Lesson Three: Stopping in Traffic (5.3)
Charging
Stops should happen smoothly and gradually. This keeps the car from pitching forward and allows for timely communication to other vehicles about your intentions. Failing to reduce speed as you approach a closed space is called charging. Charging increases your chance of a rear end collision, sends late communication, compromises vehicle balance, and causes costly wear and tear on your vehicle.
When stopping in traffic stop to see the rear tires of the car in front touching the pavement.
Advantages of closing in gradually:
Continue to monitor the rear area while stopped in traffic. To reduce the risk of being hit from the rear while you’re stopped, monitor the rear space for fast approaching cars. Continue to check the rear until at least two vehicles are stopped behind you. Like sand barrels, they absorb the force of impact. As more cars stop behind you, the risk of injury from rear impact decreases.
Two Second Delay
There are three advantages of delaying your start by two seconds. It takes an average driver one second to move. With four cars in front of you, it will take four seconds for the line in front of you to move. Whether you’re first in line or stopped behind another vehicle, delay moving for two seconds. That gives you time to be sure it is safe to proceed and begins to establish your four second following time.
Essential Question
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How is SIM applied to the front and rear spaces when stopping in traffic?
The weight of the vehicle transferring forwards and backwards.
Even distribution of the cars weight across its four tires connecting with the road.