Module Six, Topic One

Sharing the Road with Pedestrians

 Sharing the Road with Others
SOL DE.18 The student will identify and describe the performance
characteristics of other road users and apply problem-solving skills
to minimize risks when sharing the roadway.
Key concepts/skills include investigating the unique characteristics
and vulnerabilities of
a) pedestrians
 Sharing the Road with Others

• You will learn …

A. Safety measures for sharing the road
B. How to handle situations with pedestrians
 Sharing the Road with Pedestrians
• Crosswalks may be marked or painted on the roadway.
• Stop for pedestrians in crosswalks whether marked or unmarked.
• Always stop for pedestrians.
• Be Aware! More than 50 percent of pedestrian-motorist crashes
occur at intersections.
• Motorist speeding is a major factor in crashes with pedestrians.
 Sharing the Road with Pedestrians
• Give pedestrians the right of way even when they are
crossing on a red signal.
• Expect pedestrians anytime, anywhere.
• Know that pedestrians are very hard to see - especially
in bad weather or at night.

Does rain affect

pedestrian behavior?

Photo courtesy of the AAA Foundation

 Sharing the Road with Pedestrians
• Yield at mid-block crossings.
• Check for pedestrians before passing a stopped vehicle.
• Check for pedestrians when making left and right turns.
 Sharing the Road with Pedestrians
Children are at increased risk for pedestrian injuries:

Their smaller size makes them difficult for drivers

to see, especially if they are standing between
parked cars on the side of the road.

Young children are often unable to judge distances

and vehicle speeds accurately; they can easily
misjudge whether it is safe to cross a street.
Sharing the Road with Pedestrians

Pedestrian Walk/Don’t Walk Signals

 What is a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB)?
PHBs provide pedestrians with a controlled crossing at an otherwise
uncontrolled pedestrian crossing. PHBs are pedestrian activated signals that are
usually located at midblock crossings or uncontrolled intersections.
Benefits of PHBs:
• 55% reduction in pedestrian
crashes.
• Improves pedestrian accessibility
and connectivity.
• Vehicular traffic calming.
 How does a Driver Interact with Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons
(PHBs)?
PHBs consist of three signal sections, two at the top (red) and one below (yellow). PHBs cycle
through six phases in which different signal sections are displayed to alert drivers on what to do.
1. When all the sections are dark, drivers may
proceed normally.
2. When the bottom section flashes, a pedestrian
has activated the PHB. During this phase,
drivers should slow down and proceed with
caution.
3. When the bottom section is a steady yellow,
drivers should prepare to stop, as pedestrians
are about to have the right-of-way.
4. When both top sections are a steady red,
drivers must stop, as pedestrians have the
right-of-way.
5. When the top sections are flashing red,
drivers may proceed if there are no
pedestrians at the crossing.
Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons (PHBs) Video

[Link]
[Link]/watch
?v=ObzoOeq1d
What is a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB)?
RRFBs warn drivers of pedestrians actively waiting and/or crossing the
roadway. They are pedestrian activated and emit rapidly flashing yellow LED
lights to help alert drivers of pedestrians crossing the road.
Benefits:
• Enhances pedestrian visibility.
• Can reduce
vehicular-pedestrian crashes
up to 47%.
• Can increase motorist yielding
rates to pedestrians within
crosswalk.
Driver Interaction with Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs)

Motorists must stop

for pedestrians and
If the RRFB is flashing, drivers should slow bicyclists within the
crosswalk. Yellow warning lights
down and prepare to stop. flash when a person
pushes the button or is
detected.
• Drivers must stop and let pedestrians
cross before proceeding.
• Drivers may proceed through the
crossing once the pedestrians have
cleared their travel lane. RRFBs use an irregular
flash pattern that is
Bicyclists in the
roadway must
similar to emergency stop for
flashers on police pedestrians and
vehicles. bicyclists within
the crosswalk.

Graphic adapted from [Link]

Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) Video

[Link]
[Link]/watch
?v=4_ixY5v_J0I
Module Six, Topic Two
Sharing the Road with Bicycles
 Sharing the Road with Others
SOL DE.18 The student will identify and describe the performance
characteristics of other road users and apply problem-solving skills
to minimize risks when sharing the roadway.
Key concepts/skills include investigating the unique characteristics
and vulnerabilities of
b) bicycles
 Sharing the Road with Others

• You will learn …

A. Safety measures for sharing the road

B. How to handle situations with pedestrians and bicyclists
 Sharing the Road with Bicyclists

• Bicycles are considered vehicles when the cyclist rides on

the road.

