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Chapter 1

DRIVER'S LICENSE
Driving is a privilege... not a right!
Anyone who operates a motor vehicle or motor driven cycle on any public roadway in the
state of Missouri must have a driver's license. You may apply for a Missouri driver's
license at any Department of Revenue Branch or Fee License Office. All motorists must be
aware that driving is a privilege that has been extended to them by the State upon
meeting prescribed criteria. There must be an understanding that there is no right to
drive and that license holders are merely exercising a privilege granted to them. To be a
conscientious driver, you should make every attempt to keep up to date on changes to
Missouri driving laws, new construction, potential hazards, etc., and always try to keep a
positive attitude when behind the wheel.
Licenses and permits issued after April 2003 contain enhanced security features to help
protect against fraud. Among the features are a ghost of your regular photo at the
bottom of the card and a two dimensional barcode on the back. The new identification
requirements help to make this an even more secure document.
The following people must have a Missouri driver's license:

If you are at least 16 years of age, live in Missouri, and plan to drive.
If you are a new resident of Missouri and want to drive, you must apply for a
Missouri license, even if you have an out-of-state driver's license.
If you are an out-of-state commercial driver who has moved to Missouri within the
last 30 days.

The following people do not need a Missouri driver's license:

If you are a member of the armed forces and you have a valid license from another
state.
If you are a full-time student and have a valid out-of-state license.
If you operate or move any farm tractor or implement on a highway for agriculturerelated purposes.

The following is a list of people who cannot obtain a Missouri driver's license:

If you are less than 16 years old.


If you are applying for a Class E license and are under 18 years old.
If your license or privilege to drive is suspended in Missouri or any other state.
If your license or privilege to drive is revoked in Missouri or any other state.
Missouri law does not allow you to have a license because of your driving history or
a court order.
If a court finds you are physically or mentally unable to operate a motor vehicle
safely.
You do not have the proper identification.
You are applying for a Class A, B, or C License and are less than 18 years old.

Types of Permits
School Bus Permit:

This permit is required for any person transporting students in any school bus owned by
or under contract with a public school or the State Board of Education. You must be at
least 21 years of age to obtain this permit. There are two different types:

Type 1 - transporting 16 or more persons, including the driver.


Type 2 - transporting 15 or fewer persons, including the driver.

The permits are good for three years, and you will need to pass a medical screening,
including a vision and hearing test. You will also need to have an acceptable driving and
criminal history. If you are 70 years of age or older, you must renew this permit annually

and pass the school bus permit written and road tests in addition to the medical
screening, driving record check, and criminal history check. A school bus permit can be
suspended for one year if you fail to pass any drug, alcohol, or chemical test.
Motorcycle Instruction Permit:
Any person between 15 1/2 and 16 years old may apply for a temporary motorcycle
instruction permit. The applicant must pass the Class F and Class M written, vision, and
road sign examinations, successfully complete an approved motorcycle rider training
course (if under 16), and obtain written consent from the applicant's parent or legal
guardian. This permit allows only daylight driving, and without passengers. If you are
under 16, you may only operate a motorcycle that is no larger than 250 cc, and only
within a 50-mile radius of your home.

Types of Licenses
Class F Driver License:
The Class F license is Missouri's basic driver license and is needed to operate any motor
vehicle other than one requiring the driver to have a Class A, B, C or E license. A Class F
license does not allow you to operate a motorcycle without an M endorsement.
Class E (for hire) License:

You must have a Class E license if you receive pay for driving a motor vehicle. A Class E
license is required under the following conditions:

If you transport 14 or fewer passengers for pay.


If you transport property for pay.
If you use your vehicle as part of your job, such as pizza or florist delivery.
Any person who regularly operates a motor vehicle for his or her employment,
which belongs to another person and is designed to carry freight or merchandise.

*The vehicle being used in this class must be 26,000 pounds or less gross vehicle weight
rating and not required to be placard for hazardous materials.
Class M Motorcycle License: To operate a motorcycle or motor tricycle on any public
roadway in Missouri, you must have a Class M license or a license with an M
endorsement. You must be at least 16 years old, and you must pass the Class F and Class
M written, vision, road sign, and motorcycle skills tests. If you are between the ages of
16-18, you must have had an instruction permit for 6 months to receive a motorcycle
license.

Graduated Driver License Law (GDL)


Missouri's Graduated Driver License Law requires young drivers to complete three steps
in the driver licensing process.

Starting at age 15, a person may apply for an instruction permit;


At age 16, a person may apply for an intermediate driver license; and
At age 18, a person may apply for an Under 21 full driver license.

The GDL process is complete when a person has obtained a full driver license or reaches
the age of 21.
Instruction Permit:
When you turn 15, you may apply for an instruction permit if your parent or guardian
comes with you to a branch or contract office, provides written permission, and agrees to
provide 40 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction. You must pass the written, road sign
and vision tests. You may not use your test paper as a license or permit to drive.
You will be restricted to driving when your parent, grandparent, legal guardian, or a
qualified driving instructor is in the seat beside you and has a valid driver license. If you
are 16 years or older, the person occupying the seat beside you must be at least 21 and
have a valid driver license. If your parent, grandparent or legal guardian is physically
disabled, he or she may designate up to two people (at least 21 years of age and a
licensed driver) to accompany you in the vehicle for the purpose of providing behind-thewheel instruction. This permit may be renewed as often as needed, without the need to
take additional written tests. It costs $3.50 and is good for 12 months.

Intermediate License:
You may apply for an intermediate license when you turn 16. In order to do so, you must
have driven with an instruction permit for a minimum of 6 months. Your parent,
grandparent, or legal guardian must go with you to the driver license office to verify that
you received at least 40 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction, including at least 10
hours of instruction at night. The 40-hour provision that goes into effect January 1, 2007
adds another 20 hours, including nighttime driving, to the requirement.
When you apply for your intermediate license, you:

Must pass the vision, road sign and written tests if results are over a year old, and
pass a driving test (behind-the-wheel).
Cannot have any alcohol-related offenses in the last 12 months.
Cannot have any traffic convictions, such as speeding tickets, in the last 6 months.

You must follow certain restrictions once you obtain your intermediate license:

You must wear your seat belt and make sure all passengers in your vehicle wear
seat belts also.
You must not drive a vehicle between the hours of 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. unless
you are driving to or from a school activity, job, or an emergency as defined by the
Director of Revenue, or unless accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years
old.
During the first 6 months, you may not drive with more than one passenger who is
under 19 years old and not a member of your immediate family.
After the first 6 months, you may drive with up to three passengers who are under
19 years old and not members of your immediate family.

Under 21 Full License:


When you turn 18, you may apply for an Under 21 full driver license. You will need to
pass the vision and road sign tests, but you do not need to take the written and driving
tests if already completed, and your intermediate license has not been expired for more
than 6 months. An instruction permit is not required to obtain an Under 21 full driver
license as long as you are between the ages of 18 and 21. If your intermediate license
has been suspended, revoked or denied, or you have had an alcohol-related offense or
traffic conviction in the past 12 months, you may not apply for this license. The Under 21
full driver license is valid for three years.
Fees for Licenses:
Type of License
2-year License
3-year License
6-year License
Non-Expiring
Intermediate License
$7.50
Driver License (F)
$10.00
$20.00
Commercial Driver
$22.50
$45.00
For Hire License (E)
$17.50
$35.00
Motorcycle Only
$10.00
$20.00
Non driver (ID card)
$11.00
$11.00
*Fees for written and road tests are not included.
Driver License Expiration (Missouri's driver license) All licenses issued will expire
on your birthday in the second, third or sixth year after the date it was issued, depending
on your age (refer to the table below). You are not allowed to drive after your license
expires, so don't forget to renew so you can continue to drive.
Missouri's driver license:
Age
New / Renewal Drivers
Ages 16-18 (Intermediate)
Expires in the 2nd year after date of issuance
Ages 18-20 (Full License)
Expires on the applicant's date of birth in the 3rd year af
Ages 21-69
Expires on the applicant's date of birth in the 6th year af
Ages 70 and over
Expires on the applicant's date of birth in the 3rd year af
Before your license expires, the Driver License Bureau will send you a reminder post card
in the mail. The reminder will be sent to the address on your driving record. If you have
moved without informing the Bureau, the notice may be delayed. Be sure to keep it

current with the Bureau. You may renew your license no earlier than six months before
your license expires. You will be required to take a vision test and a highway sign
recognition test whenever you renew your license. It is your responsibility to renew your
driver license, so if you fail to do so within 6 months or 184 days after its expiration date,
you will have to retake the written and skills tests.
Keeping your driving privileges: In order to keep your driving privileges, you must
drive safely at all times. The following is a list of reasons why you may lose your license:

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.


Refusing to submit to an alcohol or drug test when asked to do so by a law
enforcement officer.
Leaving the scene of an accident in which you were involved.
Not notifying the Driver's License Bureau of a reportable accident in which you were
involved.
Causing someone's death in a motor vehicle accident.
Giving false information when applying for a driver's license.
Failing to settle a court judgment made against you for damages resulting from a
motor vehicle accident.
Not being properly insured.
Not appearing for a reexamination when asked to do so by the Driver's License
Bureau.
Using a motor vehicle to commit a felony.
Allowing someone else to use your license.
Failing to appear or dispose of court costs associated with traffic violations in
Missouri or any other state.
Failing to pay child support or not appearing in court for a subpoena relating to child
support.
Not complying with a court order requiring the use of an ignition interlock device.
Stealing fuel from a gas station.
Having too many points on your driving record.

Driver License Restrictions: Many medical conditions impair your ability to operate a
vehicle safely. If you have one of these conditions, you will receive a restricted license
that will let you drive only under specific conditions. If you have a restricted license and
disregard the restrictions, you can be charged with driving without a license, and will
have points added to your driving record. The following is a list of restrictions and their
codes:

Corrective lenses - A
Outside rearview mirror - B
Daylight driving only - C
Automatic transmission / Power steering - D
Seat cushion - E
Restricted to 45 mph - F
25 mile radius - G
Special hand devices - H
Electrical turn - J
Non-air brake CDL - L
Extension on foot device - M
Leg brace - N
Foot operated emergency brake - O
Accelerator steering column - P
Back cushion - R
Right outside mirror - T
Uncoded restriction * - U
3 wheel motorcycle only - WW
Left outside mirror - Y

More than 5 restrictions - Z

* An uncoded restriction is any restriction not listed above. Any law enforcement officer,
judge, or physician can ask the Department of Revenue to place restrictions on your
license.
Documentation Requirements When Applying for or Renewing Licenses or

Permits
When applying for or renewing your Missouri driver license, nondriver license or
instruction permit, you must bring three types of documentation:

Proof of Lawful Presence;


Proof of Identity (including proof of name change); and
Proof of Residency.

In addition, you must provide a Driver Examination Record (DOR-100) which indicates
that you have successfully completed the tests, unless you are applying for a nondriver
license. However, if you are a new Missouri resident and have an out-of-state driver
license that is valid or is expired for less than 184 days, you may present that license.
U.S. citizens need only provide one of the following documents as proof of lawful
presence:

U.S. Birth Certificate (certified with embossed or raised seal issued by state or local
government)
U.S. Passport (valid or expired)
Certificate of Citizenship
Certificate of Naturalization
Certificate of Birth Abroad

This is a one-time requirement for U.S. citizens. Once you have applied for a new license
or permit or renewed a license or permit after July 1, 2005 and showed proof of lawful
presence, you will not be required to show proof of lawful presence on subsequent
renewals.
Those who are not U.S. citizens face a much more difficult road. They must provide valid
and appropriate Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), U.S. Citizenship and
Immigration Services (USCIS), or other U.S. governmental documents that indicate their
current status or applicant status. Check with the department or an immigration lawyer
for the specific documents required for your status, as requirements vary depending on
status. You must provide these documents each time you renew your license or permit.

Be sure to have your documents ready before you apply for or renew your license to
prevent any problems. Driver's licenses issued to non-U.S. citizens are valid only for the
time they are allowed to be in the U.S. In the case of students or others who have
indefinite limits, the driver's license will be issued for one year and must be renewed
every year thereafter.
To establish proof of identity, you must provide your Social Security number, if you have
been assigned one. If you have not been assigned one, you must present a letter from
the Social Security Administration regarding the status of your Social Security number.
However, if your name on the document you provide for proof of lawful presence does not
match the name you currently use, you must also provide one of the following documents
bearing your current name:

U.S. Passport (valid or expired)


Social Security Card/Medicare Card
Certified Marriage License
Certified Divorce Decree
Certified Court Order
Certified Adoption Papers or Amended Birth Certificate

You are required to provide proof of residency each time you renew your license or
permit. One of the following may be presented as proof of residency (must be current or
most recent):

Utility bill (phone, water, gas, electric, trash or sewer, etc.)


Voter registration card
Bank statement
Government check
Pay check
Property tax receipt
Housing rental contract of current residence
Mortgage documents of current residence
An official letter or document from another state or local government agency, not
previously listed, which is on the agency's letterhead or contains the official seal of the
issuing agency issued within the previous 30 days

Letter or other documentation issued by the postmaster within the previous 30 days
Other government document that contains the name and address of the applicant
issued within the previous 30 days

You are not allowed to use a Post Office Box as proof of residency. If you are under 21
and cannot provide any of the above documents, you may have a parent or legal
guardian provide the document along with a written statement.
Social Security Number (SSN)

You are required to include your Social Security number on your driver license
application. The following documents will be acceptable as proof of Social Security
number:

Social Security card. (A metal or laminated card is NOT acceptable.)


A letter from the Social Security Administration
IRS/state tax forms. (A W-2 form is not acceptable.)
Financial statement containing SSN
Payroll stub containing SSN
Military identification card containing SSN

If you do not have a Social Security number, you must sign an affidavit stating that you
do not have this number. If you were not assigned a Social Security number, you must
present a letter from the Social Security Administration that explains the status of your
Social Security number. Your application and any supporting documents that you provide
will then be taken for verification.

Chapter 2
Missouri Speed Laws

Controlling your vehicle's speed is the best way to prevent loss of control and crashes.
Drivers need to be aware of legal and safe speeds at all times. Nationally, in 2007,
speeding was found to be a contributing factor in 31% of all traffic fatalities and resulted
in the loss of 13,040 lives. In Missouri, 44% of all traffic fatalities were caused by
speeding, resulting in the deaths of 434 people. The economic cost to society due to
speeding-related crashes is estimated by the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration to be $40.4 billion per year. For Missouri, the losses total an
estimated $865 million annually, or approximately $2.4 million per day.
Driving Too Fast for Conditions - Regardless of the posted speed, you must exercise
the highest degree of care by driving in a careful and prudent manner and at a rate of
speed that will not endanger you or anyone else. This means you must not drive at a
speed that is unsafe for the road or too fast for conditions. In many states this is also
known as the "basic speed law." This law requires that you slow down when conditions
demand it. You should slow down if you encounter any of the following:

Hills.
Curves.
Wet or slippery roadways.

Pedestrians.
Bicyclists.
Slow-moving vehicles.
Any other conditions that limit your visibility.

Every driver is expected to use discretion and common sense while operating a motor
vehicle and avoid driving at unsafe speeds. Driving 45 mph, for example, in a 45 mph
zone during a severe rainstorm may be a violation of the basic speed law. You must make
a determination of safe driving speeds at all times, and not just have awareness of the
maximum speeds allowed by law. In addition, you must consider factors that may
contribute to driving conditions when assessing a safe speed. This law exists to slow
down drivers in adverse conditions, not to allow them to exceed safe speeds. Things you
might want to consider in addition to speed limit signs are:

The
The
The
The
curvy?

type and amount of traffic on the road.


weather conditions and your visibility.
condition of the road surface: Is it wet, icy, dry, or covered with snow?
type of road you are on: Is it wide or narrow, is it flat or steep, is it straight or

Curves on the road and turn signs often may display a yellow speed sign. The speed
posted on the sign is a recommended speed for the curve or turn. This assumes ideal
conditions, and while you may go beyond the suggested speed in these conditions if you
can drive safely, you must still reduce your speed if conditions call for it.
Driving Too Slow - Driving too slow is not only unsafe, but it can be illegal. Impeding or
blocking the flow of traffic can cause other drivers to attempt unsafe passing maneuvers.
When there are two or more lanes of traffic going in the same direction, slower moving
vehicles must move to the right and allow other drivers to pass. If there is only one lane,
slower drivers should look for turn-outs or other places where they can pull over and let
faster moving traffic pass.
Minimum Speed Law - You may not drive below 40 mph on interstate highways except
when you must drive slower due to adverse traffic conditions. If you can't go above 40
mph in normal conditions, you should not drive on the interstate; you should choose a
different route. Farm vehicles are permitted to drive below 40 mph provided they are
driven for short distances.
The minimum speed law works in conjunction with the speed
limit to help ensure safe traffic flow on roadways. Studies on
speed showed that cars traveling with the flow of traffic were
involved in the least number of collisions. Drivers traveling
faster or slower than the flow were involved in more
collisions. Faster drivers change lanes often and pass other
vehicles, and slower drivers force others going with the flow
of traffic to pass around them and change lanes more
frequently. With both, there is a higher amount of weaving,
lane changing, and cutting off of other drivers. Drivers who
suddenly stop or slow down (without making the move
gradually) are at risk of being hit from behind, especially on a
fast-moving highway.
If you block the normal and reasonable flow of traffic by
driving too slowly, you may receive a ticket. More
importantly, you may be a danger on the road to drivers
traveling at higher speeds, and you also risk the possibility of
a rear-end collision. When driving at a speed below the flow
of traffic, you should travel in the lane furthest to the right.
Speed Limits in Missouri - Speed limit signs that are
posted have a white background and black lettering which
indicates that you must obey these signs. Keep in mind that

posted speed limits are the maximum speeds allowed by law for ideal road and weather
conditions. When traffic is bad or weather conditions create slick roads or poor visibility,
you must adjust your speed accordingly. The following is a list of speed limits in Missouri
(posted speed limits may differ in some areas):

TYPEOFROADWAY

SPEEDLIMIT

Rural interstates and freeways

70

Rural expressways

65

Interstate highways, freeways or expressways within urbanized areas

60

All other roads and highways not located in an urbanized area

60

Lettered two-lane roads

55

The Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission may raise or lower speed limits as
it sees fit for safety reasons or to expedite the flow of traffic. Cities, towns and villages
may also establish different speed limits within their boundaries. Thus the posted speed
limits on certain stretches of highways and other roads may differ from those listed
above.
Interstates - There are 13 interstates throughout Missouri. The posted speed limit on
these highways is 60 mph near or within five cities: St. Louis, Kansas City, Columbia, St.
Joseph, and Springfield. The posted speed limit may differ on other stretches away from
these cities, though they may also be 60 mph. Check for speed limit signs but stay at 60
mph or under if you don't see a posted sign and are not sure.
Cities, Towns and Villages - The speed limit in the city and other urbanized areas is 25
mph, unless posted otherwise. You must slow down when driving in the city because of
the increased traffic and road congestion. Certain precautions to take include:

Choose the least congested lane.


Watch out for detours and parked cars.
Be aware of pedestrians and bicyclists.
Look ahead for traffic hazards and signals.

School Zones - Some cities set a specific speed limit for school zones. These areas are
normally marked with signs, signals, ground markings, and even yellow flashing lights.
Whenever you are near a school, you should slow down and look for children. If there are
people in a crosswalk in the school zone, you must wait for everyone, including the
crossing guard, to completely clear the road before proceeding.

Work Zones - You must be extra cautious when driving through construction work
zones, as these areas are especially dangerous. Slower speeds are necessary for safe
passage through these zones, especially since construction often creates
narrow lanes and rough roads. Work zones are identified by orange signs,
cones and barrels.
Traffic violations that occur within a work zone means an additional
minimum $35 fine, $75 for a second or subsequent violation, regardless
of whether there are workers present. But if there is a highway worker
present when you speed or pass another vehicle, you will be assessed an
additional fine of at least $250 and $300 for any subsequent violations.
If a worker is present and you exceed the posted speed limit by 15 mph,
pass another vehicle at great risk to the worker, ignore the directions of
the worker, physically assault or attempt or threaten to assault the
worker, move aside barriers or other traffic control devices, or any other
traffic violation that earns you points, you will be charged with
endangerment of a highway worker and assessed an additional $1,000 and 4 points to
your record. If you should injure or kill a highway worker, you will instead be charged
with aggravated endangerment of a highway worker where you will have to pay an
additional $5,000 if you cause an injury and $10,000 if you cause a death. The charge of
aggravated endangerment of a highway worker will also add 12 points to your driving
record.
Tips for driving in work zones:

Follow the instructions on the roadwork zone warning signs and those given by
flaggers!
Watch the traffic around you and be prepared to react to what other drivers are
doing. Check the taillights/brake lights of vehicles ahead of you for indications of what
you should do.
Be prepared to slow down or stop.
Merge into the proper lane well before you reach the work zone.
Follow other vehicles at a safe distance.
Avoid roadwork zones altogether by using alternative routes when you can. If you
know you can't avoid them, you can do a few things to make your travels through the
work zones safer:

1. Allow extra time for your trip.


2. Travel during non-peak traffic hours.
3. Share a ride or car pool to reduce congestion in the work zones.
Penalties for Speeding - In general, you will be charged with a class C misdemeanor
for going above the posted speed limit, with fines of up to $300. But that depends on
how fast you are driving at the time you are stopped. Exceeding the speed limit by up to
5 mph is a traffic infraction with a possible fine of up to $200. But exceeding the speed
limit by at least 20 mph or in a way that endangers others is a class B misdemeanor, with
a fine of up to $500 possible. You will be charged with a class A misdemeanor if you
cause an accident as a result of speeding and will face a fine of up to $1,000. The actual
fine you will have to pay will vary according to the law or ordinance for which you were
stopped. You will also be assessed 3 points on your record for violating a state speed law,
2 points if you violate a county or municipal ordinance. However, no points will be
assessed for exceeding the speed limit by 5 mph or less. These driver "points" are
explained further in the last chapter.
Some Important Facts:

Speed is a factor in about 30% of all traffic fatalities nationwide and 40% in
Missouri every year.
The chance of death or serious injury doubles for every 10 mph over 50 mph that a
car travels.

Young males are most often associated with speeding. Men between the ages of 1524 make up approximately 80% of speeding fatalities.
Speeding is not worth the chance of getting a ticket, much less being injured or
dying. On average, speeding saves only a few minutes on trips under 25 miles. To travel
15 miles, it would take you 16 minutes and 21 seconds at 55 mph;
at 70 mph, that trip would take 12 minutes and 53 seconds, saving
you less than 4 minutes!

Chapter 3
Pavement Markings, Traffic
Signs, Lights and Signals
Lanes, Lines and Curb
Markings
The best drivers in the world would be hazards on the roads without
boundaries. Put 10 cars on the road without lanes, and chaos would
reign supreme. Lanes on the road allow vehicles to share the highway
safely. Knowing the laws that govern these lanes will help you become
a better driver.
Lines and Curb Markings
1. Double Yellows - Double yellow lines dividing a highway signify "no
passing" and may only be crossed for a left turn maneuver. These lines are typically four
inches in width and spaced three inches apart. They divide traffic in opposing directions,
and in total, measure only 11 inches wide.
2. Single Broken Yellow and White Lines - A single broken yellow line shows traffic
flowing in two (opposing) directions, while a single broken white line signifies traffic
flowing in two lanes in the same direction. The single broken line is most frequently seen
on a two-lane rural roadway.
3. Curb Markings - The color of a curb dictates whether you may stop, stand or park at
the curb. You should be aware of the following:
You may only park there for a limited amount of time. The time is usually displayed on the
GREEN
curb or at a nearby sign.
WHITE
You are only allowed to stop at the curb to pick up or drop off passengers or mail.
You are only allowed to stay near the curb long enough to load or unload passengers or
YELLOW
cargo.
RED
You may never stop at this curb.
BLUE
You may only park at this curb if you have a specially assigned placard or license
designating you as disabled.

4. Railroad Crossings - Preceding railroad crossings are railroad markings calling for a
reduction in speed and extra caution. Stop signs, crossing gates, and flashers are all
present. Always obey all warning signs and signals. Cross railroad tracks only at
designated crossings. If you see a train coming, stop - never try to beat it. Railroad
crossbuck signs are posted to show the location where railroads intersect every highway,
road, or street grade crossing. If more than one track is to be crossed, the sign will show
the number of tracks. Always slow down, look both ways at least 400 ft. down the tracks,
listen, and be prepared to yield the right-of-way to an approaching train.
You must check for trains even if you do not hear any coming. When the railroad crossing
is next to an intersection with a traffic sign or signal, make certain not to stop on or too
close to the tracks. You may get stuck there during a red light. Stop no closer than 15
feet from the tracks. When a gate with flashing lights lowers, stop when the lights begin
to flash and before the gate lowers across your side of the road. You must remain
stopped until the gates are raised and the lights stop flashing. Do not drive through,
around or under these gates - this is both illegal and dangerous.
At railroad crossings, stop within 15 to 50 ft. of the nearest rail when:
1. A flag man directs you to stop.
2. There are flashing red lights or bells sounding.
3. There is a warning device telling you that a train is coming.
4. You can see a train approaching the crossing from a distance.
Your vehicle can stall at anytime. But the worst time may be when you just cross some
train tracks. If your vehicle were to stall on the tracks, would you know what to do?
Watch the following video to find out.

Mandatory Video: "Stalled Car on Tracks"


Low Quality (Dial-Up) | High Quality (Broadband)
Do not ever try to beat a train! A train traveling at 55 mph may need at least one mile to
stop after the emergency brakes are applied, even if the engineer sees you. That is the
length of 18 football fields! If your vehicle stalls on a railroad crossing, get out
immediately with all your passengers, move as far as possible from the tracks, and call
the police. However, if a train is coming, get out right away and run towards the train at
about a 45 degree angle away from the tracks-if you run in the same direction the train is
moving, you may be hit by debris when the train hits your vehicle. Never try to move
your vehicle out of the way if it stalls on the tracks. The result could be the loss of your
vehicle, and more importantly, your life.
You are 20 times more likely to be killed in a collision with a train than with another
vehicle. In 2008, according to the Federal Railroad Administration, 2,391 collisions
occurred at railroad crossings nationally, resulting in 935 injuries and 286 fatalities. In
Missouri alone, 17 people were injured and 10 killed at these crossings. Many of these
collisions, and the resulting fatalities, occur because of errors in judgment. Due to their
sheer size, trains approaching from a distance appear to move slowly, leading some
drivers to conclude that they can cross safely even when the gates are lowered.
Technological advances also have made newer trains quiet and thus difficult to hear.
Again, you must always obey all warning signs and signals at railroad crossings for your
own safety!
Lanes of the Road
1. Divided Highways - These are roadways divided by barriers at least two feet wide,
which may be raised or painted. Traffic in the opposite direction may pass each other on
the right side of the road only. It is illegal to cross over these barriers, even if there is no
traffic coming from the opposite direction.
2. Laned Roadways - Roadways that have multiple lanes in each direction have broken
white lines separating each lane of travel. You must stay within your lane until you make
a lane change. These lanes are marked for use by one vehicle at a time.

