October 22 Post

“Preparing To Drive In The Winter Part 1”

The leaves may have just begun to turn wonderful colors as the temperatures begin to drop and the days become ever shorter. There will become a time when the leaves will be gone and snow will cover the roads. It is important to plan ahead when driving, and preparing for the changes in season is something all drivers should think about. In this 2 part series of this blog, we will consider how to prepare your vehicle, and how to prepare and drive in the winter. This 1st blog will cover how to prepare your vehicle. 

Inspect your Battery: As the temperature decreases batteries tend to go dead quicker. Test and inspect your battery for any damages or areas that may need to be cleaned. Be safe and practice precaution when working with car batteries for the risk of electrocution is high. Inspect your lights and any other electronic implements.

Inspect Fluids: Having proper fluid levels is important during cold months. If the fluid level decreases too much it can be more susceptible to freezing. Also, ensure that the window washer fluid and other fluids have the proper anti-freezing properties for the weather in your area. 

Inspect your Tires: It is important to check your tires frequently in colder weather. As the temperatures drop, the pressure in your tires decreases. This phenomenon is commonly taught in academia as Gay-Lussacs Law. Colder temperatures have a negative effect on the longevity and strength of tires. One should look at their tires in the fall and contemplate if the tires can handle the harsh winter months to come. Winter tires have been specially made to handle snow and other winter conditions. They are often recommended in locations where it snows a lot. 

Prepare for Emergencies: Breakdowns and accidents can happen at any time of the year. It is important for individuals to keep resources in their vehicles to handle winter driving-related tasks. A snow shovel, broom, and ice scraper will allow one to clear snow and ice away from their car. Due to the cold temperatures, jumper cables are often helpful in the cold (A complete guide on how to use jumper cables can be found in blog #7). Blankets and other warm coverings are highly recommended for the human body gets cold faster than many think. Some water, food, medication, flashlights, and chemical body warmers are also recommended.

Commenter of the Month 

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October 15 Post

"How To Navigate Farm Equipment On The Road"

Around Belvidere, Illinois, and many parts of rural America, a driver will encounter farm equipment on the road. This site may not occur at all times of the year, and many drivers think it is a maize. In the 12th rendition of this blog, we will provide guidance on “How to Navigate Farm Equipment on the Road”. 

It is important to be on the lookout for these vehicles. This may sound silly for the size of many of these instruments is quite large, but many people do not see or comprehend what they are seeing until it is too late. Many of these vehicles are slow-moving and have limited maneuverability. So, it is smart to be on the lookout for these large vehicles when traveling through rural lands with farm crops. 

Agricultural equipment has the right to travel on roadways. Also, if one wishes to pass or maneuver around agricultural equipment they must follow all road laws. The large size of these vehicles can make it extremely hard to see around these vehicles. It is important to check to make sure the passing is safe and legal before you pass. It is highly discouraged and illegal to pass Agricultural equipment where passing is prohibited. 

It is important to provide space for the drivers of these vehicles. Giving space allows them to see you more effectively and for you to have more time to make decisions if you need to. These vehicles often take wide turns so it is important to notice when they are turning and give them room. Farm equipment is also often wide, so oncoming traffic should be prepared to move over to safely travel by. Oncoming traffic should also be aware of drivers attempting to pass the slower-moving equipment and be prepared to make defensive decisions. 

The farmer is trying to do his job and does not wish to hold you up on your commute, but sometimes it happens. If drivers of farm equipment and drivers of motor vehicles work together, the roads can be safe. The best advice for drivers of motor vehicles is to be patient. Be on the lookout for farm equipment when traveling in rural areas, take your time, and be cautious when approaching farm equipment, and if you decide to pass, do it safely and under control.  

Commenter of the Month 

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October 8 Post

How To Share The Roadways

Automobiles are not the only thing that can use the roadways. Bicyclists, runners, lawnmowers, walkers, and even unicyclists use the road from time to time. It can be confusing when you see these individuals on the road. This blog will try and give guidance to drivers and pedestrians on how to safely share the road with these other individuals.

