“5 Ways to Maximize Drivers Education”

  “5 Ways to Maximize Drivers Education”

Driver’s education is one of the first steps to becoming a legal driver. It teaches teenagers and adults the skills needed to be safe, confident, and knowledgeable drivers. Individuals can feel the desire to put forth limited effort or act like they already know how to drive. However, driver’s education is not something that should be taken lightly. In this week’s blog, we will look at 5 practical tips to get the most out of your driver’s education program. 

Be Present and Attentive: Attend class prepared and ready to learn. Oftentimes as students, we can begin to daze off during class, but it is important for our learning to be present and locked into the class. If you need help with paying attention, sit in the front of the class or in a location that you know will not elicit distractions. Another great way to stay attentive is to take notes. 

Ask Questions: The classes and drive times are designed with the students in mind, but there is always time for questions. If you are confused about a topic, ask it. Getting clarification now can keep you and your classmates safe, while allowing the material to be in your mind longer. The instructor can not read your mind so it is important to ask questions if you have them.  

Study Outside of Class: Class time is not the only time to get better at driving. Study material from the previous class, look at quality driving resources like blogs and governmental websites and watch and ask more experienced drivers questions. 

Embrace Behind-the-wheel lessons: The 6 behind-the-wheel sessions are designed to give hands-on application on real roads with a trained professional. In these drives, students will learn things from basic maneuvering to parking, to driving in multiple situations around the area. These lessons are designed to give students confidence and knowledge behind the wheel. Embrace the drive times and ask questions when they arise. The instructor is there to keep you safe and individually help you learn how to drive a motor vehicle. 

Practice: Driving over 50 hours is a requirement to getting your driver’s license in Illinois. Practicing is the best way to get better at anything. It is important to have an experienced driver in the vehicle with you when you are first starting. When practicing, work on practicing good habits that align with the instructions and regulations detailed in class. It is important to practice all aspects of driving, but especially for people who may be taking the driving test, it is important to practice up and downhill parking and the tricky backing out of an alley. 

Driver’s education is your time and place to learn the necessities for safe and proper driving. It is a place for you to learn and grow. Drivers Edge School of Driving is here for you for all your driving-related needs and questions and aims to educate students of all ages on the best road safety and pertinent driving skills. 

“Using a Map”

  “Using a Map”

What is a map, and why should you learn how to read one? Maps have been around for as long as humans were exploring and able to communicate. Maps provide very crucial information and assist with the transport from one place to another. In today's time, Global Positioning Systems and phone-based mapping have taken over, and have made navigation much easier. However, you may not always have the luxury of web-based navigation. In today’s blog, we will look at how to read a map. 

Types of graphs include physical, political, topographical, road, and thematic. For this blog, we will focus mainly on road maps. Topographical maps can come in handy when using a road map to determine your location on a road map. Road maps like they sound show where roads are located. Or at least where the map maker at the time of making the map thought the roads were. There is often a legend detailing what certain colors or symbols mean which may be helpful when determining a navigable route. There will also be a scale that indicates the physical dimensions of the map to the actual dimensions of the Earth. 

When navigating with a map. First, locate where you are. This can be done by locating the intersection you are at with street names, or by locating a distinct part of your environment on the map like a large mountain or a business. Make sure to mark that point in some way. Then, find where you want to go in a similar fashion to before. Once you have found your starting and ending locations, work your way from the start to the destination following roads. This is what your GPS does when it figures out which way to tell you to turn. It is recommended to highlight or write down the direction of turns and the road names the turn occurs on. Now that you have determined a route, follow that route using road signs to keep track of where you are until you reach your destination. 

Learning to navigate using a map is a valuable life skill. It connects you with your ancestors and it allows you to rely a little less on technology. Maps do not take up very much space so it is a good idea to have a map of your local area somewhere in your car in case you need it. You can also download maps onto your phone and access them even if you are out of cellular service range. If you have any questions regarding maps, please comment them down below. 

“The Left Lane”

“The Left Lane”

On many roads in our state and country, there are two or even three lanes of traffic going in the same direction. Drivers often complain about slower vehicles in the left lane. Is this gripe warranted, or is it misunderstood? In this blog, we will cover what the left lane is for and common practices and laws related to it. 

Decongest Traffic: The idea of multiple lanes going in one direction is to increase the flow of traffic. More lanes or areas for cars to go increases the amount of vehicles that can travel in a direction. Adding another lane allows for passing to become easier without the risk of head-on collisions. It also allows drivers to slow down and safely make turns without causing a large amount of vehicles to have to do the same.

Passing: The left lane is often called the passing lane. In most states, you must either be turning left or in the process of passing another vehicle. In Illinois, it is illegal to drive in the left lane unless you are actively passing or making a left turn. It is important to note that it is still illegal to speed in the left lane. Having this passing lane allows individuals to safely pass slower moving vehicles. Decreasing the slowdowns and decreasing crashes. 

Turning Left: The left can also be used to turn left. Do not make a left turn from the right lane and do not turn right from the left lane. These are not smart maneuvers and are highly dangerous. When turning left locate the furthest left lane. Indicate clearly either with a light signal or a horizontal left arm straight out of the driver's window, slow down, smoothly turn, and accelerate through the turn when the roadway is clear. If you want more information on left turns check out “How to make a Left Turn Part 1 and 2”

Emergency personnel: The most important time to get out of the left lane is when emergency personnel are coming through. Move to the right immediately if you see red and blue lights flashing. Do not cut someone else off when moving right, however. Look into your review and right-side mirror and perform a shoulder check. Slow down and allow the emergency personnel to pass fully. Often these vehicles are moving at high rates of speed so it is imperative to be on the lookout and to get out of their way. Emergency personnel are on their way to save a life and every second counts. 

