Road Safety and Defensive Driving Flashcards

How far in advance should you signal before changing lanes on a New Mexico highway?

Answer: At least 300 feet

On New Mexico highways and high-speed roads, drivers should signal at least 300 feet before changing lanes to give adequate warning to surrounding traffic.

When driving in fog in New Mexico, which lights should you use?

Answer: Low beams or fog lights

In foggy conditions, use low beams or dedicated fog lights because high beams reflect off the fog and reduce visibility for you and oncoming drivers.

What is the New Mexico 'Move Over' law?

Answer: Drivers must change lanes or slow down when passing emergency or work vehicles stopped on the roadside

New Mexico's Move Over Law requires drivers to change lanes away from or slow down significantly when passing law enforcement, emergency, or roadside assistance vehicles stopped with lights activated.

In New Mexico, what is the safest way to handle a tire blowout while driving at highway speed?

Answer: Grip the wheel firmly, ease off the gas, and steer to a safe stop

During a blowout, grip the steering wheel firmly, gradually ease off the accelerator, and steer smoothly to the shoulder — sudden braking can cause loss of control.

What should you do if your vehicle's brakes suddenly fail in New Mexico?

Answer: Pump the brakes, downshift, and use the emergency brake gradually

If brakes fail, rapidly pump the pedal to build pressure, downshift to use engine braking, and apply the emergency brake gradually to slow the vehicle.

How should a New Mexico driver handle an aggressive driver tailgating them?

Answer: Safely change lanes or pull over to let them pass

The safest response to an aggressive tailgating driver is to change lanes safely or pull over to allow the aggressive driver to pass without escalating the situation.