Bicyclists will often ride on the road, and they should be traveling in the same direction as the flow of traffic. Just like drivers behind the wheel, bicyclists must obey roadway signs and signals. Bicyclists are often harder to see than cars. It is smart when riding a bike to assume others cannot see you, and don’t let yourself be distracted by music or electronic devices. It is important that when operating a vehicle you are not distracted and wearing the proper sight enhancing devices. bicyclists often avoid riding on sidewalks because sidewalks are for pedestrians.

Pedestrians, when no sidewalk is present, will appear on the road. They should be located walking against the direction of traffic and as far from vehicles as possible. Pedestrians should also follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals. They should cross streets at crosswalks because as a  driver one looks for pedestrians there. However, many pedestrians do not cross at crosswalks so it is imperative that one is always on the lookout for people crossing the road.

Yearly, about 1,000 cyclists are killed in collisions with vehicles, and in 2022, about 7,500 pedestrians died in traffic incidents. It is imperative that drivers pay attention because a car will crush a human being in an instant. No driver, cyclist, or pedestrian has sole rights to the road. It is a shared space where all have rights and responsibilities.

Commenter of the Month 

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October 1 Post

Interview With The Owner

My first question is why did you choose to own a Driver's Education Company?

 I have always been a teacher and like making a difference in the lives of teenagers and youth. I like teaching hands-on skills and teaching lessons that students can use after the classroom. Teaching people to drive enables me to make a positive difference in the community. I also like getting to know the students and chatting about their plans and dreams.

What is the biggest challenge of owning a driving school?

Staffing is always the biggest challenge in owning any small business, but I have been very fortunate to have a great staff that works hard and interacts well with the students. Being able to teach someone how to drive in a cool, calm, and educational manner is sometimes difficult for many people, but I have found a wonderful group of individuals who can do just that. 

What is the biggest joy of owning a driving school?

Personally, I love seeing students outside of the driving school. They tell me they passed their driving test, and the joy I see in their faces makes my day. 

What type of vehicles do you have here at Drivers Edge School of Driving?

We pick vehicles that would be easy and comfortable for most people to drive. We don't want large SUVs or trucks since they would intimate some new drivers. We also pick vehicles that are fuel efficient, since we drive on average 20 miles each trip and have about 60 hours of drive times each week. 

How has driver's education changed in the last 20 years?

When Drivers Edge opened technology was much different. Some cars still had manual roll-down windows, CD players were a luxury, and power seats were hard to come by. In the classroom, we now have the ability to use technology to assist in education. Videos and interactive review games make it more fun for the students. We also can give instant feedback on tests when we do them online, which allows students to know what they got correct and incorrect right away so there is less confusion or doubt when they go home. Driving is still driving, you still need to pay attention, know the rules, and anticipate what other people are doing. Even if things have changed, driving is still hard work, and it is the main thing we want to prepare our students for. 

What could parents do to help their students learn to drive?

Driving is a complicated task that uses mental and physical skills. The best thing a parent could do is spend time talking about driving skills while the student is in the passenger seat. Let them see what the mental skills are to be able to drive before they have to use the physical skills. The second thing is to be patient and calm. It is hard for a parent to teach their "baby" how to drive. The stress of teaching, the stress of a potential accident, the financial cost of the car, and the loss of control are a lot for parents to deal with. Remember they are scared and nervous, so start slow and build up their confidence and your trust in them. 

What can a student do to prepare to drive? 

Start driving anything sooner- drive the riding lawn mower, a golf cart, a go-cart, or even a bike or scooter. All of this will help with the physical aspect of driving. Then start paying attention when parents drive you around, ask questions, and pretend you are driving. This will help with the mental and social aspects of driving. Then when you get your permit- practice!! Listen to your parents and teachers about how to drive and why we do those things. 

Commenter of the Month 

Comment down below any questions you have for the owner. A second installment of “Interview with the Owner” will be out soon.

Sept 24 Post

What Lights Should You Use

In 1911 headlights became standard on automobiles. Turn signals were invented in 1909, and were added to cars in 1939. However, some motorists are still confused about when to use headlights or signal lights. This blog will cover a variety of situations when a driver needs to or does not need to use certain lighting implements. 

Headlights: In Illinois, it is the law for a driver to have their headlights on from dusk until dawn. So, from the time the sun begins to set and when it begins to rise. They are also required when visibility is challenged like during rain, snow, or fog. If your windshield wipers are on, it is required by law that your headlights be on as well. Headlights allow for you as the driver to see the road in front of you and other drivers to see you. 