• Bicyclists should follow the same right-of-way laws as

motorists.

• Bicyclists have the same legal responsibilities as motorists.

Sharing the Road with Bicyclists

• Bicycles can be used for recreation,

fitness or as transportation to get to
school or work.
• Many jurisdictions have bicycle lanes
for bicyclists. Photo courtesy of the AAA Foundation

• Motorists should not drive in the

bicycle lanes except when necessary
to turn right.
 What are Green Pavement Markings?
• Green pavement
markings indicate
roadway assigned to
bicycle traffic.
• These markings help
increase the visibility of
bike lanes.
• They may be used in a
continuous or patterned
application.
How do Drivers Interact with Green Pavement Markings?
General Rules of Thumb
• Adjacent green markings on road (not at an
intersection): Do not enter, stop, or park.
• Green markings at an intersection:
• May cross when have legal right-of-way per
intersection control.
• Do not stop or park.
How do Drivers Interact with Green Pavement Markings?
Drivers may cross
these markings if
Drivers should stop they have right of
behind the stop bar on a way per the
red light. This is a “bike intersection traffic
box” for bicyclists. control.
Drivers may cross
marking on green light.

Drivers should not

enter adjacent bike
Drivers should not stop
lane.
or park within green
markings.
 How do Bicyclists Utilize Green Pavement Markings?
If continuing straight,
bicyclists should
Bicyclists may wait for cross the
the green signal intersection within
indication in the “bike the “cross bike”
box” to get ahead of markings.
the vehicle queue.

If turning left, bicyclists

should proceed to the
two-stage bike turn box on Bicyclists should
the green signal, wait, and approach the
then cross the roadway on intersection within the
that green signal. bike lane.
 Sharing the Road with Bicyclists

• Yield to bicyclists the same as you would for

pedestrians and vehicles.

• Do not attempt to share a lane with a cyclist.

• When approaching or passing a bicyclist, slow

down and change lanes to give adequate
space to pass when safe to do so.
Sharing the Road with Bicyclists

[Link]
 Sharing the Road with Bicyclists
• Search for bicyclists before turning and backing.
• Do not slow down or stop quickly after passing a bicycle.
• Do not sound horn close to bicyclists.
• Yield to bicyclists when a bike lane intersects a road.
 Sharing the Road with Bicyclists
Use Caution…
• When the roadway is wet or covered with sand or gravel.
• During rainy and icy weather.
• Near schools or residential areas.
• Around potholes and litter. Photo courtesy of the AAA Foundation

• At night, do not use high beams when you see an oncoming cyclist.
 Sharing the Road with Bicyclists

Riding a bicycle the wrong way through traffic is against the law
and is a leading cause of crashes.
 Module Six, Topic Three
Sharing the Road with Scooters/Mopeds
 Sharing the Road with Others
SOL DE.18 The student will identify and describe the performance
characteristics of other road users and apply problem-solving skills
to minimize risks when sharing the roadway.
Key concepts/skills include investigating the unique characteristics
and vulnerabilities of
b) scooters, mopeds
 Sharing the Road with Others

• You will learn …

A. Safety measures for sharing the road
B. How to handle situations with scooters and
mopeds
 Sharing the Road with Mopeds and Scooters

Scooter and moped riders have the same rights and

responsibilities as other roadway users.

Mopeds/scooters cannot be driven on a roadway where

the speed limit is faster than 35 mph. If driven any
faster, it would be classified as a motorcycle, requiring a
Motorcycle License.

Keep in mind that scooters and mopeds travel at much

lower speeds than motorcycles.
 Sharing the Road with Mopeds and Scooters

• You must wear a DOT (Department of Transportation)

-approved helmet when operating a moped.

• In Virginia, if a scooter has an engine displacement of 51 cc

or more and the maximum speed of over 35 mph, you must
obtain a title and registration and have a motorcycle
license.
 Module Six, Topic Four
Sharing the Road with Motorcycles
 Sharing the Road with Others
SOL DE.18 The student will identify and describe the performance
characteristics of other road users and apply problem-solving skills
to minimize risks when sharing the roadway.
Key concepts/skills include investigating the unique characteristics
and vulnerabilities of
b) motorcycles
 Sharing the Road with Others

• You will learn …

A. Safety measures for sharing the road
B. How to handle situations with motorcycles
Sharing the Road with Motorcycles
 Sharing the Road with Motorcycles

• Motorcycles are smaller and, therefore, more

difficult to see in the traffic mix.
• Research shows drivers who also ride motorcycles or
have family members or close friends who ride, are
more cautious when interacting with motorcyclists.
• Mentally train yourself to look for motorcycles when
driving.
 Sharing the Road with Motorcycles

• Do not ride beside a motorcycle in the same lane.

