tlic107c - drive vehicle - learner guide

TLIC107C

Drive vehicle Learner Guide

Contents

What this Learner’s Guide is about ........................................ 1 Planning your learning ........................................................... 2

Section 1............................................................................................. 7 Licensing requirements and traffic laws ................................. 7

Section 2........................................................................................... 23 Principles relating to car driving ........................................... 23

Section 3........................................................................................... 62 Drive a car in a systematic and controlled manner .............. 62

Section 4........................................................................................... 78 Describe and demonstrate techniques required to improve the efficient operation of a car.................................................... 78

Additional resources....................................................................... 92

Feedback on activities .................................................................... 94

TLIC107C Drive vehicle

© Australian National Training Authority 2003 Page 1 Customised and developed by Armstrong’s Driver Education Pty Ltd August 2008 ADELG1040

What this Learner’s Guide is about

This Learner’s Guide is about the skills and knowledge required to drive commercial light vehicles and cars safely, including the systematic, safe and efficient control of all vehicle functions, monitoring of traffic and road conditions, management of vehicle condition, and performance and effective management of hazardous situations. Assessment of this unit will usually be undertaken within a licensing examination conducted by, or under the authority of, the relevant state/territory road traffic authority.

Persons achieving competence in this unit will need to fulfil all of the relevant State/Territory learner permit or driver licence requirements before driving a vehicle on a public road.

The Elements of Competency from the unit TLIC107C Drive vehicle covered in this Learner’s Guide are listed below.

Drive the vehicle

Monitor traffic and road conditions

Monitor and maintain vehicle performance

This unit of competency is from the Transport and Logistics Training Package (TLI07).


Page 2 © Australian National Training Authority 2003 ADELG1040 Customised and developed by Armstrong’s Driver Education Pty Ltd August 2008

Planning your learning

It is important to plan your learning before you start because you may already have some of the knowledge and skills that are covered in this Learner’s Guide. This might be because:

• you have been working in the industry for some time, and/or

• you have already completed training in this area.

Together with your supervisor or trainer use the checklists on the following pages to help you plan your study program. Your answers to the questions in the checklist will help you work out which sections of this Learner’s Guide you need to complete.

This Learner’s Guide is written with the idea that learning is made more relevant when you, the learner, are actually working in the industry. This means that you will have people within the enterprise who can show you things, discuss how things are done and answer any questions you have. Also you can practise what you learn and see how what you learn is applied in the enterprise.

If you are working through this Learner’s Guide and have not yet found a job in the industry, you will need to talk to your trainer about doing work experience or working and learning in some sort of simulated workplace.



Section 1: Licensing requirements and traffic laws

Are you able to: Yes No

1. describe and explain current trends or patterns in road accidents?

2. describe and explain the factors that increase the risk of accident involvement?

3. describe and explain the consequences of road accident trauma to individuals and society?

4. describe the use of protective devices in minimising road accident trauma?

Section 2: Principles relating to car driving


1. describe the principles relating to car driving?

2. demonstrate system of vehicle control?

3. describe the six elements of the system?

4. describe the car space cushions?

5. demonstrate what to do in an emergency?

6. describe your responsibility in the case of an accident?

Section 3: Drive a car in a systematic and controlled manner


1. demonstrate vehicle control?

2. demonstrate vehicle steering?

3. demonstrate slow speed vehicle control?

4. demonstrate various steering techniques?

5. demonstrate night driving?

6. demonstrate wet weather driving?



7. carry out a commentary drive demonstration?

Section 4: Describe and demonstrate the techniques required to improve the efficient operation of a car


1. identify the main systems of the training car?

2. describe the basic functions of these systems?

describe the effects of regular car maintenance?



How you will be assessed

Assessment of this Unit of Competency will include observation of real or simulated work processes using workplace procedures and questioning on underpinning knowledge and skills. It must be demonstrated in an actual or simulated work situation under supervision.

You will be required to:

• demonstrate driving a vehicle in a professional manner.



Section 1

Licensing requirements and traffic laws



Section outline

Areas covered in this section

Traffic accident problems

Licensing requirements

Traffic signals and road markings

Hazard avoidance

Seat belts



Traffic accidents in Australia

There are about 3,500 people killed in road accidents each year in Australia, another 30,000 to 32,000 are seriously injured.

Information published by the Commonwealth Bureau of Statistics and various state/territory authorities show that road accidents have certain trends or patterns.

Here are some examples:

• Young drivers are involved in serious accidents to a much greater extent than would be expected from their numbers in the driving population. A disproportionate number of accidents involve people in the 17 to 25 year age range.

• Drivers and passengers account for more than two out of three people killed or injured in traffic accidents.

• More fatal accidents occur on straight sections of road than at either bends or intersections.

• Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays are the worst days of the week for accidents. Between them these days account for more than half of all road casualties in Australia.

• Half of the serious crashes at these times involves alcohol and other drugs, compared with 1 in 7 serious crashes at other times. Almost one in every five casualties is killed or injured on a Saturday.

• Of the drink drivers killed in Victoria 50 percent are between the age of 18 to 24 years.

• The number of accidents occurring peak between 4 pm and midnight. That is nearly half of all accident casualties in Australia happens between the hours of 4 pm and midnight.

• Other factors that impact on road accidents are:

− driver stress and fatigue

− adverse weather and road conditions

− impairment to vision, such as, sun glare, rain, night driving and blind spots.



The economic cost of accidents

Traffic accidents ranks third as the cause of loss of life in Australia. Heart disease causes almost three times more deaths. However, the lives lost in traffic accidents are younger lives than those who die from heart disease. They are therefore far more costly, in terms of economic loss to the nation.

The human cost

Statistics cannot clearly demonstrate the human suffering involved when 3,500 people die and over 30,000 are seriously injured in motor vehicle accidents. However, the following statistics give some idea of the human cost involved:

• The average time spent in hospital by road crash victims is two weeks. Some road casualties spend months or even years in hospital and attending rehabilitation centres.

• The most common injuries are to the head and neck. About 70 per cent of all deaths are caused by damage to the brain and nervous system. More than half the spinal cord victims admitted to hospital have suffered their injuries in road accidents.

Consequences of road accidents as they relate to you:

• physical

− injury, minor or serious

− psychological

− permanent incapacitation

− death

• financial

− loss of income, to family and self

− medical costs

− inability to continue a working career

− cost to the local community and society.

Patterns that occur in car road accidents:

• age

• driving experience, speed factors

• alcohol, fatigue, stress and personal well being

• environmental conditions (road, weather, time of day).



Activity 1: What factors increase the likelihood of an accident?

What are the factors that increase the likelihood of an accident?

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There is feedback on this activity at the back of this Learner’s Guide.



Activity 2: What factors cause driver fatigue?

What factors can cause driver fatigue?

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When is the best time to drive?

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What are the signs of driver fatigue?

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Stress

Stress can also affect your driving. If you are having problems at work or at home you are up to 5 times more likely to be involved in an accident.

Divorce, for example can affect your driving. Your accident rate can be twice as high as the average driver and even higher during the 6 months before and after a divorce.

