Basic Driving Flashcards

How does alcohol affect your ability to drive?

Answer: It impairs judgment, slows reaction time, and reduces coordination

Alcohol affects the central nervous system, degrading all critical driving skills including judgment, vision, and reaction time.

What should you do when an emergency vehicle with sirens and flashing lights approaches from behind?

Answer: Pull to the right edge of the road and stop until it passes

You must yield by pulling to the right and stopping to give emergency vehicles a clear path.

What is the minimum safe following distance in ideal conditions for most passenger vehicles?

Answer: 3 seconds

The 3-second rule gives most drivers enough time to perceive a hazard, react, and brake safely in ideal conditions.

What does a flashing yellow traffic light mean?

Answer: Slow down and proceed with caution

A flashing yellow light warns drivers to slow down and be alert, but does not require a full stop.

Under which condition should you increase your following distance beyond 3 seconds?

Answer: When driving in rain, snow, fog, or heavy traffic

Poor weather and heavy traffic increase stopping distances, so extra following distance compensates for reduced traction and visibility.

You approach an uncontrolled intersection (no signs or signals) at the same time as another driver on your right. Who has the right-of-way?

Answer: The driver on your right

At an uncontrolled intersection, you must yield to the vehicle on your right.

What does the term 'hydroplaning' mean?

Answer: Your tires ride on a film of water and lose contact with the road surface

Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water builds between the tires and the road, causing a loss of traction and steering control.