High beam Headlights: As a motorist, you should use your high beams when it is difficult to see in the dark of night or in heavy rain. However, to avoid temporarily blinding other drivers, it is important and the law that you turn your high beams off 500 feet before oncoming traffic and 300 feet behind the vehicle you are following. Drivers should also turn off their high beams at intersections, in town, or around curves when it is possible for oncoming traffic to appear without ample distance to turn off your high beams. Using your high beams in foggy conditions is not suggested for the light could bounce around and cause worse visibility. 

Turn signals: Turn signals are not only good to use but required by law in Illinois and the rest of the United States. In business or residential areas, a driver must give a continuous turn signal for at least 100 feet before turning. In other areas, a signal must be given at least 200 feet before turning. A turn signal in the direction one is changing lanes is also required by law. An often-forgotten use of the turn signal is when a motorist is maneuvering out of a parallel parked position back onto the roadway.  Turn signals allow other drivers to see the intentions of the vehicles around them, which allows them to make proper decisions on speed and maneuvering. Turn signals shall not be left in the on position when driving and not indicating an upcoming turn. 

It is important to turn all lights off when exiting a vehicle. If a light is left on it is possible for the battery to die requiring you to look at Blog #7 on how to jump a dead car battery. 

Commenter of the Month 

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Sept 17 Post

Who Has The Right-Of-Way

Knowing which car has the right-of-way and knowing who should yield can be a tricky topic for new drivers. 

Pedestrians: Pedestrians have the right-of-way within any crosswalk marked or unmarked, intersection with traffic lights, intersection with stop signs, and roadway workers. It is very crucial that drivers are aware of pedestrians at all times. A car can easily cause immense harm to pedestrians at the lowest of speeds. So, take the extra seconds to look for pedestrians especially in town when people will be walking about. 

4-way stop intersection: When more than one driver reaches a four-way stop intersection. The first driver to stop should be the one to proceed first. When two vehicles arrive at a four-way stop at the same time, the vehicle on the left should yield to the vehicle on the right. Therefore, the person on the right has the right-of-way. If three cars arrive at a four-way stop at the same time, the vehicle to the left should yield to the vehicle on the right. However, that driver should yield to the person on their right. If four people somehow stop at exactly the same time, wait for someone to go then treat it as if three people stopped simultaneously. 

Making a turn on Red: It is legal to turn right on red at an intersection as long as there is no signage against it and the way is clear and safe. One must come to a full stop, make sure no pedestrians are in the way, and then one may proceed if the coast is clear. One may also turn left on red. In this scenario, a driver must be on a one-way road and turning left onto another one-way road. A driver must come to a complete stop, make sure no pedestrians are in the way, and that it is safe to make the turn and then proceed. 

Turning left: A driver is required to yield to oncoming traffic when they are turning left. A green arrow at an intersection allows drivers to proceed without yielding. It is imperative that one gives proper following distance and slows down at a sizable distance away from the left to prevent rear endings, from taking the turn with too much speed, or not properly judging if enough room is given to make the left turn successfully. 

Emergency vehicles: Emergency vehicles have the right-of-way whenever their lights are flashing. A complete breakdown of what to do when one sees flashing blue and red lights can be found in Blog #4. right-of-way is given to these vehicles in all situations for it is imperative that they can make it quickly and safely to their destination. 

Commenter of the Month 

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Sept 10 Post

The 10 Steps Of Jumping A Dead Car Battery

Being stranded with a dead battery is one of the last things a motorist wants. Luckily, jump-starting a dead battery is not too difficult. However, there are some important steps that if done incorrectly could cause serious harm to yourself or your vehicle. There are many reasons the battery could be dead, the lights could have been left on, the battery could be old, the weather could have dropped to an extremely cold temperature, or it could have exploded. 

Step 1: Notice that the battery of your car is dead or lacking enough charge to start your vehicle. The headlights or some electronic running, but the car not starting for a lack of amperage. A funny smell from the battery could be an indication of a bad battery. Be careful when inspecting a bad battery in case something is leaking. 

Step 2: Locate jumper cables, generally red and black colored cables with large alligator clips on both ends and another vehicle with a working battery. 

