORT;Quick recognition of signs

and traffic

signals makes your driving smoother. 2.

SAFER ACTION:

The quicker you see a sign orsignal

the sooner you can do something about it. 3.

EASE IN PASSING THE OPERATOR’S EXAMINATION;

A high

score on sign and signal recognition insures your chances of getting an operator's license. B.

DIRECTIONS:

Suggestions on how to pass the traffic signs

and signal test. 1.

ROAD SIGNS: a.

How to interpret signs.

Come to a full stop at an intersection where you .see a stop sign which is eight sided with' white letters on a red background.

b.

Slow down or stop, whichever is necessary, when you see either one of the following railroad crossing signs. (1)

The round white sign with two HR ’sM and black crossbars is placed at some distance from crossings to warn you that you are coming to the tracks.

(2)

The large signs with white crossbars of wood are placed adjacent to the tracks and always locate the exact position of the tracks for you.

Drive with extra care when you see caution signs which are of the following kinds: (1)

Men working.

(2)

Crossroads.

(3)

Slide area.

Decrease your speed considerably when you see diamond-shaped yellow signs with black letters or markings.

Some of these are:

(1)

Stop sign ahead.

(2)

Narrow bridge.

(3)

ttSw curve.

(4)

Sharp curves to the right or left.

Follow the directions given on regulating signs, which are usually oblong in shape with black letters or black with white letters. the more common kinds are: (1)

Speed limit signs.

(2)

Parking signs.

(3)

No left turn signs.

(4)

Keep to the right signs.

(5)

No U turn signs.

Some of

23 f.

Obey orders from a police officer even though you may believe his orders are against the laws, signs, or traffic signals.

2.

TRAFFIC SIGNALS: a.

How to obey traffic signals.

Be familiar with the following types of traffic signals, that are placed where there are special dangers where important streets or highways cross. (1)

Semaphores

It has two arms that swing up

one at a time. STOP on it.

One is red and has the word

The other is white and has the

word GO on it.

Red and green lights are

usually on the upright post so that they can be seen at night. (2)

Dual light:

It has a red and a green light

near the top of the sign pole.

These change

intermittently to control the flow of traffic. Stop on the red light and go on the green li ght. (3)

Triple light:

It has a red light at the

top, amber in the middle, and green at the bottom.

The amber light is a warning to

clear the intersection just before the lights change from GO or green to STOP or red.

24

Y ield in g to Those W ith in In tersectio n A ll vehicles startin g a f­ te r signal changes fro m “Stop” to “Go” m ust yield the rig h t of w ay to other vehicles and to pedestrians la w fu lly w ith in the intersection or adjacent crosswalks OP SIGNAL at the tim e o f t h e change of signal. (V .C . 476 [ a ] -1 .) O ftentim es vehicles and pedestrians are de­ layed w hen crossing and they should be allow ed to clear the intersection or reach a point of safety. “A ” m ust y ie ld to “23” and “P ”, both being la w fu lly w ith in th e intersection at the tim e the signal changed .

Illustration 4:

Yielding to Those Within Intersection

b.

Inter* with extreme caution all intersections where there are signals.

They are a warning that

danger exists at that particular place. c.

Pay strict attention to the smaller pedestrian signals when you are walking.

d.

Look for wigwag signals at railroad and street car crossings on highways. approaching trains.

They warn you of

Always stop if the wigwag

is going back and forth; if there is no train in sight you may then proceed. 3.

SOURCES FOR THIS CHAPTER:

Where to get further as­

sistance . a.

American Automobile Association:

Manual on Uni­

form Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways.

National Conference on Street and

Highway Safety. b. C.

Washington, D. G.

1937.

Vehicle Code, State of California.

ACTIVITY ASSIGNMENTS:

Pro.ieots to perfect your ability

to recognize road sign3 and traffic signals. 1. SPEED TESTS:

Practise recognition by having road

signs of different shapes and colors flashed very quickly on a screen. 2.

CHARTS:

Make up a chart showing the

of signs and their shapes and colors learning what they mean.

five major types to aid you in

26 3.

OBSERVE:

Take a trip in a school bus to different

locations to see where different kinds of road signs and traffic signals are used and then you will know what kind to expect in different locations. D.

EVALUATION:

Samples of ways in which you can test your­

self on sign recognition and traffic signals. 1.

TRUE-FALSE:

Place an X in the correct space for true

or false. T F a. ( )( ) Caution signs are always used so that you will see places where you must drive with extra care. b.

( )

( )

Regulating signs are signs such as: signal ahead, divided highway, slow.

2.

BEST ANSWER:

Place the number of the hest answer in

the parentheses. -a.

( )

A flashing red light means you should (1) ' slow down to a safe speed and'go on by; (2) come to a complete stop; (3) slow down, shift to second gear and if everything is clear go on by; (4) stop and then wait for the light to turn green,

b.

( )

Slow signs are usually in the shape of (1) a square (2) an oblong (3) a diamond (4) a circle.

27 CHAPTER 3.

YOUR CONDITION

HOW TO DISCOVER YOUR PSYCHO-PHYSICAL DEFICIENCIES AND CORRECT THEM A.

MOTIVATION:

Advantages of discovering your psycho­

physical deficiencies. 1.

ELIMINATION OF PHYSICAL HA2ARDS:

You can discover

and correct physical deficiencies under safe conditions. 2.

DISCOVER WEAKNESSES:

You can prevent an accident in

the future if you recognize your weak points now. 3.

ADJUSTMENT:

It is possible for you to make allowances

in your driving for physical handicaps you can not correct. B.

DIRECTIONS:Suggestions on how

to discover your psycho­

physical deficiencies and correct them. 1.

CLEARNESS OF VISION: a.

How to check your visual acuity.

Test your eyes by reading a Snellen eye chart. If you can read the letters that are .349 of an inch high at a distance of 20 feet you have 20/20 vision.

b.

State licensing agencies consider visual acuity of such importance that

the minimum requirement

is 20/30 or 50 per cent vision. c.

If your visual acuity is less that 75 per cent you should have your eyes corrected by glasses after a consultation with an oculist or optometrist.

dL.

Evidences that suggest visual difficulties: (1)

Forward thrusting of the head.

(2)

Tilting of the head.

(3)

Eyes filling with tears.

(4)

Frowning or scowling.

(5)

Puckering of the face.

(6)

Closing one eye during the test of both eyes together.

FIELD OF VISION:

How to determine how far on either

side you can see while looking straight ahead. a.

Have another student give you the field of vision test.

b.

Follow this procedure: (1)

Place the device on an ordinary table, 30 inches high, with chairs on either side.

(2)

Sit in front of the device and place your nose in the notch so that your eyes are at the same level as the spot on the movable object.

(3)

Keep your eyes focused on the center disk and watch out of the corner of your eyes until you see one of the white dots on either side of the device.

(4)

When you first see one of the dots say so quickly so the operator will stop moving it.

(5)

Repeat at least four times with each eye, and record the number of degrees for each trial.

(6)

If your average is less that 140 degrees your field of vision is below normal.

c.

Compensate for tunnel vision by turning your head from side to side when you are driving through intersections and other places where danger may come from the sides.

d.

Make the following allowances for limited field of vision: (1)

Slow down and operate your car with greater caution at Intersections and side roads.

(2)

Give extra clearance to cars when passing on streets and highways.

(3)

Be especially careful of pedestrians stepping out from between parked cars.

DEPTH PERCEPTION:

How to discover your ability to

make judgments of space and distance. a.

Have another student give you the depth perception test.

b.

Follow this procedure: (1)

Place a chair 20 feet from the front of the devic e.

(2)

Sit in the chair with the car strings in your hands.

30 (3) You should be able to see the tops of the cars, but not the floor of the device over which the cars are situated. (4)

Place the movable car at the front end of the device.

(5)

Place the rear of the fixed car at the zero point on the scale.

(6) Move the car slowly until you think the cars are exactly lined up and then say: nLined up.tf (7)

How line up the rear of the-car with the stop sign.

(8)

Take three complete trials before asking for any of the results.

(9)

Add the three distances of lining up the two cars for one mark and the distances of lining up with the stop sign for the second mark.

c.

If your score is three inches or more it indicates a deficiency in distance judgment.

d.

Give special attention to your driving when you are: (1)

Overtaking and passing cars.

(2)

Parking and backing in small spaces.

(3)

Stopping.

(4)

Maintaining a safe distance between cars.

GLARE RESISTANCE:

How to te3t your ability to resist

glare or the amount of time to recover from glare. a.

Take the Glare Resistance Test.

b.

Follow this procedure: (1)

Look into the device until you can identify the letter to which the indicator is pointing.

(2)

See how many other letters you can identify.

(3)

As the bright light is flashed on for five seconds keep your eyes open.

(4)

After the light is turned off read the letter to which the indicator is pointing.

(5)

Record the time in seconds taken to read the letter after the light is turned out.

c.

Have the following things in mind while driving at night if your glare resistance is not normal. (1)

A period of blindness occurs when your eyes are struck by the glare of oncoming head­ lights and a certain period of time is needed for glare recovery.

(2)

Your car travels a considerable distance during the period of time required for your eyes to recover from the effect of glare.

(3)

A deficiency in Vitamin A significantly con­ tributes toward glare blindness.

32 REACTION TIME:

How to discover the length of time

it takes to move the right foot from the accelerator to the brake In response to a visual stimulus. a.

Test your reaction time on the reactometer.

b.

Follow this procedure: (1)

Sit in front of the device at a comfortable distance so that you can freely move your right foot from the accelerator to the brake,

(2)” Keep your foot on the accelerator until you see the red flash, then immediately step on the brake pedal. (3)

Take two or three trials to get used to the type of reaction needed.

(4)

Repeat the test at least five times and take an average to get your score.

c.

If your score is .55 second you have a normal reaction time.

d.

Take great care in your driving if your reaction time is more than .75 of a second.

e.

Stress the following when you consider reaction time in your driving. (1)

Everyone requires time to react.

(2)

A car covers considerable distance in the space of time required for you to react and the brakes to hold.

33 (3)

Effective control of a car depends upon anticipating difficulties, slower speeds, and good brakes, rather than upon unusually fast reaction time.

(4)

If you have a slow reaction time you can compensate by slower driving, and allowing more space between your car and the preced­ ing car.

6.

SOURCES EOR THIS CHAPTER:

Where to get further

assistance. a. Driver Testing Devices,

Construction and Use.

Association of Casualty and Surety Companies. 60 John Street, New York 7, N. Y. b.

Sportsmanlike Driving.

Chapters III, IV, V.

c. Instruction Manual for Driver Tests. Engineering and Safety Department. Automobile Association. C.

ACTIVITY ASSIGNMENTS:

Traffic American

Washington 6, D.C., 1949.

Experiences that will help you to

realize the Importance of your physical deficiencies and capabilities. 1.

DISCOVERY:

Take the various psycho-physical tests and

find out what the physical requirements are to be a top notch driver. 2.

OBSERVATION:

When you are driving or riding in a

car with someone else notice the necessity for quick

34 reactions, distance judgment, glare recovery, good visual acuity, and field of vision. D.

EVALUATION:

Samples of ways in which you can test the

significance of physical fitness. 1.

TRUE-FALSE:

Place X in the correct space for true

or false. T F a. ( ) ( )

The hest way to discover your physical fitness for driving is to get into a car and see how you react to different driving situations as you are behind the wheel.

b.

( ) ( )

Your reaction time always remains the same regardless of the time of day, health, and degree of fatigue.

2.

BEST ANSWER:

Place the number of the best answer in

the parentheses. a. ( )

The proper time to discover physical defi­ ciencies is:

(1) After you have your

driver’s license; (2) before you start to drive; (3) it makes no difference; (4) after you have had a serious accident. b.

( )

The best way to correct wtunnel vision’* is to:

(1) Wear glasses; (2) eat more carrots;

(3) stay out of tunnels; (4) turn your head from side to side at danger zones.

*lku£T\ SAFE OLIVER.,,

f t

JF

cbliArtr

J

k

h

•

36

. UNIT II.

ACTION

How would you like to learn how to drive?

With a license

in your hand you are now going to prepare yourself for step­ ping behind the wheel of a nice shiny new dual-control car. You will have the opportunity of learning how to drive under the supervision and direction of a trained Instructor.

