Lesson Two: Rear Space Control (5.2)
Drivers are often not aware of the importance of the rear space or their options to control it. SIM applies to all areas around your vehicle including the rear space. Checks are performed by quick glances to the rearview mirror(s).
Rear Space
Check your rearview mirror before and after:
- Turns
- Speed change
- Lateral maneuver
- Any change to the front space
- Stopping
Open and closed spaces are determined the same whether it is to the front or rear of the vehicle.
What is an open space? _____________________________________________________________________
What is a closed space? _____________________________________________________________________
When the rear space is closed your options are limited. Provide more space to the front by increasing your following distance to give yourself more time to respond to any front space changes.
Changes to your front space affect your rear space. The driver behind you does not have the same view as you. They cannot see vision or path restrictions. Any response to the situation will have an effect on the vehicles behind you. Your response must be timely, smooth, and gradual to communicate clearly to the rear. Failure to recognize early that your front space is closed results in late actions and communication to the rear. This often results in a rear end collision.
Rear Space
Essential Questions
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How is SIM used for controlling the rear space?
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How do you effectively use your mirrors to monitor the rear space?
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What effect does the front space condition have on the rear space control?
An acronym used for searching and space management principles. It stands for Search, Identify, and Manage.
At least 4 seconds following distance, at least 15 seconds visual lead, and no path restrictions.
You are unable to see for at least 15 seconds or there is less than 4 seconds of following
distance.
Limit your ability to gather information about the condition of your
intended path.
Temporarily or permanently prevent you from occupying space