• Check mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles.

• Check for motorcycles before turning.

• When following a motorcyclist, allow for more space.

 Sharing the Road with Motorcycles
• Anticipate the actions of
motorcyclists.
• Do NOT assume a motorcycle is
turning when you see its turn signal
flashing.
• Increase space around a motorcycle in
bad weather.
 Sharing the Road with Motorcycles
Hidden Motorcycles
• Check your blind zones.
• A vehicle corner post can hide a motorcyclist.
• Give the motorcyclist room to maneuver. A motorcyclist will
often move within his/her lane to be seen or to see better.
• Check your rearview mirror often when followed by a
motorcyclist.
• A motorcycle’s speed is difficult to determine; allow extra
space when interacting with them.
 Sharing the Road with Motorcycles
What can motorcyclists do to manage risk?
• Take a motorcycle safety course.
• As a cyclist, know your limits, as well
as those of your motorcycle and the
environment.
• Wear appropriate riding gear.
• Cyclists should maintain a positive
mental attitude and be in proper
physical condition.
• Cyclists should ride in a position
where they can see and be seen.
 Sharing the Road with Motorcycles
Virginia Rider Training Program – Educating the Motorcyclist
Virginia Rider Training Program
Courses Offered Include:
• Basic Rider I – licensing for 2- or 3-wheel motorcycles.
• Basic Rider II.
• Advanced Rider.
 Module Six, Topic Five
Sharing the Road with Passenger/School Buses
 Sharing the Road with Others
SOL DE.18 The student will identify and describe the performance
characteristics of other road users and apply problem-solving skills
to minimize risks when sharing the roadway.
Key concepts/skills include investigating the unique characteristics
and vulnerabilities of
g) passenger and school buses
 Sharing the Road with Others

• You will learn …

A. Safety measures for sharing the road
B. How to handle situations with passenger
and school buses
 Sharing the Road with School Buses
You must stop for school buses with flashing
red lights and an extended stop sign when
you approach from any direction on a public
or private road.

Stop and remain stopped until all children are

clear and the bus moves again.

You must also stop if the bus is loading or

unloading children and the signals are not on.
 Sharing the Road with School Buses

Physical barriers include grass median, concrete median barriers (Jersey

wall), metal median barriers, guard rails, etc.
 Sharing the Road with School Buses

When you approach an intersection where a

school bus is stopped with red signal lights
flashing and stop arm extended,
EVERYONE MUST STOP.
 Sharing the Road with School Buses
School zone speed limits are often only in force when
school is in session and children are likely to cross roads.

Flashing amber lights are designed to draw attention

to the school zone.

The school zone may double as a playground zone and the

speed limit could be in effect longer or even continuously.
 Sharing the Road with School Buses

Larger vehicles, including school buses, will accelerate at a much slower rate than passenger
cars or light trucks. Scanning ahead for these larger vehicles will allow you to react quicker
to the speed of the larger vehicle when entering your path of travel.
 Sharing the Road with School Buses

Avoid following too closely and position When stopped behind a school bus, leave
your vehicle so the bus driver can see your adequate spacing between your vehicle and the
car in his or her side mirrors. school bus.
 Safe Driving in School Zones

Always exercise safe driving on school grounds. The school itself has many moving parts: staff,
students, buses and other vehicles. All drivers should be aware of proper entrances/exits and
school speed limits.
te their vehicle within the speed limits while on school property.
 Sharing the Road with Passenger Buses
School children also ride passenger buses.

• Watch for passenger buses that have

stopped since students may be exiting.

• Unlike a school bus, drivers do not have to

stop for a passenger bus.
 Sharing the Road with Passenger Buses
• Bus lanes are intended to save time
for riders by enabling them to bypass
the areas of heaviest traffic
congestion, such as a business district.
• Bus lanes are identified by the HOV
diamond and usually the words “Bus
Only”.
• Use of the bus lane is restricted to
buses.
 Sharing the Road with Passenger Buses

Be careful when passing a

stopped bus - passengers may be
exiting and crossing the street.
 Module Six, Topic Six
Sharing the Road with Construction Vehicles/Highway Workers
 Sharing the Road with Others

SOL DE.14 The student will identify changes in the environment that
affect visibility and traction and evaluate appropriate communication,
speed and lane position adjustment to reduce risks. Key concepts/skills
include
c) demonstrating an understanding and responding appropriately to
road construction
 Sharing the Road with Others
SOL DE.18 The student will identify and describe the performance
characteristics of other road users and apply problem-solving skills to
minimize risks when sharing the roadway.
Key concepts/skills include investigating the unique characteristics and
vulnerabilities of
g) construction vehicles
i) highway workers
 Sharing the Road with Others

• You will learn …

A. Safety measures for sharing the road
B. How to safely interact with construction
vehicles and highway workers
C. Appropriate safety measure to follow when
approaching or driving in construction zones
 Sharing the Road in Work Zones

The Virginia Department of Transportation

maintains 57,867 miles of roadway.

