chapter 6

EFFECTS OF DRIVER
CONDITION

Emotions and Driving

Physical Senses and Driving

Physical Limitations

KEY IDEA
How do your emotions, physical
senses, and physical capabilities
affect your ability to drive?

YOU'RE THE DRIVER

Driving involves
some risk, as do
many other activities. You can
keep your driving-related risks

low if you are mentally alert,

emotionally fit, and physically

healthy. How can your senses
help lower risks involved in

driving? How can drivers

compensate for physical dis-
abilities?

104 GO online PHSchooI.com Web Code: cyk-9999 105

 lesson 6.1 EMOTIONS AND DRIVING 107
heartbeat speeds up, your breathing quickens, your digestion FIGURE 2

lesson 6.1 slows, and your muscles tighten. If you are angered, your mind
The driver might remain angry
long after the people have
and body may prepare to fight. If you are afraid, your focus may cleared his path.
EMOTIONS AND DRIVING become flight. These emotions prevent you from properly apply-
ing the IPDE Process.

OBJECTIVES How Emotions Affect Driving The more tasks there are in a given driving situation, the

more complex and stressful the situation. During rush hour, driv-
Describe how emotions An emotion is a strong feeling. Anger, fear, and joy are example femo-
can affect your ability to
ers often display more discourteous driving behaviors as a result
tions. Emotions add a special flavor to life.
drive. of traffic congestion. Heavy traffic can cause stress and fatigue in
How you think and act depend a lot on your emotions. When
Explain how passengers drivers.
can help a driver. emotions affect your thoughts and actions, they can also affect your
Everyone encounters different stresses in life. Stress is not
Describe the influence decision-making skills and ability to assess risk. Strong emotions block your
emotions have on your always bad. Sometimes it helps people perform better and accom-
ability to judge and reason.
willingness to accept plish things. However, continued emotional stress exhausts a
risk.
In Chapter 5, you were introduced to the concept of risk and how
person and can lead to adverse effects, including heart disease and
Explain how you can to manage risks using the IPDE Process with the Zone Control System.
digestive disorders.
manage your emotions Emotions can lead you to assume more or less risk than normal. You can
while driving.
reduce the negative effects of emotions and better manage risks by using
courteous driving strategies. When you do this, you empower yourself, as
Anger While Driving
courtesy can influence others' emotions. You usually rely upon a set of assumptions or expectations when driving.
You assume that others will drive and act in a safe, responsible manner. You
Mental Effects of Emotions Strong emotions interfere with your ability
VOCABULARY might be tempted to react angrily when you must change your expectations.
• emotion
to think, reason, make wise decisions, and respond appropriately to situa-
In normal driving situations, other drivers might interfere with your
tions. They can increase your chances of making a mistake. Emotions can
aggressive driving intended speed or path of travel. They might slow or change lanes improp-
• road rage also affect the way you make judgments and decisions in a driving situation.
erly. They might not yield, may fail to signal, or may not move quickly WHAT
In some instances, strong emotions may cause you to focus on only
enough when a traffic light changes. Sometimes you might think that other
one event. You could miss other important events in a driving situation. In WOULD
drivers are trying to irritate you. As a result, you might become angry.
FIGURE 1, a driver suddenly moves into your lane without warning. If you YOU SAY?
Anger seems to occur and be displayed more often than any other
focus only on that driver's actions, you might overreact and cause a conflict Staying Calm You
emotion. Anger is one of the hardest emotions to control. When you are
with the driver behind you. Your overreaction could upset or anger that are riding with a friend
angry, your body and mind may respond with an urge to fight, which
driver. Instead of getting upset, you and the driver in the center lane of
can block your ability to think rationally. Anger may cause aggression a three-lane highway.
- FIGURE 1 ----- behind you could each increase the space between
or road rage. According to the American Automobile Association A driver
A vehicle suddenly cuts into your lane.
you and the vehicle ahead of each of you. Drivers
behind you
Decide What response will best minimize risk (AAA), aggressive driving is driving without regard for others' safety, starts honking the
with the vehicles ahead of and behind you? need to reduce their risks; emotional responses
and road rage is driving with the intent to harm others. horn, flashing high-
like seeking revenge increase risk. beam and
In FIGURE 2, the driver is angry at the people who are talking and lights,

Physical Effects of Emotions Strong emotions blocking his way. If he cannot maintain emotional control, he might remain tailgating. What are
two things you could
can cause changes in your bodily functions. Your angry and react aggressively.
say to help your friend
Anger can impair all of your driving skills. You might take risks
manage the situation
you would not take if you were calm. You also might not see everything and drive safely?
 108 chapter 6
lesson 6.1 EMOTIONS AND DRIVING 109
you should see, which can cause you to miss important clues. You might ahead has slowed, forcing you to slow. The truck driver
- FIGURE 4--
force other drivers to stop or swerve abruptly. These last-second actions can has just decided to pass the car. You are not sure what
Spirits might run high after winning
cause conflicts and added stress not only for you, but for other drivers as the driver ahead is going to do. Another truck is a game. The driver is responsible

behind the passing truck. As a ahead for his or her passengers. Apply
well. Good drivers never surprise other drivers. result, the driver
Concepts How can the driver deal
What might you do when you become angry while driving or encoun- and the truck drivers could cause you to make quick, with his or her emotions before driving?
ter other drivers who are? Here are a few options: irresponsible decisions.

