LearntoDriveSafely.pdf

7/27/2019 LearntoDriveSafely.pdf

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Learn toDrive Safely


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Preace

Welcome to the world o Maruti Driving School, the only technology

enabled and well researched driving training programme in the country. This

programme helps to master the techniques and practices o sae driving,

using step-by-step approach that enables the trainee to gain prociency in

automobile driving that is comprehensive, yet un to do.

Pained by the colossal loss o precious lie, man days and money in road

accidents, Maruti Suzuki has been promoting road saety education or

over last one decade. Maruti Suzuki has taken several initiatives in this

direction, one o them being Maruti Driving School (MDS). Started in the

year 2005, MDS has a network o schools spread across length and breadth

o the country. MDS has successully trained both the sets o countless

customers the novice who wishes to begin, and the driving enthusiast

who is looking or that proessional touch to enhance his/her skill.

With the help o scientically developed content at Maruti Suzuki and the

latest state o the art training aids, our well trained instructors provide

expert training covering every aspect o driving. We use specically

designed simulators to provide virtual experience o driving a car in the sae

environs o a classroom. We, at Maruti Driving School, believe that mere

mastering o vehicle controls cant be the end o a training programme

change o attitude, imbibing road saety, respecting other road users rightsand deensive driving techniques are the true eatures that make a driving

training programme comprehensive. We believe that skills developed

during this training will make you a sae and responsible driver and will

help in making Indian roads saer.

This book is designed to supplement learning at Maruti Driving School,

and can also be used as a reerence book by a trained driver to periodically

reresh knowledge about sae driving.

We look orward to your enthusiastic participation to develop a distinct

road culture in India.

Team Maruti Suzuki


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COURSE

CONTENT


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1 Documents to be carried while Starting to Drive 6

2 Requirements or obtaining Learners License 7

3 Your Responsibilities as a Driver & Road User 9

4 Vehicle Controls 11

5 Trac Signals & Control Devices 22

6 Getting Started 46

7 Rules o the Road 53

8 Encountering Other Road Users 72

9 Driving in Dangerous Conditions 78

10 In Case o Accident 84

11 Fuel Saving Tips 88


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Section 1

Documents to be carried while

Starting to Drive

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Driving license

Registration certicate

Insurance cover note

Pollution under control certicate

Beore you start driving one needs a learners license


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Section 2

Requirements or obtaining

Learners License

7

Age 18 years or more or obtaining

a 4-wheeler learners license

Age proo Attested copy - birth

certicate/school leaving certicate/

passport etc. as mentioned in the

website o Transport Department

Address proo Attested copy -

ration card/voter ID card/electricity

or telephone bill etc. veriy at the

website or check with the RTO

Contact the RTO oce under whose jurisdiction you reside, apply

or learners license using application orm 1, 1A & 2. Submit above

mentioned documents along with 3 latest passport size photographs with

ee as applicable. A theoretical test may be conducted on computer/paperdepending upon acilities available with the RTO. Normally minimum 60%

marks are to be achieved or successul clearance. Approved list o identity/

age proo, no. o photographs, ee & minimum marks to be achieved may

vary rom state to state.

You will get a learners license which is valid or 6 months. By possessing

the learners license you can:

Learn the specied class o vehicle throughout India but you can drive1.

the car only with a person who possesses a permanent license and is

in a position to control the vehicle in an emergency.

Your vehicle must display L sign2.

in ront & rear o the car as per

dimensions given:


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Requirements or obtaining

Learners License

8

Beore applying or permanent license you need to learn about:

Your responsibilities as user o the road.1.

Rules o the road.2.

Road signs & markings.3.

Trac signals.4.

Accommodate other road users.5.

Mastering your vehicle controls.6.

Maintaining your vehicle to keep it t & road worthy.7.

First aid.8.


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Section 3

Your Responsibilities as a Driver

& Road User

9

Driving on a city road is a very complex process, merely knowing how

to handle controls o a car and knowing rules o the road is not enough.

Apart rom points mentioned earlier ollowing qualities are needed to be a

good driver:

A good driver should be in sound1.

health when he/she comes

on road.

A good driver needs to be2.

courteous and patient.

Must respect others right o way.3.

Good concentration & must4.keep away rom distractions like

children or pet in the car.

Avoids loud music while driving.5.

Rerains rom smoking, drinking6.

and using cell phone during

driving.

Neither overcondent nor lacks7.

condence.

I under infuence o drugs/liquor8.

remains o the road.

Wear ootwear and dress that does9.

not prevent you to operate various

controls.

Be a good driver

Avoid loud music

Dont drink & drive


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Your Responsibilities as a Driver

& Road User

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Dont talk on phone while driving

Luggage should not be loaded in your car in such a way that it10.

obstructs mirror view or make you blind rom certain angles.

Beore you start to drive a vehicle on road you need to be well

aware about controls o your vehicle. These are the devices throughwhich you drive & control your vehicle. Without the knowledge and

practice to use these controls, driving on road is hazardous.


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Section 4

Vehicle Controls

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All vehicle controls can be classied as:

1. Foot Controls 2. Hand Controls 3. Visual Controls

Foot Controls

Essentially all manual transmission cars will have three oot controls:

Accelerator

Increases or decreases the speed o the vehicle. This is operated by right

oot o the driver. Pressing it down will increase the speed o engine and

relieving it will reduce the engine speed. Accelerator control is critical as

slight pressure on it will increase speed o engine or car very rapidly that

it may go out o control. To control its movement one should support heel

on foor and operate it with toe. To smoothly control accelerator one would

require good practice on the car.

Clutch Pedal

Brake Pedal

Accelerator

Brake Pedal

Is used to reduce speed o vehicle or to bring the vehicle to a stop. This

pedal is also operated by right oot. More you press the pedal, the braking

eort increases. Since this pedal

needs to be used in emergency, to

apply brake quickly one has to litoot rom accelerator & press with

orce. Never switch o engine to

stop the vehicle as it will render

power assisted brake useless

brakes will ail.


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Vehicle Controls

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Clutch Pedal

To engage or disengage transmission rom engine during gear

changes & stopping o vehicle. This pedal is operated always by let

oot, keep heel on foor and use it as a pivot to operate pedal with

the toe. Clutch pedal may or may not be power assisted.

In case you use automatic

transmission only accelerator

& brake pedals are there. For

both the controls only right oot

is to be used. Do not use let

oot to operate brake pedal.

Hand Controls

Hand controls as name suggest are the controls which are

controlled by drivers hands such as:

Steering Wheel1.