Protective devices used to minimise accident trauma:

• seat belts

• anti-‐locking braking systems

• air bag technology.

Seat belts

Seat belt wearing was made compulsory in Victoria in 1970 and is now required in all states/territories. Since then the number of deaths on the road has dropped dramatically.

Seat belt law

Every driver, or passenger, must wear a seat belt or appropriate restraint. It is just as important to wear a seat belt in the back seat as the front. Seat belts must be properly adjusted and securely fastened.

Drivers must ensure that passengers under 18 years are properly restrained by a seat belt, or a (child) restraint suitable for the height and weight of the child and that it is properly fitted and adjusted.

Seat belts and children

Children quickly get used to wearing restraints and seat belts if they are used every time they are in the car. Make sure that the child restraint you use is marked to show it meets the Australian Standard AS 1754. Follow the fitting instructions carefully.

Babies aged under 6 months should ride in a special infant restraint.

Drivers must make sure that babies under one year of age are carried in a approved child restraint, that is, one that’s correctly installed and adjusted to fit the baby.



Some guidelines for child restraints:

• Infant restraints are suitable for babies up to 9 kilograms in weight (Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales).

• Child car seats are suitable for children between 8 to 18 kilograms in weight in Victoria, 9 to 19 kilograms in weight in South Australia and 8 to 19 kilograms in New South Wales.

• Booster seats are suitable for children between 14 to 32 kilograms in weight in Victoria, 9 to 38 kilograms in South Australia and 14 to 21 kilograms in New South Wales.

• Information Bulletins and brochures available from relevant authorities will give you more information regarding seat belts or other road traffic information.

• Contact your state/territory Licensing Authority for information on seat belt requirements or other updated information on traffic regulations (see Additional Resources).

How seat belts work in a crash

In a crash there are really two separate collisions. The first is the car’s collision, when the car hits something and comes to a stop.

The second collision is the one that hurts. It’s the human collision. It happens when people in the car hit something -‐ usually part of the car.

Without a seat belt, people keep moving at the car’s original speed. They slam into such things as the steering wheel, windscreen, back of the front seat, or some other part of the car. Seat belts help prevent this. The person wearing a seat belt is much less likely to hit hard or sharp surfaces inside and outside the car.

Wearing your seat belt correctly

You should wear your set belt in the following manner:

• both lap and sash sections fairly tight, but comfortable

• buckle by your side

• no twists in the webbing

• as low as possible on your hips.



Activity 3: What seat belt exemptions apply in your state/territory?

Are there any regulations that exempt you from wearing a seat belt in your state/territory? Write your answer below.

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If a child is not restrained in a car, who is officially responsible?

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Anti-lock brake systems

The problem of wheels locking during braking and the subsequent effects of increased stopping distance and lack of steering control, have been appreciated for many years. Prior to the availability of anti-‐lock braking systems, `cadence’ braking was widely taught as a means of avoiding wheel lock. The principle of this was to brake until the wheels just locked and then release, to regain grip, before applying the brakes again. This also had the beneficial effect that weight -‐ transfer onto the front wheels accompanied each application of the brakes.

Carried out by an experienced driver, this method was effective and the basic principle of rapidly applying and releasing the brakes is employed in all anti-‐lock braking systems.

Modern electronic technology enables fast and sophisticated control of the braking system in response to signals indicating road wheel speed and, therefore, imminent lock-‐up. This means that the brakes can be applied heavily in an emergency on slippery surfaces without the risk of skidding and still retain some steering control. However, no anti-‐lock system is capable of defying the laws of physics and stopping distances will be significantly longer than when braking on a good dry surface where the anti-‐lock system in not invoked.

Operation of anti-‐lock system

Most anti-‐lock systems have solenoid valves to control (modulate) the pressure applied to each brake. These valves are controlled by signals from the electronic control unit (ECU) and can respond very quickly (several times per second) to changing road wheel rotational speeds, either maintaining, reducing or increasing the applied pressure to individual wheels. These valves are built into a modular assembly.



Anti-lock braking system



Activity 4: How does the anti lock system braking operate?

Obtain information on anti-lock systems braking and explain this safety feature to your trainer.

Ask your trainer to allow you to test drive a vehicle equipped with anti-lock system braking.



The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)

The SRS is intended as a supplement to the protection offered by the driver’s seat belt by deploying an air bag from the centre of the steering wheel during certain frontal crashes. Deployment of the air bag is automatic, making the SRS a passive restraint. The driver does not control the operation or activation of the system. The air bag deploys for the driver (and passenger in some cases) when the vehicle is involved in certain frontal (or near frontal) impacts. The frontal impact must be within a 60 degree window, occurring no more than 30 degrees off the centreline of the vehicle. Deployment is not designed to occur in rollovers, side impacts, or rear impacts where air bag inflation would not provide any driver protection benefit.

The frontal impact must have enough force for the SRS to cause air bag deployment. The minimum force required is the equivalent of a head-‐on contact between the vehicle and a barrier or other stationary object at a speed higher than approximately 20 km/h. This is also equivalent to a moving vehicle hitting a stationary vehicle at 45 km/h.

For deployment to occur numerous factors must be taken into account. For instance, the crush area of the other vehicle (if involved in the crash), its mass and speed would all contribute to raising or lowering the force required for deployment to occur as designed. Also, the angle of impact force may not be within the 60 degree window for SRS for deployment to occur although the physical damage to the vehicle may appear that it was.

The sensors that controls the air bag deployment are incorporated in the Sensing Diagnostic Module (SDM) located beneath the driver’s seat.



Activity 5: Describe the operation of a SRS

Describe the operation of a Supplemental Restraint System.

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What are your licensing requirements

Law for learner permit holders

While you hold a learner permit you must:

• display L plates at the front and rear of the vehicle you are driving

• have no alcohol in your blood when driving

• drive a car only, don’t tow a trailer or any other vehicle. (there is no restriction on the type of car that can be driven by a learner driver)

• always drive with a licensed driver (full licence not probationary) sitting next to you and instructing you.

Your driver’s licence

Drivers are entitled to use the road system providing they meet certain conditions. Drivers must:

• show that they understand the rules relating to driving. These include both the Traffic Act and Motor Traffic Regulations

• understand society’s concerns to lessen the impact of traffic on the environment, and to use the road system efficiently

• show the skills necessary to drive safely

• continue to obey road rules and drive responsibly

• pay a licence fee which goes towards maintaining the system.

When a driver meets these conditions he or she earns the right to hold a licence.

This arrangement may be cancelled for traffic offences. There are penalties, such as:

• fines

• licence cancellation

• disqualification

• suspension

• in extreme cases, imprisonment.



Section 2

Principles relating to car driving



Section outline



The six elements of the system

Practical application

The space cushion

Emergencies and what to do

Your responsibility in the case of an accident




The driver’s world is subjected to constant change, the layout and condition of the road ahead varies from point to point and there is always potential conflict with other vehicles and pedestrians. Traffic controls are varied and complex and there are many other distractions which are competing for the driver’s attention. Not only is change an important characteristic of the driving situation, but often the change is sudden and unexpected.