The left lane is designed to alleviate traffic congestion. Only use the far left lane when turning left or passing another vehicle. Be sure to indicate your intentions and smoothly and predictably adhere to those indications. If you have any questions regarding the left lane, leave them below. If you have any driving-related topics you would like covered, comment them below as well. 

“Swerve or Hit it ”

  “Swerve or Hit it ”

We live in a world amongst wildlife. Often, wildlife does not conform to the social practices of the roadway. But what should you do if an animal is on the road? In this blog, we will look at the steps to prevent crashes with wildlife and cover the age-old question of whether you should swerve or hit it. 

The common sense rules for staying safe in all dangerous road situations still hold true. Slow down when driving. Especially at night when it may be hard to see. Tailgating can be extremely dangerous with wildlife encounters because the car in front of you will brake very suddenly and for a hazard that may be unknown to you. If you are traveling at a safe distance, and speed, and are not distracted coming to a complete stop before the vehicle in front should not be an issue. In the case of a collision, it is important to wear all regulated safety devices like seat belts. 

Be on the lookout for animals and be prepared to stop or slow down. Animals may be in the center of the road, but most crashes occur from animals crossing the road. The road is important, but so is the area immediately next to the road. Animals or even pedestrians could be alongside the road and waiting to cross. Unlike humans who know to cross at crosswalks and when no car is present, animals are not often as bright. In all locations be on alert for wild animals, but especially in rural areas where forests or open land is available for wildlife to live. Wildlife often move in groups, so if you see one be on the lookout for more. High-density animal areas are often indicated with signs signifying animal crossings. 

It is often advised not to swerve to avoid wildlife. With most small animals that are encountered in North America, the better idea if stopping is not an option is to hit the animal. Cars are designed to protect you from minor crashes. The danger of swerving is the threat of losing control and colliding with a bigger or more immovable object such as another vehicle, tree, or telephone pole. For most small to medium animals, it is best to break firmly and stay in your lane. However, if you encounter a larger animal such as a moose, it is recommended to swerve. The sheer size and proportions of a moose lead to 13% more fatalities than crashes with deer. If you are unable to stop before the moose and the coast is clear to swerve, swerve. 

A wildlife collision occurs every 39 minutes. Animals are all around, and this is a marvelous thing. However, they do not understand what a road is. So it is our responsibility to prevent car collisions with animals. Slow down, be alert, and be prepared to stop. 

"Halloween Driving Tips

"Halloween Driving Tips"

Halloween is a fun night for individuals of all ages. One yearly tradition in the United States is trick-or-treating. During trick-or-treating, many people are out and about walking from house to house. These individuals could easily be distracted by candy or scary decorations. In this week’s blog, we will cover five tips to drive safely during Halloween. 

Tip #1—Drive slowly. Pedestrians should cross at crosswalks, but not all will. Driving slower will give you more time to react. Be alert and prepared to stop, especially in residential areas. Even if someone does not cross at the crosswalk, you still have to stop for them. It will also allow you to look at the fun festivities. 

Tip #2- Take off your mask. The Halloween mask may look cool, but it could greatly inhibit your seeing ability. This could cause you to miss a pedestrian running in the middle of the road. Being safe is cooler than looking cool. 

Tip #3 Pay extra attention to pedestrians. With the holiday festivity of trick-or-treating, more people will be walking around than normal at said time of day. Be aware of this and prepare your route if you are driving at this time. 

Tip #4 Turn on your lights. Halloween often occurs at dusk and into the night. Check out a couple of weeks ago blog for night time driving tips. It is important to have your headlights on illuminating the road in front of you. Certain costumes involve dark colors which without lights would make them impossible to see. 

Tip #5 Eliminate distractions. Put away any distractions that may take your focus away from the road. Phones, navigation devices, food, drinks, and pets. Make sure everything is set up and secured before beginning your drive. Take extra caution when pulling into and out of your driveway which are places we often take for granted. Even a split-second of distraction can lead to a terrible situation.

Halloween is a fun holiday of dressing up and getting candy. During this Halloween, Drivers Edge School of Driving encourages everybody to have fun, and be safe, and responsible. Putting distractions away, slowing down, and being alert are crucial steps in making this Halloween safe and fun. 

“Driving Confidently”

Knowing the rules of the road and how to drive are important facets of driving a motor vehicle on the road. It is important to be confident when you drive too. Second-guessing for even a split second or rash decisions can lead to dangerous outcomes. In this blog, we will cover 5 tips to be a more confident driver. 

Tip #1: Practice. Practicing is a great way to get better at anything. It will not make perfect, but it will get you closer. Attempt to get behind the wheel and drive to a variety of places at a variety of times. Watch others, more experienced or better drivers are preferred, but learning from peers' mistakes is also valuable. If you are unable to drive a vehicle, visualize or think about situations when driving. 

Tip #2: Drive in all weather conditions and on different terrains. You can not control the weather, but you can prepare for it. When first starting, you may want only to drive on sunny days and at nonbusy times, but safely push your limits to other driving situations. Do not be reckless. If the weather is too dangerous and other drivers are not on the road, it is probably a good idea for you to stay at home as well. If you have questions or concerns about weather related driving, look back at some of the previous blogs. If you do not see a topic that you wish was covered, leave a comment down below. Also, every once in a while drive on a dirt road or too. You will never know when your GPS will take you down a dirt road unbeknownst to you. 