The most commonly recommended method o holding steering

wheel is with both the hands on Quarter to three or Ten

to Two as per your convenience. As ar as possible hold the

steering wheel with both the hands except occasionally when

you have to shit gears or have to use other hand control or

a very brie period. Hold the steering rmly gripping it with

ngers and thumbs. Do not hold the steering with ngers and


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Vehicle Controls

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thumb rolled around the wheel as this is not a sae practice. In case

vehicle hits a boulder or divider etc. the steering wheel may rotate with

great orce and may break one o the thumbs. Never cross the hands

while turning the steering wheel. You have to use Pull-Push method o

turning the wheel without loosening the grip on wheel. This will acilitate

you to use other controls while steering the vehicle like turn signal,

horn, wiper control etc. With crossed hands it will be impossible to use

other controls. Holding steering rom any other position is dangerous

as you will require more orce and time to operate steering compared

to Quarter to Three position. Do not operate head lamp/turn signal or

wiper control switches by inserting your hand rom steering spokes.

Power steering can be hydraulic or electric. In case engine is switchedo power steering will become very hard making it almost inoperable.


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Vehicle Controls

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Gear Shit Lever2.

Manual Transmission Generally most o the vehicles will

have 5 orward and 1 reverse gear. Some o the vehicles may

be equipped with 4 orward and 1 reverse gear. Gears are

provided to improve the ability o engine to pull the vehicle.

When you want, start rolling the vehicle use 1st gear. In this

position, maximum torque

(turning orce) will be

provided to wheels. As

the vehicle speeds up

one starts shiting to

higher gears. Higher

gear ensure that engine

moves slowly thus giving more mileage rom each liter/kg o

uel consumed. Use 5th gear (overdrive gear) at speeds above40kmph. Avoid overtaking or accelerating in 5th gear as engine

will have very little torque. Shit to lower gear, accelerate and

come quickly to 5th gear again. During downshit ensure that

you do not shit to lower gear at very high speeds this action

may damage engine and gearbox. Avoid shiting to 1st gear

while downshiting as it will reduce the lie o synchronizer.

Automatic Transmission In case o automatic transmission

the lever will have a knob attached to it, lever will not move

till you press this knob. You can use D position and gears will

change automatically as per pre dened program. Alternatively

you can select 1st, 2nd or 3rd or higher gear as per your speed

requirement, i equipped.

Parking Brake Lever3.

Parking brake lever is mounted between the ront seats. Thisis used to secure the vehicle against accidental rolling while

parking or stopping the vehicle. Parking brake lever is operated

by pulling up the lever. To release the parking brake one has

to pull the lever up a little and press the knob with thumb and

release down. This will release the brake rom wheels. Contrary


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Vehicle Controls

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to its name, parking brake should be applied all times when you stop

Head lamp/Parking Light Switch & Fog Lamp4.

This lever is on the right side o the steering wheel to switch on

Wiper Switch5.

Is used to switch on/o windshield

wipers at various speeds like

intermittent, slow and ast speed.

By pulling it towards you wiper

spray gets activated on windshield.

Some cars are also equipped with

Horn6.

Switch is normally positioned incentre o steering wheel, in some

cases switch may be on spokes

also. With horn, you can warn

others to avert potential hazardous

situation.

parking lamp, head lamp in main

or dipped position. Fog lamps are

also operated by a ring on the lever.Turn signals are also operated by

moving this lever up (or let turn)

or down (or right turn).

the vehicle more than ew seconds

on the road e.g. on trac signals.

This ensures your vehicle does

not roll accidentally as most o the

roads are not plane but have a little

slope. Always make it a practice to

release parking brake every time

you start to move.

variable speed intermittent position.


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Vehicle Controls

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Hazard Lamp Switch7.

This switch is used to switch on hazard lights whenever you

want to park your vehicle on the road which may be hazardous

to others. The switch may be located on steering column or

the dash board.

Mirrors8.

All vehicles are equipped with inside rear view mirror. Somevehicles may be equipped with day/night mirror advantage

o this mirror is the driver need not worry about glare. Outside

rear view mirror is normally on right side o the door while some

cars will be equipped with

let side mirror as well.

These mirrors aid you in

driving saely by apprising

you o trac around you.

Adjustment o mirrors

can be manual/internal or

remote.


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Vehicle Controls

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Turn Indicators9.

These are signals to other road

users to inorm them o your

intended action on road.

Ignition Switch10.

Ignition switch helps you start/

stop the engine. This can

be operated by key or some

cars may have push button

start switch.

Demisters11.

Demisting is the unction toremove mist that collects on

the glasses on the inside in

cold/rainy weather. Demister

on the rear glass is a heating

element built into the glass to evaporate the moisture. To remove mist

rom ront windshield and other glasses you can position the louvers

and switching on the heater.

Visual Controls

Instrument Panel Some o these indicators may or may not be

present in your car depending on variant and uel option. Reer your cars

Owners Manual.

Speedometer1.Indicates speed in kmph.


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Vehicle Controls

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Odometer2.

Records total distance

covered by the vehicle.

Trip Meter3.

Records distance covered in a

trip, can be reset by pressing

o the knob. Some models

are equipped with up to three

dierent trip meters.

Tachometer4.Indicates engine speed in

RPM (Revolutions per Minute)

this helps you save uel and

guides when to change gears

at most appropriate speed.

Fuel Gauge5.

Indicates amount o uel let

in the tank. It can be analog

or digital.

Temperature Gauge6.

Indicates temperature o

engine coolant. In caseengine temperature goes

up it is indicated by needle

going towards H mark or

temperature lamp lights up.


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Vehicle Controls

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Oil Pressure Lamp7.

Indicates insucient oil pressure. I

this lamp comes on, switch o the

engine immediately as it may result

in engine seizure.

Parking Brake/Brake Fluid8.

Warning Lamp

This lamp warns o either the parking

brake is engaged or the brake fuid

level has gone down. I parking brake

is disengaged check the brake fuid

level, top up i necessary.

Battery Charging Light9.Indicates charging system is not

working. Can also be a result o an

belt breakage. Vehicle can be driven

but get it repaired urgently.

Turn cum Hazard Light Indicators10.

Indicate i a turn signal or hazard

warning switch is on.

High Beam Indicator Lamp11.

Indicates headlamp is on in highbeam. In cities with street lighting,

main beam should not be switched

on as it may dazzle the eyes o

oncoming drivers.


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Vehicle Controls

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Warm-up Coil Indicator12.

You should not try to crank a

diesel engine as long as this

lamp is on.

Water in Fuel Filter13.

Indicates presence o water

in uel. Immediately drain

the water.

Service Vehicle Soon14.

(SVS) Lamp

Get the vehicle checked byworkshop.

Power Steering Fault15.

Indicator

Indicates some problem

with power steering

system.

Engine Malunction16.

Indicator Lamp

I this lamp lights up it

indicates problem with one

o the engine sensors. Take

the vehicle to workshop asearly as possible.


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Vehicle Controls

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Air Bag Fault17.

I this lamp does not go o indicates

problem with air bag, contact

workshop immediately.

Immobilizer System18.

I this light blinks, then your vehicle

will not start, you have to contact

workshop.

Driver Seat Belt Reminder19.

This lamp lights up when you do not

buckle up saety belt and try to startthe vehicle.

ABS Warning Lamp20.