To operate a vehicle skillfully and efficiently, a driver must be able to select from this ever-‐changing situation all those cues that are vital to the movement of the car and must then be able to interpret the cues correctly, make the appropriate decisions in good time, and actuate the controls of the car to give effect to these decisions.

The senses employed by the driver are sight, hearing, feel, with sight during the most important. Body position, balance and muscle control also play a vital role.

The quality of a motorist’s driving is directly affected by the speed and accuracy with which the brain can process the messages relayed from various stimuli.

The driver’s physical fitness plays an important role in this continuous process of observing, making judgements and putting decisions into effect. Obviously there is a limit to the brain’s capacity to perform this function, so the higher the speed, the fewer the observations that can be processed per kilometre.

The defensive driver minimises danger and aggravation on the road by driving:

• carefully

• systematically

• considerately.



System of Vehicle Control (SVC)

The System of Vehicle Control (SVC) creates a simple and repetitive method of driving which ensures that you omit no detail, leave nothing to chance and, when perfected, will make sure that you will always be:

• in the right gear

• travelling at the appropriate speed

• in the correct position.

SVC requires you to consider each of the six elements listed below as you approach a traffic hazard. Depending on the circumstances, some or all of the elements are implemented.

Before implementing SVC you have to first identify a traffic hazard, this could be anything that may be a danger to you such as:

• hills and bends:

− When approaching the crest of a hill or a bend, keep to the left hand side of the road as your vision of oncoming vehicles will be restricted.

• animals:

− Animals are unpredictable so, reduce your speed and prepare to take evasive action to prevent a collision (accident)

• road works:

− Reduce your speed, obey all road signs; you will possibly encounter poor road surfaces and/or detours

• pedestrians:

− Pedestrians may emerge from between parked vehicles and cross against traffic signals. Children are unpredictable and may run out into the traffic. Watch parked cars for drivers or passengers emerging into your path

• intersections:

− At intersections slow and be prepared to give way and try to anticipate other road users. Do not totally rely on traffic signals that give you right of way.



The six elements of the system are:

1. Course:

• Is my road position appropriate for the hazard that I am approaching?

2. Mirrors and indicators:

• What is behind, do I signal now to change position?

3. Speed:

• What speed do I need when I reach the hazard? Now is the time to start reducing speed.

4. Gears and mirrors:

• If speed was reduced sufficiently, gears will need changing. Check mirrors again to update what is happening behind.

5. Evasive action:

• Do I need to stop, sound the horn or slow down further?

6. Acceleration:

• Hazard passed, resume speed.

Once you have identified a traffic hazard, commence with the first element and proceed to the last (asking the question relating to each element) to see if you should take some defensive action with your vehicle so that you can safely negotiate that hazard.

Practical application

When driving in moderate to heavy traffic, some of the six elements (course, speed, gears, accelerator) can be pre-‐set. For example, because of the traffic and circumstances you would remain in one particular road position and drive your car at a speed that would be appropriate for any circumstance that developed.

This would leave you to concentrate on scanning, checking mirrors and evasive action.



Approaching traffic lights

When approaching a green traffic light, implement the System of Vehicle Control with an additional element, be prepare for a traffic light change.

The law requires that you stop when a red light is on and allows you to proceed if a green light is showing. However, an amber (or yellow) light is the same as a red light and means that you must stop, if safe.

A problem usually arises when you are approaching a set of green traffic lights and the amber light come on. Because you are getting close to the traffic lights, often a quick decision has to be made whether to stop or continue.

Making quick decisions means that you do not have time to take in all of the circumstances and often an incorrect decision is the result.

The easiest way to deal with this problem is to anticipate the `point of no return,’ on the road. You can do this in the following manner:

Firstly, always reduce your speed when approaching traffic lights. By reducing speed slightly, your braking distance is reduced considerably. halving your speed the braking distance is reduced four times.

As you approach the green traffic light, look for the stop line on the road that is associated with the traffic light you are approaching. Continue to glance at this line as you approach.

By observing the stop line your brain acts as a computer, and can estimate where the ‘point of not return’ is on the road.

Once this point has been identified, then your decision to stop or continue on when the amber light appears has already been worked out in your head.

By this time you will have been using your rear vision mirrors which will have provided you with information on how many vehicles there are behind you and how close.

This information is useful should the light turn amber just as you have reached the `point of no return’. The closeness of the vehicles behind you will influence your decision to brake normally or more heavily.

If the amber light comes on before the ‘point of no return’, you know that you have enough time to stop. If the light comes on after you have gone over the ‘point of no return’, you can continue on -‐ with caution.



The application of this System will ensure that drivers omit no detail and leave nothing to chance because they will have prepared for all possible situations.



Activity 6: What must you look for when approaching traffic lights?

What must you be looking for when you approach a green traffic light?

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Failure to recognise traffic hazards

One of the chief causes of accidents is the failure of drivers to recognise traffic hazards while they still have time to take evasive action and prevent them. This is why being on the lookout for traffic hazards is important.

A definition of a hazard is:

Anything that could cause danger

If you do not look for traffic hazards you may not see them in time to react and avoid them.

Your eye only has a narrow cone in which clear identification vision is possible. This means that when you are looking 30 metres ahead, all you see with your central eyesight is an area 1.5 metres width. At 91 metres, the width is five metres.

This is the reason why you must constantly be looking around you. Never fix your eyes for too long on any one object.

In addition, never trust in one look but continue to scan the road around you constantly because on your first scan you may not observe a vehicle due to its colour blending in with the background.

Do not rely on the movement of another vehicle to catch your eye. Remember, many of the other drivers on the road may have a low standard of driving and may not be scanning. You have to watch out for them as their years of experience may only make them an experienced bad driver.

As a driver, you should be looking, trying to find any traffic hazard, whether they are:

• behind

• to the left

• to the right

• ahead

• beside you.

In a large number of crashes, drivers often admit that they did not see the other person. Quite possibly, they were not expecting any problems and so were unprepared for something to happen.

Exercise your mind to constantly look for traffic hazards, this is a learned skill that could save your life -‐ or someone else’s.



As you drive along a road, look well ahead, note any possible trouble spots such as:

• intersections for:

− cars

− bicycles

− pedestrians

• pedestrian crossings for:

− children

− people in a hurry

• stationary buses, passengers that you cannot see walking around the front to cross the road

• parked cars with brake lights on that may be about to move off

• children playing near the road.



Activity 7: What are the patterns that cause road accidents?

What are the patterns that cause road accidents?

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Activity 8: What are the five points of good driving?

What are the five points of good driving involving traffic hazards?

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Research has shown that new drivers:

• can react quickly for simple tasks but are slow for complex traffic situations

• rate themselves as better than the average driver

• are inconsistent in coping with similar situations

• only look near their vehicles instead of looking further away for problems in advance

• use mirrors infrequently

• are slow to recover after avoidance manoeuvres

• fail to slow down for potential dangerous situations.



Activity 9: Demonstrate the following driving procedures

Demonstrate for your trainer the following driving procedures:

• hazard avoidance • approaching traffic lights • the five points of good driving • driving through an area undergoing road works.



