AF Light Vehicle Driving Theory flashcards
AF Light Vehicle Driving Theory · Build recall with a focused review session.
32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.
- Red octagon sign
- A red octagon always means STOP. You must come to a complete stop at the stop line or before the crosswalk, yield to traffic, and proceed only when safe.
- Yellow diamond sign
- A yellow diamond sign warns of a hazard ahead, such as a curve, intersection, or pedestrian crossing. Slow down and be prepared to react.
- Flashing red signal
- A flashing red signal is treated as a stop sign. Stop completely, yield to cross traffic, and proceed when the way is clear.
- Solid yellow center line
- A solid yellow center line prohibits passing in either direction. A broken yellow line permits passing when the way is clear and legal.
- Four-way stop rule
- At a four-way stop, the first vehicle to stop proceeds first. If two arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the right has the right of way.
- Three-second following rule
- When the rear of the vehicle ahead passes a fixed object, you should not reach that object in less than three seconds in good conditions.
- Total stopping distance
- Total stopping distance equals perception distance plus reaction distance plus braking distance. It rises with the square of speed, so doubling speed roughly quadruples braking distance.
- Smith System
- The Smith System is a defensive driving method: Aim high in steering, Get the big picture, Keep your eyes moving, Leave yourself an out, Make sure others see you.
- Hydroplaning
- Hydroplaning occurs when tire tread cannot clear water from the road, causing loss of steering and braking control. It can occur at speeds as low as about 35 mph on wet pavement.
- Space cushion
- A space cushion is the gap you maintain ahead, to the sides, and behind your vehicle. If a tailgater closes behind, increase the gap ahead to allow gentler braking.
- IPDE process
- IPDE stands for Identify, Predict, Decide, Execute. It is a systematic defensive driving process for handling hazards before they become emergencies.
- Pre-drive walkaround
- A pre-drive walkaround checks tires for tread and pressure, lights for function, fluid leaks under the vehicle, and obstructions around the vehicle before driving.
- Tread depth minimum
- The minimum legal tread depth reference is 2/32 inch. The penny test, where Lincoln's head is fully visible, indicates tread at or near that limit.
- Engine oil check
- Check engine oil with the engine off and the vehicle level. The level should fall between the MIN and MAX marks on the dipstick.
- Head restraint position
- The top of the head restraint should align with the top of the head and sit close to the back of the head to reduce whiplash injury.
- Cold tire pressure
- Tire pressure is checked when tires are cold. Underinflation increases rolling resistance, heat, and the risk of blowout.
- Coolant check
- Check coolant only when the engine is cold. Opening a hot radiator cap can release scalding pressurized fluid and cause serious burns.
- Turn signal distance
- Turn signals should be activated at least 100 feet before a turn in urban areas and 200 feet on highways, per common state rules.
- Seat belt placement
- A seat belt should be worn low across the hips and snug across the shoulder. The shoulder strap crosses the collarbone, never the neck.
- Airbag function
- Airbags supplement seat belts and do not replace them. An unbelted occupant can be injured by the deploying airbag, which inflates in about 30 milliseconds.
- Child seat rear placement
- Children under 13 should ride in the rear seat. Rear-facing child seats must never be placed in front of an active frontal airbag.
- Anti-lock brakes technique
- Anti-lock brakes prevent wheel lockup during hard braking. The correct technique is firm continuous pressure while steering, not pumping the pedal.
- Electronic stability control
- Electronic stability control reduces skidding by braking individual wheels and adjusting engine power. It cannot overcome excessive speed or poor traction.
- Traction control
- Traction control limits wheelspin during acceleration but does not improve cornering grip or shorten braking distance.
- Tire placard
- The tire placard on the driver's door jamb lists the recommended cold tire pressure. This is the correct reference, not the number on the tire sidewall.
- Tire blowout response
- If a tire blows out, hold the wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator, and avoid hard braking. Steer straight while slowing gradually to a safe stop.
- Brake failure response
- If brakes fail, pump the pedal, downshift, and apply the parking brake gradually. Steer toward an uphill grade or open area to bleed speed.
- Skid recovery
- If the vehicle begins to skid, look and steer where you want to go and avoid sudden braking. Ease off the accelerator to regain traction.
- Stuck accelerator response
- If the accelerator sticks, shift to neutral, brake firmly, and steer to a safe stop while keeping control. Do not turn off the engine while moving.
- Post-collision steps
- After a collision, stop, check for injuries, call emergency services, exchange information, and report to police as required by law.
- Learner's permit rules
- A learner's permit typically requires a licensed supervising driver in the front seat and restricts driving hours and passengers.
- Implied consent law
- Implied consent laws require submitting to a chemical test when lawfully requested after arrest for impaired driving. Refusal carries license penalties.