Tip #3: Bring an experienced friend or certified instructor along with you. It is important to practice, but practicing the wrong thing is never beneficial. It teaches bad habits and bad driving. If you do not have a trusted experienced driver in your life, contact Drivers Edge School of Driving. Having someone there to talk you through new situations or correct you when you are doing something reckless is a valuable learning opportunity. 

Tip #4: Drive multiple vehicles. This one is similar to practicing. Practice driving different vehicles, big ones, little ones, slow ones, and fast ones. It does not even need to be a road-worthy vehicle. Do not drive non-road-worthy vehicles on the road. Driving tractors, side by side, or even riding bikes is a great way to understand speed control, turning, coordination, and other driving related skills. 

Tip #5: Know your limits. One must know their limits when training. Do not make too big of jumps in difficulty too early. This may be hard to know on your own. Also, know your limits mentally. If you start to feel fatigued, tired, or overwhelmed when driving take a break in a safe location. It is okay to take breaks and regroup yourself. Sometimes after complicated maneuvers, taking a minute to go over it in your head will help it stick. Doing this while trying to pay attention to the road is incredibly difficult. It is important to not be too confident while driving as well. Driving too confidently will make you make rash decisions.

Driving can be difficult. There is a reason rules and regulations are in place for individuals to get their driver's licenses. Driving is not a right it is a privilege. One should treat it with the resort it deserves for it can cause sticky and life-threatening situations. This blog aims to give you ways to increase your confidence behind the wheel. It is okay to be confident, but do not get cocky behind the wheel.

“Night Driving”

This blog often covers potential hazards and tips on safely driving your vehicle. One of the most dangerous and difficult times to drive your vehicle is at night. The dark or lack of light is one of the most commonly seen or unseen hazards on the roadway. With the hours of the day becoming shorter it is important to know how to drive in the dark. In this week’s blog, we will cover 5 tips for driving at night. 

Plan accordingly: It is important to know if you will be driving in the dark. This can not always be known, but it is a good thing to keep in mind when planning travel. Prepare yourself for the lack of light and potential desire to nod off, and prepare your vehicle. 

Use your lights properly: Using your headlights is not only the law, it is also crucial to use. In Illinois, headlights are required to be on from dusk until dawn. When getting into your vehicle or a new vehicle, ensure that you know where and how the headlight controls work and if all of your headlights are in working order. Having your headlights on allows the road in front of you to be illuminated allowing you to see.  It also allows other drivers to see you. To gain more visibility you can turn on your high beams. Be sure to turn your high beams to your low beams if you are in an urban area, an oncoming vehicle is within 500 feet, or you are following a vehicle at less than 300 feet. 

Stay awake: Drowsy driving and the dangers of driving while tired have been covered in earlier blogs, but the dangers of falling asleep at the wheel are even more present at night. If you feel tired or like you may become tired, do not drive. Pull over to a safe location or call a friend. Losing alertness for even a second can cause your vehicle to go hurtling into danger. If you know you may be tired when driving, plan to get extra rest the night before and bring a passenger along to keep an eye on you, to keep you awake, or to take a driving shift. 

Stay alert: At night our primary sense for gathering driving information is altered. In the dark, our eyes struggle to gain the same amount of information for our brain as during the day. Depth perception and our peripheral vision are hindered. It is important to take extra time and give greater following distance at night. Be sure to double check if the coast is clear on turns for judging distance and speed can be difficult. Street signs can be difficult to locate and see at night and topographical features can look differently than they do in the daytime. Be prepared to brake, and be on the lookout for animals who may be crossing the road. 

Maintain your Vehicle: Make sure your headlights, taillights, windshields, windows, and mirrors are clear and clean. Being seen is as important as being able to be seen. Having working and legal headlights and tail lights is one of the first steps to safe driving at night. It is also important to maintain the rest of your vehicle. Doing roadside maintenance can be very dangerous at night. 

50% of the fatal crashes occur at night. This is a staggering amount considering only 9% of total driving occurs at night. It is important to know the risks of driving at night. It is also important to stay alert and practice good driving habits. Take caution and be prepared when you drive at night. Practice driving in the dark. Start at dusk when it is not too late and there is still some light out. Then, transition to later times, but do not force it and always drive with alertness and calmness. 

Signs the Driver next to you is Distracted

While driving you can only control the action you take. Being aware of the actions of other drivers is important. With 1.6 million crashes yearly related to cell phone use, it is crucial to be able to spot distracted drivers and avoid them. In this week’s blog, we will look at 5 signs indicating a distracted driver. 

Cell Phone Glow: It is highly advised not to be on your phone while driving, and it is often illegal. If you see the glow of a cell phone when you glance over to another vehicle, it should be assumed that they are distracted and give them a little space in all directions. 

Bending Over: A dangerous distraction for others and the driver is reaching and bending over to grab an item. This puts the driver in awkward positions that prevent safety devices from working properly. It also takes the eyes and other senses off the road. It also removes one hand from the proper driving location on the wheel. 

Eating: Sometimes we can not finish our meal before entering the car, but this is highly dangerous. Especially fast food, served out of drive-throughs, is often messy and greasy leaving behind slick and wet spots on the wheel. It also takes a hand off the wheel, could restrict sight lines, and most definitely distracts the driver. Constant chewing or quick bending movements can be a sign of an operator eating while driving. 