I this lamp comes on it indicates

problem in ABS system. Now the

system will work as ordinary brake

system without ABS.

Door Open Warning Lamp21.

I any o the door is open this indicator

will come on.

Rear Fog Light Indicator22.

This comes on when rear og lamp is

switched on.


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Traic Signals & Control Devices

Section 5

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Trac Signals

On seeing top red light

glowing, slow down your

vehicle, stop your vehicle

in the lane you intend to

ollow. Stop well beore

stop line.

Do not come to other

lane in order to get ahead

o trac.

Amber light gives time to

vehicles to clear the roadi the vehicle has crossed

the stop line. In such a

situation when you have

already crossed stop line

and amber light comes on,

do not panic or increase

speed, smoothly pass

through. I you are behind

stop line when amber light

comes on you have to stop,

but warn any vehicle pursuing you closely.

Green light means you have to look around, i sae, move smoothly,

do not tear through the trac on seeing green light.

RedLight

AmberLight

GreenLight


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At cross roads you may be allowed to turn let

all the times while in some cases it may not

be allowed. At some crossings, straight & side

moving trac is allowed simultaneously while in

some cases it is not.

On some crossings right turning may be banned.

Flashing red signal means you have to come to a halt. Look around i it is

sae to move ahead, priority is to be given to vehicles coming rom your

right side.

Flashing amber light indicates that you can move with care ater

slowing down.


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Trac Constable Hand Signals

To start one sided vehicles

To stop vehicles approaching

rom behind


simultaneously rom ront and

behind

To stop vehicles

coming rom ront


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simultaneously rom right

and let

To start vehicles coming

rom right

To change sign

To start vehicle

approaching rom let


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To start vehicles

coming rom let

To give VIP salute To manage vehicles on

T-point

To start vehicles on T-point


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Mandatory Signs

No entry

This sign indicates that it is a no entry or restricted

area ahead and no trac is allowed. The driver should

obey it and divert the route.

One way

This sign indicates that trac is allowed in only one

direction. The way beyond this sign restricts trac

entry, however the oncoming trac fow remains

normal.

One way

This sign indicates that trac is allowed in only one

direction. The oncoming trac entry is restricted,

however the ongoing trac fow remains normal.

Vehicles prohibited in both directions

This sign indicates that trac fow is not allowed in

this area.

All motor vehicles prohibited

This sign indicates that no trac movement is allowed

in this area.

Truck prohibited

This sign indicates that the area is a no entry zone or

trucks and HMV (Heavy Motor Vehicles).


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Bullock & hand cart prohibited

This sign indicates that entry o bullock carts

and hand carts is not allowed.

Bullock cart prohibited

This sign indicates that entry o bullock cartsis not allowed.

Tongas prohibited

This sign indicates that entry o tongas or

horse carts is not allowed.

Hand cart prohibited

This sign indicates that entry o hand carts is

not allowed.

Cycle prohibited

This sign indicates that entry o cycles is not

allowed.

Pedestrians prohibited

This sign indicates that movement o

pedestrians is not allowed.

Compulsory bus stop

This sign shows that all buses (public transport)

will compulsorily stop at this place.


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Right turn prohibited

This sign indicates that trac is not allowed to turn

right.

Let turn prohibited

This sign indicates that trac is not allowed to turnlet.

U-turn prohibited

This sign indicates that trac is not allowed to take a

U-turn at this juncture.

Overtaking prohibited

This sign indicates that overtaking or going past another

vehicle is not allowed at this point.

Horn prohibited

This sign indicates that it is a silence zone and honking

or using or horns is strictly not allowed in this area.

No parking

This sign indicates that parking o vehicles is not

allowed in this area and that, the vehicles would be

towed away i ound parked here.

Speed limitThis sign designates the speed, as specied in the

sign, o trac on road. The limit specied must be

invariably ollowed to avoid penal action and accidents

on the road.


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No stopping or standing

This sign indicates that in order to have an

obstruction ree fow o trac, no vehicle is

allowed to stop or wait in this area.

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Width limit

This sign indicates that any vehicle entering

beyond this area has to be with-in 2 meters o

width. Vehicles having a width o more than 2meters are not allowed. These signs are more

common near narrow bridges or lanes.

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Height limit

This sign is ound near roads that pass under

bridges, railway lines etc., which are o low

height. This sign indicates that vehicles with

a maximum height o 3.5 meters can only

pass through. The drivers should be knowing

the height o their vehicles and should take

a detour i their vehicles are more in height

otherwise they could end up damaging their

vehicle and the overbridge.

Length limit

This sign indicates that the length o the vehicle

entering this area should be o maximumlength o 10 meters only. Vehicles beyond

the length o 10 meters are not allowed as

negotiating a bend or a sharp turn ahead could

be dangerous.

Load limit

This road sign limits the load o the vehicle,

which should ply on the road urther. This signindicates that a vehicle weighting more than

5 tonnes cannot bear the weight beyond 5

tonnes, or the road is sot to accommodate

the weight o the vehicle.


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4T

Axle load limit

This sign is usually installed beore a bridge. It indicates

the load a bridge can bear. The limit o this sign is 4

tonnes, this indicates that only vehicles with axle load

o 4 tonnes or less can pass over this bridge.

Restriction end sign

This sign indicates that restrictions imposed by theearlier signs end here and are not meant to be ollowed

rom this point on. However, drivers should not be

complacent and take care o all saety measures to

avoid any accidents.

Compulsory let turn

This sign indicates that the driver has to take a

compulsory let turn due to some diversion etc.

Compulsory turn right ahead

This sign indicates that there is a compulsory right turn

ahead and that the driver has to obey it.

Compulsory ahead only

This sign indicates that the trac has to move straight

ahead without turning either let or right. Failure to

obey this rule will lead to penal action or can pose a

saety hazard.

Compulsory ahead or turn right

This sign indicates that the trac should either move

straight or take a right turn. Turning towards let is not

allowed.


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Compulsory ahead or turn let

This sign indicates that the trac should

either move straight or take a let turn. Turning

towards right is not allowed.

Compulsory keep let

This sign indicates that the driver should drivein let lane or a smooth fow o trac. This sign

is installed on roads with no dividers or where

two way trac fows on the same road.

Compulsory cycle track

This sign indicates that this lane is meant or

cycles only and that no other vehicle should

enter it.

Compulsory sound horn

This sign indicates that it is compulsory to

blow horn at this point to let the oncoming

trac know o your presence on the road. This

sign appears in hilly roads or when there are

blind turns.

Stop

This sign indicates that the driver has to stop

or halt here. This sign mostly appears at toll

plazas and police or trac check-points.

Give way

This sign directs the trac to give way to

the trac on your right side. This sign usually

appears at roundabouts where specic lane

discipline is to be ollowed.


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Cautionary Signs

Right hand curve

This sign cautions you about a right hand curve

on the road ahead. This helps you in manoeuvring

vehicle accordingly and nullies the possibility o an

accident due to sudden appearance o turn.