Step 3: Park and turn off the working car close enough to the stranded vehicle so that the cables can reach. Take a quick view around the area to check for any potential hazards, and dawn safety gear. It isn’t a bad idea to put eye protection and gloves on if you have them.

Step 4: Pop both car hoods and locate the batteries. Make sure nothing looks dangerous to either battery and begin the cable hook-up outlined in the next steps. 

Step 5: Connect the RED (positive) clamp (might be yellow) to the Positive terminal of the dead battery usually indicated by a plus sign (+)  or being red as well. Make sure to not touch the other clamps to any conductive materials like metal. 

Step 6: Connect the other end of the RED cable to the Positive terminal of the working battery. Then, attach the BLACK (negative) cable to the Negative terminal of the Working battery indicated with a subtraction sign (-). 

Step 7: Attach the other end of the BLACK cable to a clean metal piece of the engine. (Do not connect it to the negative terminal of the dead battery, this could cause the hydrogen gas above the battery to explode). 

Step 8: Start the working battery’s car. Wait for about 3-5 minutes. Then, attempt to start the other car. Once started, wait for about 30 seconds to make sure the car does not stall out. If the car does not start, look over the cables to make sure all is right and wait for a little while longer. 

Step 9: Keep the cars running and carefully remove the jumper cables in reverse order. Begin with the BLACK on the metal piece, then go to the BLACK on the other car. Remove the RED clamp, and then the other RED clamp on the car that was just jumped. Be careful to not touch the clamps to anything else while still connected to a battery.

Step 10: Thank the driver of the other vehicle, and go for a drive to allow your alternator to charge your battery back up. It is recommended to drive for around 30 minutes if not more. It is a good idea to have your battery tested. Most auto parts stores provide this service free of charge.

Now, you are no longer stranded and know how to jump a car battery with another car. This one is hard to practice and not advised, but it is wise to know where your battery is located, how to access it, and if you have jumper cables. 

Commenter of the Month 

Comment down below if you have jumper cables in your vehicle for a chance to be our commenter of the month. 

Sept 3 Post

How To Change A Flat Tire

Knowing how to change a tire is a necessary skill for all drivers. You can not rely on a cell phone to save you in a roadside emergency. Flat tires can happen anywhere and at any time so it is important to know how to change a tire on your own. 

Step 1: Notice that you have a flat tire. Once you notice you have a flat tire, find a safe place to stop the car, as far away from traffic as possible and as flat as possible. Do this in a calm manner for it might be scary. Park the car, turn on your hazards, and engage the parking brake. 

Step 2: Safely locate the spare tire, jack, and lug wrench usually in the trunk or cargo area of your vehicle. 

Step 3: Remove the hubcaps from the wheel. Then, slightly loosen the lug nuts. They should be on there pretty tight so it is important to have all four wheels on the ground when initially loosening them. Do not loosen them all the way, but loosen them slightly. 

Step 4: Jack up the car. The correct place for the jack is usually beneath the vehicle’s frame alongside the tire that is flat. To safely lift and avoid damage to the vehicle, follow the instructions for jack placement in your vehicle owner’s manual. It is a smart idea to place pieces of wood or other devices to make sure that the car does not roll at this time. Once the car is jacked up do not put any body part under the car. 

Step 5: Finish loosening the lug nuts and remove the flat tire. After the flat tire is off, put the spare tire on. The valve stem where you put air into the tire should be on the outside. 

Step 6: Tighten the lug nuts. It is important not to go in a directly circular manner, but rather a star pattern or skipping around to different holes to ensure the tire goes on straight and flush. Tighten the bolts well but not incredibly tight. You do not want to make the car fall off the jack.

Step 7: Lower and remove the jack. Finish tightening the lug nuts. They should be tight, but there is no need to excessively over tighten them. If they are tight they will not go anywhere. 

Step 8: Replace the hub cap if it fits and store all of your equipment back safely in your car. Do a visual inspection to make everything looks safe to drive then drive on your way. Spare tires are not designed to be used for long periods of time or at high speeds so be cautious while driving and look to replace the tire with the proper tire in a timely manner. 