3. Three-Laned Highways - A roadway that has traffic traveling in opposite directions


may have three lanes. The center lane, unless marked otherwise, may be used only to
overtake and pass another vehicle, and only when it is safe to do so. If it is marked for
one direction of travel, the far left lane should be used for faster traffic or as a passing
lane.
4. Carpool Lanes - Carpool lanes are available for those vehicles traveling with a
minimum of two or three occupants, including the driver (signs will indicate the minimum
number of occupants and applicable hours and days). These lanes promote ride-sharing
to save fuel and cut down on the number of vehicles on the highways. Carpool lanes are
marked with the words "CARPOOL LANE" and a diamond-shaped symbol. You should only
enter and exit a carpool lane at the designated places. Never cross over the double solid
yellow lines.
5. One-way Streets - One-way streets are most commonly found in cities. They are
designed to help move traffic faster and decrease the chance of conflicts with other
drivers. However, drivers often have difficulty identifying these streets. The following
indicators should alert you to these areas:

All the lane markings will be white.


Posted traffic signs will face the same direction on each side of the street.
Parked cars are all facing the same direction.
At the intersection preceding the one-way street, there will be indicating signs ("do
not enter," "no turn" or "one-way").
There may be speed bumps.

6. Turn Out Lanes - Turn out lanes are designated lanes to be used by slow-moving
vehicles, which enable them to pull over and allow faster traffic to pass by. These lanes
are common on mountain roads and one-lane highways, and are relatively short in
length. Signs indicate where the lane will begin and the distance before you reach it. By
law, if you are being followed by five or more vehicles, you must pull over as soon as you
come to a turn out lane and let traffic pass.
7. Reversible Lanes - Some lanes are designed to carry traffic in one direction at
certain times and in the opposite direction at other times. These lanes are usually marked
by double-dashed yellow lines. Before driving in them, be sure to check to see which
lanes you can use at that time. Correct use of these lanes is indicated by signs posted by
the side of the road or overhead, or special lights. A green arrow pointing down at the
lane means you are allowed to use that lane, while a red "X" means you must use a
different lane.

Traffic Signs
1. Yellow/Warning signs - These signs warn of an upcoming hazard or change
in road conditions and do not refer to present conditions. They are yellow in color and
diamond-shaped. Yellow warning signs mean you should slow down and beware of
extraordinary situations. Here is a little GAME to help refresh your memory of these
signs.
2. Stop signs - A stop sign requires that you make a full stop prior to entering a
crosswalk or an intersection. You must stop before the white limit line that is normally
displayed or painted on the streets, or if a limit line is not present, prior to the corner.
This sign is in the shape of an octagon and is red and white in color. It is wise to check for
pedestrians or unexpected traffic before proceeding forward. You should stop completely
to obey the law and yield to opposing traffic. Make sure it is safe to pull away from a stop
sign no matter how long you may need to wait prior to proceeding. An intersection (of

any kind) is the most dangerous place on the roads, so stop signs are vital to obey to
help prevent cross traffic collisions.
3. Yield signs - These signs require you to slow down and allow traffic, bicycle
riders or pedestrians to pass before proceeding. This sign is in the shape of a triangle.
The yield sign is a signal to slow down and be prepared to stop, if necessary, and let
other vehicles proceed first. You mustn't forcibly merge into traffic if a yield sign is
present and other vehicles have the right-of-way.
4. Merge signs - These signs warn you that the lane in which you are driving will
be merging into another, requiring extra caution and the possibility of a speed reduction
or increase. Merge signs call for extra courtesy to those who will be merging into your
lane. This sign is in the shape of a diamond (as are all other warning signs).

5. Regulatory signs - These signs instruct you of actions that must be


obeyed immediately. Many of these signs call for an immediate slowing of the vehicle
and heightened awareness of upcoming obstructions. Most of these signs are white in
color.
6. Do Not Enter - This sign warns that entrance onto this roadway will be directly
in conflict with oncoming traffic. If you ignore these signs, you will be driving the wrong
way.
7. Construction Signs - These signs are normally orange in color and warn of a
construction or maintenance area.
8. Motorist Services - These signs are blue in color and alert you to service areas such
as rest stops.
9. Recreational Signs - These brown signs alert you to areas of public recreation and
possible cultural interest.
Remember, these shapes always tell you the following:
Octagon = Stop
Triangle = Yield
Horizontal Rectangle = Information or Guidance
Pennant = No Passing
Diamond = Warning
Round = Railroad Crossing
Pentagon = School
Vertical Rectangle = Regulatory

Control Lights

Control lights (signals) are in place to alert motorists of actions on the road that may or
may not be permissible. The following are some more common control lights and their
meanings:
1. Red - You must make a complete stop at a red light. A red light calls for an immediate
stopping of a vehicle, as it would no longer have the right-of-way. (You may complete a
right turn on a red light if there are no signs prohibiting it, but you must first yield to
pedestrians and other vehicles. However, it is always illegal to turn if there is a sign
displaying "no turn on red.")
2. Flashing Red - A flashing red light has the same meaning as a stop sign. You must
make a complete stop before you proceed, and you may proceed only when it is safe to
do so. It is important to observe the right-of-way rules.
3. Yellow - A yellow light warns that a red light is imminent. A yellow light does not call
for a speed increase or reduction, but requires extra caution and awareness. You must
consider many factors when deciding whether to proceed or not on a yellow light. Some
factors that you must consider include your vehicles speed, the speed of other vehicles,
and the density of traffic.
4. Green - A green light allows you to proceed, yet it requires an awareness of all other
vehicles and pedestrians on the road. (You should never proceed, despite a green light,
unless it is safe to do so. When making a left turn on a green light, you must ensure you
have enough time and space to complete the turn prior to conflict with other vehicles or
road hazards.)
5. Red Arrow - A red arrow is essentially a red light signifying that you may not turn
against the red arrow. The light must turn green or a green arrow must illuminate before
you may proceed. This arrow normally only alerts drivers occupying the left or right turn
lanes.
6. Green Arrow - The green arrow allows you to make a turn and assumes you have
unobstructed use of the highway. There should be an awareness, however, of oncoming
vehicles, bicycles or pedestrians. Dont make a presumption of right-of-way based solely
on the green arrow. Sometimes a green arrow is used to indicate a lane open to traffic in
one direction when it points down.
7. Red X - A red "X" means that you may not travel in that lane since it is being used by
traffic traveling in the opposite direction.
NOTE: DURING A TRAFFIC SIGNAL BLACKOUT, YOU MUST ALWAYS MAKE A COMPLETE
STOP AT THE SIGNAL OR INTERSECTION, HAVE HEIGHTENED AWARENESS OF OTHER
VEHICLES ON THE ROAD, AND YIELD WHEN NECESSARY.

Emergency Vehicles
You must yield the right-of-way to all emergency vehicles, including police cars,
ambulances, fire engines and any other vehicles using a siren and red or blue light. When
an emergency vehicle approaches, your vehicle should never stop in the middle of the
intersection, but instead pull over to the right side of the road as soon as possible after
you clear the intersection.

Emergency vehicles travel quite rapidly, often moving into opposing lanes of traffic, and
they alert other vehicles with horns or speakers that they are approaching. You should
never follow within 300 feet of an emergency vehicle traveling in an emergency situation.
If you are nearing and about to pass an emergency vehicle parked or stopped on the side
of the road with its lights flashing, you must proceed with caution and yield the right-ofway by moving into a lane that is not adjacent to the emergency vehicle. If it is not safe
to do so (i.e. only one lane in each direction on the road), slow down and proceed with
caution at a safe speed.
The penalties for failing to move over or slow down to a safe speed for an emergency
vehicle when required are severe. You will typically be charged with a class A
misdemeanor where you will be fined up to $1,000 and imprisoned for as much as a year.
If you injure an emergency worker who is working in an official capacity, you will be
charged with 2nd degree assault, which is a class C felony. A charge of assault carries a
fine of up to $5,000 and 7 years in prison. However, if you kill the worker, you will be
charged with 1st degree involuntary manslaughter, a class B felony. You will be fined up
to $5,000 and sentenced to prison from 5 to 15 years.
Emergency vehicles exist for the safety of everyone. They need to be
respected. Special Note... Stereo headphones should not be worn while driving and can
contribute to collisions. You will be unable to hear emergency vehicles around you and
other vehicles. Driving with headphones on is illegal and quite dangerous.

School Buses
When a school bus prepares to stop to load or unload children, an amber light will flash
500 feet before it comes to its designated stop. When the bus comes to a complete stop,
it activates alternately flashing red lights and the stop signal arm. All oncoming and
following traffic must come to a complete stop before they reach the bus when they see
these signals. You must remain stopped until the signals are off, or until the bus driver
tells you to proceed. Remember to watch for children on the sides of the road after they
unload. On highways with separate roadways,
you do not need to stop under the following
circumstances:

When meeting or overtaking a school bus on


a different roadway.
For a school bus that is going in the opposite
direction on a highway containing four or
more lanes of traffic.
For a school bus that is stopped at a school
loading zone where students are not
permitted to cross the roadway.

If you fail to stop for a school bus when required,


your driver's license will be suspended for 90
days, 120 days if it is a second or subsequent
violation. You will also be charged with a class A
misdemeanor, which carries a fine of up to
$1,000 and a possible jail sentence of up to one
year. If you injure a child because you failed to
stop, you will be charged with a class D felony,
which means a possible fine of $5,000 and 4 years in
prison. You will be charged with a class C felony if a
child dies because of your actions, resulting in a fine of
up to $5,000 and 7 years in prison.
Some school buses have digital stop arm cameras that
will catch you in the act if you pass them when they are
stopped. If you are caught by the camera, you would

be issued a citation. Passing a stopped school bus endangers children. You should not
wait until you are caught to stop for a school bus that has stopped to load or unload
children.

Chapter 4
INTERSECTIONS
An intersection is any place on a roadway where two or more streets come together.
There are two different types of intersections, "controlled" and "uncontrolled."
Controlled Intersection - A controlled intersection is one that is governed by traffic
signals or stop or yield signs that help determine the right-of-way for drivers. At a
controlled intersection, you must observe and follow what the signal or sign says. When
you come to an intersection controlled by a traffic signal, you will have three different
options.
The first option is a green light, which tells you that you have the right-of-way and may
proceed through the intersection with presumed safety. The second option is ared light.
If you come to an intersection and the light facing you is red, you must come to a
complete stop behind the crosswalk line. You must wait behind the line until the light
turns green and the intersection is clear. The third option is a yellow light. This light
means caution. It warns you that the light will soon turn red.
The time that a light stays yellow varies at all intersections, so you should never try to
beat a yellow light. When coming up to an intersection and the light turns yellow, you
should proceed if your tires are across the stop or crosswalk line. If you have not yet
come to the crosswalk, you should stop. In all intersections, you want to be sure it is safe
and clear before you try to cross it. If you get stuck in the middle of an intersection when
a light turns red, you can get a gridlock ticket for impeding or blocking the flow of traffic.
Controlled intersections regulated by stop signs can either be four-way or two-way stops.
At an intersection controlled by an all-way stop sign, the driver that comes to the
intersection first has the right-of-way. If two drivers arrive at the same time, the driver to
the right will have the right-of-way.

Uncontrolled Intersection - An uncontrolled intersection is not controlled by a signal or


a sign. These types of intersections should be crossed very carefully. Always slow down
when coming close to an uncontrolled intersection so you can yield to any traffic already
in that intersection. At an uncontrolled intersection, the first vehicle approaching the
intersection usually has the right-of-way. But if two vehicles arrive at the intersection at
the same time, these drivers should treat it the same as a controlled intersection. The
vehicle to the right will have the right-of-way. At an uncontrolled "T" intersection, the
vehicles driving on the through road have the right-of-way. The vehicle on the street that
is ending must yield to other vehicles. Additionally, during the last 100 feet prior to
reaching an uncontrolled blind intersection, you must slow down to 15 mph.
Whenever you approach any intersection, whether it is controlled or uncontrolled, you
must scan the road for hazards. Always check for other vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists,
animals, or any other obstructions that may impede your flow through the intersection.
Use extra caution and slow down whenever going through intersections near a church,
school, park, or hospital.
The following are other things to consider when approaching an intersection:
1. Road or Intersection without Stop or Crosswalk Lines - If you do not see stop or
crosswalk lines at an intersection, you should use the end of a curb to determine where
the intersection starts and where you should stop your vehicle. The end of the curb would
mark the beginning of the intersection, whether or not a painted crosswalk exists.
2. Use extreme caution when approaching and proceeding through intersections.
Conflicting highways, motor vehicles making left and right turns, and opposing signals all
increase the crash potential at an intersection. Situations where drivers jumping green
lights conflict with drivers running red lights often lead to collisions. By law, you must
signal your intention to turn when you are within 100 feet of an intersection. It is always
best to cross intersections that are signal-controlled as opposed to those only with stop
signs. You need to determine the speed or distance of other vehicles that may conflict
with your vehicle, as well as the time required to complete the maneuver. Crossing an
intersection completely takes an estimated four seconds.
3. Blind Intersections - When approaching a blind intersection, you must do so with
extreme caution. You must slow down and yield the right-of-way whenever it is not safe
or prudent for your vehicle to proceed through unobstructed. If you reach an intersection
at the same time as another vehicle (or other vehicles), you should yield the right-of-way
to the vehicle traveling on a continuing highway if your own vehicle is on a terminating
highway. A blind intersection has limited visibility and requires the speed of the vehicle to
be no more than 15 mph. The reduced speed will allow for ample time to see conflicting
cars and road hazards. You must proceed through and towards a blind intersection at a
reasonably safe speed without exceeding 15 mph. Furthermore, you must have visibility
of at least 100 feet in all directions before attempting to pass through.
4. Lane Changing - Although not advisable, it is actually legal to change lanes in an
intersection provided it is safe to do so. Conflict with other vehicles or causing other
vehicles to change lanes would typically constitute an illegal or unsafe maneuver.
5. Roads with Stop Lines - You must stop behind the stop line at an intersection or
street controlled by a traffic light and only proceed when the light changes. At a street or

intersection with a stop sign, you must stop behind the stop line. You may then proceed
into the intersection at a cautious speed to start a turn or other maneuver.
CROSSWALKS
Crosswalks are located at the corner of each intersection, unless the intersection is
marked with a single white stop line and posted with "NO PED XING." They may be
marked or unmarked. Crosswalks require extra awareness and caution on your part as a
driver because any conflicts with pedestrians can lead to tragedy. A typical intersection
usually has four pedestrian crosswalks, unless it is otherwise marked with "NO PED XING"
signs. A "T" intersection usually has three crosswalks, unless otherwise marked. At all
times, you must yield to a pedestrian in either a marked or unmarked crosswalk when
behind the wheel. Pedestrians always have the right-of-way, even if crossing
illegally.
IMPORTANT STEPS IN MAKING A GOOD TURN:
Turning properly, whether it is a right turn, left turn, or U-turn, requires you to take the
appropriate steps. There are eight steps to making a good turn.
1. Make up your mind before you get to the turning point. Never make a "last-minute"
turn - it is too dangerous.
2. Always scan the road for hazards, and be cautious of other vehicles, pedestrians,
bicyclists, and animals.
3. Look behind and to both sides to see where other vehicles are before you move into
position to make your turn.
4. Move into the proper lane as soon as possible. The faster the traffic is moving, the
sooner you should move into the proper lane. If you cannot get into the proper lane
within at least a half block before your turn, you should not attempt to make the turn.
Simply continue straight ahead.
5. Give the proper turn signal at least 100 ft. before you make your turn. If using a hand
signal, hold it until you are close enough to the intersection for others to know what your
intention is. Do not hold the signal while making the turn because you need both hands
on the steering wheel while turning.
6. Slow down to a reasonable turning speed. Do not use the brake or clutch while actually
turning.
7. Make the turn correctly and maintain your speed throughout. This will be easy if you
are in the proper lane and proceeding slowly enough at the time you begin to turn.
8. Finish the turn in the proper lane before making any lane changes.
When making a turn, you must be able to judge three very important things:

The total time it will take to complete the maneuver.


The speed of any oncoming vehicles.
The distance of any oncoming vehicles.

After judging these three things, you should be able to choose a traffic gap before
crossing traffic safely.
RIGHT TURNS
Collisions commonly occur during right turns where a vehicle turns too wide and collides
into an opposing vehicle making a left hand turn into their lane. If you find yourself in this
right turn situation, you should complete your turn in the lane that is first accessible or
the one furthest to the right. You may always turn right on a red light from a dead stop
unless there is a sign prohibiting it, but you must complete the maneuver in the right or
slow lane, keeping close to the curb at all times. You must yield the right-of-way to
pedestrians and other traffic proceeding as directed by the signal at the intersection.
If traffic is stopped at an intersection and you are several cars back, you may travel along
the right curb in order to make a right turn, but only if it is safe to do so. If the space
next to the curb is set aside for parking or there is no pavement, you may not travel
along the right. You may travel in a bicycle lane to make a right turn, but you must yield
to any bicycles using the lane. If you are in a lane that allows you to proceed with a right
turn or straight on the road, and the lane to your right is marked "right turn only," then

you, as the driver in the left lane, have the option to turn right on a red light. The driver
in the "right turn only" lane, however, must proceed with the right turn after the lines
dividing the lane on the left side change from broken to solid. Once the solid bold line
appears, changing lanes out of the "right turn only" lane would be illegal, even if no other
vehicles are present.
How to make a right turn:
1. Signal for a lane change well ahead of the turning point (approximately 200-300 feet),
and check the road prior to turning. When it is safe, move your vehicle to the far right
lane, flashing your brake lights to warn other drivers of your plan to change lanes and
turn.
2. Check all signals and road signs, and start slowing down at least 100 ft. from the
corner of the intersection.
3. Look both ways before starting to turn.
4. Keep as close as possible to the right edge of the road (within 3-5 feet from the curb).
Turn using both hands on the wheel using the hand-over-hand method while checking the
traffic flow.
5. If you are at a stop sign or red signal, stop prior to the crosswalk before continuing
with your turn.
LEFT TURNS
Left turns require extra caution as they tend to be dangerous due to conflict with
oncoming vehicles traveling at high speeds, changing signals, pedestrians utilizing the
crosswalk, and limited visibility due to large vehicles, trucks or other obstructions. You
may make a left turn from one intersecting street to another intersecting street on a
green light, completing the turn in the first lane accessible (usually lane 1). If you are
making a left turn at the same time another vehicle is making a right turn onto the same
street, you must give the vehicle making the right turn the right-of-way. You may make a
left turn on a red light from a one-way street to another one-way street unless otherwise
posted. A vehicle making a left turn against oncoming traffic never has the right-of-way,
unless given the right-of-way by a green arrow signifying unobstructed use of the road.
Regardless of the situation, you should still proceed with caution.

Shared Center Lane - Many busy streets have a shared lane that is located in the
center of busy streets and painted with solid yellow outside lines and dashed yellow lines
on the inside of the lane. You may enter this lane to begin or complete a left turn (or a Uturn when permitted) only. Do not use this lane to pass or overtake another vehicle. You
may proceed in this lane for a limited amount of time, usually not exceeding 100 feet.
When the two-way center lane ends into a regular left turn lane, you may transition from
the two-way lane into the regular lane and continue driving for an indefinite length of
time.
How to make a left turn:
1. Signal for a lane change well ahead of the turning point, and when it is safe, move
close to the center dividing lane line(s).
2. Start slowing down at least 100 ft. from the corner of the intersection.
3. Look right and left before starting to turn, and be aware of all signals and signs. Stay
to the right of the center lane line(s) as you enter the intersection. Yield the right-of-way
to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction.
4. Complete the turn to the right of the centerline of the road into which you are turning
by entering the lane which will interfere the least with other traffic.
MULTIPLE LEFT-TURN LANES:
Many streets have more than one lane that you are able to turn left from. If you are
turning from the left-turn lane furthest to the left, you must turn into the left lane that is
to the right of the yellow dividing line. If you are turning from the other left-turn lane on

the right, you must enter the street in the right lane. Most multiple left-turn lanes have
directional arrows to guide your turn and keep you in the proper lane.
Examples of right and left turns

1. Left
turn
from
a
two-way
street.
Start the turn at the left hand edge of the lane closest to the middle of the street. You
may complete the turn in either lane of the cross street (as shown by arrows) if it is safe
to do so. You must use a left turn lane if there is one. A left turn from the next lane may
be made if signs or arrows show it is okay.
2. Right
turn.
The blue station wagon is shown turning correctly. It began the turn in the lane nearest
the right-hand curb. It will end the turn in the lane nearest the right-hand curb. Do not
swing wide into another lane of traffic. You may start a right turn from other than the far
right lane only where pavement or overhead markings show that using that lane for a
right turn is permitted.

3. Left
turn
from
a
two-way
street
into
a
one-way
street.
Start the turn from the far left-hand portion of your side of the road. You may turn into
any lane that is safely open, as shown by arrows.
4. Left
turn
from
a
one-way
street
into
a
two-way
street.
Start the turn from the far left-hand portion of your side of the road. The white pickup
truck may turn into either of the lanes that is safely open, as shown.

5. Left
turn
from
a
one-way
street
into
a
one-way
street.
The turn must be started from the left hand portion of the road. Watch for bicycles
between your vehicle and the curb because they can legally use the left turn lane for their
left turns.

6. Right
turn
from
a
one-way
street
into
a
one-way
street.
After starting your turn in the far right lane, you may use any lane open to traffic, if safe
to do so. Sometimes signs or pavement markings will let you turn right from a lane next
to the far right lane.
7. Turn at a "T" intersection from a one-way into a two -way street.
Through traffic has the right-of-way. You may turn either right or left from the center
lane. Watch for vehicles and bicycles inside your turn.
U-TURNS
1. A U-turn is legal at all times in an intersection unless a "No U-turn" sign is posted, but
only if it can be made in safety and without interfering with other traffic . A U-turn is legal
in the middle of the block only in a residential district, and not in a business district,
unless the turn creates a traffic hazard for approaching traffic in either direction.
Apartments, churches and schools would designate an area a business district, as would
an area where more than 50% of the dwellings are businesses.
2. You may not make a U-turn in these situations:

Upon any curve


Upon the approach to or near the crest of a grade
At any place upon the roadway where your vehicle cannot be seen by the driver of
any other vehicle approaching from either direction along the roadway within a distance
of three hundred feet
At any place where the U-turn may create a traffic hazard

A U-turn is a dangerous maneuver that you should attempt only when proper
consideration is given to vehicle positioning, turning radius, oncoming vehicles, and the
width of the roadway. Oftentimes, a three point turn or another turning action is
preferable and more prudent than a U-turn.
3. When making a U-turn, use the far left lane. If there are two left turn lanes, you must
use the far left lane. Using the other lane may bring you into conflict with drivers making
a left turn. You must be able to see at least 300 feet in all
directions, and the intersection must be sufficiently clear before
you can proceed with the U-turn.
RIGHT-OF-WAYS AT INTERSECTIONS
Single or two-lane road intersecting with multiple-lane
highway. When driving on a single or two-lane road, you must
yield to: (1) vehicles traveling on a divided street or highway; and
(2) vehicles traveling on a roadway with three or more lanes (i.e.,
when using the on-ramp to enter the highway).
Unpaved road intersecting with paved road. If you are driving
on an unpaved road which intersects with a paved road, you must
yield the right-of-way to vehicles traveling on the paved road.
Four-way stop at an intersection. At a four-way stop sign, the
vehicle that reaches the intersection first has the right-of-way, but
still must make a complete stop.
Intersections not controlled by signs and signals. At any
intersection where there is no traffic signal or stop sign, you must
yield to other drivers coming from the right. If the road to your right is clear, or if
approaching vehicles are far enough from the intersection to make your crossing safe,
you may proceed.
Turning left at an intersection. When making a left turn, you must yield the right-ofway to any vehicles coming straight through from the other direction.
Alleys, driveways and parking lot entrances. When entering or crossing a street
from an alley, driveway, or parking lot, you must yield the right-of-way to traffic that is
already on the main street.

"T" Intersections. When approaching an intersection of a through street from a street


that ends at the intersection, you must first stop and then yield the right-of-way to the
vehicles on the through street.
Driving on multiple-lane roadways. On a roadway divided into three or more lanes
providing for one-way movement, the driver of a vehicle entering a lane of traffic from a
lane to the right must yield the right-of-way to a vehicle entering the same lane of traffic
from a lane to the left.

In addition to the above, the following rules of right-of-ways apply at intersections:

You must yield when necessary to avoid hitting a pedestrian who is legally crossing
the street.
You must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians when crossing a sidewalk to enter or
exit a driveway, alley, or parking lot. You may only drive on a sidewalk to cross it.

ROUNDABOUTS
A roundabout is a circular intersection designed around a central island, with entrances
and exits curved to force motorists to drive slowly. The only movement at an entry and
exit of a roundabout is a right turn, thus eliminating the dangers of making left turns
against oncoming traffic. Roundabouts also have raised "splitter" islands that divide the
roadway at the entrances and exits. The limited movement and reduced speed helps to
reduce many of the hazards typically found at traditional intersections. These are found
at some intersections in Missouri.
Navigating a roundabout may seem confusing, but one rule to keep in mind is that traffic
in the roundabout always has the right-of-way. When you are approaching one, slow
down and stop if necessary until your vehicle can enter safely. Keep the following rules
and safety tips in mind:

Yield to traffic in the roundabout, as it always has the right of way. Also yield to
pedestrians in crosswalks.
Keep moving through the circle until you reach your exit.
Always signal before making a turn.
All turns into and out of the roundabout will be right turns.
When more than one car is in the roundabout, the car to the outside has the right of
way.
The speed in the roundabout is slow, about 15-20 mph, but should be constant.
Traffic should never stop, except for motorists waiting to enter.
If you miss your exit, continue around again.
Be careful in icy weather, and maintain a slow, constant speed.

GRIDLOCK - The following are steps which all drivers can take to help reduce the
growing problem of gridlock, where cars stop in the middle of the road or inside of an
intersection and block the path of traffic:

Avoid rubbernecking - Rubbernecking involves slowing your vehicle down to look at


extraordinary collisions or traffic situations. The slowing of your vehicle that enables you
to stare at a traffic mishap may also contribute to gridlock or even an additional collision.

Make less frequent lane changes - Drivers seem to think that changing
from one lane to another is somehow increasing their chances of
bypassing bumper to bumper traffic. Instead, it merely increases the
problem by causing more braking and slowing of other vehicles.