Learn

each step thoroughly before gping to the next and practice exactly as you want to perform.

The progress that you make

will mark the difference between the beginner and the experi­ enced driver.

This Is your chance to learn the safe way.

CHAPTER 4.

GADGETS

HOW TO CHECK YOUR CAR BEFORE STARTING A.

MOTIVATION:

Values received from checking your car before

starting. 1. SAVE TIME:

By checking your car before you start

you eliminate the necessity of a later stop for service. 2. PREVENT UNNECESSARY DAMAGE:

A quick look at the

instrument panel and tires will tell you the immedi­ ate needs of your car. 3. STOP DEFECTS:

The safety devices on your car are

for your protection; you should be conscious of their condition. B.

DIRECTIONS:

Key points to guide you in cheeking over

your ear. 1.

GAUGES:

How to check your car by reading its instru­

ments . a.

Check the gasoline gauge frequently and save a long walk to a filling station.

b.

Check the temperature gauge to determine the temperature that the engine is running. (1)

The engine runs best when the water in the engine is between 160 and 180 degrees.

(2)

If the temperature runs above 180 degrees check the amount of water in the radiator.

(3)

Water from the radiator is pumped through it constantly to help prevent overheating.

(4)

The temperature gauge indicates the tempera­ ture of the water.

Look for one or more of the following things if the temperature gauge shows excessive temperature (1)

Insufficient water in the radiator.

(2)

A "broken or slipping fan belt.

(3)

A clogged, punctured, soft, or weakened hose

(4)

A leaking radiator.

(5)

A worn or broken water pump.

(6)

Rust clogging the radiator.

(7)

Insufficient oil in the crankcase.

Check the oil pressure gauge to see the pounds of pressure in the oil system. (1)

Low oil pressure may result in burned out bearings.

(2)

The oil gauge does not indicate the exact amount of oil in the crankcase.

(3)

Low oil pressure on the gauge may indicate need for oil in the crankcase.

(4)

If the oil supply is low the oil becomes too hot and does not lubricate efficiently.

Check the ammeter to see what is happening to the car's battery.

(1)

The battery provides a reservoir of electric energy produced by the generator.

(2) The ammeter tells whether this supply is being reduced or built up. (3) The needle on the ammeter will point to charge if the engine is running and the generator is charging the battery. (4) The needle on the ammeter will indicate discharge if the engine is running but the electric energy is being used faster than the generator is producing it. (5) If the engine is not running and any of the electrical devices are being used it will discharge the battery very rapidly. SAFBTY AIDS:

How to use the safety devices on your

car. a.

Locate the light switch on your car.

b.

Move the switch to various positions to find: (1) Parking lights on. (2) Head lights on. (3) All lights off.

c.

Use the dimmer switch which is on the floor board to lower the light beam when you are approaching other cars.

40 d.

Turn on the lights and then check to see if the tail lights and stop lights are working.

e.

Adjust the rear view mirrors before starting so that you can see to the rear while driving.

f . Know the conditions behind your car when you want to: (1)

Stop or slow down.

(2) Pass other vehicles. (3) Park. (4) Pull out from parking. (5) Make a right or left turn. (6) Turn your car around. (7) g.

Change from one lane to another.

Locate the knob for turning on the windshield wiper.

h.

Keep good rubber blades on your windshield wipers to give a clear windshield in “dirty weather."

i.

Adjust the sun visors when you find the sun's glare is making it difficult for you to see.

j.

Use the horn only when necessary,

k.

Don’t attempt to "blow" pedestrians or cars out of your way.

3.

STARTING DEVICES:

How to use the devices for starting

the engine. a.

Locate the Ignition switch.

(1)

Insert the key and turn.

(2)

Hfhen you turn the key the electrical current necessary to start the car is made available

(3)

Notice the pointer on the anmeter switch.

Find the starter switch. (1)

The electric motor \nhich turns over the engine is put into operation by pressing on the starter button after the ignition has been turned on.

(2) Never press the starting button when the engine is running. (3) A glance at your ammeter or oil pressure gauge will tell you if the engine is running Locate the choke. (1) A cold engine requires more gasoline. (2) The choke button does this by reducing the amount of air going into the carburetor. (3) Many cars now have automatic chokes which adjust themselves without the help of the driver. Locate the hand throttle. (1) It is used to regalate the flow of gas to the engine when the accelerator can not be used.

(2)

Don’t ever drive along on the open highway using the hand throttle.

(3)

Use the hand throttle when starting on a hill.

CONTROL DEVICES: How to use the mechanisms that con­ trol the car. a.

Locate the steering wheel. (1) When it is wheels are (2) When it is wheels are

turned to. the right the front turned to the right. turned to the left the front turned to the left.

(3) When the car is moving it will go in the direction the wheels are turned. b.

Locate the clutch pedal. (1) The clutch is used to connect the power of the engine to the rear wheels. (2) Depressing the clutch disconnects the power of the engine from the rear wheels. (3) Allowing the clutch pedal to come up all the way connects the power of the engine to the rear wheels. (4) The clutch pedal is operated by the left foot.

c.

Use the clutch pedal: (1) When shifting from one gear to another.

(2)

With the brakes, when bringing the car to a s top.

(3)

When starting the engine.

(4)

When backing.

Locate the gear-shift lever. (1)

It is used to change the position of certain gears so the car will travel in low gear, second gear, high gear, reverse, or be in neutral.

(2)

The gear-shift lever must not be used with­ out using the clutch pedal at the same time.

Locate the accelerator. (1)

It controls the amount of gas fed into the engine and thereby regulates the speed.

(2)

It Is operated by varying pressure of the right foot.

(3)

Learn to use the accelerator smoothly for good s teady flowing driving.

Locate the foot brake pedal. (1)

The foot brake is operated by the right foot.

(2)

The foot brake pedal operates the brakes on all four wheels at once.

(3)

The brakes stop or slow down the car.

Locate the hand brake or parking brake.

(1)

This "brake is used in parking and in start­ ing on hills.

(2)

It is operated by pulling it back with the hand.

(3)

Always release this brake fully before starting.

5.

SOURCES FOR THIS CHAPTER:

How to get additional

information. a.

Get the user's guide from your automobile dealer.

b.

A Power Primer.

General Motors Corporation.

Detroit, Michigan. c.

1944.

"When the Wheels Revolve. ment, General Motors.

C.

Technical Data Depart­

Detroit, Michigan.

1944.

ACTIVITY ASSIGNMENTS: Experiences that will help you understand how to check your car before starting. 1.

DRAW:

Make a drawing of what you see as you sit

behind the steering wheel of your car and look at the driver *s compartment, so that you will become acquainted with the exact location of all the de­ vices and instruments. 2.

DRIVE:

Take your first lesson in the driver training

car, which is to get behind the wheel and locate and use the devices and instruments in the driver’s com­ partment.

45 D.

EVALUATION:

Samples of ways you can check yourself on

your ability to check your car. 1.

TRUE-FALSE:

Place an X in the correct space for true

or false. T F a. ( ) ( ) Youshould always check the water in the radiator before taking a long trip. b.

( ) ( ) Always turn off the engine when putting water in the radiator.

c.

( ) ( ) You

do not have to put water in the battery

as long as the ammeter shows charge. d.

{ ) ( ) You

should always check the oil level when

the oil pressure gauge shows a low pressure. 2.

BEST ANSWER:

Place the number of the best answer in

the parentheses. a.

( ) It is not good practice to use the electrical devices unless the engine (1)

is running because:

It wears out the generator; (2) it wears

out the device too rapidly; (3) it runs down the battery; (4) it uses up the water in the radiator. b.

( ) When using the gear-shift

lever you should:

(1) Look at the gear-shift lever to make sure that you put it in the right gear; (2) always use the clutch

at the same time;

(3) put on the brake; (4)

use your left hand.

46 CHAPTER 5.

LET'S GO!

HOW TO START, STOP, AND STEER A.

MOTIVATION:

Results of learning how to start, atop, and

steer. 1.

BETTER TOUCH:

Your acquaintance with the location

of levers and control devices will make your driving better. 2.

GREATER CONTROL;

You will not be hampered by gallop­

ing a tarts. 3.

A CLEAR MIND;

Automatic response to the needs of

your car leaves your mind clear for the needs of traffic. 4.

SAVE JANGLED NERVES:

Nervous tension is greatly re­

duced by skillful handling of the car. 5.

PREVENT GEAR CLASHING:

A good understanding of how

to shift gears shows skill in driving. B.

DIRECTIONS:

Techniques to guide you in learning how to

start, stop, and steer. 1.

STARTING: a.

How to set the car in motion,

Start the engine. (1)

Press down the clutch with the left foot.

(2)

Make sure, with the right hand, that the gear-shift lever is in neutral.

(3)

Turn on the ignition switch with the right hand.

(4)

Push the starter button.

(5)

Release the starter button as the engine starts.

(6)

Give the engine just enough gas to make it run.

(7)

Push the accelerator down and let it up slowly and smoothly to get used to the pressure needed to regulate the speed of the engine.

Shift into low gear. (1)

Press the clutch pedal all the way to the floor.

(2)

With the palm up, raise the gear-shift lever toward the steering wheel, and then pull it back toward you into low gear.

(See 111. 5.)

(3)

Release hand brake.

(4)

Push down the accelerator easily to increase the running speed of the engine slightly.

(5)

Let the clutch pedal up slowly until it reaches the friction point, hold it at that point, and as the car gains momentum, let the clutch pedal out all the way gradually.

(6)

Increase the pressure on the accelerator with your rigjat foot to pick up more speed.

Neutral rS9~n

‘U

Reparse "Tm~i I ~m^Second

I

/ 'OU— [-/Veut^aZ. ./•j

pa,?h

iLffJf'High'

L ow ;

«L ^

/

/ Courtesy

Illustration 5:

ofA.A-A.

Gear-shift Lever Positions

(7) If the car seems to gallop and jump push the clutch pedal in quickly and start over again. Steer the car In as straight a line as possible. You will probably over steer at first. (1) Turning the steering wheel to the right makes the car move to the right. (2) Turning the steering wheel to the left makes the car move to the left. (3) Keep your eyes on the road even when using the pedals and levers. (4) Always drive on the right hand side of the road. (5) Place your hands somewhere near the ten minutes to four position on the steering wheel. Stop the car in low gear. (1)

Press the clutch pedal with the left foot.

(2)

Take your right foot off the accelerator at the s ame time .

(3) Move the right foot to the brake pedal and press on it slowly and with a smooth, gradual increase until the car has almost come to a full stop. (4)

Release the brake pressure a bit for a smooth

50 (5)

With the clutch still depressed shift to neutral after you have come to a complete stop.

(6) e.

Release the clutch pedal.

Shift from low to second and second to high gears. (1)

Gain momentum in low gear.

(2)

Press the clutch pedal all the way to the , floor with the left foot and at the same time take the pressure off the accelerator.

(5)

With the palm down move the gear-shift lever forward and down away from you into second gear.

(4)

(See 111. 5)

Allow the clutch pedal to come up gradually and when it reaches the friction point press on the accelerator.

(5)

Pick up more speed.

(5)

Press the clutch pedal all the way to the floor and let up on the accelerator at the same time.

(7)

With palm down, move the gear-shift lever straight hack into high gear.

(8)

Allow the clutch pedal to come up gradually and press on the accelerator as the clutch reaches the friction point.

(9)

Accelerate to a safe speed.

Keep your eyes on the road at all times during the shifting procedure and stay on the right half of the roadway. Observe the following practices which tend to make gear-shifting skillful: (1) Keep the left foot poised on the clutch pedal until you have completed the shifting procedure. (2) Keep the right hand on the knob of the gear­ shift lever until you have completed the gear-shifting procedure. (3) Attain a speed of approximately 8 miles an hour in low gear before shifting to high. (4) Attain a speed of approximately 15 miles an hour in second gear before shifting to high* (5) Complete the entire shifting procedure within 12 seconds or 175 feet. Shift into second from high gear when you can keep your car in better control by doing so. (1) Release the pressure on the accelerator. (2)

Simultaneously press down on the clutch pedal.

(3) With the palm down push the gear-shift lever forward and down into second gear. (4) Pressonn the accelerator pedal to increase the speed of the engine.

