Lesson Two: Search and Identify (3.2)

While looking to the target area you will also be searching for restrictions. Anything that blocks your view is a vision restriction. Vision restrictions limit your ability to gather information about the condition of your intended path.

Path restrictions temporarily or permanently prevent you from occupying space. In some situations, objects can block your path and your vision.

List 3 vision restrictions in your neighborhood.

List 3 path restrictions in your neighborhood.

Each vision restriction and path restriction reduce the number of vehicle control options you have. When there are no restrictions, you have a lot more options. Failure to identify restrictions in time to manage them contributes to crashes.

Search – Identify – Manage (SIM)

Search – Identify – Manage (SIM) is the space management process used to gather information and respond to restrictions. SIM is used continuously from the approach to your vehicle until you park and walk away.

• Search:

• Identify: 

• Manage: 

Be prepared to make speed or directional adjustments in response to changes in your path.

Restrictions and SIM

Before entering or crossing any intersection, search to the left, front, and right for traffic and pedestrians. Proper searching patterns are where, when and how we gather information.  The pattern that we use is dependent upon whether we are moving or stopped.

When a Stop is Required: Search 90° to the left, front and 90° to the right as far as you can see down the roadway.	When a Stop is Not Required: Search 45° to the left, front and 45° to the right

Search and Identify