Don't tailgate - Tailgating causes collisions, accidents cause traffic


bottlenecks, and traffic bottlenecks lead to gridlock. Always leave enough
room between your vehicle and the one you immediately follow.

Keep your vehicle in good working order - Vehicle breakdowns block traffic
flow and directly contribute to gridlock. A simple check of your vehicle's
operating condition prior to driving can help you avoid a potential
breakdown.

Do not enter an intersection after the light has turned red or until you can
completely clear the intersection prior to the light turning red - A major
problem that causes gridlock is a driver's unwillingness to grasp
the concept of keeping clear of intersections. You must observe
any road markings that warn you to keep intersections clear, as
they are a deterrence to gridlock.
VIOLATIONS OF THE GRIDLOCK LAW OFTEN CALL FOR SUBSTANTIAL FINES AND

PENALTIES THAT VARY FROM CITY TO CITY.

Children and Dangerous Intersections - Always practice safe driving habits and use
extra caution whenever transporting children near schools, parks or busy intersections. To
help make drivers aware of the dangers of children in intersections, the "National Stop on
Red Week" was created for the first week in September, coinciding with the beginning of
the school year. After the long summer, drivers need to become familiar again with
children who go to and from school during commuting hours. Here are some helpful
driving tips that should make our streets safer for children:

Always make a complete stop at red lights and stop signs. Be extra careful at
intersections around schools.
Obey the signs and follow the school's rules on loading and unloading students in
front of school.
Drive with your headlights on (even during the day) to be more visible to children.

When driving in rain, snow, ice or general bad weather, allow more space and
following distance and use extra caution. It becomes more difficult to see children and to
stop safely in bad weather.
When transporting children, make sure everyone is buckled up each time they get
into the vehicle. Children 12 and under should be properly restrained in the back seat.
Remember to never place a rear facing child safety seat in the front passenger seat of a
vehicle with passenger front air bags or side air bags (the air bags could suffocate the
child).
Use extra caution around school buses, as they make many stops with children
getting off and on each time. You may not pass a school bus when it is stopped and has
either its lights flashing or a stop sign extended from the side of the bus.
While driving, scan between parked vehicles and other objects for children that
might dart out into the street.
Look for clues that indicate children are around the area, such as school safety
patrols, adult crossing guards, bicycles, school buses, parks and playgrounds.

Chapter 5
Parking
Parking seems simple enough. Many people think that there can't possibly be a way to do
this maneuver illegally or recklessly, but there is! You are responsible to make sure that
your vehicle does not become a hazard after it has been parked. When you park your
vehicle, you must be sure it is far enough away from any travel lane to avoid interfering
with traffic, and it must be visible to drivers approaching from either direction.
Proper parking procedures listed below should be followed to avoid a collision with other
vehicles:

Park always in a designated area.


Normally on a one-way street, you can park on either the left or right side of the
road.

Always set the parking brake when you park. If the vehicle has an automatic
transmission, leave it in park. If it is a manual transmission, leave it in gear.
If possible, get out of the vehicle on the curbside. If you must use the street side,
check the traffic before you open the door.
Never leave your ignition keys in a parked car.
Always lock your door if the car will be out of your sight for even a second.

Park your vehicle as far from traffic as possible. If there is a curb, park as close to it
as you can.
When parking on a hill, turn your vehicle sharply towards the curb.

When parking your car, be considerate of other peoples property, including parked
vehicles. Sometimes drivers try to fit into a tight spot between two parked cars and then
dent the sides of either or both vehicles when trying to leave their own cars. If you hit
another parked car, you must either try to find the owner or leave a note with your name
and address. Drive carefully when parking and observe the same rules for driving in any
other situation.
A. No Parking Areas
While there are several areas where you may park, there are just as many areas where
you cannot park, if not more. You should always check for signs and curb markings that
prohibit or limit parking. The following are some places where you may not park:

In an intersection.
On a crosswalk or sidewalk.
In front of or blocking a driveway.
On the left side of a two-way street.
On a highway, unless it is an emergency or specifically permitted or required by a
police officer
At a yellow curb
On a bridge.
Within 15 feet of a fire hydrant.
Blocking the normal traffic flow or creating a hazard to other drivers.
With your vehicle facing against traffic.

If you need to park your vehicle on the side of a highway, you must park where it will not
pose a risk to other drivers and then get it off as soon as possible, whether or not it is
operational. A law enforcement officer may order your vehicle removed immediately if it
is left unattended or parked improperly on a highway in an urbanized area or after four
hours in a rural area. Even if you park your vehicle safely away from traffic, leaving it
unattended for 10 hours within city limits or 48 hours outside city limits is sufficient cause
for it to be removed. If you park in an area where your vehicle blocks the normal flow of
traffic, your vehicle will be removed. You will be responsible for all charges and any
damages sustained by your vehicle if you abandon it and force law enforcement to call for
a tow truck.

B. Disabled Parking
You may only use a disabled parking space if your vehicle displays a disabled person's
placard or license plates and:

A physically disabled person is in the motor vehicle when it is parked; or


A physically disabled person is being dropped off or picked up.

It is illegal to use a disabled person's placard if he or she is not in the vehicle. In addition,
you may not park in disabled parking access aisles, which are the areas adjacent to the
disabled parking spaces. You can be fined $50 to $300 if convicted of using someone's
placard or parking in the space illegally.
Note: If you have a disabled person's placard that hangs from the inside rearview mirror,
you may leave it hanging only when you are parked in a disabled parking space. Be sure
to put it away when you are ready to drive.
C. Parking Methods
There are several parking methods, and each of these requires an awareness of space,
steering techniques and vehicle control. Parking should be attempted cautiously. For
example, you must try to avoid hitting or bumping other cars in front of or behind you.
Three different parking methods include: angled, perpendicular and parallel.
1. Angled Parking
Many parking spaces are placed at an
angle, making it more difficult to
properly position your vehicle to safely
pull into the space.
Proper parking procedures listed below
should be followed to avoid a collision
with other vehicles:

Signal your intention to turn.


Leave approximately five feet
between your vehicle and the parked
cars surrounding the space.
Pull forward until you can see
down the side of the car parked before
the space, then turn into the space
sharply. Drive slowly (under 5 mph)
while moving into the space.
Straighten your wheels and pull forward until you have come up to the cement stop,
parking line, or at an even line with the other parked cars.

2. Perpendicular Parking

These parking spaces are placed at a


90 degree angle to the curb. These
spaces are more difficult to maneuver
because it is often difficult to see the
vehicles and road ahead. You have
very little room to maneuver the
vehicle at such a great angle.
The following steps may help to reduce
the risk of collision:

Signal your intention to turn.


Remain approximately seven feet
away from the parked cars around the
space.
When your front bumper lines up
to the left side of the car just to the right of the space, begin to turn slowly (under 5
mph) and then sharply into the space. Make sure to check for adequate space on both
sides of your car and keep aware of the proximity of your right rear fender.
Straighten your wheels and pull forward until you have come up to the cement stop
barrier or are at an even line with the other parked cars.

3. Parallel Parking
Parallel parking is usually done along the
side of city or residential streets. The
space should be approximately five feet
longer than the length of your car. Even
with a larger space than suggested, it
still takes practice to become good at
parallel parking. Typical parallel spaces
are approximately 25 feet long.
Some steps to follow include:

Signal your intention to turn.


Check the traffic around you and
then brake until you stop parallel with
the car in front of the space. Make sure
to leave approximately three feet between your car and the parked cars next to you.
Shift your car into reverse and steer sharply towards the curb or space you are
entering. When the center of your car (the door post area) is even with the rear bumper
of the car in front of the space, start to straighten your wheels until your front bumper is
lined up with the other car's rear bumper.
Continue backing while turning your wheels to the left, and stop before hitting your
wheels to the bumper of the car behind the space.
Drive forward slowly to center your car in the space. You may need to keep moving
your car forward and then backwards until it is correctly positioned in the space.

The animation below will show you how to do this complex parking maneuver correctly:
D. Parking on Hills
Always set the parking brake when you park your vehicle. When you park on a hill, set
the parking brake and be sure to turn your wheels toward the curb. When your vehicle is
headed downhill, turn your front wheels into the curb. When it is headed uphill, turn the
front wheels away from the curb and let your car roll back a bit until the back of one front
wheel gently touches the curb. If there is no curb, turn the wheels toward the side of the
road. When you park, always set the parking brake, and leave the vehicle in gear or use
the "parking" position if it has an automatic transmission. Be sure to take your keys and
check the rearview mirror for traffic before you step out.
E. Backing Up

When you are ready to begin driving, you often need to back up. If you need to back up,
follow these steps to do it safely:

Before getting in the vehicle, look around your vehicle, paying particular attention
to the rear. Make sure there are no children or animals sitting or playing around or
behind your car. Small children are difficult to see from the driver's seat no matter how
tall you are! Check for small objects such as rocks or nails that may puncture your tires.
After putting the car into reverse, look over your right shoulder, placing your left
hand on the steering wheel and your right hand on top of the seat or seat back.
Slowly back up the car, easing off the brake gradually to maintain control, and keep
your focus on your intended direction of travel.
Don't turn your view away from the rear until you have completely stopped backing
up. It is easy to hit something or someone if you continue moving backwards without
focusing in that direction.

When backing up, it is important to remember the following:

Be aware of children and objects on the road.


Pedestrians and moving traffic have the right-of-way.
Use side mirrors as much as necessary.
Keep backing speed at a slow and controlled level.
Avoid sharp turns, such as around corners or curves, and be aware of odd angles
that may result from backing up.
Avoid backing up through intersections or crosswalks.
Use your passengers to lend assistance.

Use your turn signals as much as possible.

Yield the right-of-way to all traffic.

Try and locate parking spaces that may not require


backing up.

Make sure your head and body are in the proper


position, alert and facing the direction in which you
are moving.

Only release the brake pedal when you are prepared


to back up and your view is to the rear.

Never back up on the highway!

Chapter 6
HIGHWAY DRIVING
The interstate and highway systems require certain driving skills. Increased speed,
sudden slowing or stopping, and frequent lane changes (including merging) are inherent
risks when driving on a highway. Perception, reaction, and stopping distances are
increased.
The increased speed required on highways does not necessarily mean an increased
danger to you if you take certain precautions. When driving on open highways, you must
be aware of any slow-moving vehicles and stay clear of them. Early awareness of vehicles
moving at substantially slower speeds than the flow of traffic can help you to avoid rearend collisions or unsafe last minute lane changes. Excessive lane changing or driving in
slower lanes for prolonged periods of time can contribute to a last-minute encounter with
a slow-moving vehicle. Below are a few simple steps to follow for the demands of
highway driving.
Control of Speed - Avoid driving at an excessive speed where control of the vehicle is
compromised. Always travel at a speed that is prudent and feasible for conditions.
Plan your Route in Advance - Give yourself a little extra time in order to deal with
unexpected situations such as construction, wrecks or heavy traffic. Don't speed just to

make up lost time. Statistically, speeding over the length of a typical drive only gains you
two to four minutes versus traveling the speed limit. Is it worth receiving a ticket or being
involved in a collision just to save a few minutes?
Follow the Guide Signs - These signs indicate distances, route direction, and names of
off-ramp exits. By paying attention to these signs, you will be able to safely maneuver
into the appropriate lane with advance notice to others. Avoiding any surprises before
your exit is vital, and remember to always use your turn signals.
Familiarize Yourself - Become familiar with alternate exits or side streets. Just in case
the unexpected occurs, have a back-up plan or route ready.
Entering the Highway - Upon entering the highway, try to pick a space in traffic for you
to travel in and increase your speed to match that of the traffic flow when possible. Use
mirrors and visual checks to ensure safety. Though rare, this becomes more critical on
left lane merge ramps. Remember to always yield when merging onto a highway.
Highway drivers do HAVE THE RIGHT-OF-WAY, but this does not give one the right to
speed up when another driver is attempting to enter. The acceleration lane is an extra
lane that permits a vehicle to reach highway speeds. Some tips for safe highway driving
include:

Be aware of entrance signs that warn of merging traffic, yield requirements, speed
limits, or curves.
Observe ramp speed limit.
Check the current flow of traffic.
Stay alert. Watch the vehicle in front for sudden stops (brake lights and no
movement usually indicate there is a problem and to slow down or stop).
Find a gap in traffic.
Adjust your speed for merging smoothly onto highway "through" lanes.
Always signal until you have merged onto the highway safely.

There are some common mistakes when entering a highway from the acceleration lane,
which include sudden slowing or stopping and merging too slowly. These can cause
collisions or more likely will irritate other drivers. Once in the acceleration lane, you
should be prepared to match the speed of the traffic flow.
Sometimes you may come across highway on-ramps where there is no acceleration lane.
Obey the yield or merge signs and use your signal to notify others of your intent to
merge. Wait for a longer gap in traffic and accelerate quickly to gain the speed necessary
to merge smoothly.
Special Situations for Highway Driving - During certain times of the day, there may
be special situations you will encounter. For example:

Timed entrance lights are active at certain peak hours. Sometimes an entrance light
may allow only one or two vehicles to proceed per green light.
Double merge lanes exist when two lanes converge into one acceleration lane.
Normally, the timed entrance light staggers cars. If no light is active, you must merge
when it is your turn. Diamond lanes may also be present for cars containing multiple
occupants.
Many people have a difficult time merging. The way to merge is actually an easy
concept... the right side moves in first and then the left.
Diamond lanes are also known as carpool lanes or high occupancy vehicle lanes.
Two or more human occupants must be in the vehicle. This lane may allow these vehicles
to enter highway traffic without stopping.

Exiting the Highway - The proper way to get off a highway is via an exit ramp. The
upcoming ramp, the distance to it, and its direction are normally posted well in advance.
For example, "Central Avenue 1/2 mile" indicates that Central Avenue is approaching and
the exit is 1/2 mile away. Most exits are on the right side of the highway, but can
sometimes be on the left as well. Scan ahead (12 seconds or 1/4 mile) for signs that
indicate your desired exit. While checking your mirrors and turning your head as
necessary, turn on the appropriate turn signal and merge into the exit lane when safe.

You may sometimes miss the desired exit. Heavy traffic, unfamiliar surroundings, and
even distractions may contribute to this. Stay calm... don't panic. Just continue driving to
the next available off ramp and then exit. Go back onto the highway, and exit on the off
ramp you missed. Never back up on a highway! The other drivers will be going by you at
extremely high speeds. Also, never cut across one or more lanes just to make the exit. It
is also dangerous and illegal to cut through the grass or to drive over a dividing median
or gore area just to make an off ramp. Cutting across several lanes at once or crossing
the dividing median or gore area will very likely bring you into direct conflict with other
vehicles.
Exit Lanes - An exit deceleration lane is a lane that allows you to decelerate in order to
leave the highway. These end with either a stop sign or light. You must slow down
drastically when using this lane. Exit lanes promote safety without endangering traffic to
the rear. If a yield sign is present in this situation, be prepared to yield and merge into
traffic only when safe. Don't forget that speed limits are reduced in this situation - PAY
ATTENTION! You need to drive with special care when using curved exit ramps, as these
ramps are not designed for highway speed. Observe the speed limit signs so you don't
crash while on the curve.
Multiple Deceleration Lanes - Sometimes exit ramps end in multiple deceleration
lanes, which may be two, three, or even four lanes wide. The purpose is to stagger traffic
and to allow drivers the choice to go straight, right, or left. Signs normally designate
which lane a driver may turn into or proceed. For example, a sign with a right turn arrow
means you may make a right turn when it is safe. You cannot make a left turn or go
straight from this lane. Once you've safely maneuvered into the exit lane, you must
reduce speed accordingly. Posted speed limit signs indicate the recommended safe exit
speed. Gradually decelerate and gently use the brakes as needed.
Choosing Lanes of Travel - Highways and interstates can have two, three, four or even
more lanes of travel. On a two-lane highway, the right lane, or the #2 lane, is used by
slower traffic and for entering or exiting the highway. The left lane, or #1 lane, is
supposed to be used for faster traffic and passing. (It is never legal to exceed the speed
limit in order to pass another vehicle - no exceptions!) On highways with three or more
lanes, the far right lane is for slower traffic and preparation for lane entering and exiting,
while the left lane (the fast lane) is for faster traffic. The center lane is often safest
because there is less activity and the speeds are not as fast as the fast or #1 lane.

Lane Changes when Approaching Interchanges - When two or more highways


converge, this becomes an interchange. There will be merging lanes available. Caution is
a must! Use your resources such as mirrors and signals to change to another lane to
avoid the merging lane, unless of course that is where you intend to travel.
Making a Safe Lane Change - Higher speeds on highways make it more difficult to
make safe lane changes. The first step is to check for ample space to make your lane
change. Next, look ahead of you in both the lane you are traveling in and the lane you
want to change into. Check for spacing, hazards, and the speed of the approaching cars.
Then do the same procedure for the rear, checking for hazards, speed, and spacing in
both lanes. To check behind you, use both your rear view mirrors and your side mirrors.
After checking your mirrors, turn your head and look over your shoulder around your
blind spots, making sure there are no cars in the lane you are going into. Signal your
intent to change lanes and recheck ahead, behind, and in all mirrors, making sure
nothing has changed. You then want to accelerate slightly and change lanes.
When making lane changes, you must signal ahead of time prior to initiating the
maneuver. You must also have adequate visibility in all directions and check your blind
spots before making the lane change. Avoid excessive lane changing as it increases your
chances for mishaps or crashes. Change lanes only one lane at a time. Try to avoid
slowing down or stopping when making a lane change, as this could cause a hazard to
other drivers.
Spacing and Scanning - Extra space and scanning further ahead is important with the
high volume of cars and the faster speeds on the highway. The three-second minimum
spacing cushion necessary on most roadways should be increased to four seconds when
on a highway. In addition, you should leave spaces on all sides of your vehicle. Do not
drive in clusters or groups. You want to leave yourself an out in case of an emergency. On
highways driving at 55 mph, you should scan 12 to 15 seconds ahead and look at the
entire width of the highway.

Highway Emergencies - Highway emergencies are common occurrences. They range


from the sudden appearance of an object in your lane to a ten-car pile up or an
unexpected traffic jam. When these emergencies arise, you normally have two options: to
stop, or to steer around. If there is an object and it is small enough for you to drive over
it without hurting your vehicle, slow down and drive over it. But if you are unable to drive
over the object because it presents a risk to you or your vehicle, you want to reduce
speed quickly. Check your mirrors and your blind spots to see if there is an open lane,
and steer around the object, making sure to avoid getting into a collision with any other
vehicles around you. If it becomes impossible to steer around the object, you will have to
stop. The first thing you should do is tap your brakes, which will warn other drivers
behind you. Then apply your brakes firmly, and try to leave a good amount of space
between your vehicle and the object to decrease the possibility of the car behind you
rear-ending you. When you have come to a stop, turn your hazard lights on to let other
drivers know of the hazard.
Breakdowns - If a breakdown occurs on the highway, the first thing you want to do is
control your vehicle and pick the safest path to the shoulder. While changing lanes, follow
the same rules as before. Be sure to signal and move over just one lane at a time. When
you get to the shoulder, be sure to pull as far off the highway as possible, and park
parallel to the highway. When you are safely off the highway, turn your hazard lights on,
and if you have flares or warning devices, place them behind the vehicle on the shoulder
at distances of 300 feet and 500 feet. The video below will show you what you can do
when your car stalls and you need to pull off the highway.

Mandatory Video: "Stalled Smashup"

Low Quality (Dial-Up) | High Quality (Broadband)


Special Highway Problems - When driving on a highway for an extended length of
time, two problems could arise: velocitation and highway hypnosis. Unknowingly
accelerating while driving is known as velocitation. When driving at faster speeds for any
length of time, your body will adjust and incorrectly feel as if the car is going slower than
it actually is. The best way to avoid this problem is to check the speedometer often. Make
sure that you check for posted ramp speed limit signs and drive accordingly when exiting
the highway. After you exit the highway, checking your speed becomes more important.
It takes time for your body and your vehicle to adjust to the slower speeds.
Another problem that might occur while driving for extended periods on the highway is
highway hypnosis. This occurs when you have been driving at a steady speed without
stopping or slowing for a long period of time. In addition to this steady speed, most
highway driving is dull with not much to look at. These factors will relax you, which in
time will make you less attentive to your surroundings. In some situations, drivers have

even been known to fall asleep at the wheel. Here are some ways to avoid this
drowsiness:

Avoid eating large meals before or during the trip.


Take breaks - rest at regular intervals.
Make sure the vehicle is cool and that there is proper ventilation.
Talk with yourself or other passengers.
Listen to the radio, and change the station every once in a while.
Change your seating posture from time to time.
Scan the entire width of the road more often than usual.

Toll Booths - Tollbooths are an added


danger spot on highways or interstates.
These tollbooths collect a fee to travel on
publicly owned roads or expressways.
When approaching a tollbooth, scan the
road for signs that show the distance and
the speed limit. You will need to
decelerate as you get closer to the
booth. As you get closer, you will see
signs for designated lanes for special
vehicles. You may see lanes for exact
change, autos only, trucks only, trucks
O.K., or many other possibilities. Try to
find your lane and have your payment
ready as soon as possible. Be aware of
the vehicles around you as they may
stop or change lanes suddenly.
Slow-Moving Vehicles Slow-moving vehicles are often a
hazard on highways and interstates due to the fact they are
unable to travel very fast or keep up with the flow of traffic. Watch
for large trucks, small underpowered vehicles, or steep grades,
which make acceleration difficult. Vehicles can lose speed on
long or steep hills, and it may take longer for them to get up to
speed when they enter traffic. If you see any of these vehicles
ahead of time, you should be able to change lanes or slow down
safely. Sudden slowing or stopping is often the cause of traffic
collisions.
When driving on mountain roads or any road where your vehicle
can impede other drivers' use of the highway, you should use the
turnout to allow other vehicles to pass. Drivers often fail to use
common courtesy in this type of situation. Turnouts are designed
for use by slow-moving vehicles whose drivers, after recognizing
their hazard or hindrance on certain roads, pull off and allow
other vehicles to pass. Road rage in drivers often results from
others they share the road with not demonstrating this type of
common courtesy.
The Open Highway
Although it may seem safer to drive on rural roads because there often is less traffic, the
problem is that this makes hazards unexpected. Things that you must be alert for
include:
Unmarked farm and field driveways - Unmarked farm and field driveways are a
hazard because rural drivers often enter the roadway suddenly at slow speeds. The best
way to avoid this problem is to scan a wider area ahead so you can identify other

potential road users before they reach the highway. When your line of sight is limited or
obstructed, reduce your speed in keeping with how far ahead you can see.
Livestock crossing areas - Advance crossing signs should warn or alert you as a driver
to the possibility of unexpected entries onto the roadway. You should scan for these
hazards and warning signs and be prepared to stop. Always be aware of roaming cattle
and other animals when you see crossing signs.

Unmarked shoulders - Unmarked shoulders, soft shoulders, and places where there are
no shoulders whatsoever alter the availability to use them as an "escape" or "out." Be
sure to reduce your speed in these potentially dangerous areas.
Rough or unpaved roads - It is vital to always scan the road surface conditions
ahead of you. It may be covered in sand, gravel or dry earth, or it may be
crisscrossed with cracks and potholes. These conditions lower the traction
availability, so a reduction in speed would be advised.
Slow-moving vehicles - Bicycles, tractors, large trucks, or animal-drawn vehicles
may slow or block you path. In these cases, be prepared to reduce your speed to
match the slower flow. You may need to follow at a slower speed until you can safely
and legally pass them.
Roadside stands or gas stations - Drivers often make last-minute decisions,
sudden stops, or turns into roadside stands or gas stations, which often cause
collisions. Those leaving their high beams on or re-entering the highway without
looking make these high-risk areas. Check carefully, be aware, and adjust to the
potential risks.
Unexpected animal crossings - Small animals may dart into your path as you
drive. If an animal blocks your vehicle's path, be prepared to stop quickly. DO NOT
attempt to swerve to avoid animals. Swerving may lead to loss of control of
your vehicle and lead to a serious collision. If you can't brake in time to avoid the animal,
hit it squarely and maintain control of your vehicle. Be alert for children who may run
after the animal. Watch for large animals; cows and deer, for example, can cause as
much damage to you and your vehicle as another car.
A collision with a large animal such as a deer can be a frightening prospect. Almost half
of all crashes with deer occur between the months of October and December during
breeding season, with the greatest risk during mid-November. You need to be especially
alert for deer at night as well as during the hours shortly before and after sunrise
(between 5pm and 7am). Following are some other ways you can avoid hitting deer
(based on tips from the Missouri Department of Insurance, Financial Institutions &
Professional Registration and the Insurance Information Institute):

Drive cautiously through deer crossing zones and in areas where deer are likely to
roam. This means driving at reasonable speeds and covering the brakes as needed.
Be sure that you and your passengers wear seat belts. Most people injured in deer
crashes were not wearing their seat belts.
At night, use your high beams when there are no vehicles coming from the opposite
direction. The lights will help to illuminate the eyes of deer that may be nearby.
If you see a deer nearby, and the road is clear, slow down and sound your horn with
a long blast to frighten it away. If it does not budge, stop on the shoulder, turn on your
hazard lights, and wait for the deer to move off the road. Dont try to drive around it.
Brake sharply and stay in your lane when you see a deer in or near your path. It is
dangerous to swerve, and that may in fact cause a serious collision because you may hit
someone else or lose control of your car.
If you hit a deer, and it is still alive, keep your distance as it may hurt you. Instead
get your car off the road, if safe to do so, and call the police.
Contact your insurance company to report any damage to your vehicle. Most
insurers comprehensive auto insurance policies cover collisions with deer.

Also be on the lookout when you see any of the following:

Narrow bridges
Winding roads and hills
Off-road vehicles
Areas where you lack a line of sight in the distance
Areas where the width of the road decreases
Oncoming vehicles (especially large ones) that produce air turbulence
Hidden intersections

Chapter 7

Sharing the Road


When you drive, always watch for others who use the road. These include not just other
vehicles but pedestrians, large trucks, bicycles and motorcycles. Because each has
different needs, you need to know how to handle them properly.

Pedestrian and Child Safety


What you should know as a pedestrian
A green light or a "walk" signal that is facing you gives you the right-of-way. As always,
you should never assume the right-of-way. Be sure to look both ways before crossing the
street. Before you step out onto the road, make sure all drivers see you and stop for you.
A red light or a "don't walk" signal that is facing you tells you not to begin to cross the
street. If the "don't walk" signal begins to flash while you are crossing the street, you
may finish crossing. You are required by law to cross a road at an intersection or a
crosswalk when:

You are in a business district.


You are between two intersections with traffic lights.