Activity 10: Adjust your vehicle’s mirrors

When should you adjust your vehicle’s mirrors?

• before entering your vehicle?

• as you move off?

• after adjusting the seat?




Activity 11: What evasive action would you take?

What action would you take if you sighted a vehicle approaching from the rear, driving erratically from one side of the road to the other?

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Space cushion

Defensive drivers maintain a safe ‘space cushion’ all around their vehicle. The space cushion is the distance from your vehicle to the other vehicles around you. This protective space cushion gives you the room to stop, change lanes or take any necessary action without endangering you, your vehicle or other road users.

Spaces ahead

The space ahead is most important. Some authorities recommend that you have one second of following interval for every 3 metres of vehicle length. So if your vehicle is 6 metres, you would allow 2 seconds between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you.

Most state/territories have legislation specifying a minimum following distance. In good driving conditions, your vehicle should be at least 2 seconds behind the vehicle directly in front of you.

If conditions are poor due to rain, low visibility or bad road surfaces, this space should be increased to 3 or 4 seconds. If the conditions are very poor it should be increased even further. Following another vehicle too closely is one of the most common, avoidable causes of collision.

A simple method of checking your space cushion can be to:

• locate an object such as tree ahead of the leading vehicle

• as soon as the leading vehicle reaches the first tree start counting:

− 1,001

− 1,002

• you should not reach the tree until you have completed your count, if you do ease of the accelerator slightly.

Sometimes you need to keep more than two seconds back. A larger gap is needed when:

• visibility is poor

• it is dark and you can’t get as good a view of what the car ahead is doing

• the road is wet or slippery and you can’t stop as quickly

• you are tired and might not react as quickly

• the road is unmade.



Space to the sides

Just as you need a space cushion in front, you also need space to the sides. Its purpose is also to protect you from mistakes. You need to keep away from vehicles that are:

• alongside

− if you have a choice, don’t drive next to another vehicle for too long

• oncoming

− by keeping to the left of a multi-‐lane road, you make sure that you keep enough distance from oncoming vehicles

• parked

− keep a space between you and parked vehicles. Someone may get out of a parked car suddenly, a pedestrian may step from between cars, or a driver may start up suddenly and pull out.

Space behind

Obviously the space cushion behind your vehicle is mainly under the control of the driver following you. However, you can help the other driver keep the correct distance by:

• maintaining a constant speed

• slowing down gradually

• don’t change speed or stop suddenly

• avoiding sudden stops

• signalling any manoeuvres well ahead.

When you are being tailgated (followed too closely):

• try not to feel that you have to go faster

• let the other driver overtake as soon as they can

• increase the space in front of your car, so if you have to stop, you can do so more gently and the car behind is less likely to hit you

• if you wish to turn, slow down early.

It is against the law to tailgate.



Activity 12: When would you need a greater space cushion?

Under what conditions would you need a larger space cushion?

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If you are driving a motor car when conditions are poor due to rain, low visibility or bad road surface what space cushion should you leave?

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Driver vision

Drivers all round vision is restricted by:

• corner pillars

• bonnets

• rear vision mirrors

• load

• trailer bodies

• air filters.

A defensive driver is always conscious of these blind spots and watches for vehicles or pedestrians moving into them.



Activity 13: Demonstrate the blind spots on your vehicle

Demonstrate for your trainer the blind spots on your vehicle. List these below.

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Activity 14: What are you state/territory regulations for railway crossings?

What is your state/territory legal requirement for railway crossings where there are gates, booms or flashing lights?

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Ask your trainer to give you a test of ten questions on your state/territory traffic laws. These questions to be taken from your state/territory road and transport authority regulations.

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Ask your trainer how you did in the test.




Activity 15: When must you give way to pedestrians?

When must you give way to pedestrians when turning?

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Giveway rules

You will be required to give way from time-‐to-‐time. For example:

• intersections where there are no lights or signs

• when joining a stream of traffic from a parked position

• when making a U-‐turn

• changing lanes

• entering or leaving the road from private premises.



Activity 16: What is the best thing to do when you are tired?

Tick the box with the correct answer.

If you are tired when driving the best thing to do is:

• turn on the radio and open the windows?

• drink coffee to stay awake?

• continue to drive at a slower speed?

• pull of the road and rest?




Activity 17: What must you do in a give way situation?

Tick the box with the correct answer.

When other vehicles are required to give way to you at an intersection you should:

• always offer to give way to other vehicles? • signal all other drivers to see if they want to go first? • give way to any other drivers who look as though

they will not give way? • always take right of way so as not to confuse the

other drivers?




Concentration

An important factor of car driving is the level of concentration and attention required during intervals of high driving workload.

These intervals may be associated with negotiating a perceived traffic hazard or may be seen as routine.

During these intervals the driver is confronted with several tasks that can compete for attention at the same time.

High workload situations are among the main causes of job stress, skill failure and accidents.

Driving to a system permits the driver to attend to the most vital actions, one at a time, in an order of sequences.

Handling a high workload in a systematic sequence makes sure:

• all vital actions get the required attention

• vital actions are carried out at the best time

• each vital action receives the driver’s full skill and ability

• peak workload and driver stress are greatly reduced.

The driver has spare capacity to deal with emergencies.

Emergencies and what to do

Do all you can to avoid emergencies. However, if you find yourself in one of the following situations, you should know in advance the best thing to do:

• skidding

• types of skids

• tyre blow-‐out or rapid puncture

• brake failure

• being forced onto the gravel (at the side of the road)

• decreased traction (adhesion).

Skidding

Skids don’t just happen. They result from a vehicle being driven incorrectly. A car skids because the driver is asking more of the car’s braking , acceleration, or steering than is possible with the amount of grip the tyres have on the road.



Skids usually occur during cornering, braking and accelerating. A car seldom skids when it is travelling in a straight line.

If the brakes are applied too hard, for instance, the wheels lock, causing the car to slide forward. Turning the steering wheel has no effect at all. When the brakes are released, the wheels start turning again. The steering responds and the driver can change direction.

If the road conditions are bad, e.g. slippery, rough or a gravel surface, the amount of grip decreases.

The early recognition of a skid is vital. A sensation of lightness or floating you can feel in the seat of your pants is the cause of the more common rear-‐wheel skid. The earlier you recognise them, the safer it will be and the sooner you can correct the skid. Police drivers have to learn how to avoid skids and how to recover from them. It is right that as an ordinary driver you should also be aware of how to correct the skid.

Rear wheel skid

A good driver doesn’t get into an uncontrolled skid. Remember that it is always easier to get into a skid than get out of one. If you get into a skid, don’t panic. Take your foot off the accelerator and always turn in the same direction as the skid. Most drivers will do this instinctively. Then let the engine gradually bring the car to a stop.

If the back of the car slides to the left, take your foot of the accelerator and turn the steering left smoothly to control the skid, but not too far, otherwise you could induce a skid in the opposite direction.