Let hand curve

This sign cautions you about a let hand curve on

the road ahead. This also helps you in manoeuvring

vehicle accordingly. You get time to slow your speed

and set your eyes on the curve. It also reduces thepossibility o an accident due to sudden appearance

o turn.

Right hair pin bend

Hair pin bends are sharp turns especially on hilly

roads. This sign cautions you about a sharp right

turn on the road ahead. It gives time to reduce

speed to manage the turn and also sets eyes o the

driver on the turn. Absence o this sign could lead to

major accidents as sharp bends in hilly roads dont

get sighted easily.

Let hair pin bendThis sign cautions you about a sharp let turn on the

road ahead especially on hilly roads.


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Right reverse band

This sign cautions the driver about the

zigzag turn towards right. The driver should

reduce the speed at the sight o this sign

and manoeuvre the vehicle cautiously.

Let reverse band

This sign cautions the driver about thezigzag turn towards let. The driver should

reduce the speed at the sight o this sign

and manoeuvre the vehicle cautiously.

Steep ascent

This sign indicates that there is a steep

ascent ahead and the driver should get

ready to climb up and put the vehicle in

the relevant gear. These signs are morecommon in hilly areas.

Steep descent

This sign indicates that there is a steep

descent ahead and the driver should get

ready to climb down and put the vehicle in

the relevant gear.

Narrow road aheadWhen the width o the road decreases or

the road merges into a narrow road, there

is a possibility that the speeding vehicle get

collided with the oncoming trac. This sign

cautions the driver to be careul as the road

ahead is going to be narrow.

Road widens aheadThis sign indicates that the road widens,

hence the driver should adjust accordingly.


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Narrow bridge

This sign indicates that the road ahead converges

to a bridge which is o less width than the road.

The driver should reduce the speed and watch or

oncoming trac or a sae drive.

Slippery road

This sign indicates the slipper condition o the road

ahead. This could be due to seepage o water or oil

spill etc. The driver should slow down the vehicle at

the sight o this sign to avoid any accident.

Loose gravelThis sign indicate that lose earth or gravel keeps

alling on the road. These signs mostly appear on

hilly roads and the driver should slow down and

drive careully.

Cycle crossing

This sign indicates that there is a cycle path

intersecting ahead. The drivers should slow down

or stop and allow the cyclists to cross.

Pedestrian crossing

This sign indicates that there is a pedestrian crossing

ahead. These are also called zebra crossing. Seeingthis sign the driver should either slow down or stop

the vehicle and allow the pedestrian to cross the

road.


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School ahead

This sign indicates that there is a school

ahead/nearby. The driver should slow down

the vehicle and drive careully or childrens

saety.

Men at work

This sign indicates that there is some repair/cleaning etc. being undertaken on the road

and people are involved in it. The driver

should drive slowly and careully to ensure

saety o people working on the road.

Cattle

This sign indicates that there is a possibility

o cattle straying on the road. The driver

should drive careully when they see

this sign as cattle on roads can cause

accidents.

Falling rocks

In hilly roads rocks all on the roads during

rains or landslides. This sign indicates that

road ahead is prone to such alling rocks.

Hence the driver should be very careul

while passing such areas.

Ferry

Sometimes roads are intersected by rivers

without the provision o bridge. This sign

indicates that there is a erry service ahead

to cross the river.

Cross road

This sign indicates that there is a crossing oroads ahead. The driver should slow down

the vehicle while approaching intersections

and should cautiously cross the intersection

while looking on both the sides.


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Gap in median

This sign indicates that there is a gap in the divider o the

road and there is a provision o a U-turn. The driver should

slow down and change the lane to avoid any accident.

Side road right

This sign indicates that there is a right side turn on the

road in addition to straight movement o the road. This

helps the driver in planning the route and cautious him/her about the movement o other vehicles ahead.

Yintersections

This sign depicts the actual ormation o road ahead. The

road is divided into orming a shape o Y. This helps driverin managing the intersection careully.

Staggered intersection

These signs indicates that there is a let and right

turns available on the straight road with small distance

between them. It is an intersection which does not allow

crossing o road.

Side road let

This sign indicates that there is a right side turn on the

road in addition to straight movement o the road.


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Tintersection

This sign indicates that there is no straight

movement ahead and the trac has to either turn

let or right. This helps the driver in planning the

route and cautious him/her about the movement

o other vehicles ahead.

Major road ahead

This sign is erected on arterial roads beore itcrosses a major road. It cautions the driver that

the road is going to cross over a major road

where the trac could be heavy and aster.

This allows the driver to show the speed and

maneuver the intersection saely.

Roundabout

Roundabout is the substitute or intersection.

It allows smooth fow o trac without the aido trac lights. This sign indicates that there is

a roundabout ahead and that the driver should

be careul and switch to relevant lane beore

entering the roundabout.

Dangerous dip

This sign cautious the drivers that there is a dip

ahead on the road and that the drivers should

reduce their speed to cross this plunge on the

road.

Hump or rough road

This sign indicates that there is a hump on the

road ahead. Humps are created intentionally

or slowing the trac. The driver should reduce

the speed o the vehicle to cross the hump

comortably.

Barrier aheadThis sign indicates that there is a toll collection

point etc. ahead. The driver should slow the

vehicle while approaching such barriers and stop

their vehicles i required.


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Guarded railway crossing (200 meters)

This sign indicates that there is a railway crossing

200 meters ahead which is guarded by a person.

The driver should take extra precautions while

approaching any railway crossing and should never

rush to cross as it can be extremely dangerous.

Guarded railway crossing (50-100 meters)


50-100 meters ahead which is guarded by a person.

The driver should take extra precautions while

approaching any railway crossing and should never

rush to cross as it can be extremely dangerous.

Unguarded level crossing (200 meters)


200 meters ahead and is not manned by any

person. This unguarded railway crossing has to be

crossed by the driver very careully ater ensuringthat no train is approaching the crossing.

Unguarded level crossing (50-100 meters)


50-100 meters ahead and is not manned by any

person. This unguarded railway crossing has to becrossed by the driver very careully ater ensuring

that no train is approaching the crossing.


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40


Road Markings

First aid

postNo through

road

No through

side road

P P

Petrol pump Resting

place

P P

Eating place

First aid post

Light

rereshment

Parking lot

autorickshaw

Parking lot

cycles

Parking lot

scooter

and

motorcycle

Parking lot

taxis

No through road No through

side road

Hospital

Public

telephone


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41


Park this side Park both

side

Parking lot

cycle rickshaws

P P P

NEW DELHI

Place identication sign

BAHADURGARTH 10

ROHTAK 48

Re-assurance sign

NEW DELHI ROHTAK

NAJAFGARH

Advanced direction sign

FARIDABAD 3

Direction sign

Flood gauge

200 cm

160 cm

130 cm

100 cm

60 cm

30 cm

Red

Red

White

White

Black

Destination sign

58

3

81NEW DELHI

ROHTAKNAJAFGARH


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42


Road Markings

Centre line marking or a two lane road.