• Think positively.
Leave punishment to police; your acts may only aggravate the si ation. Passengers and Emotions
• Model good behavior. Peer pressure can be a very strong force, depending
upon the situation. In a baseball game, team spirit can
• Consider that other drivers may have good reasons for their actions.
help win the game. In a vehicle, your passengers can
strongly influence the way you drive.
Other Emotions and Driving In most group situations, one or more people
Sorrow, depression, and anxiety are other emotions that can adversely affect need to assume responsibility and lead the group.
driving. These emotions can also slow body processes and reduce mental When you are driving, you must be the leader and
alertness. take control. You are responsible for the safety of your
Anxiety differs from anger. You might be anxious when driving in an passengers.
unfamiliar, difficult situation. You might have trouble identifying hazards In FIGURE 4, a championship soccer match has
when you are confused. You might even feel panic-stricken. As a respon- just ended. Everyone is going to celebrate. Emotions will be running high.
Sible driver, work to recognize difficult situations and try your best to cope. The driver will be under special pressure to concentrate on the driving task.
It may mean delaying driving, but your risks will be reduced. To make sure that nothing goes wrong, the driver must be the leader and
Excitement and happiness can also prevent you from fully concentrat- maintain control of the situation.
ing on your driving task. A happy, excited driver can be just as impaired as Passengers can help the driver maintain control while driving. Here
FIGURE3 You find an angry driver. After an emotionally intense event, try to deal with your are actions you, as a passenger, can take to assist a driver:
yourself in this situation
emotions before you get behind the wheel. If not dealt with, your emotions
on the highway. Apply • Avoid saying or doing anything that might distract or upset the driver.
Concepts How would could impair your driving abilities. Refrain from heated discussions. Talk about positive events.
you feel?
• Discourage the driver from taking reckless actions. Be prepared
Emotions and the IPDE Process to intervene if the driver endangers others by driving recklessly.
The successful use of the IPDE Process requires total Encourage the driver to let someone else drive, or refuse to ride in the

concentration on the driving task. In a tight, high-stress same vehicle. Do what you must to protect yourself and others.
situation, you need even more time to use the IPDE Process
• Compliment the driver for doing a good job of driving in a difficult
to keep from making wrong or late decisions, because your
situation. You might need the same support when you are the driver.
emotional condition can drastically affect your driving

ability.
Think how emotions could affect your driving if
-44, you were beside the truck pictured in FIGURE 3. The car
110 chapter 6
lesson 6.h EMOTIONS AND DRIVING 111

Anticipate emotion-producing situations and adjust your expectations.

Effects on Risk Taking •

Say to yourself, "I know there will be delays during rush hour, so I
Your emotions have a big influence on the amount of risk you are willing to
FIGURE5 You drive on will allow more time to get home. I will not let the actions of others
take. You probably will be more likely to take risks if you are angry than if
this street every day. bother me."
Identify If you were you are happy. When a driver cuts you off after passing, you might want to
upset and angry, do you If you encounter an aggressive driver, do not challenge the driver.
get even by taking chances you would not normally take.
that
think you could miss Avoid eye contact, ignore gestures or verbal comments, and remain
identifying the potential
Mature, responsible drivers do not let their emotions cause em to
hazard on the right? take unnecessary risks. Taking a chance while driving can be deadly. ou calm. Adopt a "yield" attitude.

must be mature enough to adjust your behavior so that you do not driv Try to adjust your route to avoid irritating traffic situations.

into or create high-risk situations. You also must be mature enough to If you are tired, make a special effort to manage your emotions. A
refuse to take part when other people suggest activities that could endanger tired person can become upset more easily.

you, your passengers, or other drivers.

Your emotions might also affect how you would drive on the same
Analyze your mistakes. Learn from them so that you are less likely to
drive
repeat them.
roadway at different times. For example, if you were driving an injured
Keep courtesy as one of your personal rules of the road.
Haste Makes
friend to the hospital, your concern might cause you to drive fast, increas-
Goal of Emotional Control Emotions and powerful Waste Stay calm when
ing the risks. An hour later, you probably would not drive home in the same are complicated
driving. Aggressive driving
manner. You then would drive more cautiously and courteously. forces. Learning about emotions and how to manage them is something
behaviors such as rapid
On the other hand, sometimes you might be so uninterested in your most individuals work at all their lives. Maintaining an attitude of "I will
and excessive acceleration,
trip that you don't give your complete attention to the driving task. Driving always work to manage my emotions when driving" is a big step toward over-braking, and driving
the same route over and over may cause you to pay less attention to the actually mastering your emotions. If you can manage your emotions and at high speeds waste fuel.

driving task. maintain your driving ability, those skills will help keep the risks of driving,
as well as your stress level, low.