Otherwise, you may legally cross a street in the middle of the block without a crosswalk.
However, you are required to yield the right-of-way to all traffic.
Things you should know as a driver sharing the road
When behind the wheel, you must always yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians in an
intersection, even if you are facing a green light. You must also yield the right-of-way to
pedestrians in any marked crosswalk. If you see a pedestrian using a crosswalk, you
must stop before the crosswalk at or before the stop line and let that person cross the
street. Pedestrians also have the right-of-way on sidewalks. You have a duty to exercise
the highest degree of care around pedestrians by slowing down or stopping to ensure
their safety. Never assume pedestrians see you or will stop for you.

If you approach a vehicle that has stopped at a crosswalk or intersection, you must be

prepared to stop as that driver may be stopping for a pedestrian. Do not pass it unless
there are no pedestrians in the crosswalk. Be sure to pay special attention to children,
the elderly, and the physically or visually disabled. They may need more time to cross the
street.
Child Pedestrians
Each year, more than 50,000 children are injured as pedestrians in the United States.
Children are at the greatest risk at the beginning and end of the school day, which is
when there are more children on the streets. Most of the injuries are a result of children
running out into the street from in between parked cars. Younger children are at the
greatest risk, and some of the reasons include:

They cannot judge the speed or distance of moving cars.


They act on impulse without thinking and do not always recognize an unsafe
situation.
Their field of vision is not as good as that of an adult.

Parents should practice safety rules with their children and act as role models. Some tips
to follow:

Walk on sidewalks, and cross the street only at designated crosswalks.


Do not run into the street, and never from in between parked cars.
If walking at night, do not walk alone. Wear bright clothing or something reflective.
Look left, right, and then left again before crossing the street, and always stop at
the curb first before crossing.
Teach your kids the traffic signs and signals and help them to develop their safety
skills.

As you operate your vehicle, you should be extra cautious and drive slowly in all
residential and school areas. Your children should not rely on drivers to follow the law...
they must learn how to be safe pedestrians.

Trucks

Trucks are powerful and heavy, often weighing four to five times that of a typical car
when unloaded. These large vehicles typically are equipped with up to eight mirrors. The
problem is that motor vehicle operators in general lack a general respect for trucks, often
tailgating them or becoming caught between the truck and the curb. As a result, trucks
are involved in many traffic collisions. Studies have shown that a tractor-trailer truck
traveling at 55 mph will typically need twice the stopping distance of an automobile
traveling at the same speed.
Special care must be given when driving near trucks on the freeway. You should give
trucks extra clearance whenever possible, and you must always leave an escape option
on the road. You must be aware of a truck's blind spots at all times, realizing a truck's
rearview and side mirrors are not always sufficient. Common blind spots for a truck driver
exist immediately in front of the truck, near the right front wheel of the truck, and within
30 ft. of the rear of the trailer. As a result, you should never tailgate, pass to the right,
cut immediately in front, or drive parallel to a truck for any length of time.
Truck Tips:

Oftentimes, a driver of a passenger vehicle does not realize when his or her vehicle
legally becomes a "truck" on the road. Sometimes, merely towing another vehicle
changes the laws you must follow. Your vehicle becomes much heavier, and your
stopping distance can multiply by two to three times. When towing a vehicle and
following another vehicle being towed or a three-axle truck, you must stay at least 300
feet behind that vehicle. You should also maintain this distance in a business or
residential district, on a highway with more than two lanes moving in the same direction,
or when overtaking and passing the vehicle ahead.
A truck traveling at 55 mph will require more than 400 feet to stop without factoring
in the reaction time of the driver. Drivers of trucks must travel at safe speeds in relation
to traffic flow and the increased distance required to stop. You must keep clear of fastmoving trucks on open roadways.

SMART RULE #1 If you cannot clearly see the truck's side view mirrors,
the truck driver probably cannot see you!
Some typical problems involving trucks include:
A. Trucks making wide turns account for many collisions as cars are often sandwiched
between the truck and the curb. You must respect the wide turns required by trucks.
B. Trucks are not allowed to travel over 70 mph, and they usually stay in slower traffic
lanes. The higher the truck's weight and the higher the truck's speed, the longer the
stopping distance.
C. Slow trucks often carry full loads of cargo and lack the power to keep up with the flow
of traffic. You should never tailgate a truck, but simply change lanes when safe to do so.

Bicycle and Motorcycle Safety

A. Bicycle - A bicycle can legally ride in a traffic lane on the road, provided it can keep
up with the flow of regular vehicular traffic. A vehicle, however, can only cross into a
bicycle lane when making a right turn. You may not drive in the bicycle lane except within
the last 200 feet before the intersection where the right turn will be made. In addition,
you may not be in a bicycle lane unless entering or leaving the highway, preparing to
turn, or parking where parking is permitted. Bicycles typically ride near the right curb of
the road, but may move into the lane to the left to pass another bicycle or vehicle or to
avoid hitting another object.
Be considerate of bicyclists. Special care and extra space needs should be observed when
driving near a bicycle. Bicycles are considered vehicles and should be given the right-ofway when appropriate. Watch for bicycles that are in traffic and when you are at
intersections. You must leave a safe distance when passing a bicycle; bicycle safety
experts recommend giving a bicyclist a minimum of three feet of space. When conditions
are poor (i.e. bad weather, potholes or debris on the road, etc.), give the bicyclist even
more space. Avoid following too closely. Switch to low beams at night when you see a
bicyclist approaching, just as you would for a car or truck. When you are ready to leave
your vehicle, keep an eye out for bicycles before opening your door.
Safety Tips For Drivers

Bicycles are vehicles. Riders have the same rights and responsibilities that you do
as a driver.
Yield to a bicycle that has the right-of-way.
Slow down when encountering a bicyclist.
Give bicyclists space, increasing the distance when you see hazards that can affect
them.
When passing, leave at least three feet between your vehicle and the bicycle. Look
over your shoulder before you move back in the lane.
Look for bicyclists when opening doors.
Drive with extreme caution around children riding bicycles. They can be
unpredictable and difficult to see.

Safety Tips For Bicyclists

Learn and obey all the same rules of the road you would practice if driving a motor
vehicle.
Be alert, and always look out for obstacles and vehicles.
Whenever possible, avoid riding a bike at night.
Be aware of your position on the road and traffic around you.
Always check your brakes before riding, and keep your bicycle in proper working
order.
Bike with the flow of traffic - not against it.
Always protect your head by wearing a helmet.
Have a presence on the road - ensure that you are seen by other drivers.

Important safety statistics

Over 70% of crashes involving cars with bicycles occur in driveways or


intersections.
Bicycle helmets can reduce head injuries by 85%.
Bicycle-related fatalities made up 2% of all traffic fatalities in 2007. In Missouri, less
than 1% of all traffic fatalities were bicyclists.

Required equipment for bicycles and moped


Bicycles and mopeds are not required to be registered or inspected by the state, but they
are required to have certain equipment such as brakes that are able to stop you within 25
feet when traveling 10 mph. In addition, you must have the following lights and reflectors
if you plan on riding your bicycle from 1/2 hour after sunset until 1/2 hour before sunrise:

A white light, located on the front of your bicycle so other drivers can see you from
500 feet.
A rear red reflector or red light, which must be at least two square inches. Drivers
should be able to see the reflector when the low beam headlights of their vehicle hit it
from 600 feet.
Reflective material or lights on the pedals, crank arms, shoes, or lower legs that
drivers can see when reflected by their vehicle's low beam headlights at 200 feet.
Reflective material or lights on both sides of a bicycle or bicyclist that drivers can
see when reflected by their vehicle's low beam headlights at 300 feet.

B. Motorcycles - Motorcycles are involved in a high number of traffic collisions, due in


large part to their "invisibility" on the road. A vehicle's side mirrors are important tools
enabling a motorist to see motorcycles and reduce the number of these collisions.
Motorcycle riders must obey the same driving laws as all other drivers. Because
motorcyclist safety is a primary concern in the State, motorcycle training classes are
available through the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Tips for Sharing the Road with Motorcyclists Safely:

Respect the motorcyclist: Remember, motorcycles are vehicles with all the privileges
of any vehicle on the road. Give the motorcyclist a full lane of travel.
Look out: Watch for motorcycles on the highway, at intersections, and when they
make left turns or lane changes.
Anticipate a motorcyclist's maneuver: Obstructions that you may ignore- such as
debris or potholes- can be deadly for a motorcyclist. Anticipate evasive actions taken by
motorcyclists.
Allow plenty of space: Don't follow a motorcycle too closely. Allow enough room for
the motorcyclist to take evasive actions.

Safety Tips for Motorcyclists:

Wear protective clothing: The most important factor in reducing injury is personal
protection. Leather jackets, gloves, long pants, proper footwear, eye protection, and
helmets provide this personal protection. Helmets or other protective headgear must be
worn at all times.
Ride where you can be seen: Make sure you can be seen by drivers around you.
Never ride in another driver's blind spot.
Drive defensively: Always watch out for others around you.
Leave a buffer zone: Give yourself extra space in your lane for emergency braking
situations or other avoidance maneuvers.
Single lanes: Never share a lane with a car. A driver may not expect you to be there
and may not be aware of your presence. Most drivers are looking for vehicles, not
motorcycles.
Use signals: Always clearly signal your intentions to other drivers. Signal before
changing lanes, make your lane move gradually, and never weave between lanes.
Maintain your motorcycle: Make sure your motorcycle is in good condition. Have
your motorcycle inspected to ensure good mechanical condition.
Light-colored clothing: Wear fluorescent or light colors during the day and reflective
materials in the evening and at night. Remember, See and Be Seen!

REMEMBER... Motorcycles must be shown extra attention while on the road. Extra room
must be left for the motorcycle when it makes turns, and allowances should be given for
its lane changing, positioning, and increases in speed.

Funeral Processions
If you are part of an organized funeral procession, you should drive as close as practical
and safe to the vehicle in front of you. You must keep your emergency hazard lights on
while in the procession. Regardless of any traffic control device, an organized funeral
procession has the right-of-way at all intersections, except for emergency vehicles or
when directed otherwise by law enforcement officials. The following rules apply to drivers
not in a funeral procession:

Do not drive between vehicles that are part of the procession.


Do not join a funeral procession for the purpose of gaining the right-of-way.
Do not attempt to pass any vehicle in the procession unless a passing lane has been
specifically provided.
Do not enter an intersection that a procession is going through, unless you are able
to do it without crossing the path of the funeral procession.

Emotional and Physical Factors


Your actions behind the wheel will affect other users on the road. These are influenced by
how you feel emotionally or physically. Driving while irritated, upset or shaken will
substantially alter your judgment when behind the wheel. Stressful conditions involving
personal or work issues will affect your ability to drive safely and should be recognized as
negative influences on driving habits. For example, when stressed by time, drivers often
speed and make other unsafe maneuvers to make up for lost time. When depressed,
perhaps due to a death in the family, drivers think of things other than the road and may
not notice that the car ahead has stopped.
The safe operation of a motor vehicle requires drivers to be focused while behind the
wheel. If other things occupy the mind, the result is a decreased awareness of the road, a
slower reaction time, and an overall lack of safe driving habits, such as unsafe lane
changes, speeding, and taking chances on the road. The ability to anticipate and
determine upcoming hazards and conditions is also adversely affected. Following are
some of the more common problems encountered by drivers.
Fatigue - Most people are aware of the
dangers of drinking and driving, but not
enough realize that driving while sleepy can
be just as risky. Experts have even
compared the risk of driving while drowsy to
drunk driving. Police often pull over
motorists who appeared intoxicated only to
find out they were simply sleepy. When you
are fatigued, you are less alert, and that
increases your chances of being involved in a
crash, especially at night. You can roll down
the windows, turn on the radio, or drink
coffee, but they are at best temporary
solutions and do not make driving any less
dangerous. The only cure when you are
fatigued is to get off the road and rest.
Which drivers are at the greatest risk of
having a collision?

Drivers who are sleep-deprived.


Drivers who drive long distances

without rest breaks.


Drivers who drive through the night
or at other times when they are normally
asleep.
Drivers who drive alone.
Drivers who drive on long, rural,
boring roads and become hypnotized by
the road.

To minimize fatigue, you should:

Get a good night's sleep.


Avoid heavy foods before driving.
Take regular breaks (every two
hours) if you must drive for long periods
of time, even if you do not feel tired.
Never take drugs that make you
drowsy or drink and drive.

Eyesight/Vision - You need good vision to drive safely, as most of your actions behind
the wheel are dependent on your ability to see. If you cannot see clearly, you will not be
able to judge distances or spot trouble. It is important to have your eyesight checked
regularly. Always wear your corrective glasses or contact lenses if your vision is below
average. If you find yourself squinting in order to see street signs, pedestrians, or other
vehicles, consider a visit to the eye doctor.
Illness/Health - Some conditions may cause drowsiness or dizziness, which affect your
driving. It is not safe to drive if you are affected by medications taken for an illness. If
you need to take over-the-counter medication, stay home or have someone else drive.
You will not be able to think as quickly or safely operate your vehicle.
Anger - The angry driver is the unsafe driver. Anger causes one to take chances, speed,
and drive without control. Anger needs to be contained prior to driving, with an
understanding that total focus is imperative behind the wheel. A level head is vital to safe
driving.
Stress - We all need stress in our lives. Perhaps that is surprising, but it is true. Without
stress, life would be dull and unexciting. Stress adds flavor, challenge, and opportunity to
life. Too much stress, however, can seriously affect your physical and mental well-being.
In addition, stress often creates aggressive driving behavior. The strain makes it difficult
to concentrate on the driving task or react in a timely manner.
To use stress in a positive way and prevent it from becoming distress, you should become
aware of how you react to stressful events. The body responds to stress by going through
three stages: 1) alarm, 2) resistance, and 3) exhaustion. For example, a car pulls
abruptly into traffic in front of you. Your initial reaction would be one of alarm, which may
include fear of a collision or anger at the driver who pulled in front of you. Your body
physically reacts by releasing hormones into your blood stream, and in this stage your
face gets flush, you perspire, and your arms and legs tighten up as you prepare to fight
or flee from the situation. The resistance stage is where your body repairs the damage
caused by the alarm stage. The exhaustion stage comes about when the alarm's
resistance cycle is repeated too often and the body does not have sufficient time to repair
any damage. Exhaustion may be manifested in such things as migraine headaches, high
blood pressure, backaches or insomnia.

Road Rage

As we share the road with other drivers, conflicts may often occur. Aggressive driving
behavior, particularly "Road Rage," is a rapidly increasing problem affecting America's
drivers. This behavior may be provoked by drivers who tailgate, cut off others on the
road, or use rude hand gestures. In most cases, however, road rage stems from the preexisting attitude or mood of the drivers prior to getting behind the wheel. People often
get into a vehicle when they are stressed or angry, and then take out their problems on
others with aggressive driving behavior. Drivers ignore the law, become discourteous, and
have a basic disregard for others, often causing collisions or even fatalities.
The preferred and suggested option for those dealing with a situation of road rage is to
avoid the problem situation altogether and leave the scene as quickly as possible. Do not
allow another's anger and ignorance affect you. The safest thing is to use your own good
sense and protect your life. Many road rage killings result from guns and even vehicles
being used against others on the road!
Common Motorist Irritants

Tailgating to pressure another driver to go faster or get out of the way.


Flashing lights in order to signal the driver ahead to move to another lane.
Obscene gesturing.
Changing lanes without signaling.
Blasting the horn or cutting people off.
Frequently changing lanes by weaving back and forth or traveling in the passing or
left lane at slower speeds, making it impossible for others to pass.
Driving with the high beams on behind another vehicle or toward oncoming traffic.
Slowing down after passing someone.
Not making a right turn in the right-hand turn lane or not reacting quickly after the
red light turns green.

It's an unfortunate fact that not all drivers are friendly. There is a chance you may run
into an aggressive driver at anytime. Are you prepared? Watch the video below.

Mandatory Video: "Aggressive Drivers"

Low Quality (Dial-Up) | High Quality (Broadband)


A confrontation with an aggressive driver can be a frightening experience, as the video
demonstrates. The most important thing for you to do in such a situation is to remain
calm, which will keep it from escalating further.
Hints to Avoid a Dangerous Situation

Maintain good, safe roadside manners...no matter how others act around you.
Always use your blinker (directional signal) to indicate when you are going to
change lanes.
Eliminate excessive cellular phone usage while driving.
Do not change lanes if doing so will impede the car in that lane - cutting off another
driver is not only rude and unsafe, it will irritate and provoke that driver.
If you become involved in an incident of road rage with another driver, you should
first calm yourself down and remember that your safety is the primary concern. Simply
leave the scene if an aggressive driver is threatening you before anyone gets hurt. If the

other person follows you or persists in antagonizing you on the road, drive to a public
area or police station and request help. Never go to your home!

Driver Distractions
Many drivers forget that they're not alone on the road when they do things such as
eating, tuning the radio, or even chatting away on their cell phones. A momentary loss of
focus on the road is often enough to cause a collision with another vehicle. Your focus
while driving should be on two things only: the road, and the task of driving.
These distractions can come from anywhere. Being aware of them will help reduce your
risk of crashing. Here are a few common distractions:
Outside the Vehicle - While it is important to be aware of road conditions and hazards
that may affect your vehicle, it is easy to be distracted by things outside your car.
Billboards, street signs, houses, and even pedestrians will cause trouble on the road
when they become the object of focus to the detriment of everything else. Without full
attention to the roadways, collisions become inevitable. If you decide to take a look,
glance at them rather than staring so you do not lose your focus on the road.
Inside the Vehicle - These can include children, other passengers, pets, applying makeup, shaving, reading, eating, drinking, cellular telephones, changing radio stations,
smoking, etc. Planning ahead will remove most of these distractions for you.
Below are some of the more common distractions inside the vehicle.

Children and Other Passengers - Young children


always demand attention, as do many passengers.
When you turn to focus on them as you drive,
who's minding the road? If they require immediate
attention, pull off the road first. Be sure that your
passengers, particularly children, know the risk of
being distracted while driving.

Eating and Drinking - Many drivers eat or drink


while behind the wheel to save time. But how much
time do you save if you should crash? If you make
a mess, you're likely to forget that you are driving,
which will only create a greater problem. You'll also
be without the use of at least one of your hands. It's
best if you finish eating or drinking before you hit
the road.

Smoking - When you smoke, you have to take one


hand away from the steering wheel. You need both
hands to remain on the steering wheel to give you
the most control over your vehicle. But smoking is a
distraction mainly because when you have to reach
for a cigarette, light it, put it out, or watch for falling
ashes while trying to control your vehicle, you will
lose your focus on the road.

Radio/Other Technology - Finding a station and


looking down at the radio takes your eyes away
from the road. Leaning over to change the station
will likely cause the vehicle to veer off course and
increases your chance of getting into a collision.
Make use of preset buttons to set the radio to your
favorite stations so that this does not adversely
affect your driving.

Reading - Attempting to read and drive at the same


time is impossible. When you read, you are
showing an utter lack of respect for the act of
driving. Reading often leads to rear-end collisions
because the eyes are not focused on the road and
the driver does not see cars braking ahead. If you
read newspapers or books perched on your
steering wheel, you are simply asking for trouble.

Applying Make-Up / Shaving - It is common to


see men shaving or women applying lipstick or
makeup while behind the wheel. But where's your
focus when you fix yourself up in your car? You're
not the only person on the road. The place to shave
or put on make-up is at home in front of a mirror
larger than your rearview mirror!

Cell Phones - Increased reliance on cell phones has led to a rise in


the number of people who use the devices while driving. There are

In one study published in the February 1997 issue of The New England Journal of
Medicine, researchers in Toronto concluded that the risk of collisions associated with cell
phone use increased four-fold, which was similar to that of driving drunk.
Another study published in the July 2005 issue of the British Medicine Journal found that
using a cell phone while driving increased the risk of a serious crash and injury by four
times. It also found that the use of hands-free cell phones did not reduce that risk. In
addition, males and females were both found to have experienced the same increase in
risk when using a cell phone. The same was true with drivers younger and older than 30
years.
Recently another type of driving distraction, texting, has been getting a lot of press. In
July 2009, Virginia Tech Technical Institute (VTTI) released the results of a study on cell
phone use and texting while driving. While the study's conclusion on cell phones may not
be shocking as it is in line with previous studies, what it concluded on texting just may be
- the risk of a crash or near crash when texting while driving increases 23 times! Texting
is a greater driving distraction than cell phones because you have to look down at the
device to read, type or send messages. You also need both hands to use it.
The video that follows shows how cell phones are distracting to drivers.

Mandatory Video: "Cell Phone Driver"

Low Quality (Dial-Up) | High Quality (Broadband)


The safest option is to avoid using your cellular phone while operating a motor vehicle.
However, if you still choose to use your phone, please follow the safety tips below:

Get to know how it operates prior to getting in your car. You should not learn to use
it for the first time while on the road.
Keep the phone close to you so you won't have to reach or look for it while driving.
Dial only when at a stoplight or sign, or pull off the road to dial.
Never use your phone in distracting traffic situations or in stop-and-go traffic. Pull
over and use the phone while off the road, or let your voice mail pick up your calls.
Disconnect your cellular phone while using jumper cables as the power surge could
burn out your phone battery.

You can use your phone to report emergencies on the road by dialing 911. Always be
ready to provide the closest major cross streets or off-ramps in the area.
Distracted Driving Laws - Since 1995, almost every state has proposed bills to ban or
limit the use of cell phones in automobiles. As of January 1, 2010, seven states and the
District of Columbia specifically ban the use of handheld cell phones for all drivers while
driving except in emergencies. A greater number of other states restrict cell phone use
only to young or novice drivers.
Prior to the VTTI study, some states already banned driving while texting (DWT).
Washington was the first state to enact the ban in 2008. Seventeen other states and the
District of Columbia prohibit DWT as of January 1, 2010, though the ban in some states
applies only to young or novice drivers (such as in Missouri). Even the federal
government is considering it. Expect many other states, and possibly Congress (making it
nationwide), to ban DWT in light of that study.
In Missouri, drivers who are 21 years of age or younger are prohibited from sending,
reading or writing text messages using a wireless device, including cell phones and text
messaging devices, while driving. This ban does not apply when:

Reporting illegal activity.


Sending for help in a medical or other type of emergency.
Preventing injury to a person or property, including yourself.
Parked legally.

If you are 21 or younger and violate this law, expect to be fined $200 and receive two
points on your drivers license. Although the ban is directed at young drivers, you should
avoid texting while driving regardless of your age.

General Distractions - Awareness of the immediate surroundings while driving is


essential to avoiding collisions. Distractions such as buildings, people, or other vehicles
must not alter your control of the vehicle. You should alter your visual habits if they are
not conducive for the safe operation of a motor vehicle. Wandering eyes will heighten
collision potential. To compensate, train yourself to look every two or three seconds at
the rear view mirror, the speedometer, and the road ahead to get an adequate
determination of speed, positioning and road conditions. Remember: Be prepared for
the unexpected.

Chapter 8
DEFENSIVE DRIVING TECHNIQUES
Collisions are usually caused by negligent driving. Preventing collisions involves

knowledge of the road, your vehicle's own position on the road, and safe driving
techniques. You need to know about the areas that you travel in the most frequently as
well as which areas are most likely to have collisions or the highest volume of traffic.
Avoid these areas if possible and use your discretion to alter your travel plans. Some of
the following contribute to collisions:
A. Driving Too Closely - Maintaining proper following distance is one of the most
important factors in preventing collisions. It must be understood that increased speed
requires increased stopping distance. Driving too closely will lead to rear end crashes.
1. Stopping Distance - Any regular passenger vehicle traveling at a speed of 20 mph
should be able to stop within a distance of 25 feet, once the brake is applied. At 35 mph,
the distance will be approximately 106 feet. At 55 mph, it will be approximately 228 feet.
An increase in speed will always result in longer stopping distances.
Your car's total stopping distance at a given speed depends on:

Perception - The time you need to see and identify a potential danger affects the
distance traveled during that time.
Reaction - The time it takes you to depress the brake pedal after the danger is
perceived also affects the distance traveled during that time.
Braking - The time it takes to stop the car will affect the distance traveled after
you first apply the brakes.

Your tires need traction on the road in order to stop. The best road traction is produced
by properly inflated tires with good, deep tread on clear roads. Many factors can reduce
road traction. Among the more common ones on the roadway itself are water, snow, ice,
bumps, railroad tracks, leaves, oil and dirt. Worn tire tread as well as over or under
inflated tires also can reduce road traction. Other factors that will affect your stopping
distance include road conditions, weather conditions and traffic density.
Some facts to remember:

Traction is reduced on wet surfaces.


Stopping distance required on wet surfaces will be two to three times the norm.

2. Space Cushion

You should adequately position your vehicle away from other vehicles to allow
ample stopping distance in case of an emergency. As speeds increase, the distance
between cars must also increase.
On multi-lane streets, it is important to avoid driving alongside or parallel with
other carswhenever possible. A space cushion on both sides of the car (an "escape
hole") allows you to make an immediate lane change if another vehicle were to
unexpectedly cross over into your lane.
On multi-lane streets, opposing vehicles driving too closely to the double yellow
lane dividing lines can easily crash into each other if their drivers arent careful.
Therefore, it is best to stay out of the lane closest to the center line. This will allow for
more space between opposing oncoming traffic.

Three-Second Rule - The recommended following distance for safe driving in most
situations is three seconds. Following the three-second rule allows for a three-second gap
between vehicles. This allows you to see clear of the vehicle ahead and keep a safe
distance in case of an emergency or unexpected traffic situation. A three-second interval
provides you with time to steer out of problem areas at all listed speeds on a dry surface
and brake out of problems at city speeds, usually up to about 45 mph. To establish the
three-second gap, locate a fixed point on the side of the roadway and wait until the
vehicle ahead passes the fixed point at least three seconds ahead of your vehicle. This is
achieved by counting "one thousand one, one thousand two, one thousand three," and
then assessing the following distance.
Four-Second Rule - At higher speeds, you need to increase your following distance.
Although the three-second rule normally gives you a safe following distance, some road
variables often require you to increase your following distance to four seconds or more. A
four-second interval provides you with time to steer out of problems at all listed speeds
on dry surfaces and braking out of problems at highway speeds, usually up to
approximately 70 mph. It is important to note that the tires used by many passenger
cars are not designed to steer out of problem areas at speeds beyond 75 mph. You would
need high-performance tires for your vehicle to handle the stress of traveling at high
speeds. Some variables that call for you to increase your following distance to at least
four seconds include:

When being tailgated.


When your vision of the road is blocked.
When vision is impaired behind a large van or truck.
When driving at high speeds.
If generally poor road conditions exist.
If bad weather dictates.