Front wheel skid

Front wheel skids don’t happen very often, but usually occur when approaching a hazard too fast, or as a result of a sudden harsh movement of the steering wheel. To correct a front-‐wheel skid, take your foot of the accelerator but don’t touch the brake. Straighten the front wheels momentarily to line them up with the direction in which the front of the car is heading. Then smoothly apply the steering to bring the car back on the correct course. When under control again, apply gentle, smooth acceleration.



Activity 18: Describe to your trainer how to correct a skid

Describe to your trainer how you would correct a: • front wheel skid • rear wheel skid.



What to do in the case of a blow-‐out or a rapid puncture

If you get a blow-‐out don’t over-‐react on the steering, or slam on the brakes. The car will pull towards the burst tyre and you will be glad you were holding the wheel properly, and not with one hand. Don’t brake, take your foot off the accelerator and just try to correct the slight drift off course with a controlled, gentle, but firm action on the steering wheel. It is over-‐reaction that that ruins things every time, and puts you in danger.

Let your speed run down quite naturally, then check your mirrors and, if it is safe, pull over to the side of the road-‐way out of harm’s way. Then apply your brakes very gently to bring the car to a halt.



Activity 19: Describe to your trainer what to do in the case of a blow-out or a rapid blow-out

Describe to your trainer the actions you would take in the case of a blow out or a rapid puncture.



Being forced onto the gravel

If you are forced onto the gravel edge of a country road take your foot off the accelerator but do not slam on the brakes. If you must brake remember the gravel provides much less grip for your tyres. Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and try to keep a straight course.

Take your time to get back on the bitumen. Pick a spot and carefully ease back onto the road.

Brake failure

If you step onto the brake and the pedal sinks uselessly to the floor. Take the following action:

• pump the brake pedal hard and fast (this may help)

• apply the hand brake carefully so that the vehicle doesn’t skid

• if possible, change to a lower gear (even in an automatic) and use your horn to alert other drivers

• steer to avoid the most severe collision if one cannot be avoided.

Decreased traction (adhesion)

• irrespective of the claims of some tyre manufacturers, no tyre adheres as well in the wet as in the dry

• adhesion is markedly lowered. The film of water acts as a lubricant, reducing friction and consequently adhesion

• when cornering, centrifugal force, because of the reduced adhesion, will cause sideways sliding at a lower speed

• the distance needed to stop is increased considerably

• when accelerating, wheel spin is easily induced

• wet roads are at their most dangerous after an initial fall of rain. All the grease, oil and rubber dust from passing vehicles floats to the surface and makes it particularly slippery.

Action to be taken

• increase the safety cushion

• decrease speed because of the lower adhesion and to enable you to see the whole scene; be careful at pools of water



• start the braking action much earlier; pay particular attention to the vehicles behind you before braking; reduce acceleration

• drive with your headlights on; others will be more aware of your presence.

Danger in aquaplaning

A point to remember is that when you are driving along at 80 km/h , during or after heavy rain, each tyre has to disperse around 4 litres of water every second. Good tyres allow you to drive safely, as they pump the slippery water away and continue to grip the road surface properly. But bald tyre won’t do this. They will splash a certain amount of water out at the sides, but not enough. Eventually you get a water wedge forming which builds up in front of the tyres until it forces its way under them, and ‘aquaplaning’ starts. Instead of being tyre-‐borne, you are water -‐ borne. You loose steering, and your ability to brake. You could be within seconds of an accident and possible death.

It is always important to cut down your speed during or after heavy rain. Be particularly careful after a light shower following a long dry spell, when the roads can be like a skating rink.



Activity 20: What is your state/territory regulations regarding worn tyres?

What are the regulations in your state/territory regarding tyre tread depth?

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Your responsibility in the case of an accident

When an accident occurs, those involved may be distressed, confused or angry. This turmoil may create additional danger and lead to further accidents. A crash is something you will be doing everything to avoid. However, should you be involved in one, you must know what to do afterwards.

Here are some of the things you must do if you are involved in a crash or an accident:

• stop immediately

• protect the area to make sure another crash does not occur

• give assistance to any injured person

• send or phone for police or ambulance if anyone is injured

• give your name, address, registration number and the vehicle owner’s name to other parties involved

• remove all debris from the road

• if there is only property damage and the owner (or a representative) is not present, report the crash to the nearest police station

• report the crash to the nearest police station if anyone is injured and police do not attend the crash scene.

Penalties

In Victoria if you do not stop and give assistance after being involved in a crash causing death or injury you can be fined up to $8,000 and/or be imprisoned for up to two years. You will also loose your licence for two years.

Check your state/territory Regulatory Authority for the penalty applying in that state/territory.



Activity 21: What is the penalty for failing to stop after an accident in your state/territory?

What is the penalty for failing to stop after an accident causing death or injury in your state/territory?

_____________________________________________________



Workplace procedures after an accident

There will be a number of workplace procedures that you must be aware of after an accident. For example:

• regulatory and/or enterprise emergency and reporting procedures

• your enterprise medical plan

• identifying and being aware of emergency phone numbers

• making arrangements for alternative transport and maintenance

• informing next of kin about the accident (check your company policy on who should deliver this information)

• responding to emergency vehicles (police, ambulance and fire engines).



Activity 22: What must you do if you are involved in an accident?

Tick the correct answer.

If your vehicle is involved in a crash you must stop and then first of all: • care for the injured? • protect the area so another crash won’t happen? • exchange names, addresses and registration numbers?

If you stop your vehicle at a crash, you should: • park very close to the crash? • put on your hazard lights? • first notify the authorities?




Section 3

Drive a car in a systematic and controlled manner



Section outline


Vehicle control

Steering the vehicle

Slow speed vehicle control

Acceleration

Steering around bends

Night driving

Commentary drive demonstration



Activity 23: Demonstrate efficient car driving

This demonstration is designed to assess your performance in the following situations:

• gear changing: − correct changing in sequence

• acceleration • steering • reversing:

− reversing is a dangerous manoeuvre because of limited vision and steering being a great deal more sensitive

• entering and leaving your vehicle safely • lane keeping:

− on turns − curves − straight lines

• position: − in preparation for a 90 degree turn

• brake application: − smoothness when applying

• brake distance: − judgement of when to apply the brakes at normal stops such

as stop signs • signalling:

− ample indication (minimum of 3 seconds) before movement and cancelling signal upon completion of movement

• observation: − adjusting your mirrors, seat belt and seat − turns − lane changing − approaching intersections.

Obtain from your vehicle licensing department a ‘Traffic Handbook’ (it may be called something else in your state/territory).

This will give you a description of the performance checks required in a on-road test.



Termination of a road test would occur in any of the following situations: • disobeying a stop sign or red traffic signal • failing to give way • colliding with a vehicle, pedestrian or fixed object • performing an illegal manoeuvre • exceeding the speed limit • refusing to attempt any manoeuvre • repeated failure to follow instructions • only action that required outside help to avoid a collision • lack of control • causing a dangerous situation • mounting a kerb with any one wheel.



Activity 24: Demonstrate a systematic approach to starting your car and leaving the kerb

Demonstrate and describe for your trainer the process for starting your car and leaving the kerb. Outline the process steps.