52 (5)

Release the clutch pedal at the same time that you press on the accel© rator.

i.

Shift from high gear to second when: (1)

On a very steep upgrade or downgrade.

(2)

On any upgrade where it is necessary to slow down behind slow-moving traffic.

(3)

Entering and crossing busy or blind inter­ sections .

(4)

Preparing to make sharp turns,

(5)

Preparing to cross railroad tracks on an upgrade.

2.

STOPPING: a.

How to stop in high gear.

Make the proper stop signal in plenty of time to warn others in back of you.

b.

Follow this procedure. (1)

Let up on the accelerator.

(2)

Apply brake evenly.

(3)

As the car is rolling to the stop, press down on the clutch pedal.

(4) 0.

After the car has stopped, shift into neutral.

ACTIVITY ASSIGNMENTS:

Exercises that will help you master

the difficulties of starting, stopping, and steering. 1.

Take lesson two in the driver training car, which is how to start, stop, and steer.

2.

Practice the procedures of starting, stopping, and steering in your family car as it is standing in your dri veway.

3.

Build a mock-up in the classroom with a clutch pedal, accelerator, brake pedal, gear-shift lever, and steering wheel so that you can get the sequence of movements worked out.

D.

EVALUATION: 1.

Samples of questions you might ask yourself.

TRUE-FALSE:

Place an X in the correct space for

true or false. T F a. ( ) ( ) Coordination of the hands and feet is necessary for making smooth starts and stop3. b.

{ )

( ) You are likely to over steer when you first start to drive.

2.

RATING SCALE:

Place an X in the spaces for which

you qualify. a.

( )

You can move or inch the car forward with smooth control by slipping the clutch.

b.

( ) You can drive in the right lane and steer st rai ght.

c.

( ) You can hold any speed under 25 m.p.h. without the engine jerking or bucking.

54 d.

( )

You can stop correctly, without stalling the engine, from any speed under 25 miles per hour and while using any of the forward gears.

e.

( )

You can perform all driving operations with­ out looking at any controls, keeping eyes on the road.

55 CHIP TEH 6.

HE WENT "THfcT-A-WAY. m

HOW TO MANEUVER YOUR GAR A.

MOTIVATIONS Rewards of learning how to maneuver your oar properly. 1.

FEWER TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS:

Proper maneuvering of your

car will not attract unfavorable attention from traffic officers. 2.

FEWER ACCIDENTS: You can usually be the one to pre­ vent an accident by handling your car properly.

3.

SATISFACTION OF PASSENGERS:

Your passengers will

not have the tendency to be back seat drivers, nor will they be nervous wrecks at your destination. 4.

BETTER FORM:

You will not be marked as a wdubtt

driver by your friends. 5.

EASE IN

PARKING: Youwill be able to park quickly

and not embarrass yourself with several tries. B.

DIRECTIONS: Suggestions on good driving form when maneuvering your car. 1.

TURNING CORNERS:

How to make right, left, and U

turns. a.

When making right turns: (1) Be sure your car Is in the proper lane, the lane closest to the right side of the roadway. (2)

Make the proper signal for a right turn at least 50 feet before you start your turn.

56 (3)

Start turning when your front wheels are opposite the point where the curb begins to curve.

(4)

Use the hand-over-hand technique.

(5)

Let the steering wheel slip through your hands gradually to straighten up the car aft er the tur n .

(6 )

Make final adjustment in position in the lane closest to the curb after completion of the right turn.

(7)

Sometimes it is necessary to shift into second gear when making a turn.

Always

shift gears before starting to turn, b.

When making left turns; (1)

Start left turns from the lane nearest the middle of the street.

(2)

Make the proper left hand turn signal.

(3)

Start the turn at the time when the front wheels pass through the pedestrian crosswalks.

(4)

Avoid cutting the corners too soon.

(5)

You should wait until after all approaching traffic near enough to interfere with the turn has passed,

e.

When making U turns;

(1 ) Make sure that a U turn is permissible by law.

57

T u rning W h e n Unsafe No person shall tu rn a vehicle F R O M A D I­ S hbmhi R E C T C O U R SE OR M O VE R IG H T OR LE FT UPON A RO AD­ / W A Y unless and u n til C T such m ovem ent can be made w ith reasonable safety and then only a f­ te r the giving of an ap­ propriate signal. (V .C . 544[ a ] ) The responsibility is upon the d riv e r who is tu rn in g to exercise extrem e cau­ tion to m ake sure it is safe to turn.

■ 5

I

mjrt

“ A ” m ust a llo w A L L cars to pass before tu rn in g into d riv e w a y or a lle y .

Illustration 6:

Turning When Unsafe

(2) In the country, be certain that the spot is far enough away from hillcrests or curves. (3) In a city, make sure that no vehicles, pedestrians, playing children, or animals can get in your way. (4) Slow down and make a left-hand turn signal. (5) Stay as close to the center of the highway or street as possible. (6) Make sure that no car is going to try to pass you on the left before you start your turn. (7) Judge your turning time so that you will clear all curbings. (8) Look back out the window as you enter into each lane of traffic. When turning around in the width of the street: (1) Stop the car as close to the right-hand side of the pavement as possible. (2)

Be sure that the way is clear both ahead and behind.

(3) Give the signal for a left turn. (4) Go forward in low gear.

Turn the steering

wheel to the left as far and as fast as necessary to bring the car to position Me.tt (See 111. ,7.)

59 (5)

Ifhen the front wheels are about two feet from the curb and the car la still moving very slowly, start turning the steering wheel to the right.

(6)

Back the car slowly, turning the steering wheel as far to the right as necessary to bring the car into position Mf.M

(7)

Go forward in low gear, turning the steering wheel to the. le ft .

(8)

If this step does not bring the car into correct position on the right side of the road, repeat the procedure as many times as necessary.

T

•v

Illustration 7s Turning Around on a Narrow Street

P4RKING: a.

How to park your car.

When you angle park your cars (1)

Observe traffic conditions both ahead and behind.

(2)

Signal your intention of slowing down.

(3)

Move your car to the left at least five feet to get into position to clear other parked cars when entering the parking space.

(4)

Steer sharply to the right, centering your car in the parking space.

(5)

Continue forward slowly until the front wheel touches the curb lightly.

(6)

Place the gear-shift lever in reverse, pull on the hand brake, turn off the ignition, roll up the windows, and lock the car doors after you have made sure that you have the key3 with you.

(7)

To back out of the space, move slowly with great care and be sure that no car Is approaching in the lane into which you are backing.

b.

When you parallel parks (1)

Drive toward parking stall and give correct hand signal.

(2)

Stop about

feet away from the car ahead

of the parking apace, with the rear bumper about 2 feet ahead of rear bumper of the parked car. (3)

Back very slowly by slipping the clutch; at the same time turn the steering wheel quickly and sharply to the right as far as it will go.

Continue backing until the right front

wheel of your car is in line with the rear bumper of the car ahead. (4)

Turn the steering wheel abruptly and sharply to the left as far as it will go and continue backing very slowly until the right rear wheel of the car is about eight inches from the curb.

(5)

Drive forward very slowly while turning the steering wheel quickly and sharply to the right.

(6)

Center the car in the parking stall, lining it up parallel to the curb.

(7)

Never turn the wheels of the car unless the car is moving.

When you drive out of the parallel parking space;

(1 ) Back the car very slowly until it is within three or four inches of the front bumper of the car behind.

62 (2)

Drive forward slowly, turning the steering wheel sharply to the left.

(3)

Back car very slowly, turning the steering wheel sharply to the right.

(4)

Drive forward slowly, steering sharply to the left into the correct lane of traffic.

(5)

Make a signal and look hack before pulling into lane of traffic.

3.

BACKINGS a.

How to back your car.

Turn around in your seat so that you can look out the rear window or out the side window.

b.

Keep both hands near the top of the wheel.

c.

If you want the car to move to the left pull down with your left hand.

d.

If you want the car to move to the right pull down with your right hand.

e.

Keep slipping your hands near the top of the steering wheel.

f.

The rear view mirror is not a substitute for looking backward out one of the windows.

g.

Slipping the clutch a little permits absolute control in starting to back.

4.

SOURCES FOR THIS CHAPTER:

Where to get further assist

ance. a. Check over your vehicle code summary.

b.

Kramer, Milton D.: Behind the Wheel* University Press.

c. G.

New York

New York, 1945.

Sportsmanlike Driving, pp. 252-264 inclusive.

ACTIVITY ASSIGNMENTS: Experiences that will make your turning, parking, and backing easier. 1.

PRACTICE:

Go out in the driver training car and per­

form behind the wheel. 2.

CRITICIZE: As you are riding in the driver training car or with someone else notice the manner in which they maneuver and then correct the mistakes you saw when you have an opportunity to drive.

3.

SKETCH:

Make a series of drawings to go in your

notebook showing the proper positions for various turns, parking methods, etc. D.

EVALUATION:

Samples of some types of check-ups which

may be used to check your progress. 1.

TRUE-FALSE:

Place an X In the correct space for

true or false. T F a. ( ) ( ) Always make a left turn from the lane closest to the right hand side of the street or highway. b.

( ) ( )

It is permissible to make a U turn at any intersection.

2.

RATING SCALE: you qualify.

Place an X in the spaces for which

)

Do you give correct signal well in advance of making tlie turn?

)

Do you complete your turns with car in the correct lane?

)

Do you decrease car speed before, not after, starting the turn?

)

When you are backing, do you slip the clutch properly for control?

)

Press down on the clutch pedal before the brakes are applied when stopping in reverse?

)

Keep body and head in best position for good seeing?

)

Keep looking to the rear as long as the car is moving backward?

CHAPTER 7.

THE OPEN ROAD

HOW TO DRIVE ON TWO, THREE, AND FOUR-LANE HIGHWAYS A.

MOTIVATION:

Results of using proper driving habits on

two, three, and, four-lane highways. 1. BETTER ALL AROUND DRIVER:

You will add to your skill

behind the wheel. 2. APPROVAL OF OTHERS:

Your friends who see your driving

will judge you by your driving ability. 3. REPLACE BAD HABITS:

Here is an opportunity to find

out what is wrong with your driving. 4. GREATER OPPORTUNITY TO DRIVE:

Your parents will con­

sent much more quickly to your using the car with this additional skill. B.

DIRECTIONS:

Suggestions on how to develop your skill in

handling the oar on the open highway. 1.

FOLLOWING:

How to drive in relation to the car ahead

of you, a.

The distance at which it is safe to follow another car depends on: (1)

Speed.

(2)

Road.

(3)

Traffic.

(4)

Weather conditions.

(5)

Condition of your car.

(6)

Your alertness and reaction time.

66 b.

You must stay far enough behind to allow for the time lag after you see an emergency until you can get your foot onto the brake.

c.

Apply this rule of following:

If you have an

average reaction time, stay at least one car length behind the car you are following for each 10 miles per hour you are traveling. d.

Also, avoid lagging too far behind as this tempts the driver following you to pass at the wrong time.

e.

You gain nothing by weaving in and out in heavy traffic where there are few opportunities to travel faster than the average car.

f.

Consider the possible condition of the person behind the wheel of oncoming cars and the one that you are following.

2.

PASSING:

How to overtake the car ahead of you.

a.

Develop the habit of not taking a chance.

b.

Use good judgment in deciding whether passing is safe or whether it means taking a chance.

o. Avoid trusting the judgment of others. d.

Overtake and pass only when you are sure you can easily make it safely.

e.

Consider these facts before passing:

67 (1) To pass a car safely requires a minimum of about 10 seconds. (2)

At a speed of 50 miles per hour you travel 700 feet from the time you pull out of your lane to pass until you can safely cut back Into your own lane.

(3)

If the car you are passing is going 40 m.p.h. It will have traveled 587 feet, or the dis­ tance equivalent of 33 parked cars.

(4) If a car is approaching from the opposite direction at 50 m.p.h. when you start to pass, the space used up between you and that car, during the 10 seconds required for passing, will be over 1400 feet. (5) Add 200 feet as a margin of safety to allow for the time it takes to make up your mind and you should have a clear unobstructed distance ahead of 1600 feet to assure safe passing. f.

Look In your rear view mirror every time you pass to see what is happening behind you.

g.