Overtaking is allowed in any direction.

Centre barrier line marking or multiple lane roads.

Overtaking is discouraged.

Crossing the yellow line or overtaking is prohibited.


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43


Overtaking is permitted with care or trac adjacent to the

broken line, but prohibited or trac adjacent to solid line.

Centre barrier line marking or a six lane road.

Overtaking by crossing centre barrier (yellow) line is prohibited,

right turn manoeuvre are not permitted.

STO

P

Stop line


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44


Solid yellow line near the edge o road indicate no parking.

Border or edge lines.

Continuous lines at the edge of mark the limits of which a road

user can safely use.

Give way line


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45


STOP

STOP

Pedestrian crossing or zebra crossing.

Yellow box junction.

You can cross stop line only if marked area is complete clear. You

can not stop your vehicle on marked area.


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Getting Started

Section 6

46

Pre Driving Checks

All modern cars are equipped with sensors and eatures to

orewarn you o any impending ailure in the car but it is prudent

to check certain important checkpoints on your part, to avoid any

inconvenience on the road. These checks are called Pre Driving

Checks. You can complete these checks once in the morning:

Beore moving o take a round o your car and look or any1.

punctured wheel, less

air pressure in tyres, all

registration plates are

intact, no turn indicator

is broken. Under chassis

check or any fuid leakage

and any pet animal who

might have taken reuge

under your car.

Under the hood check or2.

various fuid level whetherthey are in right quantity

Engine oil, brake fuid,

battery electrolyte, coolant

level, windshield washer

fuid level etc.


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Getting Started

47

Never open radiator cap when3.

engine is hot. Add water or coolant

fuid in reservoir only i, needed.

While sitting on driver seat check or4.

any malunction indicator, unction o

clutch & brake pedal, parking brake.

Ensure that there is no bottle or5.other object which can roll under

the pedals.

Parking brake area, dash panel6.

etc. should be kept clear o any

loose articles.

Adjust seat and mirrors as per your convenience. Never adjust driver7.

seat with vehicle in gear and engine on, you may lose control o your

vehicle. Head rest should be positioned in a way that your head i

pushed towards it, remains in the centre. Too high or low head restraint

can be atal in case your vehicle is hit rom behind.


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Getting Started

48

Adjust steering column and seat belt pivoting point on8.

centre pillar as per your comort, i your car is equipped with

these eatures.

Ensure you have all the necessary documents and9.

driving license.

Check or uel level, plan route in advance so that you save uel10.

and i required plan or reueling.

Getting Started

Sitting posture

Ensure comortable sitting posture

with rm lumbar support romseats back. Hands at steering

wheel, elbows should be slightly

bent. Do not sit erect or slouch

on seat. All the mirrors adjusted

so that you can easily look in all

directions.

Buckle up saety belt. Belt portion

covering abdomen should be

tight without any looseness. In

case o collision this actor is

very important. The upper portion

o belt should be worn over the

shoulder, never under the arm.

Some persons have a tendencyto keep shoulder belt pulled away

rom chest, this can be atal in case

o collision.


49/140

Getting Started

49

Pregnant women

Pregnant women have to wear belt

careully as shown.

Inants

Seat belt should never be worn around an

inant in lap, inants to be restrained on

rear seat only.

Children

Never allow children to stand between ront seat & panel. Make sure that

they are secure with belt on the rear seat.

Pets

Pets can divert attention as they may become

very excited. Restrain them in the rear seat.


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Getting Started

50

Starting the engine

Beore starting the engine ensure that hand brake is engaged,

vehicle is in neutral. It is a good practice to press clutch during

cranking o engine. While cranking do not press accelerator as

starting will become dicult. Do not crank more that 3-4 seconds

at a stretch. I engine does not start try again ater ew seconds.

Ater engine has started look at instrument cluster to check i any

warning light has come on.

Moving o

Ensure that parking brake is engaged press clutch till foor with

your let oot.

Apply 1st gear.

Start releasing clutch pedal till the point you hear the sound o

engine changing. At this point when you see the hood portion o

the car rising a bit, hold steady the clutch pedal.

Look around i it is sae to move, i sae, release clutch slowly

while pressing accelerator smoothly, simultaneously releasing

parking brake.

This synchronization o parking brake lever, clutch pedal and

accelerator requires a good amount o practice, so be patient i

your vehicle stalls or moves o with jerks.

A smooth take o without rolling back o vehicle indicates you have

mastered the rst step.


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Getting Started

51

Using steering

Start to practice turning the

vehicle on an empty plot, you

can keep two stones and try

to make 8 around them. You

will be able to experience the

steering eect and how to

return ater completing turn

on one side.

Stopping your vehicle

To practice stopping you need to experience relationship o pedal pressure

you put and the deceleration the car suers. Once you are amiliar you

will be able to press brake pedal gently rst and progressively increasethe pressure.

Beore stopping look into mirrors, over the shoulders i it is sae to stop.

I needed give let turn signal slow down the vehicle and smoothly press

the brake pedal. As the vehicle starts decelerating, engine starts giving

knocking sound, at this point press clutch to prevent stalling. Bring the gear

lever to neutral and engage parking brake.

Emergency stop

Beore you start taking your

vehicle to public roads, you

need to practice emergency

stopping o your vehicle. In

case o emergency you need

to respond very ast, applybrake rst as the speed gets

reduced then press clutch.

Bring the vehicle to stop, bring

gear lever to neutral, engage

parking brake.


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Getting Started

52

Gear changing

You need to learn the skill o changing gears smoothly as demanded

by the trac condition on road. With little practice you will be able

to upshit or downshit as per the sound o engine.

Start Stop trac/Speed control

Speed control is important skill, you need to learn in the city trac.

During peak hour trac you may have to drive your vehicle in start-

stop condition. To control your vehicle you need to select the right

gear and do not press clutch to reduce speed, this will increase uel

consumption and wear & tear o clutch system.


53/140

Rules o the Road

Section 7

53

Keep Let

In India we are supposed to drive on the let side o the road. One should

Hand signals can be used whenthere is ailure o lamps in your

car or you eel lamps may not be

visible easily.

keep to the let side o the road and

allow on coming trac to pass rom

your right side.

Keep let while entering a road. When

turning right come to the centre o road,

which you are leaving and keep into let

lane o the road you are entering.

Hand Signals

I intend to stop

I intend to turn right

I intend to turn let

I allow to overtakeI intend to slow down


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Rules o the Road

54

Lane Driving

Lanes are marked on the roads to

segregate trac as per speed and

category o vehicles. On city roads

normally let most lane is reserved

or buses. Buses have right o way

in this lane and are marked by a

continuous white line. This line has

breaks in lane changing area.

One should drive within the lane

markers, not over the markings.