Personal Interactions:  It is great to have other people in the car with you, but they can also be distracting. One of our first blogs ever was about how to be a good passenger. All individuals should know how to be good passengers. The job of the passenger is to help the driver get from point A to B  safely without causign extra stress or distractions. Constant talking or looking back and forth while a large number of individuals are in a vehicle is a telltale sign of this behavior. 

Swerving:  If drivers are truely focused on the road, it is assumed that they would be heading in a relatively straight line with constant turns and consistant speeds. If you ever notice a driver, slowing down or speeding up at sporadic occurrences or swerving left and right, it is a good bet they are distracted or under the influence of a substance. Give these drivers distance, be prepared to stop, and avoid them as best you can. 

Distracted driving is very dangerous. It is crucial that all drivers remain focused on the road and practice good driving practices. However, you can only control your own actions on the road and in life. If you see dangerous activity, separate yourself the best you can and prepare to take evasive action. If the action appears extremely dangerous, safely report the vehicle to the proper authorities. 

5 Tips for Parking

“5 Tips for Parking”

It is not about the destination, but it is about the journey. Well, when you reach your destination you will most likely have to park your vehicle. This can be a tricky thing. It requires fine motor movements and skilled driving maneuvers. In this week’s blog, we will cover 5 tips to help new drivers park their vehicles. 

Tip 1: Go Slow: Take your time. When you are moving slower it is easier for you to judge distance and the path your vehicle is taking. Move your wheel quickly but calculated, and your vehicle slowly. When you approach the spot, slow down, make sure there is enough room, and that nothing is in the way or could be in the way like a wide open door. Then, proceed slowly and smoothly, allowing for your brain to comprehend and calculate the proper maneuver to park in the spot. 

Tip 2: Look where you want to go. If you want to park in between two objects, it is important to look in between the objects. Looking at the right or the left can cause you to drift to that side for that is where you are looking. Just like when you are going around a turn look where you want to go and your hands will help make your vehicle go there. 

Tip 3: Be on the lookout for other drivers. Do not be solely fixated on the spot. Look at your surroundings. Constantly check your left, right, and mirrors to ensure that the coast is clear. Tight spaces and locations where lots of people are present can become dangerous locations and a place for fender benders. So be on the lookout, especially when you are pulling out of your parking space because other drivers may not be as courteous or as careful. 

Tip 4: Park away from others. Parking close may be convenient, but the extra steps might be worth it if there is a spot that is easier to get in and out of. The parking spots further away are often less desirable, so they are often emptier. This means that a car may be only on one side of you making it easier for you to pull into the spot. 

Tip 5: Practice. Parking takes time to master. It takes focus and precise movements. When starting out, practice parking in an open lot. This will allow you to mess up without hitting other vehicles. It will also help you learn where your vehicle is. Other cars can be a great indicator of how far you need to pull forward or backward to successfully be in the spot, but a good skill to have is to know where your vehicle is in relation to the lines around you. 

Parking can be difficult at first. It takes hours of practice to become better. The tips above will give a starting point for smart parking, but ultimately it will come down to practicing. If you want help learning how to park, contact the office and set up a drive time with a trained instructor.

Diesel

 “What to do if you put Diesel in a Gas Engine”

Most vehicles on the road today, use either gasoline or diesel fuel to power their engines. The price of the fuels is often different and it can be tempting to put in the cheapest option. This is not a good idea, however. In this week’s blog, we will cover what to do if you put diesel in your gas engine.

Both diesel and gasoline fuel come from crude oil. The process to produce both of the fuel sources is fairly similar. During the process, the heavier diesel (larger hydrocarbons)  is separated from the lighter gasoline. More refining steps and additives are added to optimize the fuel for use in car, boat, truck, or train engines. The properties of gasoline and diesel are what make them do a similar job, but are also the reason they can not be mixed together in your engine. 

The first step is to recognize what you have done. Hopefully, this is before a lot of diesel has gone into your gas tank. If you fill up your tank to the brim, do not panic. Do not attempt to drive your vehicle. Your vehicle's engine is specifically designed to run on a certain type of fuel that produces a certain amount of energy when under specific conditions. Attempting to use another fuel source could permanently destroy your engine. Call a tow company and an auto repair shop. If you have the tools to pump your fuel tank, you can do that, or wait for the professionals to help with the issue. The most important thing is to get rid of all the contaminated fuel, before operating your motor vehicle again. 

When going to the gas pump it is important to pay attention to which nozzle you are grabbing. If you are unsure what type of fuel your vehicle takes, look in the owner's manual or it may be printed on the fuel tank cap. If you happen to refill with the wrong fuel, remain calm and do not start your vehicle. Contact professionals who can effectively and safely remove the contaminated fuel and get you back on your way. 

Feelings

 “What to do when you feel…”

While driving we experience many different physical and mental emotions and sensations. Some of these sensations are normal and require simple mediation, while other require greater mediation. In this blog, we will cover a variety of emotions and sensations and how to handle them while you are driving. 

Tired: 91,000 crashes every year are related to drowsy driving. Pull off to a safe location if you feel tired or drowsy while driving. Drinking or consuming caffeine is an okay way to stay awake, but it is not enough. Caffeine can make you think you are more alert than you actually are. Pull off to a safe place and move around, or take a short nap of at least 20 min. If you are traveling at 55 mph in just 3 seconds, you can travel about over 240 feet. 

Scared: If you are scared try and remain calm. Having a little fear going through you as you drive is okay. It will keep you alert and wary of the situation around you. If you become more frightened, pull off into a safe place and rest for a little while. Take some deep breaths and think through the situation that produced the anxiety. If you feel uncomfortable driving anymore, call a friend or trusted individual for a ride home. 