Work zones are areas set up by the

Virginia Department of Transportation
(VDOT) for roadwork and may involve
closures, detours and moving equipment.

[Link]
Sharing the Road in Work Zones
Work Zones are set for:

• Construction;
• Repairs;
• Resurfacing;
• Redesigning;
• Landscaping;
• Mowing;
• Litter removal; and
• Incident response.
 Sharing the Road in Work Zones
Construction vehicles are typically larger than passenger vehicles, and
• When loaded, acceleration and braking times increase.
• Will have a longer stopping distances as a result of increased braking time.
• Will have larger blind zones.
 Sharing the Road in Work Zones
Nine Simple Rules for Driving Safely in Work Zones:

• Minimize distractions—Avoid activities such as using cell phones,

changing radio stations/changing songs in your playlist, eating or
engaging in any other activity that takes your eyes off the roadway.
• Pay close attention—Signs and work zone flaggers save lives.
• Turn on your headlights—Workers and other motorists must see you.
• Don't tailgate—Unexpected stops frequently occur in work zones.
• Don't speed—Note the speed limits in and around the work zone.
 Sharing the Road in Work Zones
Nine Simple Rules for Driving Safely in Work Zones (cont’d.):

• Keep up with traffic flow—Dedicate your full attention to the road and those
traveling around you.
• Avoid changing lanes in the work zone—Any time saved isn't worth the risk.
• Expect the unexpected—Keep an eye out for workers and their equipment.
• Be patient—Remember, the work zone crew members are working to improve
your future travels.
 Sharing the Road in Work Zones

Orange signs indicate a change and warn motorists of highway work zones.
e signs indicate a change and warn motorists of highway work zones.
 Sharing the Road in Work Zones

• Flag-persons are used when one lane is blocked due to

construction.
• When instructed to stop, do so. It’s the law.
• Proceed only when directed.
 Sharing the Road in Work Zones
Two Types of Work Zones
Stationary Work Zones Do Not Move Mobile Work Zones
Move
Sharing the Road in
Work Zones (5) Termination Area

(4) Work Area

Five areas of a work zone -
(3) Buffer Area

(2) Transition Area

(1) Advanced Warning Area

 Sharing the Road in Work Zones
1. Advance Warning Area

Orange signs alert you to WORKERS AHEAD: Posted far

construction and enough ahead to give drivers time to
maintenance areas ahead. adjust speed for any unusual
conditions.

Slow down! Stay focused! Barricades, vertical panels, drums,

and cones alert drivers.
Sharing the Road in Work Zones
 Sharing the Road in Work Zones
2. Transition Area
In the transition area, lanes narrow or merge and the traffic pattern may change.
Sharing the Road in Work Zones
3. Buffer Area
The buffer area is a safety barrier between you and the work zone.
 Sharing the Road in Work Zones

3. Buffer Area (cont’d.)

WARNING LIGHTS AND FLASHING
ARROWS are used day and night to
give advance warning and directional
information to drivers.
 Sharing the Road in Work Zones
4. Work Area

Do not be distracted by equipment, workers, flashing lights

or noise in the work area. Focus on your path of travel.
 Sharing the Road in Work Zones
5. Termination Area
Stay in your lane and maintain your speed until you are completely clear of the work zone.
 Module Six, Topic Seven
Sharing the Road with Animals; SUV’s/RV’s/Trailers; Emergency Vehicles; Funeral
Processions; Farm Machinery; and Horse-Drawn Vehicles
 Sharing the Road with Others
SOL DE.18 The student will identify and describe the performance
characteristics of other road users and apply problem-solving skills to
minimize risks when sharing the roadway.
Key concepts/skills include investigating the unique characteristics and
vulnerabilities of
a) animals;
d) sport utility vehicles, recreation vehicles, and trailers;
 Sharing the Road with Others
SOL DE.18 The student will identify and describe the performance
characteristics of other road users and apply problem-solving skills to
minimize risks when sharing the roadway.
Key concepts/skills include investigating the unique characteristics and
vulnerabilities of
e) emergency vehicles;
f) funeral processions;
h) farm machinery and horse-drawn vehicles.
 Sharing the Road with Others
• You will learn …
A. Safety measures for sharing the road
B. How to handle situations with: animals,
sport utility vehicles, recreation vehicles,
trailers, emergency vehicles, funeral
processions, farm machinery and horse-drawn
vehicles
Sharing the Road with Recreational Vehicles