Controlling Emotions
During some performances, like a concert or a play, you are asked to hold
FIGURE6 You're the
your applause until a certain point. You must manage your emotions until
driver. Execute If you
stay in control, what the proper time. In driving, you must develop this same type of emotional
affect might you have discipline. You must strive to keep emotions from affecting your driving review it 6.1
on the passengers in
your car? ability.
1. How can a strong emotion like anger affect your 6. Decide You have a big date tonight, but you
Coping with Emotions High-stress driving situations can cause emotions ability to drive? have to stay late after school. You need to run
2. How can passengers help a driver? errands before the date, and rush-hour traffic
to surface. These techniques can help you manage your emotions while
has begun. What can you do to avoid strong
3. What affect can emotions have on your
driving: emotions from affecting your driving before you
willingness to take more risks?
get behind the wheel?
• Use the IPDE Process to drive in an organized manner. Learn and use
4. What are some things you can do to help
correct driving procedures until they become habits. You then will be THE PASSENGER SEAT
Observe Traffic When riding
manage your emotions while driving? IN
as a passenger, look for
more likely to execute the proper action, even when under emotional signs of road rage and aggressive driving and take
Critical Thinking
stress. note of the traffic conditions in that area. Repon the
5. Compare and Contrast How are the effects of types of driver behaviors you noticed and the traffic
anxiety and fear on driving similar? How do they conditions that were associated with those behaviors
differ? to your class.
 lesson 6.2 PHYSICAL SENSES AND DRIVING 113
Field of Vision Your field of vision is

lesson 62 all the area that you can see around you fringe
vision
fringe
vision
while you are looking straight ahead.
PHYSICAL SENSES AND DRIVING While looking straight ahead) most peo-
ple can see about 90 degrees to each side,

Your senses play a vital role in using the IPDE Process. You use yo abili- or about half a circle. There are three
OBJECTIVES
ties to see, hear, smell, and detect motion to know what is occurring and types of vision that are part of your field 100
Define visual acuity and central
the parts of your field of around your vehicle. of vision.
vision
vision. Driving, like other activities such as sports and mowing the lawn,
Central Vision The straight-
Describe factors that can
exposes you to risks. As you drive, your senses help you stay alert and be
affect and limit vision. ahead part of your field of vision is called
aware of changing situations. Using your senses to help you drive can give
Explain how your your central vision. As shown in FIGURE 7,

senses help you drive. you a better chance of maintaining control over your vehicle and minimiz-
your central vision is a small, 10-degree peripheraL peripheral
Describe the importance ing your driving risks. vision vision
cone-shaped area. As you drive, direct
of managing sensory
distractions. your central vision to your target area
Seeing and 12—15 seconds ahead to identify zone
FIGURE 7 You can see most clearly in the area of central
C) More than 90 percent of the information you gather while driving is changes.
vision, but the fringe vision is also very important for
VOCABULARY received through your eyes. You must be able to clearly and quickly identify driving.
Peripheral Vision Surrounding
visual acuity closing zones in your intended path of travel. your central vision is peripheral vision.
field of vision Your brain directs your eyes to focus on objects in and around your
Your peripheral vision is sensitive to light
• central vision path of travel. Information is sent to your brain and combined with stored and motion.
peripheral vision information. As a result, you can identify hazards, predict conflicts, decide
fringe vision to maintain or adjust your speed and position, and execute your decisions.
Fringe Vision The part of your peripheral vision closest to your cen-
e tunnel vision tral vision is called fringe vision. Your side fringe vision is used to monitor
• color blindness
Visual Acuity When driving, you need the ability to see things clearly a zone condition after it has been clearly identified in central vision. The
both near and far away. For example, you may need to read the gauges on
upper fringe vision is used to detect changes in the rear mirror. The lower
depth perception
your instrument panel in one instant, then identify oncoming traffic in the
night blindness fringe vision is used to monitor reference points for vehicle position.
glare resistance next. The ability to see things clearly is called visual acuity. Some people see less than a total of 180 degrees. A narrow field of
glare recovery time A person with normal visual acuity—called 20/20 vision—can read vision—140 degrees or less—is called tunnel vision. A driver who has tun-
speed smear 11/32-inch letters on an eye chart from 20 feet away.
nel vision must compensate with more frequent head and eye movements.
You must pass a visual acuity test in order to obtain a learner's permit,

and possibly again when you apply for your driver's license. Most states

require a minimum corrected visual acuity of 20/40 to drive. A person with FIGURE 8 Use your
central vision to
20/40 vision must be twice as close to an object to see it as clearly as a per- STOP
check your target
son with 20/20 vision must be. With 20/200, the person would have to be 10 area and front zones.