Remember, in all these situations, it is a good idea to leave more of a space cushion
between all vehicles. The easiest way to stop your vehicle in a safe manner, no
matter the situation, is to leave adequate room to stop. Extreme situations require
you to use extra caution and to have heightened awareness on the road. Increasing the
following distance to four seconds or more will allow you more room to cope with any
factors adversely affecting the driving task.
B. Bad Drivers - You can avoid a bad driver with proper vehicle positioning and general
road awareness. Never assume other drivers will complete certain maneuvers simply
because it might appear that way. You should never take the right-of-way or attempt to
force your vehicle into traffic. Anticipation of other drivers' actions, in combination with
yielding the right-of-way, is important. Forfeiting the right-of-way to other drivers
prevents collisions. If you see someone getting into his or her car, assume that this driver
will pull out into the street in front of you without looking. You have to, in effect, drive for
everyone around you as well as yourself.
C. Improper Lane Choices - Choosing an appropriate and safe lane for travel on
roadways will oftentimes help prevent collisions. The less congested lane with less traffic
flow is typically safer, as chances for a crash are diminished. The slow lane is often the
most congested as this is where other motorists may be entering and exiting driveways
or their vehicles, or unloading cargo or picking up passengers. Assessing the safest lane
in which to travel will substantially reduce the risk of a traffic mishap. The safest
position in traffic in which to drive is where there are the fewest conflicting
objects.
D. Improper Vehicle Positioning
Proper vehicle positioning is also important for safe driving. This includes:

Be aware of other drivers' blind spots... they may not see you and may change
lanes into you.
Avoid side-by-side driving without escape options... keep a space cushion to the
side of your car so other drivers will not try to change lanes, pull into your car, and crowd
into your lane.
Avoid driving next to other vehicles on multi-lane roads. Someone may crowd your
lane or try to change lanes and pull into you. Move ahead or drop behind the other
vehicle.
Keep as much space as you can between yourself and oncoming vehicles. It is
always safest to drive in the center of your lane and not crowd the centerline.
Make room for vehicles entering on a multi-lane highway. If no one is next to you,
move over a lane.
Keep space between your car and parked vehicles. Parked vehicles may pull out in
front of you, a pedestrian may step out from between parked cars, or a person may step
out of a parked car.
Give extra space to pedestrians and bicyclists, especially children. They often move
into your lane without warning. Do not share a lane with a pedestrian or bicyclist; wait
until you can safely pass in the adjoining lane.
Keep up with the flow of traffic (at a legal speed) and leave room for cars to enter
on a freeway.
Avoid unsafe or dangerous situations altogether.

Driving Defensively
Good drivers use defensive driving strategies to reduce the likelihood of crashes, deaths,
injuries and financial losses. To avoid being in an accident because of someone else's
mistake, you must drive defensively. As a defensive driver, you must:

Be alert and well-rested. This will allow you to react to hazards more quickly.
Keep your eyes moving so that you do not focus on just one point. Be aware of
what is happening ahead (about 1/4 mile ahead) as well as on the sides of the road, and
check your mirrors every few seconds. This will keep you aware and prepared for any
hazards you may encounter on the road.

Be prepared for other drivers to make mistakes, and think of what you would do if a
mistake does happen.
Do not rely on traffic signs or signals to keep others from crossing in front of you.
Drivers do not always obey traffic signals. At an intersection, you should always look to
the left and the right, even if the opposing traffic has a red light or stop sign.
Adjust speed to suit conditions.
Honk your horn when appropriate (you are only allowed to use your horn to avoid
or warn others of a potential collision).
Watch for potential hazards, poor road conditions, and anything else that may affect
your safety on the road.
Always signal at least 100 feet prior to a turn or other maneuver if that action will
affect any other vehicle.

The following are other techniques that you can use to help you be a more defensive
driver:
A. Trip Planning

Stop for a break every two hours - A tired driver is less alert and has a greater
chance of getting into a collision, especially when driving at night. It is important to stop
frequently, take a break, and rest your eyes. In addition, don't drive more than eight
hours per day, eat heavy meals, or start a trip when you are tired or sleepy.
Always stop in well-lit areas - it is safer to be visible to others and remain in a
public area that is well-lit.

B. Covering the Brake - You should be able


to determine situations when you need to
cover the brake in preparation for use.
Covering the brake means placing the foot not
on top but just over the brake pedal. This
allows for quicker response time. You should
do this only when driving in high-risk areas,
heavy traffic, or any other time when you may
need to slow down or stop quickly. Situations
where covering the brake may be necessary
include:

when
when
when
when
when

driving next to parked cars.


approaching intersections.
approaching signals.
driving in a school zone.
seeing brake lights of other cars.

Riding the brake (keeping your foot pressed down on the brake slightly) not only adds
much wear and tear on your vehicle, but it also gives other drivers the false impression
that a stop is imminent. While covering the brake is often prudent and a safe driving
practice, riding the brake is not.
C. Choosing an Escape Route - With traffic conditions constantly evolving, you must be
prepared to make adjustments in order to avoid dangerous situations. Keep scanning
ahead to ensure that your path of travel is safe. This will enable you to spot potential
hazards ahead and to adjust your speed or lane position if needed. Slow down if your
view ahead is blocked. When selecting a lane within traffic clusters to move into, look for
gaps wide enough for you to maneuver into without forcing others to slow down.
You will often need to make compromises in order to reduce the risk of hazards. If there's
a long line of cars approaching from the opposite direction, slow down, be prepared to
brake, and move to the right. If an approaching vehicle drifts into your lane of travel,
slow down and pull over to the right. Sound your horn and flash your lights to warn the
driver. When approaching a curve, slow down before entering, and stay toward the right
of the lane.

D. Proper Driving Posture - The way you drive is affected by how you sit and hold the
steering wheel. Proper posture can help you keep full control of your vehicle and stay
alert while driving. Keep the following four things in mind when getting behind the wheel:

Sit with your back straight and relaxed against the seat.
Sit close enough so you can easily reach the pedals, but far enough away that your
elbows are in front of you when you hold the steering wheel.
Keep both feet within reach of the gas, brake, and clutch.
Keep both hands on the steering wheel.

E. Proper Steering Techniques - Both


hands should be placed on opposite sides of
the steering wheel. Look at the wheel as if you
were looking at a clock; your hands should be
placed at either 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock or 9
o'clock and 3 o'clock. But due to the advent of
air bags, the positions that safety advocates
recommend are the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock
positions. Any of these positions is comfortable
and allows you to make a turn without taking
your hands off the steering wheel. When
turning corners, turn the wheel using either
the hand-over-hand or push-pull method.
Using one hand to turn your vehicle could
cause you to lose control of the vehicle. Also
do not let the steering wheel slip through your
hands. Complete the turn by straightening out
the steering wheel by hand.
F. Perceptual Skills For Driving - Various factors affect driver performance, and you
must constantly use your perceptual skills for safe driving. These include:

Vision - If you stand still and look straight ahead, you will be able to see directly in
front of you and at an angle to your left and to your right. As speeds increase while
driving, our visual field decreases. To compensate for the narrowed vision, you need to
move your eyes from side to side to help you detect possible dangers while driving.
Hearing - A good sense of hearing is very important while driving. Hearing the
sound of an emergency vehicle siren, car horns or trains alerts you of a possible
dangerous situation around you. Even if you do not see a car coming towards you or an
ambulance coming from behind, your hearing may alert you to their presence before a
problem occurs. Your hearing may also alert you of a problem with your car.
Touch- Feeling a vibration in the steering wheel or seat belts tells us of possible
mechanical problems.
Smell - The sense of smell is vital in recognizing certain dangerous situations such
as: gas, burning, steam or antifreeze leaking.
Reaction abilities - It is important to react quickly when you are behind the wheel
of a motor vehicle. Even a split second can mean the difference between a near miss and
a collision. You must be able to quickly respond to unforeseen road hazards, other
drivers, and emergencies on the road.
Judgment of speed and distance - Depth perception helps us to judge the
relative distance between two objects. This is important for you as a driver because both
depth perception and distance judgment help you to determine a safe following distance
and adjust your position in traffic.

G. Scanning the Road - Use your vision to scan the road. Always keep your eyes
moving, never focusing on just one point. Scanning the road ahead, particularly on the
highway and in dangerous driving locations and situations such as intersections,
bottlenecks and broken traffic signals, will keep you aware and prepared for oncoming

road hazards. When approaching a hill or curve, scanning ahead will allow you to see
posted speed limits or observe the speed of any vehicles you are following so you can
make the necessary adjustments. Use the SIPDE technique to help you scan for danger
effectively; the following explains each of the steps involved:
Scan (or Search) - First, scan the road for possible hazards and traffic conditions. To
scan effectively, you need to check as much of the road as possible by looking ahead at
least 15 seconds, not just in front of you. In the city, this means looking at least one to
two blocks (about mile) ahead; when driving on the highway, you should be checking
at least one-third to half a mile in front of you. You should also scan left to right and
check your mirror for any hazards behind your vehicle. Keep your eyes moving so you
can see a dangerous situation before it has a chance to affect you. This technique is also
very helpful on rural roads and at intersections where unexpected hazards often occur.
Identify - The next step in this process is to identify what those hazards are. Is it a deer
about to cross the road in front of you? Is it a large branch breaking off a nearby tree and
falling onto the roadway? Is it a crash scene blocking a lane on your side of the road? If
you know what the hazard is, you can respond to it appropriately.
Predict - Now that you have identified the hazard, you need to predict the possible
outcomes that affect your safety. If it is a deer crossing the road, it may either linger on
the pavement or be followed by other deer and block your path. If it is a falling tree
branch, you may have to move to another lane, pull over to the shoulder, or stop
altogether. If it is a crash scene, you will have to slow down or move over to a safer lane.
If you can identify the hazard, you need to be able to predict all possible consequences.
Decide - Next, you must decide on a sensible course of action to avoid the hazard with
time to spare. Look for escape routes if you think you may have to change your position
on the road. If that is not possible, you must be prepared to slow down or stop. If it
involves another person or vehicle, you may have to signal or use the horn.
Execute - Choose from among your options a course of action and execute or act on it.
This should be the one that is the safest. For example, you decided that changing lanes
would be the best course of action to avoid a particular hazard. Your next step is to
simply do what you decided on so you can actually prevent an incident.
Note that to utilize SIPDE effectively, you must be an active defensive driver who can
anticipate outcomes and make quick decisions. This means you must be attentive to your
surroundings so you can see any hazards before you reach them. If you allow yourself to
be distracted, you are at risk because you will not be able to scan the road effectively.
The animation below will show you how to properly utilize SIPDE, using a rock slide as an
example.
H. Protecting Yourself When You Cannot Avoid a Collision - If a collision is
imminent, you can try to lessen the severity with certain actions. Avoid head-on collisions
and multiple vehicle crashes, and even sideswipe if possible, as this is a less severe
collision. Properly worn seatbelts and shoulder belts decrease the chance of injury in a
collision. If there is adequate warning, you can try to brace yourself against the steering
wheel, as this may keep you from being thrown around within the vehicle. Specific
techniques to use in different types of crashes are described below:

1. "Rear-Ender" - This is the most common


accident type and is nearly always the fault of
the car in the rear. The rear-end collision is
often the result of following too closely but can
be prevented by signaling early for all turns,
stops and lane changes. It is also a good idea
to frequently check the traffic behind your
vehicle, and if tailgated, change lanes
immediately. Be aware of tailgaters or large
vehicles following too closely or gaining rapidly
from behind, and take appropriate action to
avoid conflict. Some of the things you can do
include:

Attempt to warn the driver behind you by tapping your brakes, but do not try this
when traffic is moving freely.
If there is plenty of space in front of you, try moving forward to minimize the
impact and then press the brake pedal when you are hit to limit any damage.
If moving forward will interfere with cross traffic and thus create another hazard,
press your brake pedal and allow your vehicle to absorb the impact. Hold onto your
steering wheel, but do not lock up your arms. If you are not wearing your seat belt, try
to use your arms and hands to protect your face from impact.
Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel, with your arms bent so that they do not
break. Chances are you may be pushed forward or even sideways when hit from behind
and will still need to maintain control.
Your seat belt will keep your face and upper torso from hitting the steering wheel or
windshield, so be sure to wear it. Most cars today have head restraints, which will help
minimize the whiplash factor. Rest your head against your head restraint to maximize
protection for your neck.

To help absorb the force of the rear-end collision, turn the steering wheel in the direction
you intend to travel. Turning the wheels into oncoming traffic may have tragic results if
your vehicle is pushed forward.
2. Head-On Collision - If possible, avoid head-on collisions and the inevitable impact.
This type of crash is also one of the most deadly. The best way to avoid a head-on
collision is to pay attention and look ahead down the road. If you see another vehicle
drifting into your path, move as far to the right as possible. Signal to the other driver so
that he or she may recognize the danger and move over to the right. If a collision is
unavoidable:

Move over to the right! If the other driver recovers, he or she will be moving over to
the right. If not, a sideswipe collision is less damaging to your health. A glancing blow off
an object on the right side of the road is also preferable to a head-on. Don't go too far
right if that will be more dangerous.
Use your arms or hands to protect your face and throw yourself across the seat to
avoid hitting the steering wheel or windshield if you do not have a shoulder harness on.
Be careful when protecting your face. Airbag devices deploy in front-end impacts at
approximately 35 mph. Use caution when placing your hands in front of your face as the
airbag could push them into your face (the shoulder strap of your seat belt will prevent
your head from hitting the dashboard).

Have you ever driven in the wrong direction or encountered a wrong way driver? Many
head-on collisions are a result of people driving the wrong way. Watch the following video
showing a real-life scenario to learn exactly what to do to avoid crashing head-on in this
type of situation.

Mandatory Video: "Wrong Way Driver"


Low Quality (Dial-Up) | High Quality (Broadband)

Remember to always keep to the right. Stay alert and pay attention to the signs, signals
and road markings so you dont drive the wrong way yourself.
3. Side Collision ("T-Bone") - At intersections, the most deadly type of collision is
often the side collision, where one vehicle crashes into another at a right angle. Crashes
that result when drivers run red lights often are side collisions. Your best defense is to
slow down as you approach an intersection and check both ways before crossing. If you
are still hit in the side, the best thing you can do is to keep both hands onto the steering
wheel to minimize your chances of being thrown against the side of your car. When
holding onto the steering wheel, don't keep your arms rigid because they can easily snap
due to the tremendous forces generated in a crash. Just keep them as loose as you can
without letting go of the steering wheel.

Chapter 9
INSURANCE AND ACCIDENTS
Motor vehicle owners in the state of Missouri are required to have proof of liability
insurance. Anytime you must register your vehicle or renew your vehicle plates, you must
show proof of insurance or proof of financial responsibility. The following are acceptable
documents:

Copy of your original, current insurance identification card.


Copy of your motor vehicle liability insurance policy or insurance binder (temporary
policy).
A paid insurance receipt that shows the policy information (in the case of a newly
purchased vehicle).
A Department of Revenue issued Financial Responsibility Identification card.

When you register your vehicle, after showing proof of insurance, you will be required to
sign an affidavit stating you will keep insurance on your vehicle during the period of
registration. Your proof of insurance must be kept in your vehicle at all times. If a law
enforcement officer ever asks you for proof of insurance and you cannot show it, you will
receive a ticket. The Department of Revenue may also ask you to provide proof of
insurance at any time.
Types of Insurance
A. Motor vehicle liability insurance - Missouri requires you to have these minimum
auto insurance coverages:
1. Bodily injury liability of 25/50 (up to $25,000 for injury related expenses incurred by a
single individual in an accident that is your fault; up to $50,000 for all such expenses
from a single accident).
2. Property damage liability of up to $10,000.
3. Uninsured motorist protection of 25/50.
B. A Department of Revenue Self-Insurance - You must have a minimum of 25
vehicles and be able to show you can pay for any damages caused by your vehicle to be
self-insured.
C. A Department of Revenue Surety Bond, a certificate of deposit of money or
other types of securities in the amount of $60,000 - The Department of Revenue
will issue you an identification card showing proof of financial responsibility.
D. A Department of Revenue real estate bond - The Department of Revenue will
issue an identification card showing proof of financial responsibility.
Insurance
Variables
Many factors affect your driving... you know that, and the insurance companies also know
that. Listed below are many of the variables that affect your driving and the reasons why
they may work against you when your insurance rate is calculated.

A. Age - Statistics show that both old and young drivers have a higher probability for
collisions than do the middle-aged. Numbers verify that teenagers are involved in a
substantially higher number of fatal and nonfatal crashes than other drivers. The often
transient lifestyle, attitude, and lack of maturity of those under 30 also contribute to
collisions. Additionally, senior citizens are higher risks to insure due to the fact their
reaction time slows as they grow older, and a gradual deterioration of motor skills and
abilities occurs behind the wheel.
B. Type of Car - Vehicles with high market values and sticker prices garner larger
insurance premiums, as the replacement of those vehicle types is more expensive.
Furthermore, certain vehicles are more prone to theft due to the high demand for
replacement parts these vehicles garner. Sports cars are often quite cost prohibitive to
insure because they are often purchased for their power, handling, and speed... a formula
that may lead to a collision.
C. Motor Vehicle Record - It is proven that prolonged unsafe driving will lead to traffic
citations. Traffic citations signify unsafe driving, and the assumption is that collisions will
soon follow. Since collisions lead to insurance claims, a poor driving record is a good way
to see your insurance rates soar. A historical record of traffic collisions or citations will
lead to substantial increases in insurance rates.
D. Marital Status - Statistically, single people are more apt to be involved in traffic
crashes than those who are married. Companies know this fact and rate people
accordingly.
E. Smoker/Nonsmoker - People who smoke are more likely to have higher insurance
rates than those who do not. The hands of a smoker are not always on the steering
wheel, and he or she is therefore in less control of the vehicle. There is the potential to
drop hot ashes, a lit match, or a lighter that can be the cause of a collision or loss of
vehicle control. Consequently, insurance rates tend to be higher for smokers as the
likelihood of a collision is greater.
F. Location - It is a fact that in certain Missouri cities, over 50% of all drivers on the
roadways do not have insurance. The chances of involvement in a collision with an
uninsured motorist are thus higher in these cities. Other areas might have high traffic
density and a greater number of traffic collisions. Insurance companies will base
premiums on these factors and the probability of a claim deriving from the city in which
you live
Determining Amount of Coverage Needed
Keep in mind that the minimum liability coverage required by the State of Missouri may
not sufficiently protect you. Sure, you may have paid $300 less than your friend each
year on liability insurance, but before you congratulate yourself for saving some money,
consider that your friend may be adequately protected while you are not. Any damages
that exceed the limits of your policy will come out of YOUR pocket. The savings you think
you obtained by purchasing the minimum amount of coverage will be wiped out by the
extra costs you will have to pay beyond what your insurance covers. If you have just the
minimum, consider purchasing the highest level of liability coverage that you can
comfortably afford to protect your property and assets. Remember - should you ever get
involved in a collision, the issue will not be how much you saved on your insurance, but
whether or not you have enough coverage.
Now, how can you save on insurance while still being adequately covered? In addition to
the insurance variables listed above, you can shop around. Insurance rates can vary from
insurer to insurer for the same exact type of coverage. However, be sure to research an
insurance company before purchasing a policy. Increasing your deductible is another good
way to lower your rates. With a higher deductible, you'll save on your premium, though
you'll have to pay more out of your pocket should you get into a crash. The savings in the
long run will add up, however. Besides raising your deductible, examine what your
insurance covers and see what you do not need. If you have an older car, the value of
your car will determine whether or not collision or comprehensive coverage is worthwhile,

especially since repair costs can easily exceed the value of your vehicle. You may not
need towing coverage, particularly if you are a member of an automobile club. Also, if
you already have sufficient health insurance, you do not need medical coverage under
your auto insurance. In addition, any of the following may help to reduce your premium,
so ask about them:

You
The
You
You
You

have an anti-theft device such as a car alarm in your vehicle.


vehicle is a secondary vehicle or only used for pleasure driving.
drive less than 7,500 miles a year.
are a full-time student with a "B" average or better.
have no violations or collisions on your driving record.

Insurance Companies - Rated or Admitted


Be aware that many insurance companies in Missouri are not rated by the state, but they
still choose to offer liability insurance to drivers. The rated or admitted companies have
met all the requirements and guidelines as prescribed by the insurance commission and
are consequently rated for reliability among other factors. Those insured with admitted
companies are covered by a fund controlled by the state, which would cover them in case
their insurance company were to become insolvent during their pending claim. Admitted
companies contribute to this fund, while non-admitted companies do not. It is your
responsibility as a motor vehicle operator to ensure that your own insurance company or
underwriter complies with state regulations. Coverage with an insurance company that is
non-admitted exposes you to the risk of nonpayment of claims and insufficient overall
coverage.
Penalties for Not Keeping Insurance
If the Department of Revenue finds out you do not have insurance or proof of financial
responsibility, you will receive a notice of suspension. When your license and vehicle
plates are suspended, the following actions will take place:
1st Suspension - Suspension of your license and vehicle plates; you are eligible for
reinstatement immediately for a $20 reinstatement fee. You will also need to file proof of
insurance with the Department of Revenue for three years.
2nd Suspension - Your license and vehicle plates will be suspended for 90 days, and
you will need to pay a $200 reinstatement fee. You will also need to file proof of
insurance with the Department of Revenue for three years.
3rd Suspension - Your license and vehicle plates will be suspended for one year, and
you will need to pay a $400 reinstatement fee. You will also need to file proof of
insurance with the Department of Revenue for three years.
* An SR-22 insurance certificate is the most common type of showing proof of insurance.
Your insurance company can file the form for you, but you must go to the company or
agent in order to have that done. If you do not keep proof of insurance for three years,
your driving privileges will be suspended again.
Driver Responsibility When Involved in a Collision
A collision or accident is when you injure yourself or another person or cause any
property damage while driving your vehicle. An accident can occur with another vehicle
that is in motion or even a parked vehicle. Leaving the scene of any collision or accident
is a CRIME! The following is a list of things you must do if involved in any collision:

The first thing you must do is STOP at the scene. If your vehicle is in a place where
it may cause another collision, you should move it. If the vehicle is not in a dangerous
spot, leave it there until a law enforcement officer tells you to move it.
If anyone is hurt in a collision, an ambulance should be called right away. An injured
person should not be moved, and a victim in shock should be kept as warm as possible.
If there is no pulse, a properly trained person should administer CPR.
Call the police.
At night or in bad weather, you need to warn other drivers by using flares,
reflectors, or flashlights.

The following information should be exchanged with all involved parties: your name,
your address, driver's license number, vehicle identification number and plate number,
and the name of your insurance company and policy number.
You may leave the scene only if a law enforcement officer tells you that you may.
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible, regardless of fault.

Sometimes an accident is not what it seems. A seemingly minor collision may be the
prelude to a crime. The following video shows you what to look for and how to protect
yourself.

Mandatory Video: "Bump and Rob"


Low Quality (Dial-Up) | High Quality (Broadband)
When someone hits your car, be sure to pull over in a public place if possible so you can
exchange information safely. Your safety increases when there are more witnesses.
Accident Report Filing
Missouri law requires you to report an accident to the Missouri Driver's License Bureau,
whether it happens on public or private property, if:

the collision involved an uninsured motorist.


the collision caused more than $500 in property damage.
someone is injured or killed.

If an uninsured motorist was involved, you may still report the accident even if the total
damages are less than $500 or caused no injury or death. This will allow the Department
of Revenue to take action against this driver.
You can pick up an accident report form from:

your insurance company


all law enforcement agencies
The Driver's License Bureau
all Department of Revenue branch offices
all Fee License offices

If you are found to be at fault in an accident and do not pay for the damages, your
license and vehicle plates will be suspended for one year. You may be reinstated within
the one-year period if you pay a $20 reinstatement fee and prove you have settled the
damages.

Chapter 10
ALCOHOL AND DRUG USE

Alcohol and the Law

Unquestionably, alcohol is the most abused controlled substance in the United States. In
the past five years, alcohol has been involved in about 40-50% of Missouri's fatal traffic
collisions. The denial and lack of acknowledgment by drivers often leads to catastrophes
on the road. Awareness of the signs that are commonplace in the problem drinker will
help reveal the driver's problem before it manifests behind the wheel. Awareness of the
penalties associated with drinking and driving related laws may also deter one from
mixing alcohol with the often difficult task of driving. Many lives can easily be ruined by
the problem of drinking and driving.
It is legal to have a container of liquor, beer or wine in your car as long as:

It is full.
It is sealed.
It is unopened.

A. Blood Alcohol Level / BAC .08% - When the level of alcohol in your blood system
reaches .08%, you would be legally DWI, or driving while intoxicated. For commercial
licenses, the BAC level is .04%, while it is .02% for those under 21 years of age. If you
were to consume one alcoholic drink per hour, you would most likely not be in danger of
getting near .08%. Conversely, increased consumption of alcohol over a short period of
time would most likely lead to an illegal BAC. For example, a 150 lb. male or female
consuming four alcoholic beverages (one ounce each) over a two-hour period would have
a BAC of .086% if a male and .105% if a female. This exemplifies the need for individuals
of varying weights and tolerances to know their own limitations. However, there is no safe
way to ever drive while under the influence. Even one alcoholic drink can make you an
unsafe driver on the road.
One alcoholic drink is the equivalent of a four ounce glass of wine, a 12 ounce beer, or a
shot
of
hard
liquor.
The body is able to absorb one ounce of alcohol per hour, or the equivalent of one drink
per hour. If three drinks are consumed consecutively at the beginning of an hour, the
equivalent of two drinks would remain in the bloodstream at the end of that hour, as the
body would only have absorbed one drink. (The liver can only absorb a limited amount of
alcohol at any given time.)
B. Presumptive DWI - A peace officer can arrest you at a BAC he/she believes is
below .08% based on his/her professional opinion that you are unsafe on the road. A
conviction for DWI may still be imminent, despite the actual BAC level being below .08%.
C. Impaired Driver - An impaired driver often has consumed trace amounts of alcohol,
yet still is dramatically affected as a result. Alcohol can affect individuals in many
different ways, with minimal amounts doing substantial damage. Alcohol alters behavior
and causes a driver to become mentally and physically impaired.
D. Implied Consent - Under the Implied Consent Law, you must consent to a chemical
test or tests of your blood, breath, saliva or urine when asked by law enforcement.
Refusal will often call for a one-year license revocation and the presumption that the
driver is under the influence of alcohol. These tests are not to be confused with Field

Sobriety Tests (FSTs are often administered on the side of the road -- see examples of
FST below), but are actual chemical tests admissible as evidence in DWI cases.
E. Administrative Per Se Law (Admin Per Se) - When you drive in Missouri, you
consent to take a blood or breath test if you are stopped for driving under the influence
of alcohol, drugs, or both. This law allows for an officer to confiscate your driver's license
if you refuse to take or fail to complete a test or have a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)
exceeding .08%. This effectively allows for a suspension of the driving privilege without
any formal DMV or court action. The police officer will take away your driver's license and
serve you with an order of suspension or revocation. The suspension or revocation will
take effect in 15 days, but during that 15-day period, you may request a hearing. The
order you receive may also include a 15-day permit if the officer indicates this on the
order.
F. 1 in 2000 - It is remarkable to imagine, but it is often said that there are
approximately 2000 drivers on the road at any given time who are DWI for every one
arrested. These numbers exemplify the difficulty those in law enforcement have in trying
to curtail the problem of the drinking driver. There are simply too many on the road who
abuse alcohol behind the wheel for officers to catch.
G. Dram Shop Law - The Dram Shop Law is based on the theory that all those involved
with the drinking driver are somehow responsible for the problem. Bartenders, hosts,
friends, and family could be held responsible under this law. Missouri has a limited Dram
Shop Law which states that a person licensed to sell alcoholic beverages may be held
liable for damages if there is clear and convincing evidence that the seller knew or should
have known that alcohol was served to a minor or visibly intoxicated person who then
causes injury or death to another person. What do you think? Is it personal responsibility
only, or should we all take some blame?
H. Road Awareness - If only one DWI driver each night emerges from a local bar,
restaurant, or establishment serving alcohol and takes to the road, imagine the number
of intoxicated drivers on our roads. All drivers should be aware that more than one
intoxicated person leaves these establishments each night and flood the highways. Late
at night on the weekends are consequently peak times for drinking drivers on the road.
I. Effects of Carbonated Drinks - Carbonated alcoholic beverages such as champagne
hit the blood system and brain much more quickly than non-carbonated drinks. The
drinker rarely knows the effects of the drink until it is too late. Festivities that celebrate
life with a glass of champagne often lead to catastrophes because of alcohol abuse.
Alcohol and driving simply do not mix!!!