• When driving behind these large vehicles, your

line-of-sight can be restricted.
• Increase following distance to improve line-of-sight.
• Reminder: RV operators may be inexperienced.
 Sharing the Road with Towed Vehicles
• Vehicles can be seen towing a variety of
items: conventional travel trailers, folding
travel trailers, fifth-wheel trailers, cargo
trailers, motorcycles or boats.
• Watch for trailers swaying in high winds,
particularly cross winds.
• When passing larger vehicles—leave a
larger space cushion around your vehicle.
 Sharing the Road with Oversized Vehicles
• When mobile homes are being transported,
they are often preceded and followed by
vehicles that carry a “Wide Load” sign.
• Pilot cars help warn motorists of oversized
loads and/or slow-moving vehicles.
• Use extra caution when driving near
oversized vehicles.
Sharing the Road with Slow Moving Vehicles

• The slow-moving vehicle emblem is the triangular

fluorescent orange emblem bordered in red.
• Be prepared to adjust your speed when you see a vehicle
with this emblem.
• Most collisions with a slow-moving vehicle occur when it
makes a left turn.
• Don't assume that a slow-moving vehicle pulling to the
right side of the road is going to turn right or is going to let
a driver pass.
 Sharing the Road with Horse-Drawn Vehicles
• Horse-drawn vehicles are more prevalent in some regions of Virginia.
Drivers should be aware when in these regions.
• The horse-drawn vehicle should display a slow-moving vehicle emblem on
the rear.
• When encountering horse-drawn vehicles, you will need to reduce speed.
• Pass with caution and do not use the horn because it could scare the
horse.
 Sharing the Road with Snowplows
• Snowplows travel slowly, usually 25-30 mph.
• When driving behind one, leave ample space and resist the temptation to
pass. Road conditions could be much worse in front of the plow.
• Snowplow drivers need to concentrate on their task and the road
conditions in front of them, so they may not spot a vehicle trying to pass.
 Sharing the Road with Funeral Processions
• Never pass a funeral procession.
• Police officers need unhindered lanes to speed by
the procession to block-off side streets or guide
the cars through dangerous intersections.
• Even though it is the law to yield the right of way,
it is also a sign of respect for the deceased and
their family.
• Pull over to the curb and wait for the procession
to pass before continuing on.
 Sharing the Road with Animals
• Animals have a tendency to look for food between dusk
and dawn; therefore, they are more active during these
times.
• Use your high-beams, when possible, to illuminate the
edges of the road at night.
• When encountering animals in or near the side of the
road, slow down and scan for others. Where there is one
animal, there are likely to be more nearby.
• Avoid flashing your headlights. The animal could
become confused and move into the vehicle’s path.
 Sharing the Road with Animals
• If you see an animal in your path, slow down and/or stop if it is safe to do so.
• If it is safe, brake firmly, but in a controlled manner.
• If a collision seems inevitable, don't swerve to avoid the animal. You may lose
control of your vehicle.
• Report a deer-vehicle collision to the police and your insurance company.
 Sharing the Road with Emergency Vehicles
• The sound of a siren, air horn and the strobe lights
alert the public.
• There are different types of emergency vehicles
encountered on roadways:
• Police;
• Ambulance;
• Fire;
• Incident Response Vehicle; and
• Helicopters (Life Flight).
 Sharing the Road with Emergency Vehicles
• You MUST yield to emergency vehicles with their
lights and/or sirens on - You must immediately drive
as close as possible to the right edge of the
roadway.
• On one-way streets, drivers should pull to the right
or left–whichever is the nearest a curb.
• If it is impractical or dangerous to stop on the right
side of the roadway, clear a path, stop and stay
stopped until the emergency vehicle has passed.
 Sharing the Road with Emergency Vehicles
• Do NOT block intersections, driveways, or other roadways.
• Follow the instructions of the emergency staff – police, fire, flagger, etc.
• Do NOT stop at the scene of an emergency unless you are asked to do so.
• Do NOT stare at the crash scene.
• Do NOT drive over fire hoses or any other emergency equipment.
• Never park within 500 feet of fire vehicles/equipment when they’re answering an
alarm.
• Never follow an emergency vehicle closer than 500 feet when its lights are flashing.
 Sharing the Road with Emergency Vehicles
• Observe the Move Over Law §46.2-921.1: proceed with caution when
approaching stopped emergency vehicles. Starting July 1, 2023, if at all possible,
drivers must move over, or slow down, on the highway for any car parked on the
side of the road, regardless of its markings.