This process does not take a lot of time and is not too complicated, but it is important to know where your equipment is and how to safely do it. This process can be easily practiced in your driveway at home so it is encouraged to practice it like any other aspect of driving. 

Aug 28 Post

How To Park On A Hill

Parking on a hill is not the same as parking on flat roadways. There are vital steps to take when you park a car to ensure the safety of your car, but more importantly pedestrians and other motorists. The first step to parking on a hill is to find a spot large enough for your car and in a legal location away from fire hydrants, no parking signs, mailboxes, and other obstacles that would limit where you can park. Once you have successfully found a spot and maneuvered into it, recognize if your front end is pointing down the hill or up the hill. 

Down the Hill- If you are pointing down the hill, turn your wheels so that they are pointing towards the curb. If you happen to roll your car will simply roll into the curb and prevent your car from rolling. After your wheels are turned, apply the parking brake. This is either a lever in the center console or a small pedal in the driver's footwell. Once engaged, turn off the car. 

Up the Hill- If you are pointing up the hill, turn your wheels so that they are pointing away from the curb. A simple phrase to remember this is “Up, Up, and Away”. If your car happens to roll it will simply roll into the curb. After your wheels are turned, apply the parking brake. This is either a lever in the center console or a small pedal in the driver's footwell. Once engaged, turn off the vehicle and enjoy wherever you are parking in that location for. 

Aug 21 Post

What To Do If You See Flashing Lights

Flashing lights occur all around us when we are driving. What the flashing light indicates or what to do when you see flashing lights can often be confusing. In this blog, we will cover many common forms of flashing lights and what they mean.

Turn signals: This type of flashing light can be located on the rear and front of vehicles in many different colors and shapes. Turn signals are required by law on all vehicles. These lights indicate to drivers around them the intentions of the driver. A flashing light on the right side of the vehicle indicates that the driver will be making a right turn or merging to the right. When one sees a turn signal one might have to slow down due to the fact the individual is turning.

Hazard Lights: This type of flashing light is located on the rear and front of vehicles and generally uses the same lights as the turn signal or brake lights. This light is used when vehicles are stopped or going very slowly as an indication to help other drivers. When driving in bad weather one should avoid using their hazard lights for this could cause even more confusion or when parked illegally. When a driver sees flashing hazard lights, they should be ready to slow down or change lanes. When a car is broken down or parked on the side of the road with or without its hazards lights give the stranded vehicle and occupants as much room as possible to prevent any catastrophic possibilities. 

Flashing Traffic Lights: This type of light can be found on poles or cables above or to the side at roadway intersections. When a light is not working properly it will generally blink red. When a motorist comes to a blinking red stoplight they are to treat it as a stop sign and follow proper stop sign procedure. The yellow light could also be flashing. This is an indication of caution, but generally, it means one can drive through it without stopping, but one should be cautious of other drivers. Some roadways at night also have their lights blinking red or yellow to assist with late-night travel. 

Flashing Red and Blue lights: This type of light can be found on emergency vehicles only. When one sees red and blue flashing lights behind them they should pull over to the right of the roadway to allow the vehicle to pass them. If a driver sees red and blue flashing lights coming from in front of them they should again slow down and pull over to the right. It is important at intersections to not drive in front of these vehicles and to make sure they are not turning across traffic. If you see red and blue flashing lights on the side of the road, change lanes out of the right lane and allow others to do so for it is the law and to keep police officers and other individuals safe. 

August 14 Post

How To Adjust Your Mirrors

Being able to see out of your mirrors is crucial to staying safe and properly operating a motor vehicle. However, many people do not adjust their mirrors fully or check to see if their mirrors are in the correct place before taking off to their destination. This blog will give you a step-by-step guide to adjusting one's mirrors. 

Step 1: Sit in the driver's seat and get in a comfortable position that you will be able to drive in. Move the seat to the proper position for you. Once, you have found a position then begin adjusting your mirrors. Moving your mirrors prior to moving your seat will cause your mirrors to be out of position. 

Step 2: Maneuver your review mirror, the mirror on the driver's right that is within the car usually mounted in some way to the ceiling or the front windshield of the vehicle. The goal is to move it so that when the driver is in the driving position they can see clearly out of the back of the windshield. Aim for directing it to the center of the back windshield. You want to be able to quickly glance up at the mirror as you are driving and see the road and other vehicles behind you without having to move your body or head an excessive amount. 