Enraged: If you feel enraged while driving pull off into a safe location immediately. Do not drive mad. This will lead you to make rash decisions that put you and other drivers at risk. To learn more about measures take a look back at blog a blog from February “The Dangers of Road Rage and How to Handle your Emotions when Driving”. 

Happy: This is a good state to be in when driving. Remember to stay level-headed and not get overconfident, however. 

Lightheaded or Dizzy: If you become dizzy or light-headed in any way while you’re driving, the safest thing you can do is stop your vehicle as soon as it’s safe to do so. Dizziness is a symptom of imbalance that can happen for a wide range of reasons. If you experience this symptom while driving or after a long drive, it could be related to the movement of the car and the disconnect between how your body responds. If you experience predictable or consistent dizziness, wait for the sensation to pass or use whatever treatment measures that have been prescribed. If not, make sure you are properly hydrated and fueled. Wait for it to pass or have another driver step in. 

Cold or Hot: If the feelings of hot or cold come on gradually, it can most likely be remedied by adjusting the climate controls in your vehicle or opening or closing the windows. Before you begin driving, learn where and how these controls operate. Adjust the climate controls at a safe time when you are not close to traffic or intersections. If possible, have a passenger adjust the controls for you. 

As we drive we experience far more emotions and sensations than the ones listed above, but for a majority of emotions, the best idea is to pull off the road into a safe location and give yourself some time to come back to level-headedness or normality. If you struggle with any of the emotions, talk with a trusted individual or your driving instructor. 

How to Make a Left Turn Part 2

Last week we covered how to turn left at a stop light. The importance of patience and confident movements was stressed. In this week’s blog, we will look at three other times you may turn left while driving. 

Using a center-left lane: Often in residential areas, they will have center-turning lanes. Both directions of traffic can use these lanes, and the places to turn left can be vast. It is important like at a stop light to be in the correct lane and give ample warning with the left indicator light. You want to get into the lane with enough distance to come to a stop if needed, but you do not want to get into the center lane too early as someone from the other direction may be turning. This distance will take time to learn and is determined by the traffic patterns of the area. When in the lane treat the oncoming traffic like you would at a stop light if the light was flashing. You must yield to traffic. Wait until there is ample space for the turn to be made safely. If there is insufficient space, be patient and wait for there to be. Once the space is ample, turn smoothly and confidently into the road or parking lot entrance. 

At a stop sign: Stop signs require you to stop behind a stop sign before advancing. If it is a four-way stop, look back at “Who has the Right-Of-Way” from September 17, 2023. Advance and make the turn when it is your turn to proceed. At some stop signs, cross traffic does not stop. This should be indicated by a sign, but it can also be seen by the lack of a stop sign for cross traffic. At these intersections, cross traffic may be moving at high rates of speed so be sure to properly check for traffic. In this instance, check to see if the driver across from you has the right to go first, and then check cross traffic. You may need to creep forward after coming to a complete stop to properly see both directions. This is an acceptable thing to do as long as you are not blocking the road or a pedestrian crossing. Look in both directions and judge the speed of the vehicles. Unlike at a stop light, You will have to turn with traffic, so you will need to get up to speed before the vehicle from your left reaches you. This will require more space to be given to drivers coming from the right to the left than drivers coming from your right. Once the roadway is clear, proceed smoothly with the turn. It is crucial that you get up to speed in a timely manner to avoid traffic congestion and potential vehicle accidents. 

On a two-lane road: Turning left on a two-lane road may make new drivers hurry as they do not want to hold up traffic. Do not feel like you are in a hurry. Spot where you want to turn and indicate at least 200 feet prior to your turn. Turn your turn signal on and brake regularly. With this type of turn, stopping is not always necessary, so it is crucial to slow down to a speed where you can safely make the turn. As with a stop light or center lane turning, read the traffic flowing in front of you and wait patiently for an obvious and clear opening. Once, present turn like you would any other turn and continue to your destination. Do not pass a vehicle that is stopped and waiting to make a left turn on a two-lane road. 

Turning left opens your vehicle up to high-impact collisions. Turn left at your own risk, but if you only turn left with ample space available and do not worry about the potential pressure of the drivers behind you. Turning can be done safely and stress free. Turning left takes practice. To avoid potential accidents, practice while you are in the passenger seat. Look at the road and see if the driver turns when you turn. Watching a seasoned driver is one of the best ways to learn how to drive. 

Left Turn

  “How to make a Left Turn Part 1”

UPS tries to eliminate left turns from their delivery routes, but for everyday people the left turn is unavoidable. Turning left requires drivers to pay attention to multiple signage and vehicle movements from different directions. On some left turns, you have to pay attention to oncoming traffic for others it's cross traffic. In the next two weeks, we will cover the steps and actions to safely make left-hand turns. 

The first situation we will look at is a left turn at a traffic light. 

Step 1:Locate the turning lane. This may either be a dedicated turning lane or the furthest left lane. There should be signs leading up to the intersection or on the traffic lights indicating which lanes allow for traffic flow.

Step 2: Navigate to the left turn lane. Indicate with your left blinker and smoothly turn your wheel into the lane like you might while changing lanes. Keep your left turn blinker on until you complete the entirety of the left turn. 

Step 3: Determine how the light operates. Look at the traffic light. There may be a dedicated left turn signal or it will be incorporated into another light. Read and follow the signs posted on the light if the light is red. Stop behind the line. If the light has a green arrow proceed with caution. Pedestrians have the right of way and often cross the road at intersections. If the light is indicating left turn yield, either by a solid circular green light or flashing arrow, yield and proceed when the coast is clear. 