• If reasonable, with regard to both safety and traffic conditions, drivers should
move over one lane when passing stopped vehicles with flashing amber, red
or blue lights, such as police, rescue and fire.

• If changing lanes would be unsafe, proceed with due caution and maintain a
safe speed for highway conditions.
 Module Six, Topic Eight
Sharing the Road with Trains, Light-Rail Vehicles and Trolleys
 Sharing the Road with Others
DE.6 The student will demonstrate skills to make appropriate
adjustments when approaching controlled and uncontrolled
intersections, curves, work zones, railroad crossings, and hills with
line-of-sight and path-of-travel limitations. Key concepts/skills include
a) analyzing and applying right-of-way rules and demonstrating
appropriate communication skills;
b) displaying responsible actions and safe response to roadway signs,
signals and markings;
Sharing the Road with Others

• You will learn …

A. Safety measures for sharing the road
B. How to handle situations with trains, light
rail vehicles, and trolleys
 Sharing the Road with Trains
Railroad Crossing Procedure:
• Slow down.
• Listen for train sounds and crossing bells.
• Pay attention to crossing signs, lights and
gates.
• Look both ways and cross the tracks quickly, if no
train is approaching.
• Make sure you have enough room for your entire
vehicle to safely clear all tracks before attempting
to cross.
• Never stop on the tracks.
• Stop behind the stop line if a train is approaching
and make sure all tracks are clear before
proceeding across.
Sharing the Road with Trains
Railroad Crossing Signs
 Sharing the Road with Trains
What to do if your car stalls on the railroad tracks?
 Sharing the Road with Trains
REVIEW

• What should you do when approaching a railroad crossing?

• Where do you stop at railroad crossings?
• What should you do when there is more than one track?
• What will you do if the vehicle stalls on the tracks?
 Sharing the Road with Light Rail Vehicles and Trolleys
• Traffic signals used to control these vehicles
marked with a “T”.
• Do not drive through or park on tracks or safety
zones meant for passengers.
• Do not pass on the left (Discuss Exceptions).
• Never turn in front of an approaching light rail
vehicle or trolley.
• Maintain safe following distance.
 Module Six, Topic Nine
Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
SOL DE.18 The student will identify and describe the performance
characteristics of other road users and apply problem-solving skills to minimize
risks when sharing the roadway.
Key concepts/skills include:
investigating the unique characteristics and vulnerabilities of
c) tractor-trailers, and trucks;
Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
You will learn …
A. How to share the road with large vehicles
when passing and merging
B. How to account for the effects of gravity
C. How drivers use escape ramps
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Differences

• Vehicles of different sizes and power handle

differently.
• Large trucks, buses and recreational vehicles
require a lot of power to accelerate to
highway speeds and require a longer stopping
distance.

• The size and weight of trucks and other large

vehicles limit their maneuverability and create
large blind spots for the driver.
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Large Truck Facts
• Names for large vehicles:
• Semi or Semi-trailer
• Big Rigs or 18-Wheelers
• Measurements:
• Weight—80,000 pounds or 40 tons fully loaded
• Length—up to 70-80 feet
• Height—13 feet 6 inches (maximum)
• Cost:
• Average cost of a new basic truck is $150,000
• Trucks with many features can cost upward of
$200,000
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Factors Creating Handling Variants

Handling characteristics for large trucks vary due to

• Tires
• Vehicle design
• Load
• Speed of the vehicle
• A single trailer vs. multiple trailers
• Weather conditions, and
• Road conditions and design
Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Long Combination Vehicles (LCVs)

• Truck regulations regarding length vary from state to state.

• Double trailers are allowed and may be longer than one would
expect.

• In some areas of the country, triple trailers are allowed.

 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Flatbed Trucks

• Open load truck (flatbed) contents are usually

strapped or tied down; sometimes they are covered.
• Do not tailgate or linger on the sides of any large
truck.
• If a strap or tie comes loose or the load shifts, items
may drop from the truck onto the roadway.
• Will you have time to react?
• Will you have time to avoid a collision?
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Tanker Trucks

• Hazardous materials (HAZMAT) signs are often found on the back

and/or sides of tractor trailer trucks and tanker trucks.
• The most common HAZMAT tanker trucks transport gasoline.
• Always consider HAZMAT signs as a warning of danger!
Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Tanker Trucks
Dangers when sharing the road with a tanker
truck include possible
• Leaks;
• Spills;
• Explosions;
• Fires;
• Sloshing/surging; and
• Rollovers.