Lane changing areas are identiedwith a sign board, markings on

road and trac has to move

to dierent lanes depending

upon their intended direction on

the crossing.

Stick to lane reserved or your intended direction. Do not change

lanes just to be ahead o other trac. Do not weave on road

approaching cross roads this is potentially dangerous activity.

On highways, lanes are used to segregate slow moving trac rom

ast moving trac. Highways can be two, our or six lane. Let

most lane is or slow moving trac, right most lane is normally

reserved or overtaking. Ater overtaking manoeuvre is complete

come back to your lane, looking into rear view mirror.

Do not change lane suddenly i you see a pot hole or other

obstruction on road as trac ollowing you may collide with you.


55/140

Rules o the Road

55

To change lanes ollowing method is to be practiced:

Look through all rear view mirrors, see that no vehicle is ollowing1.

you closely.

Look over your shoulder to2.

cover any blind spot o vehicle

and mirrors.

I it is sae to change lane, give3.

turn signal.

Come to intended lane, switch4.

o signal.

Maintain speed according to5.

permissible speed or as per

trac whichever is lower.

MSM Routine

MSM routine is used while intending to change lane or a turn.

Mirror Look into mirror i it is sae to conduct the desired action o1.

lane changing/turning.

Signal Give signal so that all the users o the road are aware o2.

your intention.

Maneuver Complete the maneuver.3.

PSL Technique

PSL technique is used in conjunction with MSM while negotiating a turn.

PSL stands or:

Position Position your vehicle as per your intention o right/let turn.1.

Speed Keep your vehicle speed in control so that you eel secure.2.

Look Look and assess the situation at crossing, decide accordingly to3.

complete the intended maneuver.


56/140

Rules o the Road

56

Turning Let or Right

Turning let or right is maneuver

which requires speed control,

awareness about other road user

movements and anticipation about

new scenario which will unold on

completion o turn. When taking

turn do not cut corners, take the

appropriate lane as shown in

adjacent schematic.

Let Turn

Steps to ollow:

Look through rear view1.

mirrors, see that no vehicle

is ollowing you closely.

Look through let rear view2.

mirror or any two-wheeler

who may try to overtake you

rom let when you are in the

middle o turning maneuver.

Do not trail near to edge o road as it may block your view on3.

turn and ront end o car will project more in the way o trac

coming rom your right side.

I there is any vehicle, cyclists are ahead o you, let them pass4.

else you may hit them because o error in calculation o time

needed to complete the maneuver which includes reducingspeed, looking around and then taking the turn.

Beore taking let turn look or any trac on your right that5.

might be coming in confict with your vehicle.

Ater emerging on road ater turn, stick to let lane, look in6.

mirrors i sae increase speed and merge with trac.


57/140

Rules o the Road

57

Right Turn

Steps to ollow:

Right turn is a riskier maneuver as1.

you cut across the trac coming

rom your right.

Look around in mirrors and over2.

your shoulders.

I sae give right turn signal and come to the right lane.3.

On an unregulated crossing, it is advisable to come to a halt beore4.

taking right turn.

Wait or any vehicle on your right to pass. Ensure no vehicle is coming5.

rom let.

When clear complete the right turn maneuver, stay in let lane.6.Look into mirrors merge with the trac when sae.7.

Reversing

Driving in reverse gear may be necessary when you are stuck in narrow lane

or a road with a dead end. Driving in reverse gear has certain diculties:

You have more blind areas as in1.

reverse gear you actually come to

rear o the driver cabin.

As you twist your neck your2.

visibility is reduced to one side o

the body.

Older drivers may experience3.

temporary blackout due toreduced supply o blood to brain.

During driving in reverse gear, your vehicles steering becomes more4.

sensitive, turning radius actually gets reduced.


58/140

Rules o the Road

58

To saely drive in reverse gear, look around in all the three mirrors,

look over both side shoulders, hold the back o let ront seat and

turn towards back and start moving. Occasionally take out your

neck rom the window to have clear view. It is advisable to take

help o someone to guide you through the obstacles.

Always avoid reversing into a major road rom a minor road as you

will be able to see the road only ater 75% length o your vehicle

is already on the road. Ask or guidance rom someone i you are

stuck in such a tricky situation. Drive slower than you normally drive

in 1st gear.

U-turn

U-turn is the maneuverwhen you have to move

your vehicle to other side o

the road. This maneuver may

have to be carried out on a

road with or without a divider.

On busy crossings normally

U-turn is not allowed.

On a road with the divider it is easier to take U-turn as you have

to look or other trac rom one side only but on a road without

divider you have to ensure there is no trac approaching on both

sides, during the maneuver.

During U-turn ollow these steps:

Look around in all mirrors, look over your shoulders, give right1.

turn signal.

When absolutely sure there is no trac on both sides o the2.

road, start turning the steering while slowly moving o.


59/140

Rules o the Road

59

I the road is not suciently wide enough you have to stop while you3.

reach to other side o the road. As you approach the end o the road,

start turning steering to the let.

Put the vehicle in reverse gear start moving o backwards, as soon as4.

you have reversed suciently start taking right turn.

Complete the maneuver and move o in opposite direction ater looking5.

careully into mirrors.

Mirror Blind Spot

All mirrors have blind spots as

shown. In these location vehicles,

bikes etc. will not be visible to youwhile turning or changing lanes one

has to ensure that no vehicle/bike is

in the blind spot.

To overcome these blind spots you need to look over your respective

shoulder beore completing the maneuver. You can use blind spot mirror

also. You also have to ensure that you do not drive in the blind spot o

other vehicles.

Right o Way

Each o us using the roads has right o way at particular situations or

locations. To keep

trac smooth and

in the interest oall road users we

should be giving

right o way instead

o assuming it.Pedestrians have right o

way on zebra crossingCyclists on cycle track


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Rules o the Road

60

Roundabouts are an example

o one way trac. To allow

smooth fow o trac we must

respect the right o way to the

vehicles on our right. Follow

these steps while negotiating

a roundabout:

Emergency vehicles like

ambulance, re tender, police

vehicles or vehicles having red/

blue beacons are to be given

way, in some states not giving

way to emergency vehicles is

punishable by law.

On hills, vehicles coming uphill

are to be given right o way by

vehicles going downhill. You

must draw your vehicle towards

let or stop to give way.

In city road crossings orroundabouts give way to trac

on your right.

Roundabout

Beore entering a roundabout choose your lane according to1.

your intended direction.Maintain speed according to trac around you.2.

I intending to go let, remain in let lane with let turn indicator3.

on, give way to trac on your right, when clear enter the

roundabout.


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Rules o the Road

61

I intending to go straight, stick to central lane, beore entering4.

roundabout stop i necessary or giving way to vehicles on your right.

Move o in your lane when sae, ater reaching to centre o road prior

to your intended direction switch on turn signal.

Enter in the intended road, keep let while looking in mirrors. Merge5.

smoothly with the trac.