times closer. If you need to wear glasses or contact lenses to pass the vision Use your fringe
vision to check
test, then you must wear them when you drive. reference points and
detect changes in
your rearview mirror.
 114 chapter 6
lesson 6.2 PHYSICAL SENSES AND DRIVING 115
Night Vision The ability to see at night varies from person to person.
Factors That Affect Vision
Some people who see clearly in the daytime have poor night vision. Not
There are many other aspects of vision besides visual acuity and your field
being able to see well at night is called night blindness.
of vision that affect how well you see when you drive. Good vision for driv-
All people see less at night than in daylight: colors are harder to iden-
ing also means understanding our ability to perceive colors and depth and
tify and details of objects do not appear as sharp.
to our limitations while driving at night, in glare, or at highway speeds.
Your night vision is limited to the area lit by headlights, streetlights,

Color Vision Color vision is the ability to distinguish one color from and other lights. In rural areas, you might be in total darkness except for

another. Not being able to distinguish colors is called color blindness. moonlight and the area lit by your headlights.
Being able to see the colors red, green, and yellow is particularly impor- At night, you might not be able to see anything to the sides. You might
tant since these colors give the messages stop, go, and slow or caution. The have difficulty reading signs and roadway markings. Compare the two
most common type of color blindness is difficulty distinguishing red and pictures in FIGURE 9, which show the same location during the day and at

green. This type of color blindness is hereditary and affects many more men night. Notice how little you can see at night. Your ability to judge distances
than women. accurately also decreases at night.

A color-blind driver can compensate by Glare Glare occurs in the daytime when bright sunlight is reflected off
• remembering the order of the lights in a traffic signal. If the lights shiny surfaces. Sunroofs and convertibles with their tops down let in addi-
are vertical, the red light is at the top. If horizontal, the red light is
tional sunlight that can produce glare. At night, glare occurs when bright
on the left. lights reflect off shiny surfaces. The term glare resistance describes the
• knowing the meanings of traffic signs by their shapes. ability to when looking at bright lights. Glare resistance
continue seeing
- FIGURE 9
reading all signs that appear with traffic signals. varies from person to person. Some people are more sensitive to light than
Here is the same intersection in the
day and at night. Compare and others.
• checking all zones and 90 degrees to the left and right
Contrast What objects that you can Sudden glare can blind a person temporarily, especially at night.
see in the daylight are hard to see at before proceeding at traffic signals.
Headlights turn toward you at intersections. Bright lights appear from
night? taking cues from other drivers.
over hills and around curves. A vehicle using high-beam headlights
Depth Perception The ability to judge distance between approaches from behind. Your pupils open wide at night to let in all - FIGURE -

yourself and other objects is depth perception. When driv- available light. When your eyes are suddenly exposed to bright lights, Some vehicles in sunny
ing, you must judge the distance between your vehicle and your pupils contract. You might be temporarily blinded before your conditions can reflect
a lot of light into your
other vehicles and objects. Accurate judgment is more dif- pupils can adjust to the bright lights.
eyes. Identify What
ficult when other vehicles or objects are moving. The term glare recovery time describes the time your eyes need can you do to avoid
A driver can compensate for poor depth perception by to regain clear vision after being affected by glare. Your pupils can take having your vision
affected by glare?
using a following distance greater than three seconds. 5—10 seconds to readjust. At 40 mph, you would travel more than the
length of a football field while partially blinded.
• allowing for additional clear distance ahead before
Take these steps to avoid or recover from glare:
passing.
• Avoid looking directly at bright lights. Use the right edge of the
• allowing greater distances at night than during the day.
roadway as a guide.
Darkness hides many visual cues that you use in the

• Anticipate glare situations and glance away or squint.

daytime.
116 chapter 6 lesson 6.2 PHYSICAL SENSES AND DRIVING 117
• Use side fringe vision rather than central vision Smell Your sense of smell can identify an overheated engine or over-
FIGURE 11 When you drive at high to check your lane position and the location of heated brakes. Smelling exhaust fumes inside your vehicle can give you an
speeds, your fringe vision is reduced so
your side vision is less clear. oncoming vehicles. early warning of the presence of deadly gases.

If you are impaired by glare, slow until your Sense of Motion Certain sensations can give you clues to the movement
vision clears.
of your vehicle. Your sense of balance tells you that you are veering right
• Wear sunglasses and use your vehicl ' sun visor or left, changing speed, or going around a curve. A sudden vibration of the
in bright sunlight. vehicle or jerk of the steering wheel might warn you of a mechanical prob-
Adjust your rearview mirror for nigh use. lem, a flat tire, or a change in the roadway surface.