Be sure to signal every time before you pass.

h.

Glance quickly over your left shoulder Into the ?dead area” just before passing.

I.

Use your horn If you are not sure of what the driver ahead is going to do. You must always help make it safe for another car to pass you by keeping to the right and reducing speed slightly.

k.

Build up your speed with a running start before you pull out into the other lane.

MEETING OQHER GARS i How to drive in relation to on­ coming traffic. a.

Be especially careful to give all oncoming traffic their share, or more, of the highway, If necessary.

b.

Avoid riding the center of the highway.

c.

If you see one car passing another coming toward you, slow down a little to give him more time to pass.

STOPPING ALONG THE HIGHWAY:

How to stop on the open

highway. a.

Never stop in such a position that vehicles approaching from behind will come upon your car unexpectedly.

b.

Always pull off the pavement to the right when you stop.

c.

All four wheels must be off the pavement whenever pos sible.

ROUNDING CURVES:

How to avoid the hazards of going

around curves. a.

Slow down before you enter the curve.

b.

Enter the curve slowly enough to enable you to accelerate slightly when actually rounding it.

c. .Use the brake before you reach the curve, not after you have already entered it. d.

On a left hand curve start well out toward the rigjat hand edge of the pavement as you approach the curve.

e.

Stay on your side of the road on all curves.

SKIDDING: a.

How to prevent and avoid skidding.

Consider the crown of the road, sharpness of curves, irregularities of road surface, the available friction, and the car speed and you can prevent the chances of skidding.

b.

Avoid excessive speed, which is the most fre­ quent cause of skidding.

o.

nSnubM the brakes if you must use them when skidding.

d.

Watch for unexpected slippery spots on wet or frozen pavement.

e.

Follow these steps if you do get into a skid. (1)

Keep yourself under control.

(2)

Steer in the direction in which the rear end of the car is skidding.

(3)

Avoid braking.

(4)

Keep the clutch engaged.

(5)

Don’t lift your foot from the accelerator pedal suddenly.

7.

SOURCES FOR THIS CHAPTER:

Where to get further

assistance. a.

National Safety Council.

Accident Facts.

National Safety Council, 20 North Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois. b.

Furnas, J. C.,”And Sudden Death.” Digest.

c.

Annual Publication. Reader’s

Dec embe r, 194 5.

Committee on Winter Driving Hazards. Accident Prevention.

Winter

National Safety Council,

20 North Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois. C.

ACTIVITY ASSIGNMENTS;

1947.

Experiences that will improve your

driving on the open highway. 1.

BEHIND THE WHEEL:

Drive the dual control car out on

the open highway to gain experience while under safe supervision. 2.

Make a collection of the articles in the newspapers concerning automobile accidents on the open highway and make a note of their causes so that you will know what to do to keep yourself out of difficulty.

3.

Perform the various skill driving tests on your testing grounds to improve your coordination and know where the extremities of your car are.

71 D.

EVALUATION:

Samples of ways In which you can test your

ability to drive on the open highway. 1.

TRUE-FALSE:

Place X in the correct space for true

or false. T F a. ( ) ( )

Always follow the car ahead very closely so that you can tell what it is going to do.

b.

( ) ( )

The faster you go the farther in back of the car ahead you should be.

c.

( ) ( )

Always consider the condition of the drivers of the other cars on the highway.

2.

BEST ANSi?ER:

Place the number of the best answer in

the parentheses. a.

( )

The following distance for a driver with average reaction time for every 10 miles per hour should be: car length; (3)

b.

( )

(1) 75 ft.; (2) one

100 ft.; (4) 10 ft.

You should slow down for a curve:

(1) After

entering it; (2) before entering it; (3) suddenly when you see that it is sharp; (4) only when other cars are coming.

72 CHAPTER 8.

THE UNUSUAL

HOW TO DRIVE IN INCLEMENT WEATHER AND ON MOUNTAIN HIGHWAYS A.

MOTIVATION:

Results of learning; how to drive in inclement

weather and on mountain highways. 1. INCREASED CONTROL:

You will be more skillful in the

handling of your car In unusual weather. 2.

REDUCE CHANCES OP ACCIDENTS:

You can prevent accidents

that may happen because of the bad weather driving conditions. 3. TAKE SNOW TRIPS:

You can drive up into the snow for

winter sports activities. 4. LESS DANGER:

Safe passage over mountainous roads is

a result of cautious control of your car. 5. LESS NERVOUS TENSION:

You can make your trip with

less fear of the hazards of driving in the mountains. 6. INCREASED VACATION ENJOYMENT:

Your vacation trips

will not be limited by fear of driving over mountain roads into scenic areas. B.

DIRECTIONS:

Suggestions on how to drive in inclement

weather and on mountain highways. 1. FOG:

How to drive with a minimum of visibility.

a.

Drive in fog only when it is absolutely necessary.

b.

You will be following the best advice if you don’t drive in fog.

Wait until it clears.

73 c.

Avoid over driving your visibility.

d.

If your visibility is 30 feet or less your speed should not be more than 15 miles per hour.

e.

Watch far ahead for the telltale gray of fog in low lands and depressions.

f.

Keep your windshield wiper going.

g.

Have your headlights on bright but on their low beam to cut down the light reflected into your eyes by the fog.

h. Use your fog lights if you have them.

They are

placed low on the front of your car for a minimum of reflection. i.

Keep your eyes on the white line when there are no cars approaching so as to guide your position on the highway.

j. Keep your eyes on the right hand edge of the pave­ ment when cars are approaching and the lights are blinding you. k.

Always reduce your speed greatly.

RAIN: a.

Avoid looking into a glare.

How to drive when the pavement is wet.

Reduce your speed to at least one-half of what it would be on dry pavement.

Your stopping dis­

tance is greatly increased. b.

Keep your windshield clean and clear with your windshield wipers and defrosters.

c.

Increase your following distance behind other cars.

d.

Be ready to expect the unexpected of the other drivers.

e.

Watch for places well ahead of you • for pavement that Is flooded. (1)

The muddy water will splash up on the wind­ shield and blind you for some time.

(2)

The water may splash into the ignition system and

(3)

cause the car to stall.

It may frighten you and cause you to apply the brakes suddenly, making the car go into a skid.

f.

Begin slowing down early rather than stopping suddenly.

g.

Drive well ahead of the actual position of your car and anticipate the necessity for having to slow down.

SNOW AND ICE: a.

How to drive on slippery or icy roads.

Use full chains on snow or ice.

b. Avoid driving fast around corners. c. Start in

second or high gear so as to

apply the

power gently and gradually to the rear wheels. d.

Do not allow the rear wheels to spin.

e.

Letting the air out of your tires only increases the hazard on curves and hastens your tire wear.

75 f.

Increase or decrease your speed gradually.

g*

Always try to avoid losing traction toetween the tires and the road.

h.

Start in second to prevent the car from sliding toward the edge of the road into the deep snow.

i.

Avoid quick changes of direction.

3•

Have the necessary equipment with you if you are *

taking a trip into the snow.

k.

(1)

Full chains.

(2)

Shovel.

(3)

A toucket with sand in it.

(4)

An old tolanket.

You needs

Keep the clutch engaged toefore applying the brakes on a slippery surface to reduce the danger of a skid.

1.

Watch out for shady spots on the pavement, they are often icy spots.

m.

Control your speed according to the distance the car will travel toefore it can toe brought to a stop.

4.

MUD a.

How to start a mired car. Spinning the wheels will usually dig your car in deeper.

to.

If the wheels spin without moving the car, stop at once.

c . Try rocking the car out of the mud toy:

(1)

Shift to low and let the clutch out gradually until the car rocks forward a little.

(2) Depress the clutch and, as the car rolls back, shift into reverse quickly and let the clutch out gradually and in time to let the backward momentum of the car help push it out. (3) Repeat this process until the car goes out of the mud either forward or backward. d.

Increase the traction by placing some of the fol­ lowing materials under the rear wheels. (1) Small broken limbs from bushes or trees. (2) Sand. (3)

Rocks.

(4) Some kind of material, such as:

an old

blanket, old piece of carpeting, sacks, or piece of canvas. e.

Before trying any of the above-mentioned methods you should make sure that: (1)

The front wheels are turned straight ahead.

(2)

You have cleared away the mud from the front and rear of both front and rear wheels.

HIGH ALTITUDE: a.

How to drive on mountain roads.

Drive on your half of the road only.

t>.

Stay on your side of the center of the pavement when rounding curves.

c.

Stay on your side of the center of the pavement when going over hillcrests. (1)

A car from the other direction may he passing on the other side as you? are approaching unseen.

(2)

A car may be stopped in your lane beyond the top of the hill.

(3)

There may even be a wreck on the other side of the hill blocking your roadway.

d.

Slow down early when coming up behind slow moving trucks and vehicles.

e.

Reduce speed when you approach the top of a hill.

f.

Your car’s braking distance is greatly increased on a down grade.

g.

On steep down grades shift into a lower gear so that the engine will assist in the braking of the car.

h.

Keep the car in gear at all times, never putting the car in neutral to coast down a hill.

i.

Always shift in time when going up a long steep grade that will require lower gears.

j.

If you wait too long to shift gears you may stall the engine.

k.

If you stall the engine on an upgrade follow this procedure: (1)

Stop the car with the foot brake.

(2)

Apply the hand brake.

(3)

Depress the clutch pedal and shift to neutral.

(4)

Start the engine.

(5)

Shift into low.

(6)

Let the hand brake off at the same time the clutch reaches the friction point.

1.

Allow your brakes to cool off by applying them intermittently when going down long grades.

6.

SOURCES FOR THIS CHAPTER:

Where to get further assist­

ance . a.

Sportsmanlike Driving, pages 304 to 307.

b.

Man and the Motor Car, pages 111 to 119.

c.

Aetna Casualty & Surety Co. Winter Driving Dangers.

C.

Hartford, Connecticut, 1945.

ACTIVITY ASSIGNMENTS:

Experiences that will help you to

drive safely in inclement weather and over mountains. 1.

DRIVE:

Gain experience of driving under these un­

usual conditions in the dual control car under the supervision of your instructor. 2.

OBSERVE:

As you are riding with someone else make a

mental note of the hazards that were faced in your trip and then bring them up in a class discussion to

determine whether or not the driver did the right thing. D.

EVALUATION:

Samples of ways in which you can check your

ability to drive. 1.

TRUE-FALSE.

Place X in the parentheses for true or

faIs e . T P a. ( ) ( )

Deflate your tires for better control on ice or snow.

b.

( )( )

Keep your lights on as high as possible when driving in the fog.

c.

( )( )

Always slam on your brakes quickly to stop in the shortest distance possible in the rain or snow, or on ice.

2.

BBST ANSWER:

Place the number of the best answer in

the parentheses. a.

( ) If your car starts to skid on a wet

or icy

pavement the best thing to do is to:

(1)

Throw out the clutch and apply the brakes sharply; (2) leave the clutch in and apply the brakes carefully; (3) throw out the clutch and apply the brakes carefully; (4) shift into second gear and apply the hand brake. b.

( ) You may even save your life if, in descending a very steep hill, you have the gears in: (1) Neutral; (2) third; (3) first;

(4) the

same gear you would use to get up the hill.

CHAPTER 9.

LOOK OUT WHEN IT»S DARK OUT

HOW TO DRIVE AT NIGHT A*

MOTIVATION; 1.

Rewards for learning how to drive at night.

MORE DRIVING HOURS:

It will be possible for you to

drive the family car at night. 2. MORE DATES:

You will be able to use the car onnight

dates if you are a good night driver. 3.

MORE FRIENDS:

If you have a car to drive at night

you can select your own company. 4. LESS FAMILY TENSION:

Your parents will not worry so

much about your being out at night in the car. B.

DIRECTIONS: 1.

Suggestions on how to drive at night.

POINTERS:

How to lessen the accident danger in your

own night driving. a.

Always depress your headlights when meeting other cars.

b.

Depress your lights when following another driver.

c.

Keep your headlights properly adjusted so that the depressed beams are not aimed at the oncoming drivers * eyes.

d.

Look at the center line or the right hand edge of the road, not at the headlights of the oncoming car.

e.

Drive at night only after you have so mastered driving that you can keep your eyes posted on the road.

