Lesson One: Reference Points (2.1)
A reference point is a place on the vehicle that you see in relation to the roadway which allows you to precisely place your vehicle in any location. You will need to use your central vision to identify reference points. Then, use your fringe vision to see your reference points in relationship to the roadway. Once you know the reference points for one vehicle, you can easily identify them for other vehicles you drive. Reference points can vary slightly depending on the vehicle you are in, your height, seating position and any slight driver movement including leaning your head and closing one eye.
Blind Areas
Even properly adjusted mirrors do not allow you to see the ground around your vehicle. The areas that are not visible in the mirrors are called Blind Areas. The body of the car blocks your view of the surrounding roadway. You can not see the actual position of the car. Blind Areas create an optical illusion that makes the vehicle seem larger than it really is. Reference Points help you place your vehicle in the correct position.
Reference Points
Reference Points
Left Side Position (3″-6″ from curb)
- Reference Point: __________________________________________________________
- Purpose: _________________________________________________________________
Right Side Position (3″-6″ from curb)
- Reference Point: __________________________________________________________
- Purpose: _________________________________________________________________
Side Position 3 (3′ from curb)
- Reference Point: __________________________________________________________
- Purpose: _________________________________________________________________
Side Position 6 (6′-8′ from curb)
- Reference Point: __________________________________________________________
- Purpose: _________________________________________________________________
Forward Position (3″-6″ from curb)
- Reference Point: __________________________________________________________
- Purpose: _________________________________________________________________
Rear Position (3″-6″ from curb)
- Reference Point: __________________________________________________________
- Purpose: _________________________________________________________________
Transition Points
A transition point is a place on the vehicle that helps you know when to change speed, direction or a combination of both during turns. Use them to keep your vehicle in balance during a turn. The transition point for left turns is the left corner post. The transition point for right turns is the inside rearview mirror.
Left Turn Right Turn
Left corner post aligns with target Inside rearview mirror aligns with target
Essential Questions
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What are reference points used for?
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List the different reference points and their location on the vehicle.
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What are the transition points for left and right turns? How are they used?
A point on the vehicle, viewed from the driver’s seat that relates to some part of the roadway.
The field of vision in which you can see clearly while looking straight ahead that aids in determining vehicle position to the roadway.
The space between central and peripheral vision.
Area around your vehicle that are not visible in the mirrors.
A transition point is a place on the vehicle that helps you know when to change speed or direction or a combination of both during turns.