Vehicle Speed and Vision As your ve Cle's

speed increases, your need for accurate vision also Managing Sensory Distractions
increases. Yet, at higher speeds, you have less time You increase or decrease your risk of becoming involved in a collision by
to see clearly. Your field of vision is narrowed. At 55 changing the level of control you have over your vehicle. Impairment or
mph, your clear, side-vision area is less than half as inadequate use of vision, hearing, smell, and motion will affect your ability
wide as at 20 mph. to manage risks. Anything that distracts you from using your senses and
Objects off to your sides become blurred and concentrating on the driving task will increase your risk of a collision.
distorted as your speed increases. This blur, or speed smear , as shown in The driving scene can change quickly, and you need to be alert

FIGURE 11, has an effect much like tunnel vision. Your eyes tend to focus far to changes so that you make decisions and act quickly. As a driver, you
ahead to where the roadway appears to come to a point. You see less and are responsible for maintaining control and managing any distractions.
less of what is happening on the sides. Make sure you move your eyes and Remember that the more distractions you can eliminate, the better you
increase the frequency of your side glances when driving at highway speeds. will be able to use your senses to manage risks and avoid collisions while

driving.

Other Senses and Driving Audio An audio system in your vehicle can cause distractions. You - FIGURE 12-

Sometimes you need to depend on senses other than vision to identify haz- need to keep the volume at a level that allows you to hear important Talkingon a cell
ards during travel. In complex driving situations, you may have to use more traffic sounds such as sirens and horns. Also, do not wear headphones phone while driving
creates risk for you
than one sense at a time. while driving. Headphones will block traffic sounds, and it is illegal
and your passengers.
in many states to wear them while driving. Avoid changing radio sta- Predict What do you
Hearing Your sense of hearing can alert you to the sounds of vehicle think could happen
tions and CDs or controlling portable music players while driving. You
horns, train whistles, emergency-vehicle sirens, and the engines and brakes if you aren't paying
increase your risk of a collision any time you take your eyes off the road attention to your
of trucks and buses. You can also get early warning of mechanical problems
and a hand off the steering wheel. driving?
by listening for unusual noises from your vehicle.
Drivers who have sounds blocked from them can be dangerous to Cell Phones Cell phones can be helpful in a vehicle in emergencies,

themselves and others. Driving with closed windows and with the stereo or but they are dangerous to use while driving. Research studies have

a headset on may make a driver unaware of critical traffic sounds. Talking found that drivers talking on cell phones were four times more likely

on a cellular phone while driving creates a similar hearing problem. to be involved in a collision. Some states have passed laws prohibiting
Drivers who are deaf know that they must compensate for what they people from talking or sending text messages on a cell phone while driv-

cannot hear. They use their eyes more than drivers who have normal hearing. ing. You should turn off your cell phone when you drive. If you need to
use the phone, pull off the road and stop the car.
118 chapter 6

analyzing data
lesson 6.3
Reported Aggressive Driving Behaviors PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS
Recently, a study about driving on San Diego interstates was conducted in order to
find out some common aggressive driving behaviors that drivers observed while
on the freeway. People were told to report observed behaviors using their cell A disability is a diagnosed physical or mental impairment that inter-
OBJECTIVES
phones and almost 1,794 calls were received. The circle graph shows the results of
feres with or prevents normal activity or achievement in a particular area. Describe what you can
the complaints. Study the graph before you answer these questions.
I. Reading the Chart What does each seg ent Many experienced drivers have learned to respond to different disabilities. do to combat fatigue.

Speed & Unsafe Lane Speeding in the graph represent? Generally, driving is possible for many people who have even moderate to Explain how medicines,
Change or Pass Analyzing the Data Which behavior was carbon monoxide, and
2. severe disabilities. However, a disability needs to be recognized before it can
19% smoking affect a driver.
observed most often? Which behavior was
be properly addressed.
observed least often? Describe what drivers

3. Inferring Suggest some reasons people

•
who have permanent
disabilities can do to
Tailgating
22%
might have for weaving and cutting in lanes? Temporary Disabilities compensate.
For tailgating?
4. Relating Cause and Effect Road rage Sometimes you must drive even though you are not at your physical best.
Road Rage
and speeding were reported almost the same You may be dealing with a temporary disability. A temporary disability is
number of times. Do you think road rage
a disability that can improve and clear up. While you can compensate for VOCABULARY
might have been a result of drivers who were
speeding? Explain your reasoning.
some temporary disabilities, with others you should not drive. • disability