I going towards right or intending to take U-turn, stick to right lane,6.

enter the roundabout by giving way to vehicles on your right. Stop i

necessary, enter the roundabout, keep on ollowing the right most lane,

signal let turn on reaching the centre o road preceding the road you

intend to take turn into. Ater entering the road, keep to let and slowly

merge with the trac on your right while looking through mirrors.

Maintaining Speed

In Indian cities wherever speed limits have not been displayed, it is generally

taken as 50kmph. Make sure you do not cross the prescribed speed limits

on a road. Excess speed is the most common cause o accidents on the

road. Ensure that you keep ollowing actors in mind while maintaining a

particular speed (O course within limit specied):

Road condition May abruptly change, pot holes, speed breakers may1.

emerge suddenly.

Trac Other road users may change lanes suddenly or appear2.

rom nowhere.


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Rules o the Road

62

Pedestrians, cyclists or3.

other slow moving trac

may cross to lanes meant

or higher speeds.

Weather & lighting These4.

may hamper your vision at

high speeds (Snow, dust,

rains & og).

Maintain speed according5.

to your concentration,anticipation, experience

level & road condition.

Reduce speed when passing6.

through parked cars/buses

as somebody or a child

may suddenly emerge rom

between parked vehicles.

Any parked vehicle may7.

come on road suddenly.


63/140

Rules o the Road

63

Drive slow & cautiously in right lane where central divider is not8.

protected, a pedestrian or a pet may appear out o bushes suddenly on

the centre verge.

In case animals like cows/goats etc. are there on road, reduce speed,9.

do not blow horn as they may get panicked.

Reduce speed near schools,10.

residential areas and market areas.

During night you may come across trac without lights like cyclists,11.bullock cart, parked trucks etc. without refectors and parking lamps.

Stopping

When we try to bring a vehicle to

a stop during emergency situations

this activity includes time taken by

our brain to notice an emergency

situation on road, the brain decides

the evasive action and executes,

this is called reaction time. Since

your vehicle is moving it covers

some distance depending on speed o vehicle, during the reaction time,

this distance is known as reaction distance. Visibility on account o driver

and weather also has a role to play.

The braking system also takes some time and covers some distance beore

your vehicle comes to a complete halt. This is called stopping distance

which depends upon vehicle speed, weight o vehicle, eciency o brake

system, tyre conditions and road surace condition.


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Rules o the Road

64

Alertness o driver and knowledge about vehicle capabilities can

prevent accidents, thumb rule or drivers is to know the total

stopping distance which they can employ easily is as given:

Speed o your

vehicle (kmph)

Total stopping

distance (m)

Equivalent

car lengths (m)

30 12 3

50 23 6

65 36 9

80 53 13

100 73 20

To be sae on road one should keep in mind the above mentioned

car lengths on various speeds. During rains or at night this distance

needs to be increased to double.

Maintaining Following Distance (2-Seconds Rule)

One needs to maintain a sae ollowing distance rom the car in

ront so that one gets time to react and brake saely in case the

vehicle in ront slows down or stops.

The thumb rule or drivers

is to maintain a 2 seconds

gap rom the vehicle in

ront. To know whether

you are maintaining sae

distance rom a vehicle in

ront, mark any stationary

object in ront o the vehicleyou are ollowing. This can be a bridge, pole or a tree on the road.

As soon as the vehicle in ront passes the identied mark start

counting One Thousand One One Thousand Two each rhythmic

count is equivalent to one second. I you pass the same identied

mark beore you complete two seconds you are ollowing the


65/140

Rules o the Road

65

vehicle too narrowly. Immediately slow down to increase the ollowing

distance. In case o darkness, rainy weather etc. increase the ollowing

distance rom 2 seconds to 4 seconds.

Overtaking

Overtaking is a potentially dangerous

maneuver, i not done properly.

You must allow other motorists to

overtake you whenever requested.

One should be cautious while

allowing others to overtake. I you

see that road ahead is not clear and

you may have to come on the right

lane, decide whether you allow theother person to overtake you or not.

Signal accordingly. Some o the

drivers have a compulsive attitude

o overtaking, it is better to allow

them overtake you in the interest o

your saety and other road users.

Do not overtake in prohibited zone

o the road, identied by the sign.

Avoid overtaking when it is raining or there is visibility problem due to

og. During night time keep your vehicle headlights dipped as these may

dazzle the drivers o oncoming trac. Many times drivers may also put on

their headlight beams in response to main beams o oncoming trac and

may blind each other, remember one blind person is better than two blind

persons on the road.

One should not attempt to overtake a vehicle unless you have a clear view

o road ahead. When it is absolutely sae to overtake, then only complete

the maneuver. Similarly i the road ahead is taking a turn do not overtake

till the view is complete.


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Rules o the Road

66

Never overtake a vehicle rom its let side. Also do not overtake a

vehicle which is already overtaking another vehicle, wait or vehicle

in ront to complete the maneuver.

I the driver o the vehicle in ront does not allow you to overtake,

keep patience as his view o the road will always be better

than yours.

I you intend to overtake the

vehicle ahead o you, also

starts accelerating, abort

overtaking maneuver & wait

or next sae opportunity.

Do not squeeze yourselbetween two heavy vehicles

ater overtaking as they

require large distance to slow down to accommodate you.

Avoid overtaking VIP cavalcade as a VIP security sta get tensed up

on seeing a vehicle coming near to a VIP car.

Parking

Whenever you need to park your vehicle ollowing points are to be

kept in mind:

Try to park vehicle in1.

identied parking

zone only.

Do not park in No2.

Parking zone.


67/140

Rules o the Road

67

Parking near the gap in verge3.

or taking U-turn may cause

accidents as the vehicle taking

U-turn will not be able to

complete the maneuver.

In case it is to be parked in an4.

area where there are no clear

directions, park your vehicle in

the direction o trac, make

sure it does not obstruct trac,

should not block passage

to buildings.

Do not park your vehicle close to other vehicle that its passage gets5.

blocked. You should be able to see tyres o vehicle in ront while parking,

this insures that you will have sucient space to move out.

Park your vehicle as close as possible to the kerb.6.

Pull handbrake rmly and keep vehicle in gear so that it does not roll7.

accidentally.

I parking on uphill ensure that you turn the steering towards right side,8.

when parking downhill park the vehicle with wheels turned towards

let side kerb. This will ensure that i vehicle rolls accidently vehicle will

come to an automatic stop immediately.

When parking in dark area, where it may be dangerous or vehicles9.coming rom behind, switch on hazard lamp to warn other users o

the road.

Do not park vehicles over heap o dry leaves as these may catch re10.

rom catalyser heat.


68/140

Rules o the Road

68

Do not sit in parked cars with A/C on in closed spaces11.

like garages.

Parking method can be classied as:

Parallel parking1.

Angular parking2.

Perpendicular parking3.

Parallel Parking

You need about 2 meters

more space than the

length o your car to saely

park the vehicle. In tighter

spaces it is advisable to usereverse parking method as

it provides deeper steering

angle. In tighter slots trying

to park in ront direction will

prove dicult.