Fines and Penalties

A simple fact of life: If you break the law, you must pay the price. However, if you drink
and drive, you may also pay with your life. The punishment for a DWI will vary with the
level of intoxication in addition to other variables, but listed below are some penalties to
expect.
When a law enforcement officer pulls you over or stops you because he or she believes
you may be driving while intoxicated, there are two different types of actions that may
occur:
1. If your BAC level is.08% or higher, the officer will take your license and give you a
Notice of Suspension/Revocation of your driving privileges. The notice tells you that you
are allowed to request an administrative hearing and that your driving privilege will be
suspended or revoked within 15 days.
ADMINISTRATIVE
ACTION

SUSPENSION, REVOCATION,
DENIAL OF DRIVER LICENSE

GETTING YOUR DRIVER LICENSE BACK

Pay a $45 reinstatement fee, attend a


1st offense: 30-day suspension,
Substance Abuse Traffic Offender Program
License Suspension followed by a 60-day restricted
(SATOP), and provide proof of insurance for
driving privilege.
2 years.
License Revocation

2nd offense: 1-year license


revocation.

All of the above, plus retake and pass the


written and driving tests.

2. You may be issued a ticket by the officer at the time of the arrest/stop. If you are
convicted of DWI or driving with excessive BAC (.08% or higher), the conviction will be
forwarded to the Driver License Bureau and points will be assessed to your driving
record. The number of points assessed will determine whether your license is suspended
or revoked.
If you are found guilty of driving while intoxicated (DWI) or excessive BAC by a judge,
your driving privilege will be suspended, revoked, or denied once the conviction is
forwarded to the Department of Revenue. Your past driving record and the points already
accumulated will determine whether your license is suspended, revoked or denied. The
following actions may apply:
OFFENSE
CRIME

JAIL
SENTENCE
FINES

SUSPENSION,
REVOCATION,
GETTING YOUR DRIVER
/
DENIAL OF DRIVER LICENSE BACK
LICENSE

BAC Driving or 1st


offense: 1st offense: 30 day Pay a $45 reinstatement
Operating
a Spend up to 15 suspension,
followed fee, attend a Substance
Vehicle with a . days in jail and by a 60 day restricted Abuse
Traffic
Offender
08%
BAC
or pay up to a $300 driving privilege.
Program
(SATOP),
and
More
fine.
2nd offense: 1 year provide proof of insurance

2nd
offense:
Spend up to one 1
year in jail and license revocation.
pay
up
to
a
$1,000 fine.

for 2 years.

1st
offense:
Spend up to 6
months in jail and
pay up to a $500
1st offense: 30 day
fine.
suspension,
followed Pay a $45 reinstatement
2nd
offense:
by a 60 day restricted fee, attend a Substance
Driving
While Spend up to 1
driving privilege.
Abuse
Traffic
Offender
Intoxicated
year in jail and
2nd offense: 5 year Program
(SATOP),
and
(DWI)
pay
up
to
a
license denial.
provide proof of insurance
$1,000 fine.
3rd offense: 10 year for 2 years.
3rd
offense:
license denial.
Spend up to 5
years in jail and
pay
up
to
a
$5,000 fine.
Filing Proof of Insurance - Anytime you are convicted of an alcohol-related offense,
you are required to show proof of insurance to the Driver License Bureau for two years.
The most common way of filing proof is an SR-22 insurance certificate. If you do not keep
proof of insurance on file, your driving privilege will be suspended again for the
remainder of the two years.
Administrative Action - A law enforcement officer will take your license and give you a
Notice of Suspension/Revocation of your driving privilege if your BAC level is .08% or
higher (or .020% or higher for minors). The notice informs you that your driving privilege
will be suspended or revoked 15 days from the arrest or stop. If you are eligible, the
officer will make the Notice a 15-day driving permit. You will also be given a form to
request an Administrative Hearing if you disagree with the action. If you are given a
hearing, your license will not be suspended or revoked until 15 days after the hearing
decision is mailed to you.
Suspensions - When convicted by the court or by an administrative hearing of DWI or
driving with a BAC level of .08% or higher, your driving privilege will be suspended for 30
days followed by a 60-day restricted license, if you have no other alcohol-related offenses
on your driving record within the preceding five years. To receive a restricted driving
privilege, you will need to file proof of insurance with the Driver License Bureau.
After your 60-day restricted driving privilege, you may have your full driving privileges
back if you:

Successfully complete a SATOP or comparable program.


Pay the $45 reinstatement fee.
File proof of insurance with the Driver License Bureau.

*On a first offense by minors with a BAC level of .020% to .099%, they do not have to
file proof of insurance to receive a restricted driving privilege.
Revocation - Your driving privilege will be revoked for one year if you are convicted of
DWI, if there are other alcohol-related offenses on your record within the preceding five
years. You may have your driving privilege reinstated after one year if you:

Successfully complete an SATOP or comparable program.


Pay the $45 reinstatement fee.
File proof of insurance with the Driver License Bureau for two years.
Pass the written and driving tests and apply for a new driver's license.

If you injure or kill someone because you were drinking or using drugs while driving, you
may be charged with second-degree assault or involuntary manslaughter. Upon
conviction, you may be sentenced from two to seven years in a state penitentiary, pay a
$5,000 fine, and lose your license for five years.
By accepting a Missouri Driver's License, you are giving consent to have your BAC level
tested when asked to do so by a law enforcement officer. You will also be asked to submit
to testing if you were involved in an accident that led to serious physical injury or death.
If you refuse to submit to a chemical test to determine your blood alcohol concentration
when asked to do so by an officer, your driving privilege will be revoked for one year. You
may have your driving privilege reinstated if you:

Pay a $45 reinstatement fee.


Successfully complete a SATOP or a comparable program.

Under 21 Abuse and Lose - If you are under the age of 21, you will have your driving
privilege suspended for 90 days for a first time plea or finding of guilt of any of the
following:

Any alcohol-related traffic offense.


Any offense involving the possession or use of alcohol while operating a motor
vehicle.
Any offense involving the possession of a controlled substance.
Any offense involving the alteration, modification, or misrepresentation of a driver
license (fake I.D.).
A second offense involving the possession or use of alcohol by someone under 18
years of age.

Ignition Interlock - This is a device attached to a vehicle's ignition, horns and lights. It
does not allow the operation of a vehicle unless a person breathes into the device to test
for alcohol each time it is driven. If you have been convicted of DWI once, the court may
make you install the device. You will be required to install the device if you are convicted
of DWI more than once. The device must be put on any vehicle that you use. You must

pay for its installation in your vehicle and for its maintenance.
If you do not follow the judge's order, your driver's license may be taken away for one
year. A second offense requires your driver's license to be taken away for 5 years. You
must pay a $20 fee before your driver's license can be returned.

Example of an FST
The field sobriety test, or FST, involves a field determination of a driver's ability to
operate a motor vehicle. The test given may include the following:
A. Balance Test - You may be asked to raise one leg off the ground and touch the nose
with an index finger. A drinking driver's equilibrium is affected, and this person would
have trouble with this simple balance skill.
B. Walking a Straight Line - An officer may ask you to walk along a line on the
roadway, moving the feet heel to toe and repeating. Again, balance is observed.

C. Counting Backwards - Speech is dramatically affected when alcohol is consumed.


Counting backwards will reveal slurred speech patterns, as well as the driver's ability to
concentrate on a simple task.
D. Touching Finger Tips - Basic coordination is influenced adversely by alcohol. When
asked to touch fingertip to fingertip, the drinking driver often has extreme difficulty.
E. Following Directions - The officer may ask you to perform a series of simple tasks a
specific way to help determine your sobriety level. Following basic directions is very
difficult when alcohol is introduced to the brain.
F. Nystagmus Test - The nystagmus test relies on the effect that alcohol consumption
has on the ocular nerves. Consumption of alcohol slowly weakens the eye muscles to the
point where the eye can no longer follow in "smooth pursuit" of the finger or object being
moved horizontally by the peace officer. An expert in this field (the peace officer) will
verify that the fluttering or twitching of the ocular muscle is a direct result of the alcohol.

Statistics
Statistics often substantiate causation better than anything else. Driving statistics show
the devastating effects alcohol has on a person's ability to operate a motor vehicle. The
following statistics are consistent from year to year and decade to decade:
A.
There is a DWI arrest rate of one in every 143 licensed drivers in the U.S.
(alcohol or drugs).
B. Approximately 300,000 people are seriously injured annually in alcohol-related
collisions.
C. More than half of the people killed in alcohol-related collisions are drinking drivers,
20% passengers in the vehicle, and 17% occupants of other vehicles or pedestrians.
D. Over 90% of drinking drivers attending alcohol treatment centers (i.e., AA) return
within three years, indicating another DWI arrest.
E. Between midnight and 4 a.m., approximately 80% of all fatally injured drivers have
been drinking.
F. Roughly 40% of drivers on the road after midnight on the weekends are over the .08%
DWI level.
G. The leading cause of death among teenagers is alcohol-related vehicle collisions.
Drivers under 18 yrs. old have a risk of being involved in a fatal crash that is 2 times
greater than the average driver.
H. It has been estimated that a person arrested for his or her first DWI has been driving
on the roads between 200-1200 times while intoxicated, without being arrested for DWI.
I. Approximately 25% of every dollar spent on automobile insurance premium is allocated
towards drunk driving-related damages.
J. Three in every ten Americans will be involved in an alcohol-related collision at some
point in their lives.
Statistics don't lie... alcohol, motor vehicles, and people don't mix!

Mandatory Video: "Drunk Drivers"


Low Quality (Dial-Up) | High Quality (Broadband)

Effects of Alcohol
Alcohol is absorbed directly into the blood stream. After it is absorbed, alcohol affects and
damages many bodily organs, including the heart, stomach, and liver. It can cause
enlargement of the heart (leading to congestive heart failure), cancer of the digestive
system, and possibly hepatitis and/or cirrhosis of the liver. Drinking too much at once can
lead to an alcoholic coma, which in turn can lead to death. The higher learning centers of
the brain are the first to be affected, followed by muscular control, and then vital
functions such as digestion, breathing, heartbeat and circulation.

Alcohol also affects your vision. The delicate, small muscles that control your eyes are not
able to focus and move correctly. The more relaxed the muscles, the fuzzier the picture
becomes (this is when double vision occurs). Other results are:

A tendency to stare straight ahead


A narrowing of the field of vision
Reduced depth perception
A reduced adaptability to darkness
Increased sensitivity to glare
A longer time to readjust after glare

As a depressant, alcohol slows down the activities of the brain, affecting judgment,
reflexes, and coordination. If the brain receives images from the eyes that are blurry and
unclear while its functions slow down, you have a great recipe for disaster. Some other
effects alcohol has on the brain are:

Reduced awareness of danger


A reduction in balance or equilibrium
Overconfidence (which can result in reckless driving)
Difficulty making decisions

How
Alcohol
Affects Your Brain,
Stomach, and Liver
BRAIN - The brain
lacks
an
interior
system of veins and
requires
large
amounts of oxygen,
which
is
absorbed
from
the
blood
stream. This blood
dispersed throughout
the body affects the
brain
in
particular
because it is affected
by anything that the
blood carries in it, and
the frontal lobe is the
first
part
to
be
affected by alcohol.
This part of the brain
is essential for driving
a motor vehicle as it
controls
judgment,
emotions,
decisionmaking
and
awareness. Driving a
motor vehicle requires
many
coordinated
functions, and these
are
adversely
impacted by alcohol
and other drugs.
STOMACH -Alcohol
consumption on an
empty stomach can
cause a peptic or
bleeding
ulcer.
A
bleeding ulcer occurs
if acid flows into the
ulcerated wall and
penetrates an artery.
It
should
be
understood and made
clear that alcohol is a
toxic poison that can
kill.
LIVER -Blood
is
channeled
directly
from the stomach to
the liver. The liver's
key functions are to
produce blood clotting
elements, break down

The table below explains some of the possible feelings that the body may experience at
certain BAC levels. Keep in mind that alcohol affects everyone differently, so you may
have different experiences at a specific level.
STAGE

B.A.C.
LEVEL

FEELING

EXPLANATION OF FEELING

.01 - .
04%

No overt effects

Slight feeling of muscle relaxation, slight mood elevation.

.05 - .
07%

"Happy"

Feeling of relaxation, warmth. Slight increase in reaction time,


decrease in fine muscle coordination.

.08 - .
15%

"Excited"

Balance, speech, vision and hearing slightly impaired. Feelings


of euphoria, increase in reaction time and increased loss of
motor coordination.

.16 - .
20%

"Confused"

Major impairment of mental and physical control. Slurred


speech, blurred vision, lack of motor skills.

.21 - .
30%

"Stupor"

Loss of motor control - person needs assistance moving


around. Minimal control of mind and body.

.31 - .
40%

"Close to Coma"

Unconsciousness - little to no reflexes. Subnormal temperature,


lack of circulation. Threshold of a coma.

.41% +

"High Probability
Deep coma. Probability of death from respiratory paralysis.
of DEATH"

Long-Term Effects of Alcohol on the Body


Drinking heavily over a long period of time can cause damage to many parts of the body.
Damage to the brain and liver functions can be permanent. Diet is often also poor, further
affecting health. Emotional difficulties, such as depression and relationship problems, are
also likely.

Signs of a DWI Driver


Alcohol often causes a person to drive abnormally on the road. As mentioned earlier,
alcohol is a depressant that slows bodily functions. Reduced tension and lower inhibitions
are common, causing the drinking driver to take risks he or she normally would not.
Decision-making is also greatly altered, as clear and concise thought is difficult. In
addition to breaking basic traffic laws, the impaired driver often performs the following
driving actions:
A. Speeding - Alcohol affects a person's ability to decide right from wrong and judge
safety in general. Speed is often increased, and unsafe chances behind the wheel are
often taken.
B. Driving Slowly - In a futile attempt to hide their intoxication, impaired drivers often
drive substantially below the speed limit.
C. Weaving - The drinking driver loses focus on the road and may fall asleep or simply
lose control of the vehicle. Coordination begins to deteriorate, with weaving the most
obvious and common driving trait.
D. Lights - Alcohol adversely affects basic brain functions, such as memory. Turning on
driving lights may be overlooked, resulting in a dangerous situation with a dark car on
the road.
E. Windows - The drinking driver often believes cold air will keep him or her awake while
driving. An open car window in cold weather late at night is often a sure sign that the
driver is intoxicated.
F. Lane Straddling - Drinking drivers often use lane dividing lines as guides to stay on
the road. This is an obvious indication of an intoxicated driver, as focus is lost and every
attempt is made to stay on the road.

G. Tailgating - Tailgating is a basic driving violation, but it is especially common with the
drinking driver. Vision becomes impaired, depth is distorted, and the eyes react more
slowly to lights.
H. Turning Difficulty - A drinking driver may signal to turn one way and then erratically
turn the other way. It is very common for the impaired driver to make unusually wide or
narrow turns. Motor skills are at extremely diminished levels.

Ways to Sober Up
There is no easy remedy for chronic or short-term abuse of alcohol. The only way to
sober up is to allow the body time to absorb and dissipate alcohol in the system through
a process called "Oxidation." Food and coffee are often perceived as viable ways to dilute
alcohol in the system, but they are misconceptions. Water consumed while drinking
dilutes alcohol in the body and may lessen the effects on the brain. However, this does
not reduce the BAC. Water cannot reverse the effects of hours of drinking. Oxidation
occurs in the liver, and nothing can be done to either slow or speed up this process.
The Only
Proven
Solution: Slee
p and Time As a
depressant,
alcohol usually
induces sleep.
Sleep allows
time for the
body to absorb
and dissipate
the alcohol
from the
system. Time
allows the
body to absorb
the alcohol.
The body can
only oxidize
one ounce of
alcohol per
hour, meaning
a BAC of .08%
would require
at least eight
hours to be
fully absorbed
by the body.
SUMMARY... As of now, no one has discovered a quick way to extract alcohol from the
body. Several problems occur when you consume too much alcohol. Alcohol concentrates
in your inner ear and disturbs your sense of balance. Alcohol can trap needed nutrients
and waste products in the liver, therefore inflaming the liver cells. Alcohol interferes with
a phase of deep sleep, causing you to have a poor night's rest. Alcohol also causes
dehydration. Traditional remedies do not work. Coffee may give you a caffeine boost, but
it will not ease the symptoms. Fruit juice may rehydrate the body a bit, but it also may
upset your stomach, as will aspirin. REST IS THE ONLY WAY TO REPAIR THE DAMAGE.

DWI Prevention Locally

Designated Driver Program - The designated driver program was developed to help
deter drinking and driving while encouraging sober, designated drivers. One person in a
group is discouraged from drinking alcoholic beverages and made responsible for the rest
of the group. This person will drive the others home, ensuring that those who may be
intoxicated and dangerous will not be on the roads.
Designated drivers often receive support from the establishments where they and their
friends drink and eat, and sometimes they receive complimentary nonalcoholic drinks and
food. Some of the requirements to participate as a designated driver include:

Must possess a valid driver's license.


Must be in a group of two + people.
Must identify self verbally.
Must not consume any alcoholic beverage throughout the evening.
Should be at least 21 years of age.
Must understand that management reserves the right to refuse service to anyone at
anytime.

These programs have helped contribute to a decline over the last 10 years in DWI-related
deaths. Often, the drinker cannot consciously help him or herself and needs a friend to
step forward. Designated Drivers Save Lives!

Other Drugs
A driver's use of drugs other than alcohol (cocaine, marijuana and some over-the-counter
drugs to name a few) can also create significant problems on the road. Any two or more
drugs taken at the same time may cause a reaction called Synergism. This leads to the
enhancement of the effects of one or more of the drugs. The most dangerous
combination of synergism is alcohol and drugs. When you combine any amount of alcohol
and drugs that potentially affects your driving abilities, you are not only dangerous,
but IN VIOLATION OF THE LAW.
Alcohol is not the only drug that can affect your safety while driving. The following are
descriptions of some drugs and how they may affect your ability to drive.
A. Stimulants (Amphetamines) - These drugs cause a feeling of heightened self-

confidence, increased energy level and a reduction in appetite. They can cause
nervousness, irritability and tension, which may cause a driver to overreact without
following safe driving procedures.
B. Depressants (Barbiturates) - These drugs, also known as sedatives, may
significantly impair a driver's thinking ability, decision-making capabilities and emotional
control. A driver may be in a "daze" on the road, or driving while the mind is slowed.
C. Marijuana - The influence of marijuana varies greatly in individuals, but it is known to
slow reflexes and coordination, alter decision-making, and negatively affect reaction time.
D. Over-the-counter Drugs - Over-the-counter drugs can cause reactions similar to
many of the drugs listed above. Drivers may experience drowsiness, lack of

attentiveness, confusion, loss of decision-making ability, and altered vision. Always read
and follow the instructions and warning labels before taking any medication. READ ALL
LABELS ON DRUG CONTAINERS.

Chapter 11
Safety Equipment
A. Seat belts - The effectiveness and need for seat belts is unquestionable. To increase
the chance of survival in a crash, it is important that all occupants remain inside the
vehicle. You have a 45% greater chance of surviving a collision if buckled in a seat belt.
Neck injuries and paralysis are often the result of unbuckled drivers and passengers being
thrown "clear" of the collision. The seat belt prevents the driver from being thrown
through the windshield and into traffic.
Cars are designed to collapse in a crash and disperse the force of the impact through the
crumple zone (located in the front and back ends of the vehicle), with the inner
compartment securing and protecting the driver and passengers. It is important that you
periodically check to ensure all seat belts are functioning properly. A quick seat belt check
by a mechanic or car dealer will determine whether the belt is at risk of malfunctioning. A
minor or slight adjustment to a jammed belt or to the pendulum or ratchet
mechanism might be the difference between life and death.
Before you start your drive, be sure to fasten your safety belts, and make sure all
passengers are also buckled up in seat belts or child restraints. If your vehicle has a twopart belt system, always buckle both the lap belt and the shoulder belt.
The Law - Missouri law requires drivers, all front seat occupants in passenger vehicles,
and persons under 18 years old operating or riding in a truck to wear safety belts. In
addition, children younger than 16 must be secured in a properly adjusted and fastened
safety belt or child restraint wherever seated in the vehicle. Anyone 16 years of age or
older may be fined if he or she fails to wear a seat belt while riding in the vehicle,
whether that person is the driver or a passenger.
Child Restraint Law - All children less than eight years old, 80 pounds or 4'9" riding in
a motor vehicle must be properly secured in a child safety seat or booster seat. This does
not include public transportation or public carriers for hire such as taxicabs or commercial
buses. Children must be transported in a booster seat if they:

Are at least 4 years old but less than 8 years;


Weigh at least 40 pounds but less than 80 pounds, no matter how old; or

Are less than 4 feet 9 inches tall.

A lap and shoulder belt must be available for a booster seat to be utilized properly. If one
is not available, a child required to ride in a booster seat should be put in the back seat
using only a lap belt. A child who is at least 80 pounds or taller than 4 feet 9 inches must
use a safety belt or an appropriate booster seat.
Keep in mind that these are the minimum requirements. Regular seat belts do not
provide adequate protection until passengers are at least 4 feet 9 inches tall. Children
under this height are likely to slump in their seats, allowing the belts to ride up into their
abdomen or neck. If they are slumped when a crash occurs, this will likely result in
severe injuries.
Recommended Child Restraints:
Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding the weight or size of
children who use a particular restraint. These guidelines should help you determine which
product is best for your child.

Infant-Only or Rear-Facing Convertible - For infants up to at least one year old


and at least 20 pounds. This should be tilted at about a 45 degree angle to keep the neck
from falling forward.
Convertible or Forward-Facing Only - For children between 1 and 4 years old
and from 20 to 40 pounds. The seat should have a full harness to keep the child secured.
A forward-facing seat rated for use by those over 40 pounds can be used for larger
children too young or too active for booster seats or when the vehicle only has lap belts
in the rear.
Belt-Positioning Booster - For children between 4 and 8 years old and over 40
pounds who have outgrown the forward-facing seat. These come in two types: backless
or high-back. Use a high-back booster seat if the child's ears are higher than the top of
the vehicle seat. Booster seats should be used only with lap and shoulder belts. If your
vehicle has no shoulder harness, either install one or have the child use
the lap belt. Be sure the lap belt is low and across the thighs and not the
stomach.

Lap and Shoulder Belt - For children at least eight years old or at least
4' 9" tall if they can:
Sit without slouching;
Keep their back against the seatback;
Bend their knees comfortably over the edge of the seat;
Keep their feet flat on the floor; and
Sit in this position comfortably during every trip.
The lap belt should rest on the upper thighs or hips and away from the
stomach. The shoulder harness should cross the chest and collar bone,
but not the neck. Do not put the shoulder harness under the child's
arm or behind his or her back.

Young children are also safest when they are seated in the rear of the
vehicle. Your child should not sit in the front seat until he or she is at least
13 years old due to the dangers posed by air bags.
There may be situations where a child must be placed in the front seat. These would
include:
1. If the vehicle has no back seat.
2. If there are too many children to fit in the back safely.
3. If a child has a medical condition which requires constant monitoring from an adult in the front seat.
NOTE: YOU MUST FIRST BE ABLE TO DISABLE THE FRONT AIRBAG PRIOR TO PLACING A
CHILD IN A CHILD SAFETY OR BOOSTER SEAT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT.

If a child must sit in the front seat, he or she should be buckled in with a seat belt,
shoulder strap, and/or a proper child restraint seat based on his or her size or weight.
Children should sit back against the back of the seat positioned a safe distance from the
air bag. Remember: A child should never sit on the lap of another person.
Unattended Children in Vehicles - Never leave your child unsupervised in or around
your vehicle, even if you only need to run a quick errand. Dangers to the child include
abduction, trunk entrapment, heat stroke and hypothermia. A young child left alone may
also play with the vehicle controls, setting the car in motion and leading to a crash.
In Missouri, it is a crime to leave a child 10 years of age or younger unattended in a
vehicle when the child causes the vehicle to crash and injure or kill another person as a
result. Young children should always be accompanied by a responsible person who is at
least 14 years old at all times when inside a vehicle. If you see a child left unattended in
a vehicle and in a dangerous situation, you should notify the police.
Children in an Open-Bed Truck - It is illegal to drive an open-bed truck with
passengers who are under 18 years old and riding in the bed when you are driving on the
highway or within a business district. The following are exceptions that will allow minor
passengers to still ride in the back:

The truck has restraints or other means to keep passengers riding in the back
secure;
The person is an employee who needs to ride in the back to perform work related to
his or her job;
The person is engaged in agricultural activities that require him or her to ride in the
back;
The truck is being driven in a parade, caravan or exhibition authorized by law;
The truck is being driven only for a special social activity, and there is a lack of
available seating in the cab;
The truck is being used only to provide assistance to or ensure the safety of other
people involved in a recreational activity; or
The truck is the only vehicle owned by anyone in the immediate family, and there is
not enough room in the cab.