5. Execute As a driver, what can you do • temporary disability

Fatigue Mental or physical work, emotional stress, or loss of sleep can
to make sure that you never become an • carbon monoxide
Lanes: aggressive-driver statistic? cause fatigue. You may not think of fatigue as being a disability, but fatigue
Weaving & Cutting • permanent disability
lessens your fitness to perform tasks, including driving. It dulls your senses
• chronic illness
and slows both mental and physical processes. If you are fatigued, you will
need more time to use the IPDE Process.
Fatigue can also cause drowsiness. Drowsy driving is estimated to
cause at least 100,000 collisions each year. If you find that you can't stop
review it 6.2 yawning, your eyes keep closing, or you can't focus or concentrate on the
driving task, you're probably drowsy and shouldn't be driving.
What is your field of vision? What part of your 6. Relate Cause and Effect and sunny
It is a bright
--FIGURE 13 ---
field of vision provides you with your clearest day, and you have a doctor's appointment for an Rest is the only safe remedy for fatigue. However, people often
Identify What clues
vision? eye exam. How might this affect your ability to need to drive even when they are tired. If you are tired after work or suggest to you that the
drive? What could you do to avoid or reduce the
2. Describe three factors that affect your vision. school, take a break for a few minutes before you drive. Stop every two driver is fatigued?
risks of driving after the appointment?
3. How do your senses of hearing, smell, and hours. Walk, stretch, get a beverage or snack. Use your orderly visual
What Might You Say You
motion help you assess driving situations? IN THE PASSENGER SEAT
don't want to scare or alarm search pattern to keep your eyes moving. Be active—listen to the radio,
4. How can sensory distractions affect the risks you your grandfather, who is driving, but you see a deer
sing, or talk with your passengers. Stop in a safe, well-lighted place if you
take while driving? at the edge of the road ahead. You are not traveling
very fast. Has your grandfather spotted the deer or feel you can't drive safely anymore. Lock the vehicle and take a nap.
Critical Thinking not? What might you say and how could you say it so
5. Evaluate Your senses help you drive. Rank as not to startle him?
Temporary Illness or Injury Any illness, even a cold, can impair driv-
the senses described in this lesson from most ing to some extent. A temporary physical injury, such as a broken bone
important to least important and explain your or a sprained ankle, also can impair your driving.
reasoning.
120 chapter 6 lesson 6.3 PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS 121
When an illness is temporary, many drivers do not recognize its influ- Leaving a rear window open might create a slight vacuum that pulls in
ence on their driving skills. Being under the influence of medicines can exhaust fumes.

increase your chances of being in a collision. Be aware of the side effects of If your vehicle is parked in a garage at home, open the garage door
WHAT
medicines by reading the labels. before starting the engine.
WOULD
In stop-and-go traffic, maintain a 3-second following distance.
YOU SAY? Effects of Medicines Many medicines have side effects that can interfere
Stop where you can see the tires of the vehicle ahead touching the pave-
with your driving ability and risks. For example, medicine that reduc s
Hey, Wake Up! ment. In traffic jams, especially in enclosed areas, turn off the engine when
headache pain or relieves allergies might also cause drowsiness, dizz• ess,
Your friend is driving
possible.
you home from the or reduced alertness.
movies. You notice the If you take medicine, read the label to learn the possible side ffects. Smoking Be aware that smoking while driving is dangerous. Smoking
vehicle is starting to The label shown in FIGURE 14 warns users not to drive while taking this raises the carbon monoxide level and reduces the oxygen level in a person's
drift. You look over and medicine. Ask your physician or pharmacist about side effects. If you must blood. Smoke residue accumulates on windows and affects vision.
see your friend's eyes
drive after taking medicine, try to choose a quiet, less-congested route. Discourage your passengers from smoking. Carbon monoxide from
are closing. What are
If a medicine's label indicates that you should not drive or operate tobacco smoke can affect even nonsmokers in an enclosed area
some things you could
do or say? vehicles or machinery, do not attempt to drive. If you begin taking a new such as a vehicle. If someone does smoke in your vehicle, open a
medicine and there is no specific warning about driving, be safe and main- window to provide fresh air.

tain an even greater following distance than normal until you know how it
will affect you. Permanent Disabilities Adaptive equipment allows
for hand operation of gas
Effects of Carbon Monoxide Your vehicle's exhaust fumes contain Disabilities such as epilepsy, blindness, and loss of a limb are and brake pedals.
carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas. Carbon monox- considered permanent disabilities because these are conditions
ide is present in all engine exhaust gases. that cannot be cured or improved. Many permanent disabilities,
You can sometimes detect carbon monox- however, do not prevent people from driving. Special vehicle
ide in a vehicle because the gas mixes with other equipment and controls, as shown in FIGURE 15, can make it pos-
FIGURE 14
A medicine can affect you differently at different exhaust fumes that do have an odor. However, Sible for many people with permanent disabilities to drive.
times. If possible, drive to your destination you cannot tell how concentrated the carbon Most drivers with permanent disabilities understand that
before taking the medicine.
monoxide is by the odor of the exhaust fumes. the disability itself may put them at a higher level of risk, and they
Carbon monoxide may be present even without learn how to compensate for those limitations.
ALLERGY TABLETS an odor. Some drivers with permanent disabilities have special license
INDICATIONS FOR videsrellef from hay fever. upper respiratory allergy symptoms:
USE.'
runny nose: i?åy. wate eyes.
sneezin ;

