Lesson One: Tracking (4.1)
Tracking is the ability to follow a consistent path within your lane. Accurate tracking is maintaining a lane position until a change is necessary. Vision control is necessary to control tracking through turns and curves, while searching for changes, or just driving straight.
Tracking
For accurate tracking in turns, use your central vision to look to the target area before and while you are turning.
For accurate tracking, look to the target area and see your placement on the road with your fringe vision. When turning, look to the target area before and while you are turning.
Search using quick glances:
- left, target area, right
- right, target area, left
- rear, target area, rear
Central and Fringe Vision
Accurate Tracking Through Curves
To track through curves, use target area searching to approach the curve. No targets are used to drive through the curve – just turn your head and look through the curve. Use your fringe vision to monitor your position and vehicle path. As you exit a curve or turn, search and assess the new target area.
Tracking Through Turns and Curves
Essential Questions
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How do you evaluate the path of your vehicle and maintain the correct position in the lane?
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What are the benefits of searching to the target area?
The field of vision around your focal vision in which you can see clearly while looking straight ahead that aids in determining vehicle position to the roadway.
A fixed object that’s as far ahead as you can see above the center of your intended lane.
The space between central and peripheral vision.