Step 4: Consider the space and time need to make the turn. Traffic should only be coming directly at you at a traffic light. Vehicles that are turning right have the right of way, even if they slow down to make the turn safely. You must wait for them to turn before the coast is clear. Look in the distance and attempt to judge the distance between vehicles. Only turn if you are 100% certain you can make the turn without impeding traffic. If visibility is obstructed wait until it is not. Waiting a minute for a better opportunity to turn is far better than being involved in a wreck. Once the road is sufficiently clear, make your turn. 

Step 5: Turn left. Accelerate smoothly, look around the turn where you want to go and turn the wheel to the left to maneuver into the nearest lane going in the correct direction of traffic. Speed up to speed and change lanes into the right lane if you are not already there. 

Step 6: Continue on your way. Follow the rules of the road and safely drive to your desired destination.

Making a left turn at an intersection is one of the most dangerous maneuvers done daily in a vehicle. It can be done safely with proper training and patience. The gap in traffic may be small or your vision may be blocked, if this happens take a breath and wait for a better and safer opportunity. In next week’s blog, we will cover other instances when you turn left. 

Spark Plug

 “Spark Plugs ”

Most vehicles today use either combustion or electric engines to power the vehicle. Today we will be looking at combustion engines specifically those that use spark plugs. The spark plug is a small device but performs a crucial role. In this week’s blog, we will look at what a spark plug is, its functionality, and how to spot faulty spark plugs.

The spark plug was first invented in 1839 by Edmond Berger. In 1902, Gottlob Honold, an engineer working for Robert Bosch, patented the first commercially successful spark plug. Spark plugs are small electrical devices that feature an insulated electrode in the center. This device is placed or plugged into the engine's cylinder head and attached to the ignition coil. In cooperation, these components create a spark. This spark ignites the gasoline in the engine that was sucked in during the intake phase along with oxygen then compressed towards the head. The fuel ignition creates an explosion that pushes the piston away, creating power that the car can use. Without the spark plug the fuel will not explode leading to no power being produced by that piston in the engine.

Spark plugs should last about 30,000 to 50,000 miles but can become worn out and break. Rough idling, reduced fuel efficiency, difficulty starting, and engine misfiring are all signs that at least one of your spark plugs needs to be replaced. Your check engine light may also come on. To alleviate the problem locate your owner's manual or go to a trusted parts shop to determine the proper spark plugs for your vehicle. Spark plugs are something that one can fix with some tools and vehicle knowledge, but most auto repair places will be able to get you squared away as well. 

Spark plugs are small, but they are mighty and perform an important role in the functioning of your motor vehicle. Noticing spark plug failures can prevent further damage to the engine and make for a smoother and safer ride. 

Pass with care

“How to Pass on a Two-Lane Road”

While driving you may come across a driver who is going slower than you wish to drive on a two-lane road. On the highway or multiple-lane roads, the process would be as outlined in “Highway Driving for New Drivers: Changing Lanes” from March 24th. Checking if the passing lane is clear, signaling, safely, and smoothly changing lanes into the passing lane, and then re-entering the right lane when comfortably past the vehicle. On a two-lane road, this maneuver can become more difficult. In this week's blog, we will cover how to pass on a two-lane road safely. 

Step 1: Determine if passing is the correct decision. Driving in the oncoming traffic lane for extended amounts of time can be dangerous. It is important to note that it is illegal to speed when you are driving regardless if you are passing or not, so keep this in mind if you wish to pass a vehicle in front of you. If you deem that the road conditions are safe and that it would be in your best interest to pass the vehicle in front of you, proceed with the following steps. 

Step 2: Judge speed and distance. When approaching the vehicle in front of you judge your speed and the vehicles in front of you to determine roughly the time it would take to pass them. You can practice this when passing on multiple-lane roads to understand the time it takes to overtake someone. Also, the vehicle from the oncoming traffic will be coming towards you which will reduce the amount of space available to pass. 

Step 3: Pass in the proper area. Only in certain areas of the road is it legal to pass. When there is a single dashed yellow line or a solid line with the dashed line nearest to your vehicle, it is legal to make a pass. If there are two solid yellow lines or a single solid line nearest to your vehicle it is illegal to pass. The passing areas are often also indicated with “Pass with Care” road signs. The reason there could be a no-passing zone is limited distance visibility due to curves or hills, or there may be an upcoming intersection. 

Step 4: Make the pass. When the coast is clear and you are committed to a pass, begin the passing procedure. Acknowledge the time and distance you have to pass. Check your mirrors for individuals who may be passing you. Indicate into the other lane. Continue with your speed to make the pass. Once clear of the other vehicle, indicate and return to the right side of the road. Do not pass more than one vehicle at a time. 

Step 5: Practice. This maneuver is often scary and can be very dangerous. The timing aspect of this maneuver can be difficult for people to master. Practicing at slower speeds and with normal passing lanes is recommended. Treat the passing lane as the oncoming traffic. Pick out cars in oncoming traffic to judge distance as they come toward you. Make passes like you would on a two-lane road, but if you misjudge distance the threat of a head-on collision is adverted. 

Passing on a two-lane road can be dangerous and should be done with caution. Passing should only be done when conditions are safe and within passing areas. This blog should help you safely complete a pass on a two-lane road. If you have questions or would like to practice with a trained professional leave a comment down below or contact the Drivers Edge School of Driving main office at Phone (815) 547-1770. 