DOSAGP: Adults and children over 2: I tableteve 4t06hours. Not toexceed 6 tablets Small amounts of carbon monoxide can plates or window cards with the handicapped symbol. The symbol
in 24 hours. Children 6 through II years. Y2 thc lull dose (break tablet in half) every 4
to 6 hours. Not to exceed 3 whole tablets in 24 lwurs. For children under 6, consult a Dhysician.
WARNING: Do not take this product if you have asthma, glaucoma. or difficulty in urina• cause drowsiness, headaches, muscular weak- also appears on license plates or window cards of drivers who often
tion due to enlargement of the prostate gland, except under the advice and supervision of
a
CA
sician.
ION: Oonotdriveoroperate heavymachineryas this preparation maycausedrowsines
ness, mental dullness, and nausea. Too much transport disabled people. Vehicles with these license plates can
Avoid alcoholic beverages while taking this product. May cause excitability. especvally in
Children. carbon monoxide can cause death. park in specially marked areas in parking lots and on streets.
WARNING: Keep this and all drugs out of reach ot children, In case of accidental overdose.
contact a physician or poison control center immediately. As with my drug, if you are pregnant
or nursin a baby. seek the advice of a health professional before using this product. Be alert for the danger of carbon monox-
FORMU Each tablet contains Chlorpheniramine Maleate 4mg.
:

May also contain: Cellulose, Color, Croscarmelose Sodium. Dicalcium Phosphate. Lactose. FIGURE 15
ide in heavy traffic and in enclosed areas such
Magnesium Stearate. Povldone. Sodium Starch Glycolate. Starch, Talc. and other ingredients.
Store at room temperature (590-860F)
Protect from excessive moisture.
Aging There are many types and
Keep tablets in carton for better identification until used. O 8 as tunnels and underground parking facili-
combinations of adaptive
Use by expiration date printed on package. As a nation, we are healthier and living longer. As a result, more older
Manut2Ctured t" ties. Your heater or air conditioner vents might equipment available to help
PRODUCTS CO. usa
Verona. Pa. 15147
33261 00032 drivers are using the roadways. One in six drivers is over age 65. those with mild to severe
draw in exhaust fumes from the car ahead.
Eighty percent of drivers over age 75 take prescription medications. physical disabilities maintain
independence.
122 chapter 6 REVIEW 123
Aging slows reflexes, dulls vision and concentration, can make mus-
CHAPTER 6 REVIEW Chapter Vocabulary
cles weaker and inflexible, and reduces depth perception and field of vision.
aggressive driving glare recovery time
Failure to yield the right of way is the main factor in collisions involving
older drivers. However, drivers over 65 are still involved in fewer collisions Lesson Summaries carbon monoxide glare resistance

central vision night blindness

per mile driven than those under 30.
6.1 EMOTIONS AND DRIVING chronic illness peripheral vision

Emotions affect how you drive. Controlling your color blindness permanent disability
Chronic Illnesses emotions helps you reduce and manage risk.
depth perception road rage
A chronic illness is an ailment that lasts over a period of years. Some As a passenger, you can help the driver remain
• disability speed smear
chronic illnesses have little effect on driving. Other illnesses, such as heart calm and focused on the driving task.
emotion temporary disability
disease, could seriously impair a person's ability to drive. Control your emotions; don't let emotions control
field of vision tunnel vision
Some chronic illnesses require regular medications that can cause side you when driving. Strong emotions result in
safe focusing on a single item or event rather than the fringe vision visual acuity
effects that interfere with driving. Some people have diseases that cause
driving tip sudden loss of consciousness or muscle control. Before these individuals big picture.

It is illegal to park in Write the word or phrase from the list above that 1
can receive a driver's license, they must provide medical proof that their
handicapped-designated
chronic illness is under control. 62 PHYSICAL SENSES AND DRIVING completes the sentence correctly.
parking spaces unless you
Whatever the illness or disability, everyone who can perform driving • Visual acuity is how well you see objects. You use is driving in a way that causes harm
have special identification.
tasks safely and successfully can be licensed to drive when all other require- your central vision to see things clearly. Your fringe to others.
and peripheral vision allow you to see a wider
ments are met. Sometimes people with certain disabilities are required to be 2. is the time your eyes need to regain
angle than central vision, as much as 180 degrees
tested more frequently to maintain driving privileges. clear vision after being affected by glare.
to the sides.

Color blindness, depth perception, night vision,

3. A person with a condition that limits their

glare, and speed can affect your vision while normal daily activities for a limited time is said

to have a(n)
driving.