81 f.

Keep your battery, lights, and electrical system in good condition.

g.

Keep the windshield clean.

h.

Avoid dark goggles or any other devices which reduce light.

i.

Drive at night only when rested.

j.

Reduce speed when facing the glare from approach­ ing headlights,

k.

Keep .your speed reduced until your.eyes recover from the glare.

1.

Know the visibility range of your headlights,

m.

Be able to stop within the visibility range of your headlights.

2.

SOURCES FOR THIS CHAPTER:

Where to get further

assistance. a.

Travelers Insurance Company.

You Bet Your Life.

Hartford, Connecticut, 1947. b.

Aetna Insurance Company.

Danger in the Dark.

Hartford, Connecticut, 1947.

C.

c.

Sportsmanlike Driving:

Pages 41, 44, 122.

d.

Man and the Motor Car:

Pages 115 to 117.

ACTIVITY ASSIGNMENTS: Experiences that will aid you in learning how to drive at night. 1.

TEST:

Take the night glare resistance test for your

eyes to see how quickly your eyes recover after a bright glare.

82 2.

COLLECT:

As you are collecting items for your note­

book keep a record of the accident rate during the hours after darkness and then you will see the need for extra care when driving at night. 3.

DRIVE:

Take the night driving lessons in the dual

control car to become familiar with the problems and the.necessary precautions of night driving. D.

EVALUATION:

Samples of ways in which you can check your

ability to drive at night. 1.

TRUE-FALSE: false. T a. ( )

Place X in the parentheses for true or

F ( ) If your headlights are in good adjust­ ment you will be able to see at least 600 feet ahead.

b.

( )

( ) Speed should always go down with the sun.

c.

( )

( ) The eye adjusts more quickly to darkness than it does to light.

2.

BEST ANSWER:

Place the number of the best answer in

the parentheses. a.

( )

Driving at a speed of 50 miles per hour at night you will be able to stop before hitting an object in the road how many feet away: (1) 150 feet; (2) 175 feet; (3) 250 feet; (4) 100 feet.

b.

( )

Mhen the lights of the oncoming car are very bright and they seem to blind you you should: (1)

Look directly into them to try to see

through the glare; (2) look over toward the right hand edge of the pavement; (5) look at the white line; (4) close your eyes so that you will not have to worry about the time it will take you to recover from the ,gla re.

CHAPTER 10.

ALL ALONE

HOW TO SOLO DRIVE A.

MOTIVATION*

Results of sound practices In your solo

driving. 1.

COMPLETE CONTROL:

You will toe alert, Have considera­

tion for others, and choose a safe speed. 2.

SMOOTHNESS IN DRIVING:

You will have the refinements

in the technique of driving that show competence. 3.

.GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP AT THE WHEEL: ‘Your driving can he made a pleasure by knowing that you are courteous and stick to the rules of driving.

4.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES:

You may want a job where driving

is the principal responsibility. B.

DIRECTIONS:

Suggestions that will make you a successful

driver when you are driving alone. 1.

SOUND PRACTICES:

How to satisfy the technical, social,

legal, and personal requirements of driving. a.

Drive in accordance with conditions of the traffic and the highway.

b.

Be aware of your social responsibilities and have regard for others.

c.

Have complete control at all times.

d.

Drive with a high degree of smoothness of operation. (1)

Avoid sudden swerves.

(2)

Slip the clutch a bit when starting.

(3)

Accelerate evenly and don't be throttle happy/

(4)

Apply brakes far enough in advance so that you do not have to slam them on.

GOOD SPORTSMANSHIPS a.

How to be a courteous driver.

Be sure that you know the rules of driving your­ self before you blame another driver for a par­ ticular situation on the highway.

b.

Stick to the rules of safe d.riving.

c.

Never be in such a hurry that you can't give the other fellow a chance.

d.

Go a little further than obeying the rules of traffic and extend additional acts of courtesy to other drivers and pedestrians.

e.

Remember that road discourtesies are not only disagreeable; they are also dangerous.

f.

Be tolerant of the other driver's difficulties and do not take advantage of his mistakes.

g.

Avoid blowing your way through traffic with your horn.

SOURCES FOR THIS CHAPTER:

Where to get further

assistance. a.

Sportsmanlike Driving: Pages 269 to 289.

b.

Stoeckel, May, and Kirby. the Road. City, 1936.

Sense and Safety on

Appleton-Century Company, New York

86

c.

National Highway Users Conference, Inc. Emily P o s ^ s Motor Manners.

National Life Insurance

Co., National Press Bid g., Washington, D. C. C.

ACTIVITY ASSIGNMENTS: Experiences that will improve your solo driving. 1.

PRACTICE:

When you are driving the training car use

all of the courteous techniques that you can. 2. LIVE:

During your daily life practice the seemingly

little courtesies of life so that it will he more natural S. STUDY:

to be courteous when you are behind the wheel. Check up on the number of accidents that are

written up in your local paper in two weeks time and see which ones could have been avoided if one of the drivers had been a little more courteous. D.

EVALUATION:

Samples of ways that you can check your solo

driving. 1.

TRUE-FALSE:

Place X in the parentheses for true or

false. T F a. ( ) ( )

Good sportsmanship is more than fair play.

b.

( ) ( )

You are fit to do solo driving only when you are prepared and willing to keep your car in constant control and accept your social responsibilities on the road.

RATING SCALE:

Place an X in each space for which

yon qualify. a.

()

Drive in accordance with conditions.

b.

()

Have complete control.

c.

()

Respect the desires of other drivers.

d.

()

Be responsible for everything the car does.

e.

()

Always comply with the traffic signals and rules of driving.

f.

()

Give assistance when it is needed.

g.

()

Keep your mind on your driving.

h.

()

Try your best to avoid running over animals.

88

fynJTJTl

XFtHO ~GT i 0

& t ' {

' ' H & W L

Ca r /

89

UNIT III.

UPKEEP

You now have gained experience in driving in a number of situations under various conditions. drive will increase with your experience.

Your ability to The success of

your good driving is dependent upon the condition of your ear.

You may have an excellent reaction time and well devel­

oped habits of driving, but If your brakes are poor and the windshield a little dirty you are not going to be safe for long.

So let’s see how we can protect ourselves by taking

good care of our car.

Remember, your driving can only be as

good as the condition of your car.

CHAPTER 11.

THE BODY

HOW TO KEEP YOUR CAR NEAT AND CLEAN A.

MOTIVATION:

Advantages of learning how to keep your car

neat and clean. 1.

RECOGNITION:

People will recognize you as a respon­

sible person if your car is bright and shiny. 2.

PREVENT UNNECESSARY COST:

If you are aware of the

upkeep that is necessary to have a car in good shape it will save your money for unnecessary repairs. S.

LONGER LIFE OF CAR:

You can increase the life of

your car throu^i proper maintenance. B.

DIRECTIONS:

Suggestions on how to keep your car clean

and neat. 1.

WASHING: a.

How to clean the body of your car.

Wash your car in the shade whenever possible. (1)

The sun’s heat causes the water to dry on the surface too quickly.

(2) b.

This will make the body streaked.

Use a soft clean sponge and some kind of detergent soap. (1)

Wet the car thoroughly first so as to remove all of the heavy grit from its surface.

(2)

Sponge off small areas at a time with the soap making sure to scrub the entire surface.

(3)

Rinse off the soap suds frequently before they have a chance to dry.

91 (4)

Use a chamois to clean off any water spots that may be there when you finish.

2.

POLISHING:

How to remove old oxidized paint from

the car’s surface. a. Be sure that the car is clean and dry. b.

Apply any good brand of polish with a soft clean cloth.

c. Rub briskly small areas at a time. d. Wipe off the polish and loosened scum with a clean soft cloth. 3.

WAXING:

How to apply a nice high gloss protective

surface to your car’s body. a.

Make sure that you have cleaned the surface very well with car polish.

b.

Rub the wax onto the surface with small circular movements.

c.

Polish the wax with a soft clean cloth until it has a hard glossy finish.

4.

GLEANING INSIDE:

How to clean up the Interior of

your car. a.

Vacuum or sweep out all the dirt on the floor covering.

b.

Remove the seats and clean off any spots with a good upholstery cleaner.

c.

Vacuum the seats and any other fabric covered surfaces.

d.

Clean the Inside of the windows with a window cleaner.

e.

Dust off all metal surfaces inside the car.

5. DUSTING: a.

How to keep your car wiped off.

Dust your car as frequently as is required by the layer of dust that gets on it.

b.

Use a soft oil impregnated cloth. (1)

Don’t just apply oil to any rag and use it.

(2)

You must purchase a special cloth already prepa red.

c.

Never dust your car if the dust has been allowed to get wet and then dry, or if the surface is at all gritty.

This will scratch the paint.

6. SOURCES FOR THIS CHAPTER:

Where to get further

assistance. a. „Instruction book for the make and model of the car in which you are interested. b.

The Automobile User’s Guide.

Customer Research

Staff, General Motors Corporation, Detroit, Michigan. c. C.

Sportsmanlike Driving.

ACTIVITY ASSIGNMENTS:

Chapter XIX.

Experiences that will assist you

in maintaining the body of your car. 1.

MAINTAIN:

Take care of the family car by washing and

polishing it frequently.

2. LEARN HOW:

Spend one of the times assigned for driv­

ing the dual control car to wash and polish it under the direction of the instructor. 3.

VISIT:

G-o to one of the local washing and polishing

shops to discover their tricks of the trade and then apply them when you are maintaining your own car. D.

EVALUATION:

Samples of ways in which you can check your

ability to keep your car clean and neat. 1.

TRUE-FALSE:

Place X in the parentheses for true or

false. T F a. ( )( )

Always wipe the car off with a rag be­ fore starting to wash it.

b.

( )( )

Use any kind of soap for washing its surface.

c.

( )( )

Wax your car to protect its surface from road film and dirt.

2.

RATING SCALE:

Place an X In each space for which you

quailfy. a.

( ) Hosed off the car before using the sponge.

b.

( ) Dried the car before using the polish.

c.

( ) Used the polish before the wax.

d.

( ) Cleaned out the Inside before doing the outside.

e.

( ) Rinsed off the suds before they dried on the surface.

CHAPTER 12.

THE FRAME AND RUNNING GEAR

HOW TO SERVICE YOUR CAR A.

MOTIVATION:

Values you can expect from learning how to

service your car. 1. CHEAPER UPKEEP:

You can save on your expenses if

you do minor service operations. 2. PREVENT BEING CHEATED:

Your understanding the needs

of your car will keep you from "buying so-called money saving gadgets and paying for unnecessary maintenance. 5. MORE FAITH IN YOUR CAR:

By learning to maintain the

frame, running gear, and control devices you will know the car *s condition and have greater trust in its ability to take you home again. 4. BE SAFE:

A car that is mechanically safe will get

you to where you want to go and back again. 5. PLEASANTER DRIVING:

If your car’s safety and. control

devices are In good shape you will be free of the worry of being In a car that is not safe. B.

DIRECTIONS:

Key points to guide you in maintaining your

car. 1. BRAKES:

How to take care of your car’s brakes.

a.

Have them inspected regularly.

b.

Have the brake system adjusted by expert mechanics several times a year.

c.

Replace worn or damaged linings or worn linkage.

d.

Keep enough hydraulic fluid in the system.

e.

Avoid overuse of brakes.

f. . Avoid going through water that is deep enough to go into the brakes. g.

Avoid sudden stops.

TIRES: a.

How to keep your tires a long time.

Keep the correct air pressure in your tires at all times.

b.

Incorrect tire pressure will cause: (1)

Damage to side walls resulting In blowouts.

(2)

Hard steering.

(3) (4)

Excessive swerving on curves. Extra wear on the tread.

(5) Excessive heat in the tires. c.

Keep rocks and other debris out of the tread of your tires.

d.

Have the wheel balance and alignment checked when you see the tires wearing in irregular spots.

e.

Rotate tires from one wheel to another occasionally.

f.

Follow this procedure when changing a flat tire: (1,)

Pull the car completely off the highway.

(2) Apply the hand brake. (3) Raise the wheel that has

the flat tire off

the ground with the particular jack you have.

96 (4)

Make sure the jack is on something solid.

(5)

Pry off the hub cap cover.