Seat Belt Myths


Many myths exist regarding the use of seat belts, but most of these are simply not true.
Some myths and the truths follow:
- Safety belts trap you in the car during a collision.
The safety belt keeps you secured and eliminates the chance of getting knocked
unconscious. When conscious, you have better chances to escape, as it takes only a
second or less to take off the safety belt.
- Safety belts are for long drives but not needed for quick, local trips.
50% of all traffic deaths happen within 25 miles of the home. Death can occur when
traveling at speeds of 40 mph or less.
- People thrown clear from a collision are able to walk away from danger.
The chance of surviving a car collision is 45% greater if you are buckled IN the car. If
your vehicle is hit from the side, staying in the vehicle will prevent you from being thrown
into the path of another car, through the windshield, or onto the pavement.
The truth from the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA)... 75% of
passenger car occupants in the US who were ejected from the vehicle in a collision did
not survive.
Why use safety belts?
Traffic collisions in the United States claim a life every 13 minutes, according to NHTSA.
In 2007, more than 41,000 Americans died as a result of traffic collisions, and nearly 2.5
million were injured. If everyone on the road wore seatbelts, as many as half of these
lives, perhaps even more, could have been saved! Could there be a better reason to wear
a seatbelt?

To truly understand the value of always wearing a safety belt, it's important to
understand some of the dynamics of a crash. Every motor vehicle crash is in fact the sum
total of three nearly simultaneous collisions.
1. The Vehicle's Collision - This initial collision causes the car to buckle and bend as it
hits something before coming to an abrupt stop. This occurs in approximately 1/10 of a
second, or literally the blink of an eye. The factory-designed crumpling of the car's front
end absorbs some of the force of the crash and cushions the rest of the vehicle from the
force of impact. This enables the passenger compartment to stop more gradually than the
front of the car.
2. The Human Collision - The second collision occurs as the car's occupants hit some
part of the interior. At the moment of impact, unbelted occupants are still traveling at the
vehicle's previous rate of speed. When the vehicle comes to a complete stop, these
unbelted occupants slam into vehicle components such as the steering wheel or
windshield. There is also great potential for person-to-person impact. In a crash,
occupants tend to move toward the point of impact, not away from it. People in the front
seat are often struck by unbelted rear-seat passengers who have become high-speed
projectiles. Many serious injuries result from the human collision.
3. The Internal Collision - Although an occupant's body eventually comes to a
complete stop, the internal organs still move forward. Quite suddenly, these organs
smash against other organs or bones. This third collision often causes serious or fatal
injuries.
Properly fastened seatbelts distribute the forces of rapid deceleration over the chest, hips
and shoulders. These are among the largest and strongest parts of a person's body and
can thus endure greater levels of force. In a crash, the seatbelt stretches slightly to slow
your body down and lessens the distance your upper torso travels before stopping. It also
reduces the chance of the "human collision" phase of a motor vehicle crash.
Safety belts are life belts. They help to keep you:
1. From being thrown from your vehicle.
You are 25 times more likely to be killed if you are ejected from your car than if you are
buckled up inside. Death occurs not just from the impact with the ground-you may be
scraped along the pavement, run over by your own car or another vehicle, or hurled
against a tree or other roadside object. It is much safer to remain inside your vehicle.
2. From hitting the dashboard too hard.
It is impossible to brace yourself in a crash. The forces in a crash are too great. According
to the National Safety Council, if you are traveling just 30 mph, and you weigh 150
pounds, you will hit the dashboard with a force of 4,500 pounds.
3. In better control of your car.
Your safety belt keeps you in position at the steering wheel. It is no coincidence that the
best place to control your vehicle is at the driver's seat.
Whatever your excuse for not wearing safety belts, it is not reasonable.

B. Air Bags - Air bags are considered passive restraints because they are totally
automatic. More and more cars are equipped with air bags which inflate automatically in
a frontal crash and then deflate afterwards in a fraction of a second, but will not activate
from a rear-end or side collision. Air bags only complement properly worn seat belts.
Many people mistakenly believe that seat belts are not required when air bags are used.
In fact, both systems used together create the optimal safety mechanism for injury
prevention. Some facts about air bags include:

They inflate and start to deflate three times faster than the average person can
blink his or her eyes.
They can inflate at speeds of up to 200 mph, particularly in vehicles prior to the
1998 model year.
They can only be used one time if ever activated and then must be replaced.
They are extremely reliable, and the possibility of accidental inflation is very
unlikely.
Inflation will not block your vision as it starts to deflate instantly.
Crash sensors measure the severity of the crash. If the crash is severe enough,
they send a signal to the air bag, which inflates in a fraction of a second.

Side Air Bags - Available as either an optional or standard feature in most current
models, side air bags provide additional chest protection by inflating instantly during
many side collisions, with some even providing head protection. These air bags are not
required by law, but most manufacturers still pad or improve door and body structures to
meet federal side-impact requirements.
Air Bags - The Whole Story
(Air bag information and statistics derived from NHTSA facts and studies.)
Air bags are safety devices that have proven to be effective. Since their introduction in
the late 1980s through 2009, air bags have saved over 28,200 people. As they become
more and more common in America, the number of lives saved keeps increasing. Air bags
have also proven to be particularly effective in preventing debilitating head and chest
injuries. A study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) finds that
a combination of a seat belt and an air bag is 75% effective in preventing serious head
injuries and 66% effective in preventing serious chest injuries in a collision.
Although air bags save lives, they also are the cause of less severe injuries. Air bag
injuries often include minor cuts and bruises. Although rare, air bags have killed about
296 people (as of January 1, 2009). This number, however, is relatively low considering
there have been millions of air bag deployments in that same time.
Safety Rules To Follow
One common element found in all of the recorded air bag related deaths was that the
person was too close to the air bag when it began to deploy. This event is caused by
either sitting too close to the air bag or by not being restrained by a seat belt. Never
place a child safety seat in a front passenger seat with an air bag because the air bag will
hit the seat, and there is a high risk of serious injury or death with this impact. A young
child's body will not be able to withstand the force generated upon impact with an air

bag, and the likely result will be a broken neck. (Children who need to be restrained in a
booster seat or car seat should always be placed in the back seat.) When braking sharply
prior to a collision, people are thrown forward into the air bags if they are not restrained.
Sitting with the proper space between yourself and the steering wheel or front console
will allow for your body to hit the air bag only after it has completely inflated. In this
situation, it is able to cushion and protect you from the hard surfaces of the vehicle.
Some important safety rules to follow include:
1. Adjust your seating position - If you are an adult in the front seat, leave approximately
ten inches between your chest and the center of the steering wheel or console. All
children
12
and
under
should
sit
in
the
back
seat.
2. Buckle up - Always wear the seat belt and shoulder belt (when available) when in the
car. The lap belt should be fitted over your hips, not abdomen, and the shoulder belt
should lie on your chest and over your shoulder. Remove any slack from the belts.
3. Adjust steering wheel - Tilt the steering wheel down toward your chest and not up
toward your head and neck.
On-Off Switch
Since the beginning of 1998, some consumers have had the opportunity to have an onoff switch installed in their vehicle for the air bags. This opportunity, however, is limited to
only a few people who meet eligibility requirements. You are eligible only under the
following circumstances:
1. You must drive with an infant in the front passenger seat in a rear-facing infant seat.
2. You must drive with children up to 12 years old in the front passenger seat (such as
with
a
carpool).
3. You cannot change your position in the driver's seat to keep the safe ten-inch distance
between
your
chest
and
the
center
of
the
steering
wheel.
4. Your doctor claims that (due to a particular medical condition) the risk of an air bag
injury to that person is higher than the risk of hitting your head or chest against the
steering wheel or front console in a collision.
Most people do not need an on-off switch as they are safer with air bag protection than
without. If the safety rules mentioned earlier are followed, the risk of being injured when
an air bag deploys is very low, and the chance of your life being saved by an air bag is
greater.
If you are eligible to receive an on-off switch, you must complete a request form from the
NHTSA. These are available at DMV offices and possibly at some automobile dealers or
repair shops. The NHTSA web site also contains a form to download. You must certify that
you are in the risk group as listed above and that you have read their information
brochure. Upon approval from the NHTSA, they will send you a letter which authorizes a
dealer or repair shop to install the switch in your vehicle. This is the only way you can
obtain approval for the on-off switch.
Statistics
Current statistics show the effectiveness of air bags in vehicular crashes:
45% fatality reduction for front seat passenger car occupants (drivers and passengers)
60% fatality reduction for light truck occupants
Remember to always buckle your seat belt . . .at least 10,000 lives are saved by seat belt
usage each year in the United States.
Signals and Horns
C. Signaling/Turn Signals - Always signal to let other drivers know of your intention to
turn or change lanes. Watch for other drivers' signals at all times. Turn signals are located
next to the headlights on the front and next to the brake lights on the rear of the vehicle.

Turn signals allow other drivers to see your intention to turn. To signal, simply move the
lever (which is connected to the steering wheel) up for a right signal or down for a left
signal. Some important tips to remember include:

Signal before pulling towards or away from the curb.

Signal before changing lanes.


Always use arm signals in case other drivers cannot see your signal lamps (during
daytime hours if it is very bright outside).
Signal during the last 100 feet before turning, and on the freeway, it is best to
signal at least five seconds before changing lanes.
Use brake lights to signal your intention to stop or brake quickly.

D. Horns - Unfortunately, use of the horn has become a spark plug for road rage
situations. Use of the horn, however, should not be feared but used as a means to save
lives. As a warning mechanism, there is nothing more effective in your vehicle. You
should use the horn simply as a communication tool to warn other drivers.

The horn should be used at any time it is necessary to avoid a crash.


If the roadway doesn't permit your vehicle to travel completely to the right side of
the lane when approaching a curve with an unobstructed view of less than 200 feet, you
must give audible warning to other drivers with the horn.
Do not use the horn to attract the attention of other drivers unless it is necessary to
avoid collisions or for the safe operation of your vehicle.

When driving on a mountain road where visibility is impaired and you cannot see at least
200 feet ahead, sound your vehicle's horn as a warning to other drivers of your vehicle's
presence. As a rule, you should use the horn only in emergency or distress situations,
and they must be in good working order and capable of emitting a sound that is audible
from a distance of at least 200 feet.

Chapter 12
Motor Vehicle Inspection and Equipment Regulation
In order to register your vehicle in Missouri, you must have a Certificate of Inspection.
This document certifies that your vehicle has passed a safety inspection. The certificate
you receive will be good for 60 days from the date of inspection. The vehicle safety
inspection will be good for two registration years, unless the vehicle is sold. All "even"
model year vehicles will be inspected when their registration expires during an "even"
calendar year. All "odd" model year vehicles will be inspected when their registration

expires during an "odd" year. The fee to have your vehicle inspected at an official
inspection station cannot exceed $12 for an automobile or $10 for a motorcycle.
In certain areas, such as St. Louis City and the counties of St. Louis, St. Charles, Franklin
and Jefferson, you will also need to have an emissions inspection.
The following equipment is necessary to pass the safety inspection:

Brakes - Your vehicle must have brakes in proper working condition.


Headlights - Your vehicle must have two white headlights.

Taillights - Your vehicle must have two red rear lights and reflectors capable of
being seen by other drivers from 500 feet away.

Signaling Devices - Your vehicle must have turn signals and brake lights as
originally installed by the manufacturer.

Steering Mechanism - Your vehicle's steering mechanism must not have too much
play or binding.

Tires - Your vehicle's tires must match and not be bald.

Safety Glass - If your vehicle was manufactured after January 1, 1936, it must have
safety glass in all windows.

Windshield - Your windshield's viewing area cannot be badly broken or cracked so


that your view is obstructed.

Vision Reducing Material - You cannot place anything on your windows that will
affect or reduce your visibility except:

stickers

informational signs

labels
2Windshield Wipers - Your vehicle must have windshield wipers in proper working order.
3Seat Belts - If your passenger vehicle was made after June 30, 1964, it must have two sets
of seat belts in the front seat.
4Horn - Your vehicle must have a device capable of emitting sound that other drivers and
pedestrians can hear.
5Exhaust System - Your vehicle must have an attached exhaust pipe, muffler, and tailpipe.
6Mirrors - Any vehicle made after 1967 must have an inside and outside mirror.
7Air Pollution Control Device - If your vehicle was made after 1967, it must have an air
pollution control device, unless it has a diesel motor.
8Fuel Tank - All fuel lines connected to the fuel tank must be firmly attached with no leaks.
9Mud Flaps - Any truck over 24,000 pounds that does not have a rear fender will require
mud flaps.

10 Bumpers - Passenger vehicles may not have bumpers that exceed 22 inches above the
ground when measured at the highest spot. Bumper heights on commercial vehicles are
determined by gross vehicle weight rating (GWVR).

Your vehicle does not have to be inspected if:

Your registration receipt shows that the license plate being renewed was properly
transferred within the last six months.
The vehicle was originally issued a registration for less than one year or for less
than two years of a biennial registration.
Your vehicle is registered as a historic vehicle.
You have a commercial vehicle that is used for interstate commerce and is
registered with the Missouri Highway Reciprocity Commission.
You are registering a vehicle from out-of- state, and that vehicle has not been in
Missouri for 60 days. The vehicle will need to be inspected within ten days of bringing it
to Missouri.
You are registering a new vehicle during the model year of the vehicle and the
following year.
You have an odd model year vehicle and a registration that expires in an even
numbered year.
You have an even model year vehicle and a registration that expires in an odd
numbered year.

Your vehicle's equipment plays a major part in safe driving, thus the need for regular
inspection. The following explains the requirements for some of the equipment listed
above, as well as the role they play in enhancing your safety:
Brakes - The brakes are one of the most important safety features in a vehicle. They
work best when your tires are properly inflated and have sufficient tread. The brakes in
most passenger cars must be able to stop these vehicles within 25 feet from a speed of
20 mph. They must be in good working order to stop within that distance, and because
brakes are essential to safety, proper maintenance is mandated by law.
Any vehicle that you drive on the roads of Missouri must have both service and parking
brakes. Your service brakes are dual hydraulic and are the ones that operate when you
press the brake pedal. The parking brake is manually or mechanically applied, either by
pressing a second brake pedal to the left or by lifting a hand brake between the driver
and front passenger seats. Your brakes must be able to stop the vehicle through all four
wheels. They must also be able to hold the vehicle under all loading conditions on any
grade.
Most newer cars have an antilock brake system (ABS) installed as a standard or
optional feature. If you have it installed, you will see an ABS indicator light on your
instrument panel when you turn on the ignition. Your vehicle owner's manual will also
mention ABS. It is a safe and effective braking system when used properly. ABS allows
you to maintain directional stability, control oversteering, and in some situations, reduce
stopping distances during emergency braking situations, particularly on wet and slippery
road surfaces.
How do ABS brakes work?
ABS works by limiting the pressure to any wheel which slows down too rapidly. This
allows maximum stopping force to be applied without locking up the brakes or causing
skidding. If standard brakes are applied too hard, the wheels "lock" or skid, preventing
them from giving directional control. If directional control (steering) is lost, the vehicle
skids in a straight line in whatever direction it is going. ABS allows you to steer during
hard braking, enabling you to have better control of the car. In the old days, drivers had
to know how to "pump" the brakes or sense the lockup and release foot pressure in order
to prevent skidding. This meant that if only one wheel lost traction and started to skid,
you would have to reduce braking force to prevent a skid. The advantage of ABS is that
the brakes on the wheels with good traction can be used to the fullest possible amount,
even if other wheels lose traction.

In operation, the wheelspeed sensors at each wheel send electronic pulse signals to the
control unit. If wheel lockup (rapid deceleration) is detected during brake application, the
computer signals the valve unit to limit the hydraulic pressure to the wheel cylinder. This
is usually accomplished by diverting the fluid into a small reservoir. The fluid is later
pumped out of the reservoir and returned to the main fluid reservoir when the brakes are
not being applied.
Anti-lock brake systems are designed to perform a self diagnostic test every time a
vehicle is started and every time the brakes are applied. The system evaluates its own
signals. If a problem is detected, the system will turn off, leaving normal braking
unaffected.
When used properly, an antilock brake system (ABS) is a safe and effective braking
system. ABS allows you to maintain directional stability, control oversteering, and in
some situations, reduce stopping distances during emergency braking situations,
particularly on wet and slippery road surfaces.
Lights - Lights are a required safety feature on all cars. Their purpose is to increase your
visibility, help you see when you drive, and to increase your car's visibility to others. Your
car should be equipped with headlights (high beams and low beams), taillights, turn
signals, brake lights, reverse lights, and emergency hazard lights. These lights should be
kept clean and in good working condition.
1. Headlights are used to increase your visibility so you can see other vehicles and
objects while also helping other vehicles see you as well. Your headlights must be on
from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise. Headlights are mainly used at
night, but they are also used during the daytime in certain situations:
Fog, rain, snow or any other weather condition which decreases your
visibility (use only low beams in fog and snow because high beams will
reflect off and cause glare, making visibility even worse).
On mountain roads or small country roads.
In canyons or extended tunnels.
Anytime you have difficulty seeing.

Vehicles sold after September 19, 1940 are equipped with multiple beam headlights that
have a low beam and high beam. High beams may not be used when an oncoming
vehicle is within 500 feet. When the driver is approaching another vehicle from the rear,
the high beams must be turned off at 300 feet before the vehicle you are approaching.
2. Brake Lights are located on the back of the vehicle. One is located on each rear side,
with most newer vehicles also having a center brake light located on the back window.
The purpose of these lights is to give other vehicles advance warning that you are slowing
down or stopping. Pressing your brake pedal will activate the brake lights.
3. Taillights are located in the same area as the brake lights at the rear of the vehicle.
Taillights are activated when you turn on your headlights. These lights indicate your
presence to cars behind you at night or any time when visibility is low.
4. Backup or Reverse Lights are located on the back of the vehicle next to the brake
lights. These lights are white and usually smaller than the brake and turn signal lights.
They go on automatically when you put the car into reverse. Most trucks and some
vehicles have a warning or beeping noise that sounds as the light illuminates to give
extra notice that the vehicle is backing up.
5. Emergency Hazards are the same lights that are used as brake lights. There is a
switch or button inside the vehicle that will activate your hazard lights. These lights,
when activated, will flash at a regular interval until turned off. Emergency hazard lights
should be turned on whenever you are stranded on the side of the road or when stuck in
the middle of traffic with a vehicle problem or emergency. These flashing red lights warn
other vehicles that you have a problem and imply they should use extra caution around
you.

6. Fog Lamps are to be used in conjunction with headlights, not in their place. A vehicle
may be equipped with not more than two fog lamps. They must be mounted on the front
of the vehicle no lower than 12 inches and not more than 30 inches in height.
Tires - Your tires are the only things that connect you to the road while driving. It is
extremely important to keep all four tires in proper condition. You should have a
minimum tread depth of one thirty-second (1/32) of an inch in any two adjacent groves
at any location on a pneumatic tire. (A pneumatic tire is a tire capable of being inflated
by compressed air.) On the side of all tires is the manufacturer's recommended inflation
pressure. These numbers should be followed and checked regularly. Tires should be
rotated regularly as recommended in your vehicle handbook. This will allow your tires to
wear evenly. Tire traction allows your car to brake, stick to the road, and corner better on
roads covered with ice or snow. Make sure to replace the tires whenever necessary.
Windows - Vehicles are manufactured with windows that are made of safety glass.
Unlike normal glass, the glass used for side and rear windows does not break into sharp,
often jagged pieces when struck. Instead, it breaks into small pieces that lack sharp
edges. This feature helps to reduce the potential for injuries in a crash or when a window
breaks.
Windshields - The purpose of the windshield is to help you see ahead and to you and
your passengers from the environment. It stops the wind from flowing into your face and
eyes and also protects you from rain, snow, hail, flying objects and bugs. It is also made
of shatter-resistant glass that helps to protect you in a crash. The windshield comes
equipped with wipers to remove rainwater or snow for clearer vision. Defrosters and
defoggers also assist in clear vision through the windshield. Windshield obstructions such
as improperly placed stickers or objects hanging from the rear-view mirror are dangerous
because they may block your view of other cars or pedestrians in your path. You may be
cited if your windshield or rear window is in such a defective condition that your view is
obstructed.
Window tinting or sun screening material is legal on side and rear windows and with a
light transmission of at least 35% and a luminous reflectance of no more than 35% on
the front driver and passenger side windows. Anything beyond the requirements must be
approved by a doctor for a physical disorder.
Windshield Wipers - All motor vehicles with a windshield, excluding motorcycles, must
have properly working windshield wipers. Vehicles may be equipped with either two
wipers, one to clear the right side of the windshield and one to clear the left side, or a
single wiper that is capable of clearing both sides. Under ordinary weather conditions,
wipers should be able to clear fog, snow, or rain.
Exhaust System - The exhaust system of a vehicle reduces noise and prevents fumes
produced by the engine from entering the passenger compartment and routes them to
the back of the car. Carbon monoxide is one of the gases produced by your vehicle. What
makes it so deadly is that it is virtually impossible to detect. Before you know it, this gas
will shut off oxygen to your brain, essentially suffocating you. If there are any holes in
the exhaust system, there is a danger that this and other gases will leak into the vehicle.
Usually the holes just result in noise that can prove distracting. If there is a problem with
the exhaust system, be sure to have it fixed right away.
Mirrors - Vehicles are required to be equipped with a mirror that reflects a view of the
road to the rear for a distance of at least 200 feet. A vehicle should have at least two
mirrors, with one affixed to the left hand side and one inside, usually mounted on the
windshield. Many vehicles also have a mirror mounted on the right hand side. You should
adjust your mirrors to give you the maximum possible view of the rear. They are your
tools to help alert you to vehicles approaching from behind as well as for backing up.
Other Required Equipment
Missouri law requires other equipment that is not checked at the time of inspection. The
following equipment is necessary in the State of Missouri:

License Plates - You are required to have properly fitted vehicle plates that are visible
and clean for viewing. If the Department of Revenue sends you two plates, you must
place one on the front of the vehicle and one on the back. If you have a motorcycle or
trailer, you will only receive one plate that should be placed on the rear of the vehicle. If
you have a truck which is in excess of 12,000 pounds, you will also only receive one
plate, and it must be placed on the front of the vehicle.
License Plate Light - All vehicles must have a white light that shines on the rear license
plate so that it can be seen from 50 feet.
Towlines - Anytime you are towing another vehicle, the towlines must keep the vehicle
within 15 feet of each other. Both vehicles must have lights on from 1/2 hour after sunset
to 1/2 hour before sunrise.
Slow-Moving Vehicle Sign - Any vehicle moving 25 mph or slower must have a slowmoving vehicle sign from sunset to 1/2 hour before sunrise. The sign must be placed on
the rear of the vehicle, and it must be reflective and clean and placed four feet above the
ground near the middle.
Studded Snow Tires - Studded snow tires are only allowed from November 1st to April
1st.
Projections - If anything overhangs the rear of your vehicle by more than five feet, you
must give warning. During the day, you will need to place a red flag or cloth at least 16"
square attached to the end of the projection, and from 1/2 hour after sunset until 1/2
before sunrise, you must have a red light at the end.
Car Maintenance
A. Preventative Maintenance - Always keep your vehicle in good working order.
Preventative maintenance should provide for fewer unexpected mechanical failures. Quick
reaction time is useless if the vehicle cannot respond due to poor maintenance. A proper
maintenance time table should be followed, with brakes and tires the primary focus. In
addition, check and replace worn or cracked belts and hoses. An emergency such as a
blowout, car stall, or brake failure can often be avoided if the car is properly maintained.
B. Tire Maintenance - Collision avoidance and emergency driving techniques don't just
rely on a quick reaction time and skill behind the wheel. An important element, as
stressed numerous times throughout this curriculum, is properly maintaining all essential
vehicle control mechanisms. The tires, in particular, are the vehicle's connection to the
surface. Driving on balding tires or those without any tread whatsoever would be
analogous to a person attempting to walk on ice. The task is both difficult and
dangerous. You must keep your tires rotated and inflated to the manufacturer's
suggested levels, ensure there is adequate and sufficient tread, and periodically
check the tires for distress. These precautions will allow your tires to wear
evenly, stick to the road better, and corner better in snow, rain, and ice
conditions.
NOTE: It is imperative to get a tune-up at least twice a year or according to the
car's maintenance handbook.

CHAPTER 13

VEHICLE REGISTRATION
All vehicles in the State of Missouri must be registered, and this can be done at any
branch or fee license office. Registrations fees for passenger vehicles will vary depending
on their taxable horsepower. Commercial vehicles will pay registration fees based on its
zone and the gross weight of the vehicle. Fee offices will charge an additional $2.50
special processing charge when you register your vehicle.
New residents to Missouri must register their vehicle within thirty days of becoming a
resident. In order to register your vehicle with the state, you must surrender your out-ofstate title. After you surrender your out-of-state title, a Missouri title will be mailed to you
or the financial institution that has your title. Starting July 1st, 2000, you can register
your vehicle for two years if you qualify at the time you purchase new license plates or
renew or transfer your current license plates. In order to register your vehicle, you will
need the following:

A copy of your title, a notice from the Department of Revenue to renew your
registration, or a registration receipt from the previous registration.
An original certificate of safety/emissions inspection that is no more than sixty days
old.
Proof of insurance or financial responsibility.
Original county or City of St. Louis paid personal property tax receipt for the
previous year or a statement of non-assessment.
Appropriate license fee.