____________________________________________________

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____________________________________________________

When selecting drive in an automatic car, what safety precautions should you take?

____________________________________________________

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After moving off from the kerb, what must be done?

____________________________________________________

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Activity 25: Demonstrate for your trainer the process of returning to the kerb

Demonstrate for your trainer the process of returning to the kerb and switching off the engine. Ask your trainer for feedback on your performance.

Demonstrate for your trainer the following: • reverse parking • angle parking.



Activity 26: Demonstrate the following driving processes

Demonstrate slow speed vehicle control with an automatic vehicle.

Demonstrate slow speed vehicle control in a vehicle with a clutch.

Demonstrate multi-point turns.

Ask your trainer for feedback on these demonstrations.



Acceleration

The time has come to increase acceleration and explore the speed range of the gears. There may be an initial fear of acceleration but it is not dangerous, as long as the final speed reached suits the conditions.



Activity 27: Demonstrate the following driving exercises

Complete the following driving demonstrations. They are to be completed in both automatic and manual vehicles. Select a wide flat road with minimum traffic.

Automatic vehicles

Quickly accelerate from a standing start until 50 km/h is reached.

Quickly accelerate from a standing start until 60 km/h is reached.

Slowly (so that the automatic gearbox will change upwards) accelerate to 50 km/h, release accelerator, and apply firm acceleration, staying in top gear.

Slowly accelerate to 50 km/h, release accelerator, then push accelerator firmly to the floor. The automatic gearbox kick-down mechanism will operate, selecting a lower, more accelerative gear.

Manual vehicles

From a standing start, still change at minimum change points but apply more accelerator between gears.

From a standing start, accelerate hard and hold each gear longer until 3rd gear is selected.

At 40 km/h in 3rd gear change back to 2nd gear and accelerate hard.

At 50 km/h in 4th gear change back to 3rd gear and accelerate hard.

Repeat these processes until you feel comfortable with this acceleration. Ask your trainer for feedback on your practice.



Activity 28: Demonstrate the following driving exercises

At the same time as acceleration is practised, harder braking can be explored. Again select a wide flat road with little or no traffic.

Braking

At 40 km/h apply the footbrake as hard as possible. This will induce wheel lock and skidding. (Hear the screech!) Probably the vehicle will pull to one side. This is how you do not use the brakes. Once skidding has commenced the braking efficiency is reduced markedly.

From 40 km/h apply the brakes firmly and stop quickly without locking the wheels (no screech).

From 60 km/h apply the brakes firmly and stop quickly without locking the wheels.

The instructing person is to ask you to stop quickly at a set point (unknown to you) and from various speeds. After each stop alight and walk the stopping distance to develop an appreciation of the distance needed - it is quite a bit more than you may think. Ask your trainer for feedback on these exercises.



Being ready

When driving place your left foot flat against the fire wall or the rest spot provided for your left foot (after top gear selection in manual vehicles). This is the bracing foot at the time of an emergency.

Practise applying a little weight to this foot. When any influenced decision is made, feel the left foot and at the same time concentrate on a light steering grip and relaxed arms. With this stance, vehicle control can be maintained in an emergency. Constant practice will make this an automatic reaction.

Steering around bends

Until this stage centrifugal force has played little or no part in the cornering process. With practice and a more advanced approach to driving, a higher speed will be used on bends. You will then notice the reaction of the vehicle under centrifugal force.

This will not be a new sensation. You have been experiencing it since you first became a passenger in a car. The force that pushes you to the side of the car when cornering is centrifugal force.



Activity 29: Demonstrate curve turning to your trainer

Ask your trainer to select a number of curves for you to demonstrate curve turning. Your trainer should select at least four types of bends.



Activity 30: Demonstrate overtaking other vehicles in a suburban situation

You are required to demonstrate overtaking in a suburban situation. Initially, demonstrate overtaking in a narrow street where a car is parked and you must cross the centre of the road to pass or, in a wider street, practise around double-parked cars. Slow-moving vehicles can then be overtaken.

The procedure you should use is as follows: • Judge the distance. Is there sufficient distance between your

vehicle and the approaching traffic to complete the manoeuvre? If in doubt don’t overtake.

• Check your mirror. Be sure that a fast vehicle from the rear is not overtaking.

• Indicate that you are turning right. • Select the gear that will give the best acceleration for the speed

range. • Make that quick final safety check of blind spots in the car. • Commencing the manoeuvre at least 15 metres before the

vehicle is reached. Overtake in a gradual arc; sudden steering wheel movements are not required. Quick acceleration is used to limit the time on the wrong side of the road.

• Return to the left. The front of the overtaken vehicle appearing in the central mirror will guarantee that it is clear to move left. Signal and move left gradually.

• Don’t overtake through intersections or at T-junctions. Vehicles may turn into your path. When overtaking maintain a good side safety cushion.

• This manoeuvre can be practised on a slow vehicle in laned traffic. A judgment of the amount of forward distance and acceleration needed can be formed without crossing the centre of the road. In lanes, check the blind spot before moving back.



When being overtaken

• If possible move to the left. This does not mean that you have to make your path difficult.

• Don’t increase speed. You don’t have to reduce speed unless the urgency of the situation requires it.

Follow these practices irrespective of your opinion of the driving habits or attitude of the overtaking driver. The quicker he passes you the safer you will be.

Night driving

The difficulties in night driving are:

• The scope of vision is reduced at night; because of this accidents increase after dark.

• Eye contact becomes difficult. Other drivers’ movements become more difficult to predict.

• Pedestrians are difficult to see, particularly if they are crossing from the right and the lights of oncoming vehicles are behind them.

• The lights of oncoming vehicles are a problem, particularly if they are on high beam.

Action to be taken

• Increase the safety cushion.

• Reduce speed overall, but especially in busy or dark areas, to enable evaluation of the whole scene.

• The headlight flashing unit can be effective at night to attract attention and to make sure you have been seen.

• Never let central vision focus on the oncoming high beam lights. Direct your central vision to the left and past the oncoming vehicle. The glare is only a real problem if central vision is directed at the lights. This can be illustrated by using a household light; central vision can be focused quite close to the globe without discomfort. Discomfort only begins when central vision is placed on the globe.



Activity 31: Demonstrate a commentary drive for your trainer

Carry out a driving demonstration for your trainer. This demonstration is to be conducted in a wide range of on road conditions. For example:

• during daylight hours • during night hours • wet and dry conditions • sealed and unsealed roads.

During this driving demonstration you will be required to carry out a drive commentary for your trainer.



Section 4

Describe and demonstrate techniques required to improve the efficient operation of a car



Section outline


Identify the main systems of a car

Describe the basic functions of these systems

Describe the effect of regular car maintenance on the efficiency of the vehicle



Instruments and gauges

For the safe operation of the vehicle and the engine, it is necessary for you to be able to monitor the:

• condition of the vital fluids (oils, fuel and water)

• output of the charging system

• operation of other electrical warning systems

• vehicle road speed.

Each of these is monitored by a gauge or a light switch which is controlled by a sender unit.