Step 3: Locate the controls for your side mirrors. These can normally be found towards the front of the driver’s door. Some older cars may require you to manually move the mirrors. First, move the mirrors all around and learn all the directions the mirror is able to move. Then, position one mirror at a time starting with either the driver’s or passenger’s side mirror. The choice is all yours. Make the necessary movements until you can see the road behind you and a small sliver of the outside of your vehicle. Do this with both mirrors.

Step 4: Sit back in your seat in the position you plan on traveling and look at all of your mirrors. Think about the potential situations you would need to use your mirrors and see if your adjustments fulfill those needs. If all is good, begin on your journey. If all is not good, readjust your mirrors and then begin your journey.

Aug 1 Post

How To Be A Good Passenger

It is important to avoid distractions while driving. One common distraction that people often overlook is their passengers. As a passenger, you are responsible for helping keep yourself, the driver, and other passengers safe while in the vehicle. 

Rule #1 for passengers is to always listen to the driver. The driver is the captain while in the car. The driver is responsible for anything that happens or goes on inside the vehicle. As a passenger, you may be doing something that seems to be mundane, but is in fact obnoxious and distracting to the driver which can lead to catastrophic events. 

Rule #2 for passengers is to always wear seatbelts and safety devices. In the potential instance of a crash, wearing your seatbelt is the safest place to be. Also, if you were to be pulled over by the police the driver would receive a ticket for something you refuse to do. 

Rule #3 for passengers is to not obstruct the driver's view of the road. It is crucial that the driver can see their entire surroundings when they need to. Leaning forward or covering the rearview mirror can be dangerous for the driver and other motorists on the road.  

Rule #4 for passengers is to assist the driver with anything they need. Whether that is helping with directions, responding to text messages, or keeping them company on long trips. 

Rule #5 for passengers is to stay calm. Unnecessary outbursts and not being calm are dangerous to drivers. It is important that one stays calm behind the wheel so it is important not to yell or berate the driver while they are in control of the motor vehicle. Unruly passengers or aggressive backseat driving can cause the driver to freak out and cause a wreck so stay calm. 

Knowing how to drive correctly is principal to staying safe and getting to where you are headed on the road, but it is also important for passengers to aid rather than detract from the driver's skills. 

July Post

5 Tips For Young Drivers 

#1 Put Your Phone Down

Cell phones draw your attention away from focusing on the road. Due to these distractions, phones are a significant contributor to car accidents, especially among young drivers. The best solution is to put your phone away in a safe place where you would not be distracted by it. Though Bluetooth and hands-free devices make using a phone and answering calls somewhat safer. They still allow for distractions and remove your focus on the road.

#2 Prepare For The Weather

It is important to understand the potential weather conditions you will face on the road. Oftentimes, young drivers overestimate their abilities and underestimate the dangers of potential weather conditions. It is crucial that young drivers slow down to prepare for longer stopping distances and visual impairments like rain and snow.

#3 Adjust All Safety Devices 

When driving a motor vehicle, one should be in a comfortable position that allows them to operate the vehicle fully and know their complete surroundings. It is important even if one is going just a short way to adjust the seat, steering wheel, and mirrors. Through properly adjusted mirrors and seats, the driver is able to fully operate the vehicle if any potential hazards were to arise. (We will have a blog post shortly about how to properly adjust your mirrors to enhance road visibility so check back in soon or look a little further down the catalog)

#4 Know Your Surroundings At All Times 

This tip goes along with the previous tip. With proper seating position and adjusted mirrors, the driver is better equipped to see the road. Many young drivers get fixated on what is directly in front of them and lose track of what is happening behind them and further down the road. It is important to check your mirrors regularly and expand your visual view of the road.

#5 Practice Driving

The common phrase is “practice makes perfect”. Though one will probably never be perfect at driving, it is key to drive often. Practicing good habits while driving early is a great way to ensure safe habits as you grow older. Many individuals are often scared of certain driving situations and avoid them, but it is important that you safely attempt these fears for they are not always going to be avoidable. So when you graduate from Drivers Edge, continue to drive and learn from those trusted individuals who have more experience on the roadway.