Always consider a HAZMAT load dangerous!

Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Video—Rollovers

Source: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Motor Carrier Safety

Administration
Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Blind Zones—No Zones

• No-Zones are areas around large

trucks where other vehicles are
invisible to the truck driver.
• No-Zones occur on all four sides
of a truck.
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Don’t hang out in the NO ZONES! No
Zone

• Truck drivers can’t see directly behind the truck for No

up to 200 feet—this creates the Rear No-Zone, the Zone
Left
No front:
second largest blind zone. third
Zone
largest Right side:
• Never tailgate a large truck! This distance will not blind zone. largest blind
allow you enough time to react to the unexpected. zone.

• Do not draft behind a truck.

o Drafting is illegal and dangerous.
No
o Your vehicle will be buffeted by the drafting Zone
Rear: second
effect. largest blind
o You will not have time to react to emergencies. zone.

o When following a large vehicle, you should be

able to see the truck’s side mirrors.
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Don’t hang out in the NO ZONES! No
Zone
Front No-Zone 3rd
• Truck drivers do not have good visibility directly in front of largest
them. No blind No
Zonespot
• The front no zone may extend up to 20 feet in front of the Zone
truck and can hide a vehicle from the truck driver’s view.
And, large vehicles require long distances to stop.
Largest
• Because of these two things, when passing a truck in a blind
passenger vehicle, make sure there is enough space that will spot.
allow you to pass and return to the lane safely without
cutting off the truck driver. No
• It is only safe when you can see “ground to sky” in your Zone
rearview mirror after returning to the lane in front of the
truck. 2nd largest
• Finally, the driver of the passenger vehicle should maintain a blind spot
consistent speed.
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Don’t hang out in the NO ZONES!

• If you can’t see the truck driver’s face in their side-view

mirror, the truck driver can’t see you; therefore, do not linger
in the Side No-Zones when passing.
Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Video—Blind Zones

Source: Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance

 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Passing Large Trucks

• The length marked on the trailer does not include the cab.
CDH Truck Collection
• Be careful when deciding to pass.
• Be aware of the length of the truck and the highway environment which
includes
o Approaching traffic;
o Terrain (e.g., uphill, downhill, flat);
o Lane markings; and
o Intersecting roadways.
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Passing Large Trucks

• Allow more time and distance to pass a truck than a car.

• Pass trucks on the left side if at all possible.
• Do not linger on either side of a truck.
• Move quickly, safely, and legally through the no zones.
• Communicate with other drivers by using your signal to indicate
what action you plan to take.
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Merging
• Allow trucks adequate space to merge onto or exit from the freeway.
• Adjust your speed and position to allow the truck to safely enter or
exit.
• Don’t cut in front of a truck. Sudden actions by other drivers can
cause the truck to
• Skid
• Jack knife, and
• Rollover
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Stopping Distance
What can affect the stopping distance of a truck?

• Speed of the vehicle

• Weight of the load
• Gravity
• Design of the truck
• Length of the truck
• Road surface
• Tires, and
• Weather
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Stopping Distance

The three parts of total stopping distance:

Perception time Identifying/Evaluating potential risks
Reaction time Moving foot from accelerator to brake
Braking time Pushing on the brake pedal until the
vehicle comes to a stop
Source: DMV 60 (July 1, 2010), © Commonwealth of Virginia, Department of Motor Vehicles.
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Stopping Distance

335 ft.

TRUCK

CAR
265 ft.
• A large truck traveling 55 mph takes approximately 335 feet to stop; that is longer than a football field.
• Most fully-loaded 18 wheelers weigh as much as 80,000 pounds.
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Turning Trucks

• Large trucks require a larger turning radius than cars.

• Stop your vehicle behind the stop line at an intersection to allow trucks room to complete
a turn.
• Trucks will often swing
o Left to make a right-hand turn; and
o Right to make a left-hand turn.
• Pay attention to traffic in the intersection and approaching the intersection when you are
stopped.
• Adjust your lane position if necessary to allow a large vehicle to turn more easily.
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Turning Trucks
The trucking industry often promotes traffic safety by reminding other
roadway users of the unique maneuvering characteristics of larger trucks.

