Lesson Two: Search – Identify – Manage (SIM) (4.2)

Perception allows you to attach meaning to what you see. In order to develop perceptual skills, you need to know where to search and what to search for. Should your eyes tell your mind what they see or should your mind tell your eyes what to look for? Knowing what you are looking for while searching to the target area, allows you to gather information early. Identifying restrictions early allows you time to manage them.

 Target Area Searching 

Measuring Space in Seconds

Your ability to measure space in seconds helps manage risk. Accurately measuring space helps you judge adequate following distance and gaps.

Closed space means you are unable see for at least 15 seconds or there is less than 4 seconds of following distance.

Search Techniques

During the SIM process you will be using your perceptual skills while searching as far ahead as you can see for vision and/or path restrictions. Identify the solution(s); lane position, speed control, and communication necessary to manage the restriction.  Once you find an open or closed space, search for additional information.  When the front is closed, search the rear.  On a simple two lane roadway, if the left front is closed, search the right front.  On a multi-lane roadway, if the front is closed, you may need to search left front and left rear spaces to get all the information you need to make the best choices.

Managing Space

Lane Position Activity