Road Safety and Defensive Driving Flashcards

What is the leading cause of teen driving fatalities in New Mexico?

Answer: Speeding and not wearing seat belts

Speed and failure to use seat belts are the leading contributing factors to teen driving deaths in New Mexico.

In New Mexico, what is the seat belt law for adults?

Answer: All occupants in all seats must wear seat belts

New Mexico's seat belt law requires all vehicle occupants in all seating positions to wear a seat belt or appropriate restraint.

What should a driver do if their vehicle begins to hydroplane in New Mexico?

Answer: Ease off the accelerator and steer gently straight ahead

When hydroplaning, gently ease off the gas and steer straight; sudden braking or sharp steering can cause loss of control.

Under New Mexico's distracted driving law, what is prohibited for all drivers?

Answer: Using a handheld cell phone to call or text while driving

New Mexico law prohibits all drivers from using a handheld mobile device to make calls or send messages while operating a vehicle.

What does 'defensive driving' primarily mean in the context of New Mexico DMV education?

Answer: Anticipating hazards and adjusting your driving to reduce risk

Defensive driving means proactively scanning for hazards, anticipating the actions of others, and adjusting your driving behavior to reduce the risk of a crash.

What is the safest action to take if you feel drowsy while driving in New Mexico?

Answer: Pull off the road safely and rest

The only effective response to drowsy driving is to pull off the road in a safe location and sleep; stimulants and other tactics only mask the problem temporarily.