This warning may appear on larger

trucks to warn other roadway users
of the wide right and left turns a
truck must make.
Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Trucks Turning Right

• Trucks will move or swing left to create space

when turning right.
• Do NOT attempt to pass a truck on the right side
when it is turning right.
• If in you are in the left lane, monitor the path of
the truck as it may swing into your lane.
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles

Rectangle
Turning Trucks and the Stop Line

• Stop your vehicle behind

the stop line.
• The stop line is positioned
to allow the truck room
to turn.
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Large Vehicles and Steep Grades
Gravity will
• Pull a vehicle forward on a downgrade causing it to pick up speed; and
• Pull a vehicle backward on a hill or upgrade.
o The truck’s speed may slow.
o When stopped on an upgrade, the truck may roll backward before its
gears engage to move forward.

For these reasons, trucks are not permitted use of the left lane
on some roadways.
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Trucks Carrying Oversize Loads
A truck carrying a load too large for the road is called an oversize or wide load.

• These vehicles
• May travel slower than the posted speed.
• May have escort car/s (i.e., pilot cars) with flags and/or flashing lights in the front and rear
of the truck.
• May cause traffic to back up and/or stop.

• You should
• Give the oversize load vehicle plenty of space.
• Be patient.
• Seek an alternate route.
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Passenger Vehicle Crashes with Trucks

• Drivers of passenger vehicles are at a serious

disadvantage if involved in a crash with a
truck.
• Studies have shown that the passenger
vehicle driver is at fault in 70 percent of fatal
crashes involving cars and large trucks.

Source: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCAA)

 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Passing Large Vehicles
• More than 60 percent of fatal truck crashes involve impacts with the front of a truck.
• Always wait until you can see the entire front of the truck (ground to sky) in your rearview
mirror before pulling in front of it - never cut closely in front of a truck.
• Once in front of a truck, maintain speed - do not slow down.
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Air Turbulence and Large Vehicles

• Be aware that trucks, buses, recreational vehicles, and

other large vehicles create air turbulence.
• To minimize the impact from turbulence on your
vehicle, hold the steering wheel firmly and create
space by adjusting lane position.
• Be prepared to make minimal steering corrections.
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Backing Up and Large Vehicles

• When a truck is backing up, it may temporarily block the street to maneuver its trailer
into proper position.
• Never move behind a truck that is preparing to back up or is in the process of backing
up.
• Remember, most trailers are eight feet wide, and the rear no zone extends almost 200
feet behind the trailer.
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
High Winds and Large Vehicles

• Large trucks, and even cars, can be pushed by the wind.

• To travel safely in high wind conditions
o slow down;
o hold the steering wheel firmly and be prepared to take corrective action;
o be prepared to get out of the way of other vehicles, especially large vehicles;
o take extra precautions on bridges and overpasses; and
o proceed at a speed reasonable for the conditions.
 Sharing the Road With Large Vehicles
Size, Speed and Proximity of Larger Vehicles

• Many drivers underestimate the size and speed of an approaching tractor trailer. A
large tractor trailer often appears to be traveling at a slower speed because of its size.

• Many car and large vehicle collisions take place at intersections because the driver of
the car did not realize how close the truck was, or how fast it was traveling.
 Sharing the Road With Large Vehicles
Driver Behaviors that Contribute to Crashes with Trucks

Motorists’ behaviors that contribute to crashes include:

• changing lanes abruptly in front of a truck;

• following too closely;
• unsafe passing;
• unsafe speed;
• improper merging; and
• driving between large trucks.
 Sharing the Road with Large Vehicles
Large Vehicles and Escape Ramps

• Large vehicles on steep grades create the potential

for hazardous conditions.
• Escape ramps are for the use of large vehicles that
are out of control (i.e., cannot stop because of brake
fade) on steep downgrades.
• Never stop or park on escape ramps.
 True or False?
Thumbs up for true and thumbs down for false.
• The largest and most dangerous blind spots are found on the left side of the truck.
• You should consider all HAZMAT loads as dangerous.
• The center of gravity can shift on any load and possibly cause a rollover.
• When driving behind a truck, be sure you can see the truck’s mud flaps so you know the driver
can see you.
• When passing a truck, before returning to the lane in front of the truck, be sure you can see
the entire front of the truck and its wheels in your side view mirror.
 True or False?
Thumbs up for true and thumbs down for false.
• When a truck is merging onto or exiting from the highway, make adjustments in speed and
lane position to help the truck merge safely.
• Trucks only swing wide in the opposite direction of the turn when making right turns.
• Gravity does not affect a large truck when it is stopped on an upgrade.
• Because large trucks are so heavy, the drivers do not need to be concerned about high winds.
• The stopping distance for a fully-loaded tractor trailer going 55 miles per hour is a little longer
than a football field.