Your senses of hearing, smell, and motion help you 4. The narrow, 10-degree area that drivers can
drive safely. focus on is called their

review it 6n3 Limit sensory distractions while driving. Operating

the car stereo, talking on the phone, playing loud
5. A
has
person who has difficulty distinguishing colors

music, and wearing headphones all divert your

1. What can you do to avoid the effects of fatigue 5. Evaluate Why does fatigue probably cause so 6. A condition that permanently limits a person's
senses away from driving.
while driving? many accidents today? daily activities is called a(n)
2. What are some possible indicators of exposure Handicapped Parking Is there
IN YOUR COMMUNITY
to excessive amounts of carbon monoxide? What misuse of handicapped parking 6.3 PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS
should you do if you notice these symptoms? inyour community? Select an often-visited location,
such as the post office or a grocery store, that has • Fatigue is a temporary disability that impairs
3. How are drivers with permanent physical driving. Rest is the best solution.
disabilities able to drive?
specially designated handicapped parking spaces.
Visually observe the spaces on two different
• Medications and carbon monoxide have physical STUDY TIP
Saturdays to see how many vehicles use them. Also i:

Critical Thinking effects on drivers. Vocabulary Cards Write vocabulary

note if the vehicles are authorized to use the space by
terms on one side of a card and definitions
4. Compare and Contrast How might people with having a special license plate or card inside the car. Many people with permanent disabilities can drive.
on the other side. Try to define each word.
temporary and permanent disabilities approach Remember that you can't always see a person's Special adaptive equipment and learning how to Flip the card over to check your response.
driving differently? disability, so you must observe the vehicle. Report compensate are critical for operating a vehicle
your findings to the class.
safely.
 1 24 chapter 6 REVIEW 125
Use the below answer Question
Checking Concepts You're the Driver Preparing for the Test art to 5.

18. Compare and Contrast How is a driver with fringe fringe

LESSON 6.1
a broken leg similar to a driver who is paralyzed
Choose the letter of the answer that best completes vision vision

the statement or answers the question.

7. What effects can strong emotions have on your from the waist down? How do they differ?
100
ability to drive?
19. Evaluate What are the physical and emotional
1. The vision that is sensitive to movement and central
vision
light is a person's
8. What can you do to control your emotions while effects of vehicle speed on a driver?
a. peripheral vision.
driving? 20. Identify How are the passengers in the picture b. central vision.
9. How are aggressive driving and road rage below affecting the driver? What should they be c. tunnel vision. peripheral peripheral
vision vision
similar? How do they differ? doing to help? d. field of vision.

LESSON 6.2
5. The part of your vision that you use to focus and
Use the photo below to answer Question 2.
to direct attention toward your target is called
10. What roles do central vision and fringe vision a. field of vision. c. fringe vision.
play in your driving? b. central vision. d. peripheral vision.

How can drivers compensate for poor depth 6. What can a driver do to avoid or recover from
perception? glare?

12. How can senses other than vision assist you a. Squint and glance to the side.

when driving? b. Speed up and change lanes.

c. Turn on high-beam headlights.

LESSON 6.3 d. Close his or her eyes and hit the brakes.

2. In order for a person to park in this space, what 7. Where carbon monoxide most likely to be
13. What can you do to combat fatigue?
21. Decide What affect could the argument
is

is required? found?
14. How can you avoid carbon monoxide? between the two people in the picture below
a. A person riding in the vehicle must be in a a. in fuel
have on the driver's ability to drive?
wheelchair. b. in an engine
15. How can permanently disabled drivers
compensate for their disabilities? b. An able-bodied person must be present to c. in the passenger compartment
1 assist the disabled person. d. in a vehicle's exhaust
c. The vehicle must have a special license plate
8. Which the best way for a driver to prevent
Critical Thinking or card inside.
is

fatigue?
d. The vehicle must have special equipment.
16. Apply Concepts Besides there being less
a. Talk to yourself.
light, why might many older drivers avoid 3. When is glare resistance worst? b. Sing.
driving at night? a. when driving in a blinding snowstorm c. Open a window.
17. Decide You are stopped in heavy traffic b. when driving in traffic during heavy rain d- Get ample rest before driving.

and have no alternative other than waiting. A c. when driving in thick fog during the day

driver pulls up behind you and starts yelling

d. when driving in very sunny conditions
and blowing the horn. What should you do to drive Writ
4. In order to drive with any disability, the most
maintain control of your emotions? Why is this important thing a driver should do is Persuasive Argument Who do you think
important? a. drive at off-peak times.
is at greater risk when driving: a driver who,
through an has a temporary disability,
injury,
b. have a cell phone at all times.
or a licensed driver who has a permanent
c. use alternative routes. disability? Write one or two paragraphs
d. know how to compensate for the disability. explaining your response.

.1