The most common circuits are:

• engine oil pressure indicator that indicates low oil-‐pressure

• engine coolant temperature indicator that warns of overheating

• charging indicator that indicates the charging system’s condition

• fuel gauge that displays the amount of fuel in the fuel tank

• speedometer (may be a mechanical, electrical or electronic device) that registers the number of kilometres per hour the vehicle is travelling and the number of kilometres the vehicle has travelled

• brake failure warning light that warns of brake failure

• turn signal indicators that shows which set of indicators are being used and that they are operating correctly

• high beam warning light that alerts the driver that headlights are on high beam

• park brake ‘ON’ indicator that warns that the park brake is on

• rear window demister ‘ON’ indicator that shows that the rear window demister is on

• tachometer or clock when fitted that registers the engine’s rpm or displays the time, respectively.

These lights and gauges are grouped together on the instrument panel. The instrument panel is designed so that it can be viewed easily by the driver.



The training vehicle may also be equipped with dual steering and dual braking systems. This allows the trainer to exercise control over the vehicle if the need should arise.

Ancillaries (accessories)

Ancillaries are electrical circuits that have been, or can be, installed to add to the comfort and/or pleasure of those persons travelling in the vehicle. some of these circuits are:

• cigarette lighter

• clock

• radio and/or cassette player

• extra lights.

Regular servicing of your car

Proper service and repair is important to the safe, reliable operation of all motor vehicles. Some of these service operations require the use of tools specially designed for the purpose. The special tools should be used as recommended in the manufacturer’s manuals.

Cars require regular servicing. This may be handled by a motor mechanic. However, there are a number of things that you can do to make sure that your vehicle operates at peak fitness.

You need to carry out regular checks to make sure that the following are working:

• brake lights

• head and tail lights

• indicator lights

• windscreen wipers, windscreen washers

• horn.

When buying fuel at the service station (or refuelling at your workplace), check the following:

• engine oil

• radiator water

• battery acid

• windscreen washer water.



Activity 32: Carry out a daily inspection check on your car

Carry out a car service check demonstration for your trainer.

Sub-tasks

Steps Did the employee:

Assessment is the learner competent Yes/No

Initials of Assessor

1. Conduct general inspection

• Check that the park brake is applied and holding?

Leaks • Check beneath the

vehicle for evidence of fluid leaks, such as:

− petrol − radiator fluid − brake fluid − engine oil − transmission fluid?

Wheels and rims • Check that the wheel rims

were not bent or damaged?

• Check that all wheel nuts were correctly fitted and properly tightened?

• Check for grease oil leaks from wheel bearings?

Tyres • Check tyre pressures? • Inspect tyres for wear and

remove any wedged material from treads?

Fuel system • Check for leaking or

damaged tanks or lines?



Sub-tasks




2. Conduct Engine Compartment Inspection

General inspection • Check for damaged or

missing parts? • Check for fluid leaks and

exhaust gas leaks? Fluid levels Check: • oil levels • coolant including reservoir • windscreen washers • hydraulic brake fluid? Belts and pulleys • Check condition and

tension of all drive belts? Bonnet locks • Check bonnet locks were

properly secured?

3. Conduct an inside car inspection

Vehicle registration • Check expiry date of

vehicle registration? Vision and seating • Clean all windows and

mirrors? • Clean and check

windscreen wiper blades? • Adjust seating and

position of mirrors? Engine start-up • Check park brake was

applied and holding? • Start engine with clutch

depressed or vehicle in park if automatic?

• Check all other instruments and gauges?



Sub-tasks




Inside car housekeeping • Remove rubbish and

loose items? • Stow other equipment? Minor controls Check: • windscreen wipers and

washers • horn?

4. Conduct a systems operation check for a stationary vehicle

Lights • Check the condition and

cleanliness of all lights? • Check driving lights and

reflectors? • Confirm brake, turn and

hazard warning lights were undamaged and operating correctly?

5. Conduct a systems operation check for a moving vehicle

Brakes • Confirm park brake was

working properly? On-road check • Describe regular interval

checks for overheating?

6. Record and report results of daily inspection

• Complete the daily inspection sheet according to company policy and standards?

• Take corrective action on those matters which are considered the driver’s responsibility?

• Report all other faults to the appropriate company personnel so that corrective action may be taken?



Sub-tasks




7. Observe all OHS procedures

• Observe and implement all Occupational Health and Safety practices while conducting the daily inspection?



Other items of your vehicle that require attention:

• change air cleaner cartridge according to manufacturer’s recommendation

• replace oil filter according to manufacturer’s recommendation

• lubricate door locks, hinges and striker plates

• rotate wheels if necessary to equalise wear

• check for damage or looseness in bolts and fittings.

Regular servicing and preventative maintenance on your vehicle will give you:

• cost saving benefits

• an efficient and effective operating vehicle

• increased road safety

• environmental benefits.



Activity 33: Conduct a weekly inspection on your car

Sub-tasks




1. Conduct general inspection

• Check that the hand brake was applied and holding?

• Engage ‘neutral’, if maxi brakes are fitted, or a gear contrary to the prevailing slope?

Leaks • Check beneath the

vehicle for evidence of fluid leaks?

Wheels and rims • Check that the wheel rims

were not bent or damaged?

• Check that all wheel nuts were correctly fitted and properly tightened?

• Check for grease or oil leaks from wheel bearings?

Tyres • Check tyre pressures? • Inspect tyres for wear and

remove any wedged materials caught in the treads?

Brake system • Where possible check

brake drums for signs of overheating or damaged?

• Confirm air brake components were secure and linkages properly connected?

• Confirm hydraulic hoses were free from leaks and not touching other components?



Sub-tasks




Steering system • Confirm steering gear box

was secure and free from leaks?

• Confirm that all parts of the steering linkage were properly attached?

• Check hoses on power steering for wear, damage or leakage?

Suspension system • Check suspension

linkages and attachments?

• Check shock absorbers (and mountings) for leakage or damage?

Fuel system • Check for leaking or

damaged fuel tanks or lines?

Exhaust system • Confirm that muffler and

exhaust pipes were secure and not leaking?

2. Conduct Engine Compartment Inspection

General inspection • Check for damaged or

missing parts? • Check for fluid leaks and

exhaust gas leaks? Fluid levels Check: • oil levels • coolant including reservoir • battery electrolyte • windscreen washers • hydraulic brake fluid?



Sub-tasks




Electrical system • Confirm that battery was

secure and terminals were secure and free from corrosion?

• Confirm that all wiring was properly secured?

Belts and pulleys • Check condition and

tension of all drive belts? Cooling system • Confirm that the radiator

and fan were free from damage and blockages?

• Check coolant hoses for weaknesses or leaks?

Bonnet locks • Confirm bonnet lock was

properly secured?

3. Conduct an ‘in-side car inspection

Vehicle entry • Confirm that doors close

and latch properly? Vehicle registration • Check expiry date of

vehicle registration? Emergency and safety equipment • Confirm that all

emergency equipment as required by company policy was present and in good condition?