(6)

Remove the nuts which hold the wheel on and place them inside the hub cover.

(7)

Remove the wheel.

(8)

Put the spare on in place of the flat.

(9)

Replace the studs and tighten them all firmly.

(10)

Replace the hub cover.

(11)

Put the wheel with the flat in theplace for the spare.

(12)

Let the jack down and put it and all other tools in the trunk compartment.

(13)

Stop at the next service station and have the flat repaired.

3.

STEERING MECHANISM:

How to keep your car steering

prope rly. a.

Have only expert mechanics make adjustments in the steering mechanism.

b.

Have the steering mechanism checked and adjusted when: (1)

There is too much play in the steering wheel,

(2)

It is hard to steer the car.

(3)

You notice a shimmy In the steering wheel.

(4)

There is a tendency for the car to wander from side to side.

c.

Have the steering mechanism lubricated each time the chassis is lubricated.

LIGHTS:

How to maintain your car’slights.

a.

Keep the lenses free from dirt.

b.

Have them adjusted by an expert mechanic.

c.

Replace bulbs or sealed beam units that do not burn bright.

d.

Keep the battery voltage up 30 there is enough electricity to give a good light.

e.

Glean corroded terminals.

f.

Always carry a spare fuse in case all your lights go out at once.

CHASSIS LUBRICATION: a.

How to have your car greased.

Select a good dependable service station to do your lubricating.

b.

If possible, stay with the car and watch when the attendant is lubricating it.

c.

Have your car lubricated before and after long trips.

d.

Prepare your car for winter use with proper winter weather lubrication.

SOURCES FOR THIS CHAPTER: assistance.

Inhere to get additional

98 a.

How to Worry Successfully about Your Automobile. Studebaker Corporation, South Bend, Indiana, 1942.

b.

Automotive Lubrication. Manual 10-540.

War Department Technical

Government Printing Office,

Washington, D. C., 1940.

0.

c.

Man and the Motor Car;

Chapter V.

d.

Sportsmanlike Driving;

Chapter XIX.

ACTIVITY ASSIGNMENTS:

Learning experiences that will

help you to know what the needs of your car are. 1. INSPECTION:

Go out to the dual control car or a

group of cars that are owned by members of the class and see the various parts of the car that are to be maintained so that when you hear strange noises or notice a difference in your car’s operation you will ■have an Idea of what to do to correct it. 2. PERFORM:

Carry out the simple daily check

ups on

the family car. 3.

CHART:

Make up a chart planning the upkeep of the

family car for a one-year period. D.

EVALUATION:

Samples of ways in which you can be sure

that you are maintaining your car properly. 1.

RATING SCALE:

Place an X In each space for which

you qualify. a.

( )

Had the car lubricated within the last 1000 miles.

99 b.

( )

Have the headlight lenses cleaned each time you get gas.

c.

( ) Have the

tires checked each week.

d.

( ) Have the steering mechanism checked at least twice a year.

e.

{ ) Keep the

brakes in good adjustment.

f.

( ) Rotate the tires occasionally.

100 CHAPTER 15.

POWER PLANT

HOW TO GET THE MOST ECONOMICAL WEAR OUT OF YOUR CAR'S ENGINE AND ITS ACCESSORIES A.

MOTIVATION:

Benefits of setting the most economical wear

from your car's power plant. 1.

HAPPY LEISURE HOURS:

You can have a good time keep­

ing your car’s power plant tuned up and in tiptop shape. 2.

SMOOTHER RUNNING CAR:

Everyone likes to listen to

the purr of a smooth running engine. 3.

FEWER BREAKDOWNS:

By keeping your engine and its

accessories In good condition you will prevent em­ barrassing breakdowns. B.

DIRECTIONS!

Methods of getting the most economical wear

out of your car's engine and its accessories. 1.

2.

FUEL SYSTEM:

How to take care, of the fuel system.

a.

Keep the air filter clean.

b.

Keep the carburetor in proper order.

c.

Glean out the sediment bowl frequently.

d.

Replace worn or poor fuel pump.

e.

Check for leaks In the fuel lines.

COOLING SYSTEM:

How to keep the cooling system in

good working order. a.

Check the water level in the radiator frequently.

b.

Keep the fan belt well adjusted.

c.

Keep the radiator air passages free from dirt, grease or bugs.

d.

Replace soft or partially collapsed hoses.

e.

Look for leaks In the radiator, around hoses and around the water pump.

f.

If the engine overheats repeatedly have the cooling system checked by a good mechanic.

g.

h.

Take the following precautions in winter. (1)

Clean and flush radiator thoroughly.

(2)

Fill the radiator with a good anti-freeze.

(3)

Have the anti-freeze level checked frequently.

Use a good rust inhibitor to prevent corrosion and rust.

LUBRICATING- SYSTEM;

How to make sure that the engine

is being properly lubricated. a.

Have the oil level in the crankcase checked each time you stop for gas.

b.

Never allow the oil level to stay below the low mark on the oil level stick.

c.

Use lighter oils in winter and heavier oils in summer.

d.

Have the oil changed every 1000 to 1500 miles.

e.

1$hen the oil In the crankcase does not stay clean after changing you should have the crankcase flushed.

f.

Clean and replace oil filters as specified by their manufacturer.

g.

Oil frequently other parts that are not oiled by the engine's lubricating system.

IGNITION SYSTEM:

How to keep the electrical parts of

the power plant in good condition. a.

Keep the battery charged.

b.

Avoid using accessories that use electricity when the engine is not running.

c.

Clean the spark plugs and reset the gap for top ignition performance.

d.

Clean and tighten wire connections at plugs and coils.

e.

Check the gap of the breaker points in the dis­ tributor.

f.

Have a good electrical mechanic check your car's ignition timing and the condition of the condenser, coil and spark plugs.

SOURCES FOR THIS CHAPTER:

Where to get further

assistance. a.

A Power Primer.

Training Service Section, General

Motors War Products.

General Motors Corporation,

Detroit, Michigan, 1944. b.

Ever Ready Manual.

Cooling System Service.

National Carbon Co., New York 17, N. Y., 1947.

103 c.

Chemistry and Wheels.

Technical Data Department,

General Motors Research Laboratories Division. Detroit, Michigan, 1938. C. ACTIVITY ASSIGNMENTS:

Experiences that will assist you

in maintaining the power plant and its accessories. 1. CHECKi

Go out to the

the various

driver training car

checks on the power plant and

and make its acces­

sories so that you will know what is required to maintain it properly. 2.

LOCATE:

Find all of the various check points and

places on your family car that might at some time require your maintenance to keep the engine and its accessories in good running order. D.

EVALUATION:

Samples of ways in which you can check the

maintenance you are doing on your car. 1. TRUE-FALSE: or f als e . T F a. () ()

Place an X' in the parenthesesfor true

The battery is under greater strain in summer than in winter.

b.

() ()

You can tell what the oil level in the crankcase is by reading the oil pressure gauge.

c.

() ()

Clean the air cleaner so that the air can be sucked into the carburetor easier,

104 T

d.

P

( ) ( )

If the temperature gauge shows near boiling heat, stop the car and engine promptly.

e.

( ) ( )

Always run the engine at idling speed when filling the radiator of an over­ heated engine.

105

siUifrlF t

\ 1

^^°w'& 'fzuhc&A&e ^ ovyi/LuAz ^ycnt/l Ca /c

106

UNIT IV.

MONEY MATTERS

Up to this point you have learned a great deal about the rules of traffic, how to actually drive an automobile, and how to maintain an automobile. more experienced driver.

Each step has made you a

We are now going to be concerned

with something above and beyond that of knowing how to operate a motor vehicle.

You have already begun to ask

questions about the business of owning a car.

You will find

out what things to be careful about when buying a car as well as how much money you should spend on your car.

To

have a car without insurance on that car Is one of the riski­ est mistakes you can make.

So let’s go Into these problems

with the idea that it is going to mean money saved.

107 CHAPTER 14.

NOTHING DOWN

HOW TO PURCHASE A GOOD CAR A. MOTIVATIONS

Results of learning how to purchase a good

car. 1. BETTER CAR:

Your choice of car will he a wise one

if you know what to look for. 2. BETTER SATISFACTION:

You will be happier with a car

that you know is in good condition beforeyou buy it. 3.

KNOW YOUR NEEDS:

You will know what factors to con­

sider when purchasing a can. 4.

EASIER PAYMENTS:

You will learn how to know how

much you can afford in monthly payments. 5.

PREVENT OVER BUYING:

You will know how much you can

pay for a car. 6.

LOWER LOAN EXPENSE:

It is to your advantage to know

how much interest you are paying on the money you borrow to buy your car. B. DIRECTIONS:

go Suggestions on how to/about purchasing a car.

1. A NEW CAR: a.

How to purchase a new car.

When you purchase a new car you need to consider: (1)

What will be the trade-in value of the car?

(2)

Will It satisfy your particular needs?

(3)

Does it have adequate built-in safety features?

(4)

Is it designed for convenience, good appearance, and riding comfort?

(5)

What Is the financing plan for its purchase?

(6)

Will its operating costs and repairs be reasonable?

(7) b.

Gan you afford to buy it?

Test the car’s roadability, its ease in handling, and its fitness for your requirements.

c.

Consider the trade-in value of the car you have at present and whether or not the new car dealer is giving you enough for it.

d.

Don't be hasty.

Check with other dealers for the

same make of car to get the best price possible and the greatest trade-in allowance on your old ear. USED CARS:

How to purchase a used car.

a. Watch out for doctored up cars. b.

Select an honest reputable dealer.

c. Avoid the pitfall of purchasing a used car on sight alone. d.

All that glitters is not good.

Obtain the services of a good mechanic whom you can personally trust and have him check over the car as if he were going to buy It himself.

e. Here are some of the ways to check a used car. (1)

Get as complete a car history as possible.

(2)

Drive the car yourself.

(3)

Search for all types of leaks.

109 (4)

Have a friend follow you to see if the wheels line up properly.

(5)

Cheek the chassis for being sprung.

(6)

Examine the body finish closely.

(7)

Inspect the radiator’s condition.

(8)

Operate or check the operation of the safety devices.

5.

SOURCES FOR THIS CHAPTER:

Where to get further

assistance. a.

Motor Vehicle Inspection Manual. American Asso­ ciation of Motor Vehicle Administrators and National Conservation Bureau, Washington, D.C., 1940.

C.

b.

Consumers Research magazine.

c*

Consumers Reports magazine.

d.

Sportsmanlike Driving:

ACTIVITY ASSIGNMENTS:

Chapter XX.

Experiences that will help you in

purchasing a oar. 1.

LOOK AROUND:

Go to the various automobile dealers

and get their prices on new and used cars and then come back to class and discuss the good points and bad points of certain cars. 2.

SEEK INFORMATION:

Go to a reliable garage man and

talk with him about cars that give their owner’s pocketbook a bad time and then use that information when you purchase your car.

110 3.

PLAN:

Set up an automobile agency in the classroom

to give each other the opportunity of asking the necessary questions when purchasing an automobile. D,

EVALUATION:

Samples of ways in which you can determine

your ability to purchase a new or used oar. 1.

TRUE-FALSE:

Place an X in the parentheses for true

or false. T F a. ( ) ( ) You can always trust a used car dealer if he has a dealer’s license. b.

( ) ( ) It is not necessary for you to drive a new car to see if it satisfies you.

c.

( ) ( ) You can always tell what the condition of the car’s engine is by driving the car.

2.

RATING SCALE:

Place an X in the parentheses for the

Items for which the car can qualify. a.

Do you know how many miles it has traveled?

b.

Is there good clutch pedal clearance?

c.

No play in the steering wheel.

d.

No leaks of oil or grease around the hubs. Good tread on all five tires. Good paint job with no dents.

g-

The hand brake works easily.

h.

All of the accessories work.

Ill CHAPTER 15.

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

HOW TO INSURE YOUR CAR A.

MOTIVATION:

Advantages of learning how to Insure your

oar. 1.

HAVE PROTECTIONS

By Insuring your car properly you

can avoid the burden of damages from an uninsured accident. 2.

COMPLY WITH THE LAW:

In many states you must carry

financial responsibility Insurance to cover the damage caused by your car in case of an accident. 3.

