Geared to Go A Workbook for Coaching New Drivers

2Driving down the roadIt is important the new driver learns effective search and scanning techniques. Provide focal points suchas a parked car at the end of the street or the next set of lights. This will reinforce proper visual skills. Notlooking far enough down the road is one of the key reasons for poor driving. Looking ahead and scanningshould be stressed during every practice session. This can be reinforced by correcting the driver’s visualhabits when necessary.• Teach the learner:- where to look (well ahead, side and rear view mirrors, along the intended path).- when to look (while driving straight or turning, when anticipating slowing or stopping).- what to look for (next available lane, obstructions and hazards, other vehicles and pedestrians).- what is important to the driving task and what is not (potential hazards, objects that will directlyaffect my intended path).• Teach the learner that vision must be high (above the nose) and wide. Vision should be along theintended path and not just over the hood. Looking over the hood will affect the driver’s ability to:- steer (to hold correct road position).- maintain the correct speed (not looking far enough down the road can result in uneven speed).- turn (to aim at the correct place).- stop (to judge time and distance).- function safely on the road.Stay SafeAlways keep the vehicle in the centre of the lane, whether driving in a straight line or turning.The following instructions will help the new driver proceed safely down the road.• Maintain a ‘big picture’ when driving by using good visual habits. These habits include:- establishing enough visual lead time.- watching for traffic developments or hazards ahead.- checking rear view mirrors often for traffic patterns behind.- watching for traffic slowing down, turning or stopping.- conducting ground searches for hazards or obstacles that could interfere with the path of travel.- watching for traffic control devices and signs.• Look well down the intended path of travel to stay in the centre of the lane. A driver should look 12to 15 seconds (about 1 to 1 1/2 blocks) ahead of the vehicle in urban areas and about 25 secondsahead in rural areas.• Make slight steering wheel corrections or movements to drive in a straight line.• Begin to reduce speed at appropriate distances from intersections or when coming to a stop.• Base the speed according to road, weather and traffic conditions.• Check left, centre and right for other traffic before proceeding through an intersection or whenleaving a stopped position at an intersection.22