Blog 52

“A Year of Blogs”

This is blog #52 which means it has been a whole year of driving related blogs brought to you by Drivers Edge School of Driving. Over the past year, we have covered things from maintaining your vehicle to operating your vehicle in complex situations to the history of motor vehicles. In this blog, we will look at some of the highlights to jog your memory of the things you have learned over this past year. 

Fluids- There are a lot of fluids that interact with a vehicle vehicle. We covered a comprehensive look at your vehicle's fluids in blogs from January. It is important to check your vehicle's fluids regularly and ensure that they are at the proper level. Having fluids at the proper level allows your vehicle to function properly and prevents damage. One very important fluid for combustion engines is fuel like gasoline or diesel. In a blog from January 28, 2024, we covered the steps to refueling your vehicle. We also looked at the physics of fluids and their effects on your fuel economy and motion. But before that on December 3rd we looked at the dangers of drinking and driving. 

Hazards- There are a multitude of hazards on the roadway. Many of these hazards are out of our control like the the weather or road degradation. In the instance of all hazards, it is important for you to be aware that a hazard is present and proper steps to take to prevent potential harm. Winter and the cold are major hazards that are not very prevalent at this time of year. Checking the road conditions, preparing your vehicle, gathering warm supplies, and driving tips were parts of how to stay safe driving during winter months from blogs in late October. However, we do have control over some of the hazards. On February 18, 2024, containing your emotions and handling road rage was discussed and the dangers to you and your passengers. One of the best ways to prevent driving related deaths is a personal one, and it is wearing your seatbelt, which was discussed on December 10, 2023.

Skills-  We have also covered necessary skills for all drivers. Some recent ones have been 3-point turns and Reversing. Last calendar year in August, we covered how to be a good passenger. It is also crucial to know how to do basic maintenance on your vehicle like jumping a dead battery or changing a tire September 3rd and 10th blog posts respectively. Many of these skills are easy to learn but require proper practice with initial proper instruction. 

We appreciate those of you who have read these blogs over this past year. We hope you were able to take something from them and implement them into your own lives. This is not the end, more blogs to come.

Commenter of the Week

We are bringing back commenter of the week for this week. Comment down below your favorite blog from this past yea

July 28 Post

“What is a Recall”

What is a recall and what does it mean? Millions of cars every year get recalled from all different makes, models, and manufacturers. In this blog, we will cover the basics of recalls what to do, and how to check if your vehicle is recalled. 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “a car recall is issued when a manufacturer or the NHTSA determines that a vehicle, equipment, car seat, or tire creates an unreasonable safety risk or fails to meet minimum safety standards.” Most decisions to conduct a recall and remedy a safety defect are made voluntarily by manufacturers prior to any involvement by NHTSA. The manufacturer most likely incorrectly mass-produced a part or had a defect come up that was not present in testing. 

The manufacturer of the vehicle should pay for all fixes related to the recalled part. It is important to find an authorized dealer as they can work directly with the manufacturer and be able to quickly and properly fix the problem. In some cases, the company may have to purchase the vehicle from you because the recall is too dangerous to fix. When delivering the car to the location you will be getting the vehicle fixed, be sure to bring along a copy of the recall letter to ensure the proper work is done and to avoid confusion. 

To be notified of a recall, you may receive a letter in the mail. If you were not the first owner or have moved, a letter from NHTSA or from the manufacturer of your vehicle may not come. To check to see if your vehicle has any recalls on it, go to the NHTSA website. It should be as simple as putting in the vehicle's VIN. If you have any complaints with the service or believe there should be a possible recall, contact NHTSA.  National Highway Traffic Safety Administration monitors all recalls within the United States and works with the consumer and the manufacturer to ensure the recalls have been properly dealt with. 

A recall can be a scary situation if the problem sounds major. The good news is that there should be no cost to the consumer other than a few days without your vehicle. If you have any worries about recalls to your vehicle check out https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls. 

July 21 Post

“How to Reverse”

99% of the time drivers drive forward, but sometimes we have to drive in reverse. Driving in reverse can feel backwards to new drivers. You turn the wheel one way and your car goes the other. In this blog, we will look at the steps to safely back up a vehicle. 

Step 1: Check your surroundings. Before entering your vehicle, look around your vehicle for potential hazards or things that could become hazards. Remove them if possible or wait till they pass.

Step 2: Adjust your mirrors and seat. Having proper mirror placement is crucial to being able to see all of your angles as one reverses. It is also important that you have control over the steering wheel, brake pedal, and accelerator. 

Step 3: Recheck the area. Use your mirrors and look out your windows to ensure nothing new is blocking your path. Objects can become hazards in an instant.

Step 4: Plan your reverse. Determine where you need to go and where your car will go to achieve it. Invision in your head the steps and movements you will make.

Step 5: Begin backing up. Start the engine and shift into reverse. With most automatic cars on flat terrain, releasing the brake should move you at a comfortable speed. 

Step 6: Back up. There are multiple different ways to back up. With modern technology and backup cameras determining what is behind you has become easier. However, it is still important to know how to back up without it. Look behind yourself out the back window, between the seats. Slowly release the brake and begin turning. Your car's front wheels turn so the path of turning while backing up will be different than driving forward. Be aware of your front end when backing up to avoid hitting structures or cars as you reverse. As you reverse, when you turn the wheel to the left your front end will go right, but your back end will go left. The path your vehicle takes will take some time to get used to, so it is recommended that one practice in an open area under low stress. 