Vision and seating • Clean all windows and

mirrors? • Clean and check

windscreen wiper blades? • Adjust seating and

position of mirrors?



Sub-tasks




Engine start-up • Start engine with clutch

depressed or transmission in park if automatic?

Check all other instruments and gauges?

Inside vehicle • Remove rubbish and loose

items from the cab? • Safely stow other

equipment? Minor controls Check correct operation of: • windscreen wipers and

washers • horn?

4. Conduct a systems operation check for a stationary vehicle

Lights, reflectors and signs • Check the condition and

cleanliness of all lights, reflectors and signs?

• Check driving lights and reflectors?

• Confirm brake, turn and hazard warning lights were undamaged and operating correctly?

Steering • Check that steering wheel

free play was within acceptable limits?

• Check condition of steering linkages and looseness in steering joints and steering arm attachment bolts?

Clutch • Check that fee-play and

disengagement of the clutch falls within manufacturer’s specifications?



Sub-tasks




Pedals • Check that the condition

of the rubber pads and operation of the pedals was comfortable?

Hydraulic brakes • Check the pedal travel

and firmness?

5. Conduct a systems operation check for a moving vehicle

Brakes • Confirm hand brake was

working properly? Steering • Check for any unusual

noises when wheel is turned full lock in both directions?

On-road check • Describe regular interval

checks for overheating.

6. Record and report results of weekly inspection

• Compare the weekly inspection sheet according to company policy and standards?

• Take corrective action on those matters which are considered the driver’s responsibility?

• Report all other faults to the appropriate company personnel so that corrective action may be taken?

7. Observe all OHS procedures

• Observe and implement all Occupational Health and Safety practices while conducting the weekly inspection?



Additional resources



Paper based:

Brewer and Text Magazine Company, In Your Hands: A Novice’s Guide to Driving and Surviving, Federal Office of Road Safety, Canberra 1995.

NSW Roads and Traffic Authority, Driving With Mind and Not With Muscle.

NSW Traffic Education Centre (RTA), Draft Curriculum for Novice Class 1A Driver Training Ed. 2.

The Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc.) Driving Instructor’s Manual, 1994.

Current relevant road and traffic acts and regulations of the appropriate state/territory.

Other current traffic handbooks of the appropriate state/territory.

Learner handouts and reference materials:

• case studies

• information from various driving schools and organisations

• driver trainer association code of practice manual

• guest speakers:

− driver trainers

− driving school managers

− driver trainer association representatives

− road safety and accident research personnel.



Feedback on activities

The responses provided in this section are suggested responses. Because every workplace is different, your responses may vary according to your specific workplace procedures, the equipment available and the nature of the business.



Activity 1: What factors increase the likelihood of an accident?

• excessive vehicle speed and loss of vehicle control • high demands on driver concentration e.g., passengers,

complex driving environments • consumption of alcohol and other drugs • driver stress and fatigue • night driving • adverse weather and road conditions • social pressures and risk taking • impairment to vision e.g., sun glare, rain, night driving and blind

spots.

Activity 2: What factors cause driver fatigue?

• lack of sleep • continuous driving without frequent stops (you should stop after

every 2 or 3 hours driving) • lack of fresh air (make sure there is plenty of fresh air entering

the car) • maintain car temperature at a comfortable level, avoid large and

heavy meals • keep your eyes moving constantly don’t stare straight ahead in a

fixed gaze.

The best time to drive is when you are normally awake.

Signs of fatigue can include: • frequent yawning • heavy eyelids • dryness of the mouth • sore eyes • shivering • double vision.



Activity 3: What seat belt exemptions apply in your state/territory?

If you are driving, you are responsible for all children in the car, even if they are not your children.

Activity 5: Describe the operation of a SRS

For deployment to occur, numerous factors must be taken into account. For instance, the crush area of the other vehicle (if involved in the crash), its mass and speed would all contribute to raising or lowering the force required for deployment to occur as designed. Also, the angle of impact force may not be within the 60 degree window for SRS for deployment to occur, although the physical damage to the vehicle may appear that it was. The sensors that controls the air bag deployment are incorporated in the Sensing Diagnostic Module (SDM), located beneath the driver’s seat.

Activity 6: What must you look for when approaching traffic lights?

Firstly, always reduce your speed when approaching traffic lights. By reducing speed slightly, your braking distance is reduced considerably. By halving your speed the braking distance is reduced four times.

As you approach the green traffic light, look for the stop line on the road that is associated with the traffic light you are approaching. Continue to glance at this line as you approach.

By observing the stop line your brain acts as a computer, and can estimate where the ‘point of not return’ is on the road.

Activity 7: What are the patterns that cause road accidents?

• age • alcohol • fatigue • stress • personal well being • environmental conditions.



Activity 8: What are the five points of good driving?

• look far ahead of you • be aware of what is happening around you • keep your eyes moving • look where to go in an emergency • make sure you are seen, use turn signals in good time.

Activity 10: Adjust your vehicles mirrors

When should you adjust your vehicle’s mirrors?

Before entering your vehicle. As you move off. After adjusting the seat.

Activity 12: When would you need a greater space cushion?

Sometimes you need to keep more than two seconds back. A larger gap is needed when: • visibility is poor • it is dark and you can’t get as good a view of what the car

ahead is doing • the road is wet or slippery and you can’t stop as quickly • you are tired and might not react as quickly • the road is unmade.

You should increase your space cushion to 4 or more seconds in these situations.

Activity 13: Demonstrate the blind spots on your vehicle

• corner pillars • bonnets • rear vision mirrors.



Activity 14: What are you State/Territory regulations for railway crossings

Start to cross only when signals have stopped flashing and when the gates or booms are fully opened. There may be another train coming.

Activity 16: What is the best thing to do when you are tired?

Turn on the radio and open the windows.

Drink coffee to stay awake.

Continue to drive at a slower speed.

Pull of the road and rest.

Activity 17: What must you do in a give way situation?

Always offer to give way to other vehicles.

Signal all other drivers to see if they want to go first.

Give away to any other drivers who look as though they will not give way.

Always take right of way so as not to confuse the other drivers.

Activity 22: What must you do if you are involved in an accident?

If your vehicle is involved in a crash you must stop and then first of all: • Care for the injured. • Protect the area so another crash won’t happen. • Exchange names, addresses and registration

numbers.

If you stop your vehicle at a crash, you should: • Park very close to the crash. • Put on your hazard lights. • First notify the authorities.



Activity 24: Demonstrate a systematic approach to starting your car and leaving the kerb

a. Steps that should be followed. • check around the car for children, toys or animals • visually check the tyres • remove items from rear parcel shelf • adjust seat, seat belt and mirrors • check that handbrake is fully applied • start the motor • put vehicle in gear or drive • use mirrors to check the rear • use your indicator • release hand brake • check blind spot • accelerate to leave the kerb.

b. Place your right foot on the brake.

c. Make sure that your indicators have turned off.

tlic107c - drive vehicle - learner guide

Documents

tlic107c drive vehicle

unit tlic107c drive

vehicle performance

vehicle steering

vehicle functions

vehicle monitor traffic

system of vehicle control

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