Defensive Driving Techniques Flashcards

A TLC driver notices black ice on a bridge in winter. What is the most appropriate response?

Answer: Ease off the accelerator, avoid sudden steering or braking, and slow gradually

Black ice requires gradual deceleration with no abrupt inputs, as sudden braking or steering causes loss of control.

Which mirrors should a TLC driver check before changing lanes on the BQE?

Answer: Rearview mirror, side mirror, then a quick head-check over the shoulder

A proper lane-change check uses the rearview mirror, the relevant side mirror, and a physical blind-spot shoulder check.

When driving through an intersection with a stale green light (one that has been green for a long time), a TLC driver should:

Answer: Be prepared to stop and cover the brake pedal

A stale green light is likely to turn yellow or red soon; covering the brake allows faster reaction time.

A pedestrian steps into the crosswalk against the signal in front of a TLC vehicle. What is the correct action?

Answer: Yield and stop to let the pedestrian cross safely

Regardless of who has the legal right-of-way, TLC drivers must yield to protect pedestrians from injury.

Which condition most dramatically reduces a driver's reaction time and increases crash risk for TLC operators?

Answer: Driving while fatigued or drowsy

Fatigue slows reaction time as significantly as alcohol impairment and is a leading cause of serious crashes.

When merging onto a busy highway, a TLC driver should:

Answer: Match highway speed in the acceleration lane and merge smoothly into a gap

Matching highway speed before merging reduces the speed differential with other vehicles and makes merging safer.

What is the primary purpose of maintaining a 'space cushion' around your for-hire vehicle at all times?

Answer: To provide time and space to react and maneuver if a hazard arises

A space cushion gives you the reaction time and physical room needed to avoid collisions when unexpected hazards appear.