Step 7: Come to a full stop. Only back up as far as you have to. When you have reached this point, come to a full stop to prevent any potential transmission damages. Then, shift into drive to move forward.

Step 8: Drive safely forward. Now that you have gotten to the 99% of your driving time, do it safely following all road laws. 

Reversing can seem daunting at first. Visibility is limited and 25% of all accidents occur while backing up. With some practice, patience, and constant scanning of your surroundings, reversing can be safe, effective, and less stressful. And if your name is Terry and someone tells you to “put it in reverse Terry” you now know what to do.

July 14 Post

“How to Make a 3-Point Turn”

When driving, one will inevitably drive past their desired location or need to turn around in a tight space. One of the best ways to do this is a 3-point turn. As the name implies it involves turning in 3 steps. In this blog, we will look at what and how to successfully complete the 3 parts of a 3-point turn.

Step 1: Ensure that a U-turn is legal in the location you wish to do it in. The 3-point turn is technically classified as a type of U-turn so the rules for U-turns apply to the 3-point turn. Also, look to see if it is a safe location and if a 3-point turn is possible. Busy roads or tight spaces may make 3-point turns impossible. Practicing in a safe location is the only way to learn the amount of time and the amount of space needed for you and your vehicle. 

Step 2: Once the roadway is clear, maneuver to the outermost portion of the road and indicate the direction you are turning most likely the left signal. Increasing space allows you more space for your turn. Again, look for clear roadways and proceed on your first turn. Proceed smoothly with the wheel turned as far as it goes. Once you are close to the curb or another obstacle, come to a full stop.

Step 3: After you have made a complete stop, shift into reverse. Check your surroundings. Begin to back up and turn the wheel all the way in the other direction. Back up as much as needed to clear the obstacle in front of you. Avoid turning the wheel while not in motion to protect the wheels and the steering apparatus of your vehicle. Come to a complete stop. 

Step 4: Once stopped, shift the vehicle into drive, check your surroundings, and proceed. Turn the wheels as much as needed to complete the turn in 3 steps. You have now completed a 3-point turn. Safely continue on your way, driving as you have been instructed through driver’s education training.

Being able to turn around is a crucial skill to be able to perform. A one point turn is the quickest, but is not often possible in all situations. The next best option is the 3-point turn. Smoothly and efficiently completing a 3-point turn saves you time, but also limits the potential for wrecks. Oftentimes, 3-point turns can be stressful so it is recommended to practice these turns. Begin by practicing in an open parking lot using the lines on the lot. Then, safely add in barriers and perform in low-traffic areas. After some practice, the 3-point turn will seem easy and second nature. 

July 7 Post

“Vehicle Cleaning”

Keeping things clean, neat, and organized is beneficial in many aspects of life. Keeping your car clean is especially beneficial. Being clean can help keep sight lines open when driving, and can alert you to potential issues related to your vehicle. In this blog, we will look at the benefits of cleaning the interior and exterior of your vehicle. Interior: 

Keep the dash clean- Having items on the dash big or small can be distracting and limit visibility. These items can move around and be disturbances, or become projectiles in the event of a crash. It is best to move items to a lower location in a bag or a sealed compartment. 

Keep the windows clean- Having dirty or smudgy interior windows can limit visibility when driving. Dirty windows can also cause the light to reflect in different directions and cause temporary blindness. Having windows is beneficial to prevent critters and weather conditions from entering the vehicle so replace windows that become broken.

Keep an organized back seat- Free-floating objects have the chance to bounce around and cause distractions. They can also create safety concerns for rear-seat passengers. Organize your backseat to stay below the seat line and ideally in secured receptacles. For the safety devices to work properly, individuals need to be able to sit in the seats as they were designed. 

Maintain seats and safety devices- Seats and safety devices do not need to be maintained often, but if something does not feel right get them checked out. Seats should be firmly fixed in place, and seatbelts should move freely in and out, but become firm under rapid movement. If warning lights indicate an airbag issue, get them checked immediately to help save your life in the incident of an accident.  

Keep proper sanitization- Having a car free of dangerous pathogens and bacteria is crucial for your health. We spend more time in our vehicles than we often realize. Keeping the door handles, steering wheel, cup holders, and other commonly contact surfaces clean can help keep drivers free from illnesses.

Exterior:

Frequently wash your vehicle- Keeping your vehicle clean not only makes it look sharp but also helps prevent rusting and other issues. If your car is dirty, it can affect the aerodynamics and overall fuel efficiency. As many drivers in the northern United States know, the salt to prevent ice on the roads wreaks havoc on your vehicle's metal parts. Properly washing your vehicle helps wash off the build-up of these harmful substances and keeps your vehicle in working shape. 

Clean windows, windshield, and mirrors- Windows and mirrors are the devices used in conjunction with our eyes to see the roadway around us. Having proper lines of sight helps drivers use all of their training to keep themselves and other drivers safe. Properly cleaning windows can also show small cracks that could become dangerous if allowed to grow.

Perform preventative maintenance- Preventative maintenance is a part of cleaning a vehicle. Doing things like oil changes, fluid replacements, and tire rotations, can help keep your car clean and functioning properly. 

Our vehicles can become dirty and disheveled easily. Keeping up with cleaning and staying organized can help prevent dangerous situations and vehicle decay. The goal of cleaning the interior is to create a safe place that allows for proper visibility and is comfortable to drive in. The goal of cleaning the outside is to wash off the harmful debris from the roadways. Keeping your car clean prevents potential breakages and increases your vehicle's life span.