AVOID UNNECESSARY LOSS:

By properly insuring your

car you can prevent a great deal of the cost of making repairs due to accidents. B.

DIRECTIONS: 1.

Suggestions of ways to insure your oar.

PERSONAL LOSS:

How to protect yourself as the car

owner from losses.of your own. a.

Have fire insurance that will compensate you for damages to, or destruction of, your car by fire.

b.

Have theft insurance that will compensate for loss by theft or damage done to the car in at­ tempted theft or while in the hands of a thief.

c.

Have some kind of collision Insurance that will compensate for damage to the car by collision or upset.

d.

Have comprehensive insurance that will compensate for damage caused by anything other than a collision,

112 2.

LOSS TO OTHERSi

How to protect yourself from damage

suits as a result of a collision. a.

Have property damage liability insurance that protects you or any other person driving your car with permission against claims for damage to the property of others up to a maximum of your, policy.

b.

Have bodily liability insurance that protects you or any person driving your car with permission against damage claims for which you become obli­ gated because of injuries or death to others caused by your car.

3.

SOURCES FOR THIS CHAPTER:

Where to find further

assistance. a.

See your insurance man.

b.

Insurance booklets, which may be obtained from various insurance companies.

c. G.

Sportsmanlike Driving:

ACTIVITY ASSIGNMENTS:

Pages 365 to 371.

Experiences that will help you

with insurance problems. 1.

EXAMINE LAWS:

Discover and report on regulations of

the state regarding insurance carried by motorists and then see to it that you comply with them when insuring your car or your parents* car.

113 2.

PLAN INSURANCE COVERAGE:

Get information from the

various insurance companies regarding policies and their costs and then set up a plan for complete coverage for your family car. D.

EVALUATION:

Samples of ways in which you can determine

your ability to select the proper automobile insurance. 1.

TRUE-FALSE:

Place an X in the parentheses for true

or false. T F a. ( ) ( }

It is wise to cover unforseen losses with reliable insurance.

b.

( ) ( )Financial responsibility in California means that you must be able to pay damages done by your car up to a certain amount.

c.

( )( )

Your insurance rate is

determined partly

by the traffic record of the community in which you live. d.

( )( )

It is a good policy to

wait until you

have an accident and then take out the insurance so that you will know how much insurance to get. e.

( )( )

You may carry accidentand hospitaliza­ tion insurance covering personal Injury and death due to automobile accidents.

f.

( )( )

Your automobile insurance will be more costly than the accidents you may be in.

J&urJk £a C$

UNIT V.

SHARE AND SHARE ALIKE

You have learned how to take care of yourself and your car pretty well by this time.

It 13 necessary, however, that

you learn how to help take care of others and share our streets and highways.

Just as you have to share other things

that belong to the family you must share the family car. Sometimes that is no easy task, especially when you want the car for some special date and another member of the family has an equally important reason for wanting the car.

This

problem can be solved without upsetting the peace of a happy home.

Maybe you can discover some pointers that you never

thought of before.

116 CHAPTER 16.

SAY, DAD

HOW TO GET THE FAMILY CAR MORE OFTEN A.

MOTIVATION: 1.

Rewards of getting the family car more often.

MORE GOOD TIMES:

The more times you can get the car

for dates and parties the more opportunity you will have for enjoying life. 2.

GREATER SAFETY:

If you are really the driver you say

you are, you are going to be safer driving yourself than if you are riding with someone that is not a responsible driver. 3.

MORE FRIENDS:

A car helps a lot when it comes to

getting around to seeing every one and a few good deeds performed by you and the family car will pay off in good friendships. B.

DIRECTIONS:

Suggestions of ways in which you may act to

get the family car more often. 1.

THE BIG QUESTION:

How to ask for the family car.

a.

Pick an opportune time.

b.

Avoid trying to'rush Mom and Dad into a decision.

c. Ask well ahead of time so that there will be no conflicts as to who is going to use the car. d. Remember while you are having all the fun in the car Mom and Dad are having all the worry. e. Have a good reason for actually needing the car: Just to go for a ride or over to someone’s house for a minute is a pretty weak need.

f.

Avoid demanding the oar.

g.

Remember that it is always easier to ask for the car next time if you leave as much gas in it as there was before and it is in good shape.

h.

If your parents’ answer is no but you still think you must have the car, try to explain in as un­ emotional a way as possible.

i.

Pressing the subject too far may result in loss of other chances of getting the car later.

GROWING UP:

How to show the folks that you are a

responsible driver. a.

Ask to drive whenever the family is going out together.

b.

Always drive well within the laws and regulations.

c.

Be tolerant of the other driver with less training and experience than yourself.

This displays a

mature attitude. d.

Be especially courteous to other drivers and pedestrians.

e.

Drive well ahead of the traffic directly in front of you so that there Is no chance

of anyone in

the back seat seeing a dangerous situation before you. f.

Keep calm, cool, and

g.

Take it easy. back seat.

collected.

Avoid throwing Mom

around in the

AFTER YOU GET IT:

How to take care of the family

car after you get it. a.

Be sure that you do all the driving. (1)

You are the only one to get behind the wheel.

(2)

Avoid letting the other kids in the car

talk

you into doing something that would not be safe. b.

Never overload the car.

c.

Try to keep it clean when you use it.

d. Drive with both hands on the wheel. e. Steer clear of the puffed up feeling it’s so easy to get when behind the wheel. f.

Take your time.

Don't try to race or see how

fast the old buggy will go. g.

Avoid being reckless.

Too many fellows try to

make a hit this way, and sometimes they do make a hit— the wrong kind. SOURCES FOR THIS CHAPTER:

M/here you can get further

assistance. a.

Hanis, C. W.

“Traffic Safety for Teen-agers.”

School Review, 55:574 b.

Bartlett, A.

(December 1947)

“Teach Them to Drive and Survive.”

Woman’s Home Companion, 75:30 c.

(April 1946)

How to Get the Family Car More Often. Mutual Insurance Co., Boston, Mass.

Liberty

119 C.

ACTIVITY ASSIGNMENTS:

Experiences that will assist you

In the technique of getting the family oar. 1. WRITE:

Sketch out in outline form a good procedure

that you might use and what you would say to your parents in asking for the car. 2.

PRACTICE:

While you are driving the dual control

car try to drive with the same extreme care that you want to display to your parents. 3.

PERFORM:

Actually ask your parents for the car, re­

membering to apply the suggestions given to you in class.

Then report back to the class the degree of

success you had and what snags you hit. D. EVALUATION:

Samples of ways you might check up on yourself,

1. TRUE-FALSE:

Place an X in the parentheses for true

or false. T F a. ( ) ( ) You are probably a much better driver than your parents so they needn*t worry when you are out in the car. b.

( ) ( ) It is better to risk breaking your girl friend*s heart than to risk breaking both your necks by driving with one arm.

c.

( ) ( ) Once you get the car from Dad your worries are over.

2.

RATING SCALE: quali fy.

Place an X in each space for which you

Do you:

120 a.

( ) Look behind and signal before pulling into traffic?

b.

( ) Take it easy when asking for the car?

c.

( ) Really have a good reason for asking?

d.

( ) Fill the gas tank back up to the level it was before you started?

e.

( ) Help keep the car clean and serviced?

f.

( ) Respect the amount of money Dad and Mom have tied up in the family car?

g.

( ) Think that you can pay for any damage that might be done to the car by your carefree or reckless driving?

h.

( ) Try to make a hit and gain respect by dis­ playing a nature sense of judgment?

121 CHAPTER 17.

COURTESY IS CONTAGIOUS

HOW TO SHARE OUR STREETS AND HIGHWAYS A.

MOTIVATION?

Advantages of knowing how to share our streets

and highways. 1.

FEWER PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS:

Your respect for the

automobile and otter vehicles when you are a pedes­ trian and your respect for the pedestrian when you are the driver of a motor vehicle will prevent a great many pedestrian and vehicle accidents. 2.

SHOW SUPERIOR DRIVING SKILL:

You can display a high

degree of skill by having regard for the other people that use our streets and highways. 3.

BETTER HABITS:

By learning how to share our streets

and highways you can develop a set of sportsmanlike habits that will be applicable to many phases of your daily life. B.

DIRECTIONS:

Suggestions that will help you to share our

streets and highways. 1.

DRIVING: ■ How to display the habit of courtesy in your car on the streets and highways. a.

Always give the other fellow a chance.

b.

Remember that your driver's license confers a special privilege on you.

It may be taken away

if you display poor driving habits. c.

Drive within the speed limit.

122 d.

Never demand the right of way.

e.

Give other cars plenty of clearance.

Avoid

cutting in on any one. f.

Signal your intentions in time for others to see what you are going to do.

g.

Make left and right turns from the proper lanes and finish them in the proper lanes.

h.

Respect the traffic signs and signals and do what they tell you to do.

i.

Stop at all stop signs, don't slidethrough

j.

Lay off the horn.

them,

Use it only when it isabso­

lutely necessary. k.

Take a good look and signal before pulling out of parking space or away from the curb.

1.

Dim your head lights when a car is approaching at night.

m. -Slow down for puddles of water that might splash pedestrians or other cars, n.

Don’t be: (1)

An egotist.

(2) The

show-off.

(3) The rationalizer. (4) The

thwarted.

o.

Have a sense of responsibility,

p.

Use a lot of foresight in your driving.

q.

Control your attention while you are driving.

r.

Use good judgment.

WALKING: a.

How to he a safe pedestrian.

Follow these basic habits when you are a city pedestrian. (1) Obey all traffic signals as rigidly as drivers must obey them. (2) Cross streets only at intersections. (3) Always look carefully in all directions. (4) Exit from, and enter, your parked car from the curb side. (5) Wait on the sidewalk, rather than in the street, for traffic signals to change. (6) Avoid darting out into the street from be­ tween parked cars. (7) Never weave, in and out through traffic, zigzagging between cars, while making your way across the street.

b.

Take special care at such times as: (1) It is raining or snowing, or it is dark or foggy. (2) You are in a hurry. (3) You can not see very well because of an umbrella or large packages you are carrying. (4) The streets are slippery.

124

Standingin Roadway P ro h ib ite d No person sh all stand in a roadw ay fo r th e p u r­ pose o f soliciting a rid e from the d riv e r o f any vehicle. (V .C . 564.1)

“P ” m ust stand on s id e w a lk w h e n s o lic itin g a rid e .

Illustration 8:

Hitch-hiking

(5)

You do not feel so well.

(6)

You are worried or distracted.

Follow these good pedestrian habits when using street cars and busses. (1) Wait in safety zones, if there are any. (2) When there are no safety zones, wait on sidewalks. (3)

If you must wait in an unprotected zone, face oncoming traffic.

(4)

Never cross behind or in front of public vehicles from which you have just stepped.

(5)

Enter and leave safety zones by using the crosswalk only.

Observe the following habits when you are a pedestrian on rural highways. (1)

Use highway sidewalks where they are provided.

(2)

Walk on the left side of the highway, facing oncoming cars.

(3)

Step off the road when nearby cars are going to pass each other.

(4)

Wear or carry something white at night.

(5)

Gross to the other side only where you can be seen for at least 200 feet from each direction.

126 3.

SOURCES FOR THIS CHAPTER:

Where you can find addi­

tional help. a. Sportsmanlike Driving:

Chapters VI, VII, VIII.

b. Man and the Motor Car:

Chapter XIV.

c. Traffic Education Unit,

Los Angeles Police Depart­

ment:

Foot Faults.

Los Angeles City Police

Department. d. American Automobile Association: Protection. C.

ACTIVITY ASSIGNMENTS:

Pedestrian

Washington, D. G., 1939. Experiences that will help you

share our streets and highways. 1.

OBSERVE:

Stand on a very busy corner and record the

discourtesies that might have resulted in an accident. Then report to the class your findings and use them as a basis for your being courteous in traffic. 2-.

LOCATE:

Spot, on a map of your community, the loca­

tions of all pedestrian fatalities and injuries in the past year and then try to determine what the features are of those particular locations that are hazards to pedestrians. D.

EVALUATION:

Samples of ways in which you can check your

ability to share our streets and highways. 1.

TRUE-FALSE: or false.

Place an X in the parentheses for true

a.

T P ( ) ( ) You must always give the pedestrian the right of way because you are driving the car that can damage the pedestrian.

b.