At the time you register your vehicle, you will need to sign an affidavit stating you have
and will maintain insurance on all your motor vehicles during the period of registration.
MISSOURI VEHICLE LICENSE PLATES
Missouri license plates have the words "Show Me State" across the bottom of the plate.
On each plate is a place to put a month tab and a year tab. The month tabs are a
different color for each month, as shown:

Background Co
White
White
White
White
White
White
Light Blue
Black
Green
Orange
Light Brown
Red

Until recently, these tabs were placed at the bottom corners of the license plate. That
posed a problem as the tabs were easy to steal. To help curtail tab theft, the Division of
Motor
Vehicle
and
Drivers
Licensing
recommends
that
you
place
your new andrenewal license plate tabs in the MIDDLE of your license plates to help
prevent tab theft. With new license plates having a depression in the center for the tabs,
this makes it much more difficult for thieves. New license plates issued after October 1,
2002 have both the month and year tabs in the middle. This will be done for you by the
clerk when you receive your new plates.
NOTE ON RENEWING: If you have current tabs in the corners, do not attempt to
remove them in order to put them in the middle because they will disintegrate, and you
will have to pay a replacement fee for new tabs. When you renew, just put the year tab in
the center and leave the month tab in the corner.
The new tab placement applies to all license plate types except:

Specialty plates (such as Children's Trust Fund, civic group, or collegiate)


Personalized plates
Motorcycle plate

The Department will begin a complete reissuance of license plates by January 1, 2009.
License plate year tabs unique to each license plate number will then be produced in the
offices. This will result in license plate year tabs that will only be valid on the license
plates that match the number printed on the tabs.
Regular passenger vehicle license plates have three numbers and then three letters.
Truck license plates have three numbers, two letters, and then one number. You can
purchase personalized license plates at the time of registration for an additional $15 a
year.
Example of a Missouri license plate, with the recommended tab placements:
Renewal License Plate Tabs New License Plate Tabs

VEHICLE TITLING
A vehicle title is proof that you own your vehicle. When you purchase a vehicle, you must
apply for a title within thirty days. If you do not, you will need to pay a late penalty fee.
When you buy a new vehicle, the dealer will give you a title application to fill out, and he
or she will give you a Manufacturer's Statement of Origin. The Manufacturer's Statement
of Origin will show that the vehicle is new and has never been registered before. When
you purchase a used vehicle in Missouri, you will need to get a properly assigned title
from the seller that shows you have bought the vehicle. If the vehicle is bought from a
dealer, he or she will provide you with a title application. If the vehicle is less than ten
years old, you will also need a proper odometer disclosure.
A properly assigned title has the following information:
On
the
front:
the
name
of
the
seller
- the address of the seller
On
the
back:
the
buyer's
name
the
buyer's
address
the
odometer
reading
(if
applicable)
the
sale
price
of
the
vehicle
the
name
of
any
lien
holder
(if
applicable)
the
signature
and
printed
name
of
the
seller
- the buyer's signature and printed name

Odometer Reading
Anytime you buy or sell a vehicle in Missouri, the seller must write the mileage of the
vehicle on the title if the vehicle is less than ten years old. For new vehicles, the

odometer reading must be on the Manufacturer's Statement of Origin. It is required that


both the buyer and the seller print and sign their names verifying the mileage.
Where to go to get a Title - You will need to go to a Department of Revenue Branch or
Fee License Office to apply for a title. The title will cost $8.50 at any Branch Office; a Fee
Office will charge you an additional $2.50 processing fee. In order to get your title, you
will need to pay all state and local taxes due.
After you apply for a title, you will be issued a validated receipt. If there is a lien on your
vehicle, the title will be mailed to the lien holder by the Department of Revenue. If there
is no lien on the vehicle, the Department of Revenue will mail the title to you. Remember,
your vehicle title is proof you own your vehicle; this proof should NOT be kept in your
vehicle.

LOST OR STOLEN TITLE, TABS, OR LICENSE PLATES


If your license plates, tabs or title are lost or destroyed, you must apply for a new one
right away. You can apply at a Branch Office; a new title will cost $8.50, new tabs will
cost $8.50, and new license plates will run you $8.50 a piece or $17 for two plates/tabs.
You may also apply for replacements at any Fee Office, but there will be an additional
$3.50 processing fee. If you provide a police report that shows your vehicle plates or tabs
were stolen, you will receive one set at no charge. You will have to pay a $3.50
processing fee, however. Only one set of replacement license tabs may be issued at no
charge within a calendar year due to theft, so if you suffer another loss, you must pay for
the replacement tabs.

Road Conditions
When driving in poor weather conditions, it is best to stay on paved roadways and to
follow in the path of the car ahead. You must slow down and allow extra vehicle spacing
between your vehicle and the one you are following. Road conditions play a major role in
driving. Knowledge of road conditions and weather is valuable in determining the safest
route in which to travel. Preparation of your vehicle well in advance will help to minimize
breakdowns. In Missouri, you are required to turn on your headlights in fog and in other
weather conditions where you need to use your windshield wipers so you can drive in a
careful and prudent manner. The following are some weather phenomena that may affect
road conditions:
A. Rain / Hydroplaning - Rain often creates a thin
film of water that causes separation between the
vehicle's tires and the road. At high speeds, water
rushes between the tire and the road's surface,
preventing traction. A similar effect is what allows an
airplane to gain lift upon takeoff. Hydroplaning
induces skidding, as steering is ineffective without a
connection between the vehicle and the roadway.
Slower driving can help prevent this effect, as will a
knowledge of current weather conditions prior to
driving.
Drive with caution when it starts to rain. The first rain
after a dry spell often leads to a dangerous condition
in which to operate a motor vehicle. This early rain
lifts the oil up from the road surface, yet does not
completely wash away the slippery substance.
Unfortunately, many drivers are generally unwilling to
slow down to a level that the first rain requires. Light
rain tends to be ignored by people who continue

driving as if the roads were clear and dry. What they


fail to realize is that this light rain makes the road
slick and simply does not provide enough water to
wash away all the accumulated oil and debris. Always
slow down and allow for extra stopping distance. It is
important to remember that when road conditions and
surfaces change, braking distance and traction
change as well.
B. Snow/Ice - Driving in snow or on ice requires
substantially longer stopping distances. Additionally,
you need to drive slower, take extra precautions on
turns, and leave more room between other vehicles
and curbs. You also need greater anticipation and
awareness of other vehicles on the road. Removal of
any snow buildup on the vehicle can help minimize
the dangers of driving in snow, as will the use of
snow tires or chains. When driving in the snow, you
should clear all windows and use headlights,
windshield wipers and driving lamps for maximum
visibility. Do not use the four-wheel drive on ice if you
are driving a four-wheel drive vehicle because that
will cause you to overturn. Make all moves gradually
to avoid skidding.
C. Black Ice - In cold weather, where the air lacks
the precipitation necessary to create snow, falling
frozen rain often leads to a hazard called Black Ice.
This type of ice covers the road but is not visible to
the naked eye. Traveling at normal highway speeds
can cause you to suddenly lose control and skid if
you drive over black ice. A reduction in driving speed
will help reduce the chances of skidding and related
collisions due to black ice. You should always be alert
for areas where ice collects. The most common areas
where black ice forms include bridges, overpasses,
and shady areas.

D. Fog - In fog, low beams must be utilized, and


speed should be dramatically reduced. Fog lights can
be turned on, but a decision should be made on
whether driving should be attempted at all. In heavy
fog, visibility is often less than a car length, making
driving in any capacity inadvisable. When driving in
fog, it is important that you not drive faster than your
line of sight will permit. When there is severe fog, the
best option is to stay off the road.

E. High Winds - High winds can cause a lack of


control of the vehicle, with gusts often thrashing the
vehicle off the road. Slower speeds can ease the
danger of driving in high winds. High profile vehicles,
such as campers, trucks, and RVs, are often more
susceptible to overturning when high winds are
prevalent. If you drive a high profile vehicle, avoid
driving in these conditions if possible, or at least keep
your speed low.

F. Dust - Dust storms often make it virtually


impossible to drive. General lack of visibility in a dust
storm can only be resolved through slower driving.
Often, driving in a dust storm is similar to driving in
severe fog and is unwise altogether. Pulling over to
the side of the road and waiting for the storm to pass
is often the best option.

G. Curves - Driving on curvy roads requires slowing


of the vehicle prior to approaching the curve. Braking
in the curve, in addition to causing strain to the tires,
may cause skidding, especially if the road is slippery.
In addition, you need a heightened awareness of
road and traffic conditions as you will have difficulty
seeing the road ahead.

Nighttime Driving - For driving at night, you should:

Make sure your windows are clean.


Turn your headlights on in bad weather or when you cannot see 500 feet (about one
block) in front of you.
Turn your headlights on between 1/2 hour after sunset and 1/2 hour before sunrise.
Make sure your headlights are clean and working well. Have them checked from
time to time for correct aim.
Use your high beams when there are no oncoming vehicles.
Do not overdrive your headlights. Your headlights only let you see about 350 feet
ahead. Be sure you are driving slow enough to stop or turn if you need to.
Use your low beams when you come within 500 feet (about one block) of an
oncoming vehicle. Also use your low beams when following another vehicle within 300
feet.
Slow down when nearing a curve if you are driving the maximum posted speed
limit.

Use the edge line as a guide. If there is no edge line, use the center line to guide
you.

Stay awake and alert. Do not drive if you feel tired.


Watch carefully for highway signs - they are harder to see at night.
Watch carefully for people and vehicles stopped on the side of the road.

WINTER DRIVING / SURVIVAL KIT


Does the winter season bring snow to your area? Are you prepared to be stuck in your
car for a period of time? Be sure your vehicle can handle the rigors of winter driving
before you head out by checking on the following (your mechanic can do these for you):

Brakes and tires - use snow tires or tire chains


Battery and ignition system
Antifreeze and thermostat
Windshield wipers and de-icing washer fluid
Headlights, tail/brake lights, turn signals and emergency flashers
Exhaust system, heater and defroster
Oil
Properly lubricate door locks that may be prone to freezing

Before leaving home, pack a snow storm survival kit and store it in your car at all times.
The kit should contain:

Extra-warm clothing
Warm winter gloves
Blankets and/or sleeping bags
A flashlight
Extra batteries for the flashlight
Highway flares
Booster cables
A length of rope
Tow cable or chain
Ice and snow scrapers
Snow shovel
A pocket knife
Matches (waterproof)
Nonperishable food
Drinking water (lots)
A camping or backpacking stove can also be handy
Add a brightly colored cloth so that you can mark your location if you have to leave
your car.

If you must drive, let someone know your route and schedule before you head out. Keep
your gas tank near full to keep ice from forming in the tank and fuel lines. Should you get
stuck, leave your car only if it is safe to do so. You will be much safer in your car than out
in the elements or exposed to traffic. The most important thing is to stay warm. You can
do this by occasionally running the engine to get some heat. Turn on your car's engine for
10 minutes each hour. While you have the engine running, also turn on the heater.
Beware of carbon monoxide poisoning when you run the engine. Clear away snow from
the exhaust pipe and open a downwind window slightly for ventilation. Use your blankets
and huddle with any passengers to remain warm.
Emergencies
Driving on the roads of Missouri requires attentiveness, skill, a vehicle that is responsive,
a little luck, and a subconscious mind that can quickly react. When an emergency occurs
on the road, the decision to act must be a split-second one, and you must know
instinctively what to do. The following will prepare you for an emergency driving
situation:

A. Brake Failure - Many factors can cause brake failure. For example, wet brakes that
result from driving through puddles/standing water can cause your brakes to fail, as will
brake overheating caused by prolonged use or hard driving. There is a requirement that
every vehicle on the road in Missouri be in proper working order with functional
equipment. In passenger vehicles, there are two main braking systems: a hydraulic four
wheel brake system, and a mechanically operated rear wheel parking brake. All brakes
and brake components should be maintained in good condition at all times. Properly
maintained brakes are not only required by law but are essential for the safe operation of
the motor vehicle. Check the condition of your vehicle's brakes periodically to ensure that
they function properly. If you are not sure, have a qualified mechanic examine your
brakes. You do not want total brake failure to occur when heading downhill, since your
vehicle will only gain momentum and speed, putting you and others in your path in
danger. If total brake failure occurs, there are several corrective actions you can initiate.
Procedures to follow include:
1. Pumping Brakes - Oftentimes a brake line is clogged and brake fluid is not flowing
properly. Pumping the brakes would attempt to distribute brake fluid adequately. Try this
solution first.
NOTE: Do not pump Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS). To initiate ABS Brakes, you must fully
compress the brake pedal to near maximum capacity. This will activate the computer to
pulsate the brake pads automatically and will continue while pressure is held down.
2. Downshift - The goal with downshifting is to create more friction in the transmission.
Shifting to a lower gear allows you to use engine compression to help slow down the
vehicle. Downshifting would also be effective in an automatic transmission vehicle.
3. Apply Parking Brake - Pull at the parking brake gradually, avoiding dramatic
movements. Drastic tugging at the brake may cause loss of vehicle control and
overturning. (The parking brake in many vehicles is rarely used. Many drivers mistakenly
believe that a vehicle parked while still in gear is unlikely to roll. The parking brake,
however, is in a motor vehicle for a reason. Car manufacturers can save countless
thousands of dollars during vehicle production if they were to omit parking brakes.
However, the value of the parking brake is immeasurable. A properly functioning parking
brake should be used at all times in conjunction with a vehicle left in gear or in the
parked position. The parking brake should be sufficient to hold the vehicle on any grade
and capable of locking the wheels to limit any vehicle movement.) Your goal is to slow
down the vehicle by any means and not lock up your wheels, as that may only cause
more problems.
4. Attempt to Warn Others - When your vehicle's brakes are not functioning, you
should honk the horn or make other efforts to notify other drivers out of fairness to them.
An out-of-control vehicle is a hazard to all on the road.
5. Sideswipe Objects (attempting to reduce speed) - Sideswiping involves slowing
down the vehicle by deflecting the car off other objects on the road. No object should

ever be hit head-on, nor should objects like curbs be hit, as they could cause the car to
overturn. Guard rails and parked cars would be good objects to sideswipe, as they might
gradually slow down the vehicle.
6. Shift into Reverse - As a last resort, shift into reverse. This action will grind all the
gears of the transmission together, which will also slow down the vehicle. The
transmission will be destroyed, but your life may be saved.

NOTE: The vehicle should never be turned off in an attempt to stop.


This action will cause other car functions, such as steering, to also fail.
B. Tire Blowout - A simple flat is often manageable when driving. A blowout, however,
includes the shredding of a tire to the point where one is left driving on a rim with no
control of the vehicle. If you need to swerve into an object, do so into something that will
"give," reducing the chance of injury. Sound the horn and flash the lights to alert other
drivers that there is a problem. The first reaction for most drivers when a blowout occurs
is to slam down on the brakes. This instant human reaction, however, will only cause
more damage. Instead, you should hold the steering wheel firmly and keep the vehicle
moving straight ahead. Keep in mind the following actions to prevent a collision in case of
these blowouts:
1. Left Front Tire - If the left front tire blows out, the car will pull to the left, and the
steering will be quite heavy. Do not fight the pull, but instead grab hold of the steering
wheel with both hands, gain control of the vehicle, and gradually slow down the vehicle.
No dramatic or excessive braking should be attempted.
2. Right Front Tire - If the right front tire blows out, the car will pull to the right, and
the steering will be quite heavy. Do not fight the pull, but instead grab hold of the
steering wheel with both hands, gain control of the vehicle, and gradually slow down the
vehicle. No dramatic or excessive braking should be attempted. At speeds below 55 mph,
a blowout should be an easily controlled emergency.
3. Rear Tires - A blowout in any of the rear tires will cause the car to fishtail and feel
unstable in the rear. Control of the steering wheel is vital, as is awareness of any other
vehicles around. Slow down the car gradually to alleviate your risk of a collision.

C. Skids - An out-of-control skid is caused when the vehicle's tires lose contact with the
road. A thin layer of water that gets between the tires and the road is a common factor,
causing the vehicle to hydroplane. The old adage, "steer or turn into the skid," applies
only if you know the intended meaning. In a skid, the back wheels of the vehicle are the
ones actually skidding, with the front tires following. Should you find yourself in a skid,
turn the steering wheel in the direction the back wheels are skidding, or in short, steer
the vehicle in the intended direction. Some call it "counter" steering, while others simply
call it "correcting" the skid. Regardless of what you call it, the goal is to have the wheels
of the vehicle again grasp the road and find the pavement grooves. Drivers commonly
turn the steering wheel into the direction the vehicle is perceived to be skidding, which is
the direction the front of the vehicle is headed. This will only add to the problem and send
the car spiraling out of control. In a car with front wheel drive, the same actions should
be taken, but with some minor acceleration applied. Again, the attempt is to reacquaint
the car's wheels with the pavement.
Special note on skids...

Avoid turning or swerving suddenly; do these gradually


Don't apply the brakes; to slow down, gradually take your foot off the accelerator,
and if you are driving with a manual transmission, do this while you keep the vehicle
clutch engaged
Pay special attention to driving on snow or ice
Avoid driving on the shoulder of the road
When traction is poor to begin with, drive in a higher gear and accelerate gradually

One of the most dangerous results of losing control of the vehicle due to skidding is the
rollover. Turning your vehicle too sharply or hitting a low-lying object to the side may
cause this to occur. The following video will help you understand the dynamics of a
rollover so you can avoid one.

Mandatory Video: "Vehicle Rollovers"

Low Quality (Dial-Up) | High Quality (Broadband)


The best way to avoid a rollover is to control your speed and avoid sudden, sharp turns of
the steering wheel. Always wear your seat belt, which will increase your chances of
survival.
D. Oncoming Car / Wrong Side of the Road - The goal when facing a vehicle
coming towards you is to avoid a head-on crash, so you must take evasive action as
quickly as possible. Waiting until the last second to initiate a maneuver rarely gives you
enough time to avoid a collision. An early evasive move may cause, at worst, a sideswipe
or a rear-end collision, but it will help you avoid the more dangerous head-on collision. In

order to minimize the chance of a crash, you should slow down as quickly as possible,
pull to the extreme right or drive off the road completely, flash the headlights and sound

the horn.
E. Steering Wheel Locks - You should never move or adjust the key ignition while the
vehicle is in motion, so this problem should never occur. However, if the steering wheel
were to lock, slow down the vehicle as quickly as possible by whatever means are
necessary to minimize any loss of control.
F. Car Stalls/Breakdowns - The actions you should take with a stalled car will vary
according to time and location, among other factors. The goal is to show other drivers
that your vehicle is disabled and road service or a tow is required. These rules usually
apply:
1. Try to get your car off the road. Removing your car from the road will reduce the
possibility of another vehicle hitting you. However, if left on the road for any reason, the
vehicle must have its hazard lights on. A dark vehicle on the road is a collision waiting to
happen. NOTE: The purpose of emergency flashers is to alert other drivers that an
emergency situation or collision is ahead. If the emergency flashers do not work, put on
the vehicle's turn signals instead.
2. Remain in the car buckled up and lock the doors. Walking aimlessly on the side of
the road looking for assistance is unwise and unsafe. Sitting in the locked vehicle and
wearing your seat belt while waiting for law enforcement is the most prudent move. Law
enforcement is always alert to disabled vehicles. NOTE: When the vehicle is disabled on a
freeway, always attempt to pull to the shoulder and try to warn approaching traffic when
necessary. (Use signals, hazard lights or flares.)
G. Stuck Accelerator - A stuck accelerator is usually not a major problem, and this can
be solved by stepping repeatedly on the accelerator to free the gas pedal. If the car
continues to increase in speed, however, either step on the clutch to disengage the gears
or shift the vehicle into the neutral position. As a last resort, you can turn the vehicle off
completely, but this action may result in the loss of the power steering.
H. Fan Belt Sticks or Breaks - The vehicle will most probably overheat if you have a
problem with the fan belt. Turn on the vehicle's heat to the highest setting. This will draw
much of the heat from the engine block, helping to cool down the vehicle. Do not drive
for more than a few minutes in this condition.
I. Steering Problems - Dont solve steering problems on the road while driving. Slow
down immediately. If power steering fails, you will have to work extremely hard to steer
the vehicle, but full control will not be lost. Use your flashers and bright lights to warn
others that there is a problem.
J. Headlight Failure

Try switching the headlights on and off a few times.


Try to adjust the dimmer switch.

Try turning on the parking lights, emergency lights, or turn signals, then pull off the
road.

K. Hood Latch Failure - If the hood latch fails and the hood opens while you are driving,
try the following actions:

Slow down your vehicle immediately.


Put your head out of the window and look around the hood.
Use the center marking lines or lanes as a guide.
Pull off the road as soon as possible, as you pose a risk to yourself and other
drivers.
Turn on your emergency lights.

L. Stuck tires - When tires get stuck in the snow or a similar substance like mud, shift
the car into low gear and attempt to pull forward as much as possible, with the wheels
angled straight ahead. When wheels are turned to the side, they provide a greater
resistance to forward and reverse motions. Do the same maneuver in reverse, and then
go forward again, without spinning the tires. This forward and backward motion should be
repeated until the car moves free. A wood object such as a branch or board may be used
under the tires if they are submerged very deeply. The use of tire chains helps reduce the
chances of the tires getting stuck.
M. Soft Shoulders - Dont drive on the soft shoulder on highways except in emergency
situations only. Driving on the soft shoulder is highly dangerous because that can lead to
loss of vehicle control, and it is also illegal. Some shoulders are paved which allow for
optimum vehicle traction, but soft shoulders are usually just packed dirt, which is
unstable, and they should only be utilized in an emergency situation.
N. Bad Pavement - It is vital as a defensive driver to be aware of all road conditions
that may affect your safe use of the highway. Bad pavement is a major contributing
factor to many traffic collisions. Pot holes or bumps may cause the vehicle to lose traction
with the road surface, while other factors make it difficult to simply steer altogether. You
should get to know the road conditions of areas where you intend to travel prior to
beginning the trip. Local law enforcement or city agencies can keep drivers updated to all
road conditions. Preparation for bad pavement or the choice to take an alternative route
can help reduce collision potential. When speeds are increased during freeway driving, be
prepared to steer around blocked roadways or obstructions to the roadway. Try and steer
around any stalled cars as well, and warn other vehicles behind by utilizing brake and
hazard lights.
O. Drop-Offs - Drop-offs are dangerous shoulders of the road which drop off or are
beveled into an abrupt drop from the normal roadway. Falling rain may also create a
flowing gutter of water often a foot or more deep, creating an even more unstable driving
situation. If for any reason your tires do drop off the side of the roadway, DO NOT APPLY
THE BRAKES! The uneven traction may cause a loss of control. Gradually take your foot
off the accelerator while maintaining a firm grip on the steering wheel.

P. Stuck in Deep Water - Never drive through deep water! You may get stranded, sink
under water, or even be washed away. The water can damage your vehicles engine. In
addition, the water may hide potholes or worse. If you cannot avoid this situation, you
should slow down and shift to a lower gear.
An overloaded vehicle has an increased chance of stalling in water. If you run into deep
water and get stuck, but do not sink, try to escape immediately through a window. If you
do sink, wait until the pressure equalizes before you try and open a window or door. First
get into the back seat where air pockets usually form and kick out the back window. The
back window is designed to come off fairly easily. \
Avoid flooded roads or driving too close to the edge of rivers so you wont get stuck in
deep water. Road workers often will place roadblocks around flooded roadways to keep
drivers out of trouble. If you see any of these roadblocks, it is time to look for an
alternate route. Drivers who go around the barriers often find themselves requiring
assistance. Sometimes the water on the roadway rises too fast for you to get out. In
other cases, you may run into deep water unexpectedly. The following video shows what
you can do in this situation.

Mandatory Video: "Sinking Car"

Low Quality (Dial-Up) | High Quality (Broadband)


Getting trapped in a sinking car can be a terrifying experience, but the most important
thing is to stay calm. When you are composed, you have a better chance to escape.
Q. Stalling on Railroad Tracks
If a train is approaching:

Unfasten your seat belt; get out of your vehicle and off the tracks.
Run at a 45-degree angle away from the tracks, and towards the oncoming train. (If
you run in the direction the train is going, you may be hit by debris when the train
collides with your vehicle.)

If no train is approaching:

Roll down your windows and listen for the train.


Try restarting your vehicle.
If that does not work, put your vehicle in neutral and push it off the tracks.

R. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning - Beware of carbon monoxide poisoning. Vehicle


motors give off carbon monoxide, which is a deadly gas. To avoid carbon monoxide
poisoning:

Do
Do
vehicle.
Do
closed.
Do
Do

not leave the motor running in a garage.


not leave the motor running with the windows closed when you park your
not use the heater or air conditioner in a parked vehicle with the windows
not leave the vents open when following closely behind another vehicle.
not drive with a defective muffler or exhaust system.

Chapter 15

The Point System


The Department of Revenue has created a point system for the purpose of suspending
and revoking Missouri driver licenses. The points will not be assessed until you are
convicted of a moving violation. The number of points assessed depends on the type of
offense. The following is a list of some violations and the number of points that will be
assessed:
VIOLATION

STATE
LAW
POINTS

COUNTY/MUNICIPAL
ORDINANCE POINTS

SPEEDING

LEAVING THE SCENE OF AN ACCIDENT

12

OPERATING WITHOUT A VALID LICENSE

(STATE VIOLATION ONLY)

1ST OFFENSE

2ND OFFENSE

3RD OFFENSE

OPERATING
WITH
A
SUSPENDED,
REVOKED OR DENIED LICENSE PRIOR TO 12
RESTORATION OF PRIVILEGES

12

OBTAINING
A
MISREPRESENTATION

12

12

12

12

LICENSE

ANY FELONY INVOLVING


OF A MOTOR VEHICLE

THE

BY
USE

The Department of Revenue may assess two additional points when personal injury or
property damage results from the operation of any moving vehicle.
What
happens
when
you
have
too
many
points?
If you accumulate four points in a 12-month period, the Department of Revenue will send
you a warning letter or a point accumulation advisory. If you accumulate eight or more
points in an 18-month period, the Department of Revenue will suspend your license as
follows:

1st suspension is for 30 days.


2nd suspension is for 60 days.
3rd or subsequent suspension results in a 90-day suspension.

You will have your driving privileges revoked by the Department of Revenue if you
accumulate:

12 or more points in a 12-month period.


18 or more points in an 18-month period.
24 or more points in a 36-month period.

To have your driving privileges reinstated after being suspended or revoked for too many
points, you will need to:

pay a $20 reinstatement fee


show proof of insurance (SR-22)

If the suspension or revocation was alcohol-related, you will need to:

pay a $45 reinstatement fee


show proof of insurance (SR-22)
complete a substance abuse traffic offender program (SATOP)

When a violation occurs which breaks both a state law and a county or municipal
ordinance, points can be assessed for either violation but not for both.

Driving
With
a
Suspended
or
Revoked
License
When your driving privileges are suspended or revoked, you must not drive. If you are
convicted of driving with a suspended license, it may be revoked for one year. If you still
drive when your license is revoked, you may be charged with a felony. Conviction will
lead to your license being revoked for one year.
NOTE: If your driver's license is revoked in one state, it is illegal for you to drive in any
state!
Reducing
/
Staying
your
Points
After having your driving privileges reinstated, the Department of Revenue will reduce or
stay your total number of points to four. Each year you drive safely without getting new
points on your record, the Department will reduce your points.

After 1 year - your points will be reduced by one-third.


After 2 years - your points will be reduced by one-half.
After 3 years - your points will be reduced to zero.

Although your record may be cleared of all points, certain traffic convictions may remain
there permanently. Another way to keep points from appearing on your record is to
complete a driver improvement program, or in the case of violations committed while
operating a motorcycle, a motorcycle rider training course approved by the Director of
the Department of Public Safety. The completion of a driver improvement course or a
motorcycle rider training course shall only be accepted in lieu of points once every 36
months. The course should be completed within 60 days of being convicted of a moving
violation.
The driver improvement program option is not available to you if you received points for
any offenses committed in a commercial motor vehicle. If you are a CDL holder, you will
not be able to attend a driver improvement program to clear your record of any traffic
offenses, even if you were driving a noncommercial motor vehicle.
Failure
to
Appear
If you fail to show up at court for a moving violation, the court will notify you within 10
days that you have 30 days to pay the fines before the court notifies the Driver License
Bureau. When the Driver License Bureau is notified, they will immediately suspend your
driver license. The suspension will stay in effect until the Driver License Bureau receives:

Proof that the fine is paid.


A reinstatement fee of $20.

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