( ) ( ) Courtesy is contagious.

c.

( ) ( ) Reading a book or paper while you are crossing the street is a quick way to take a trip to the morgue.

RATING SCALE:

Place an X in the parentheses for the

items for which you qualify.

Do you:

a.

( ) Look to the left first when crossing a street?

b.

( ) Cross only in the crosswalk when there is

c.

( ) Wear something white when you are walking along a road at night?

d.

( ) Obey traffic rules and regulations?

e.

( ) Have respect for other people’s judgment?

f.

( ) Give-the other fellow a chance?

g.

( ) Help old or blind people across streets?

h.

( ) Drive within the speed limits?

one?

BIBLIOGRAPHY

129 A.

BOOKS, ARTICLES, AND PAMPHLETS

1.

Aetna Life Insurance Company; Danger in the Dark. Hartford, Connecticut. (Pamphlet)

2.

Aetna Life Insurance Company; Winter Driving Hazards. Hartford, Connecticut. (Pamphlet)

3.

Allgaier, Earl: Drivers 20 to 40 Rate Highest on Tests. American Automobile Association, Washington, D. C., 1938.

4.

American Association of Motor Vehicles: Driver License Examination Procedure. Washington, D. G.*J 1939. (Pamphlet)

5.

American Automobile Association, Traffic Control Depart­ ment : Bibliography of Films for Traffic Education. • American Automobile Association, Washington 6, D. C. This is a complete list of the best films available for use in driver education. It gives the different ways in which the films may be acquired.

6 . American Automobile Association: Washington 6, D. C., 1947.

Sportsmanlike Driving.

This is the standard textbook now in use in most cities throughout the nation. 7.

American Automobile Association: Driver Training Reduces Traffic Accidents One-Half. Washington 6, D. C., 1945.

8 . American Automobile Association: Driver Testing and Training Devices. Washington 6, D. G., 1946. (Booklet) 9.

Automobile Manufacturers Association: A Car-Driving People. Detroit, Michigan, 1945. (Booklet)

10.

Baker, J. S.: Reaction Time in Automobile Driving. National Safety Council, Chicago, Illinois. Public Safety Memo Number 95. 1941.

11.

Bartlett, Z.: ’’Teach Them to Drive and Survive.” Womans Home Companion, 73:30 (April 1946).

12.

California Department of Motor Vehicles: Sacramento, California, 1949.

Vehicle Code.

13.

California Department of Motor Vehicles: Summary. Sacramento, California, 1949.

Vehicle Code

130 14.

De Silva, Harry: Age and Highway Accidents. Yale University Institute of Human Relations, Yale University. New Haven, Connecticut, 1939.

15.

Dorsey, George A.: Why We Behave Like Human Beings. Blue Ribbon Books, Inc., 386 Fourth Avenue, New York.

16.

Dull, G. E . : Safety First- and Last. New York, N. Y.

17.

Dunn, Curtis C.: ”A Mile of Death.’* Readers Digest, 56:333 (January 1950).

18.

Fitzgerald, et al.: Drive and Live. Co., Richmond, Virginia.

Henry Holt & Co.,

Johnson Publishing

i

19.

Francis, D . : ”How to Drive and Stay Alive.” Science Magazine, 138:66-75 (April 1946).

Popular

20.

Furnas, J. C.: ’’And Sudden Death.” (December 1945).

21.

General Motors Customer Research Staff: How to Park in a Tight Place. General Motors, Detroit, Michigan.

22.

General Motors Public Relations Staff: We Drivers. General Motors Corporation, Detroit, Michigan, 1936.

23.

General Motors Research Laboratories Division: Chemistry and Wheels. General Motors Corporation, Detroit, Michigan, 1938. (Booklet)

24.

General Motors Research Laboratories: When the Wheels Revolve. General Motors Corporation, Detroit, Michigan.

25.

General Motors War Products Training Section: A Power Primer. General Motors Corporation, Detroit, Michigan, 1944.

26.

Glasscock, C. B . : The Gasoline Age. Indianapolis and New York, 1937.

27.

Hall, A.: Magazine.

Reader1s Digest.

Bobbs-Merrill,

”Yes, My Darling Daughter - If!”

Parents

28. Hanis, C. W.: ”Traffic Safety for Teen-agers.” Review, 55:574 (December 1947). 29.

School

House Document Number 462, Part 6: The Accident Prone Driver. House of Representatives, Washington, D. C., 1938.

131 30.

James, William: Psychology. York, 1910. (Chapter 10)

31.

Johnson, A. C.: "Let's Play It Safe." 41-2 (May 1946).

32.

Journal of the American Medical Association: "Alcohol in Relation to Traffic Accidents." Vol. Ill, Pages 1076 to 1085. (September 1938). Northwestern University Traffic Institute, 1704 Judson Avenue, Evanston, Illinois.

33.

Kramer, Milton D .: Behind the Wheel. Press, New York, N. Y., 1945.

34.

Ladles' Home Journal Editorial: "Teen-Age Drivers Talk Back." (August 1949). Independence Square, Philadelphia 5, Pa.

35.

Lauer, A. R . : Methods of Measuring the Ability to Drive an Automobile. Iowa State College, Ames, Iowa, 1936.

36.

Los Angeles Police Department: California, 1947.

Foot Faults.

37.

Los Angeles Police Department: Los Angeles, California, 1947.

Are You a Blind Driver?

38.

Los Angeles Police Department: Angeles, California.

Play It Safe.

39.

Los Angeles Police Department: Los Angeles, California, 1948.

Whose Turn Is It?

40.

Los Angeles Police Department: Los Angeles, California, 1948.

Accidents Don't Happen.

41.

Marsh, Burton W. and Stein, E. I.: Normal Safe Approach Speeds at Intersections. American Automobile Association, Washington, D. C., 1933.

42.

National Carbon Company, Inc.: New York, N. Y., 1947.

43.

National Conservation Bureau: Improving Driver Respon­ sibility. Association of Casualty and Surety Executives, 60 John St., New York, N. Y.

44.

National Conservation Bureau: Man and the Motor Car. J. J. Little & Ives Company, New York, 1944.

Henry Holt and Co., New Hotarian, 68:

New York University

Los Angeles,

Los

Cooling System Service.

132 45.

National Safety Council: Traffic Safety Services. 20 North Wacker Drive, Chicago 6, Illinois.

46.

National Safety Council: Too Long at the Wheel. 20 North Wacker Drive, Chicago 6, Illinois, 1935.

47.

National Safety Council: Pedestrian Safety. 20 North Wacker Drive, Chicago 6, Illinois, 1945.

48.

National Safety Council: Accident Facts. 20 North Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois. Annual Publication.

49.

National Safety Council, Committee on Winter Driving Hazards: Winter Accident Prevention. 20 North Wacker Drive, Chicago,. Illinois, 1947.

50.

Neyhart, A. E . : "Young Illiterates of the Highway.” Rotarian, 67:16-18 (August 1945).

51.

Northwestern University Traffic Institute: Accident Investigation Manual. 1827 Orrington Avenue, Evanston, Illinois, 1940.

52.

Post, Emily: Motor Manners. National Highway Users Conference, Inc., National Press Bldg., Washington, D. C., 1948.

53.

Reck, Franklin: Horses to Horse Power. Automobile Manufacturers Association, Detroit, Michigan, 1947.

54.

Saturday Evening Post Editorial: MFor an Aristocracy of Better Drivers." 218:120 (December 15, 1945).

55.

Shalett, Sidney and MacFayden, Henry C.: M0ur Youngsters Don’t Have to Be Killers.*' Saturday Evening Po3tt 222:25 (December 17, 1949).

56.

Smith, H. H. and Clark, R.: **Kid Killers of the Hi^iways." Woman’s Home Companion, 74:32-3 (January 1947).

57.

Smltter, W . : "We're Knocking Their Shoes Off." Saturday Evening Post, 219:28 (May 10, 1947).

58.

Stock, H. J.: "Are You as Safe as Your Car?" Magazine, 142:118-23 (July 1946).

59.

Studebaker Corporation: How To Worry Successfully About Your Automobile. South Bend, Indiana, 1942.

American

133 60.

Toops, Herbert A. and Haven, S. E. : Psychology and the Motorist. R. G. Adams and Co., Colxunbus, Ohio, 1938.

61.

Travelers Insurance Companies: Hartford, Connecticut, 1947.

62.

Travelers Insurance Companies: The Fifth Commandment. Travelers Insurance Companies, Hartford, Connecticut, 1948.

63.

Travelers Insurance Companies: Hartford, Connecticut.

64.

Union Pacific Railroad Company: Omaha, Nebraska, 1948.

65.

U. S. Public Roads Administration: Uniform Vehicle Code, Act V . Government Printing Office, Washington, D. C., 1945.

66.

U. S. Public Roads Administration: Brake Performance of Motor Vehicles Selected from Everyday Traffic. Washington, D. C., 1944.

67.

Wallace, Ralph: ”Danger--Teen-Age Killers at the Wheel.” Reader*s Digest, Pages 1 to 4. (July 1949).

68

.

You Bet Your Life.

The Travelers Quiz. Look, Listen, and Live.

Welday, R. A.: Your Automobile and Your Job. Holt and Company, New York, N. Y.

Henry

69.

Whitman, H. : "That Woman Driver.” panion, 73:30-1 (June 1946).

Woman's Home Com­

70.

Whitney, Albert W.: Man and the Motor Car. National Conservation Bureau, Washington, D. C., 1944.

71.

Wittels, D. G.: ‘’Should You Be Allowed to Drive?” Saturday Evening Post, 220:204 (December 6, 1947).

B. AUDIO-VISUAL AID MATERIALS (Furnished by the Los Angeles City Schools, Health and Safety Section) Kit # 2 includes: a.

Film:

You Bet Your Life.

b.

Visualcast material: (1)

Starting or backing when unsafe.

(2)

Right turn from wrong lane.

(3)

Turning left from one-way onto two-way street.

(4)

Turning left from one-way onto one-way street.

(5)

Turning right against signal.

Kit # 3 includes: a.

Films:

Night and Bad Weather Driving Problems of City Driving

b.

Visualcast material: (1)

Following too closely.

(2)

150 foot danger zone.

Kit # 4 includes: a.

Films:

When You Are a Pedestrian. When Can I Turn Left?

b.

Visualcast material: (1)

Pedestrian must yield the right of way.

(2)

Pedestrian’s right of way at cross walk.

(3)

Standing in roadway prohibited.

(4)

Yielding to those within intersection.

135 4.

Kit # 5 includes: a

.

b.

Film:

Visualcast material: (1)

5.

Drunk Driving.

Speed and stopping distances.

Kit # 7 includes: a.

Films:

That They May Live. Uncle Jim Tells fEm.

b.

Visualcast material:

None.

6 . Kit # 8 includes: a.

Film:

You*re Driving 90 Horses.

b.

Visualcast material:

None.

C. AUDIO-VISUAL MATERIALS ON DRIVER EDUCATION Available from the Los Angeles City School System SOUND MOTION PICTURES. a.

Behind the Wheel

(33 min.)

b.

Chance to Lose

c.

Drunk Driving

d.

Everybody^ Business

e.

Formations

(11 min.) (20 min.) (12 min.)

(9 min.)

f . Horse Sense in Horse Power g.

It*3 Wanton Murder

h.

Remember Jimmy We Drivers

(11 min.)

(11 min.)

Your Driving Habits

k.

Johnny Plug-Check

1.

Keeping Your Car Fit

m.

Know Your Car

620.2-41

Pad.

614.8-8

Fsd.

614.8-20

Fsd.

614.8-1

Fsd.

614.8-25

(11 min.) Fsd. 614.8-2

(9 min.)

j-

Psd.

(15 min.) (22 min.) (12 min.)

(15 min.)

Fsd.

614.8-29

Fsd.

614.8-4

Fsd.

614.8-7

Fsd.

629.2-38

Fsd.

629.2-43

Fsd.

629.2-34

Fsd.

629.2-35

SOUND SLIDES. a.

Death Takes No Holiday

b.

Stop, Look, and Live

(15 min.) SS 614.8A-1 (15 min.)

unMwraliy of Southern California Ufcwrv

SS 629.2A-13