Locate the slot or parking, stop your vehicle parallel to the1.

parked car by keeping a gap o 2-3 eet or Meters.

Start reversing as your mirror reaches around rear o the2.

parked car, turn steering wheel anticlockwise ully. Be aware

that now your vehicles right ront end ully protruding on the

road against trac.

As your vehicles rear right corner comes in line o right3.ront corner o the car parked in rear, start turning the

steering clockwise.

Stop the vehicle when your car reaches near to the car parked4.

in rear.


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Rules o the Road

69

Turn the steering to straight position and move the vehicle ahead so that5.

your vehicle comes in centre o the available space while straightening

up the wheels.

Angular Parking

This kind o parking is normally

employed in parking lots o oces,

shopping malls etc. Normally you

will get clear cut painted boxes to

guide you. Try to park the vehicle

in centre o the box. On locating a

vacant slot you can easily park in

the slot in one go.

While coming out o slot be careul

as your vision o the road gets

blocked due to parked cars. Very

slowly come out o slot, when your view o road gets cleared you can turn

the vehicle i it is sae. Do not try to park in reverse.

Perpendicular Parking

It is advisable to park in reverse

while entering perpendicular

parking. This is also very common

type o parking you will come

across in oces, underground

parking etc.

Pull up to the parked vehicle next

to your intended slot, reverse

slowly into the vacant slot while straightening up. I the vehicle does not

come in the centre bring the vehicle orward, reverse into slot correcting

the position.


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Rules o the Road

70

Uphill Drive

During uphill drive one

has to take care that while

starting rom stationary

position, vehicle should not

roll back. Use parking brake

to prevent rolling back.

Engage 1st gear and come

to the biting point, at this point set accelerator a bit high, release

parking brake and clutch pedal smoothly.

Downhill Drive

Make sure parking brake is engaged, apply 1st

gear, look intomirrors, over your shoulders i it is sae, release parking brake and

clutch pedal and pressing accelerator smoothly.

Railway Crossings

These can be manned or

unmanned. On unmanned

railway crossings one has

to be extremely cautious.

Come to a complete halt

beore you try to cross

the railway track. I you

see the coming train let it

pass through. Most o the accidents happen when drivers try to

squeeze through gates and passing trains. You should not cross thetracks even i the train is at a sae distance. Do not cross till your

way is clear beyond the tracks including the length o your vehicle.

Many vehicles get trapped on the track as the vehicle in ront is

not moving.


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Rules o the Road

71

On manned crossings, wait in your lane or gates to open. Stop your vehicle

behind other waiting vehicles. Do not overtake and cross to the lane o

oncoming trac. Trac will get jammed inevitably in such a situation.

Road Rage

Most o the road rage cases happen over parking or overtaking. Following

the rules o the road mentioned above will help you avoid most reasons o

the road rage. I you come across an aggressive driver on the road ollowing

steps will help:

Allow such drivers to pass, do1.

not try to argue or teach them

a lesson.

Wave hand to express that2.

you are sorry to cause the

inconvenience and try to move

o rom the place.

I aggressor persists avoid eye contact and try to move to an area3.

where you eel policemen will be present.

I you are up against a very aggressive person look or a nearest police4.

station and ask or help.


72/140

Encountering Other Road Users

Section 8

72

Most o the roads we use in cities have mixed trac i.e. it is a

combination o pedestrians, cyclists, bullock carts, heavy vehicles

like trucks, buses besides two-wheelers and cars etc. Since most

o roads lack segregation, driving becomes a challenging task.

Still you have to remain cool and save yoursel and others to avoid

unnecessary harassment later.

Pedestrians

Statistics have proved that most o the victims o road accidents

are pedestrians. Be careul with them as:

Pedestrians may come on1.

road suddenly due to lack o

ootpaths.

Many pedestrians preer to2.

cross the road wherever they

want on the road.

They may appear suddenly3.

rom behind parked cars,

busses etc.

On trac signal when you are4.

waiting or light to turn green

some people may try to run

and cross the road. Children

involved in begging may come out rom between cars.

Ensure saety o elderly or handicapped people as they may5.

not be ast enough to cross the road. Aged people tend to

be indecisive on road, they may stop suddenly or turn back

while children and younger people try to rush through. Allow

pedestrians to cross.


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During rainy season ensure you do not splash water on them.6.

In dark, many pedestrians may not be visible easily due to dark7.

coloured clothes.

Cyclists

The second largest group involved in road accidents is cyclists. They

normally lack any ormal trac education as Motor Vehicle Act does not

apply on them so they may behave recklessly endangering their lives and

others. In absence o separate cycle track they also use the road meant or

automobiles. Take ollowing care:

Cyclists may come in your way while avoiding pot holes or other1.

obstructions on the road.

On crossings they have a tendency2.

to weave through stopped vehicles

to come to ront so leave sucient

space around your car to save it

rom scratches and damages.

They may turn suddenly without3.

giving any signal or looking

at trac.

They being very unstable may4.

all on bonnet o your car so take

care to keep sae distance when

overtaking them.

As normally cyclists will remain on the let most lane, you have to be5.

careul while negotiating a let turn. You may misjudge time taken to

slowdown and they may collide with you. Do not overtake them while

taking let turn, let them pass rst.


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74

During night they may not be visible on road easily as they do6.

not use any lamp, refector & refective clothing.

Cycle Rickshaw, Animal Drawn Vehicles

Follow same set o precautions as mentioned or pedestrians

and cyclists.

Scooters and Motorcycles

In motorized group maximum atalities are aced by this group

in case o accidents. Modern scooters and motorcycles are very

powerul vehicles but they remain vulnerable due to lack o balance.

Keep ollowing in mind:

They can move very ast so they have a tendency to weave1.

through lanes.

Be very careul while2.

moving to let lane or taking

let turn as they preer to

overtake rom let side o

the trac.

A motorcyclist may suddenly swerve or may lose balance i3.

encountered with rough road or punctured tyre.


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They have tendency to drit towards you and other vehicles on the4.

road. A mild sound o horn will warn them.

Sometimes they may surprise you with their horn as now they sound5.

very similar to cars. Be mentally prepared to remain cool in case o

harsh horn.

While overtaking sound them with horn as many o them may not have6.

rear view mirrors installed on their bikes.

While overtaking also ensure you do not splash water on them7.

during rains.

On rough roads overtake them careully as they may all or skid.8.

They may come rom opposite direction suddenly at high speed, do not9.

get surprised. This normally happens around petrol pumps or where

there is no gap in verge to go to opposite road.

Auto Rickshaws

This class o vehicles are unstable,

can swerve on road suddenly in

ront o you. These vehicles are

tted with low power engines so

they may test your patience by

continuously driving at slow speed

in high speed lane. Drivers o these

vehicles are normally not well verse

with trac rules so be very careulwhile overtaking them.


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76

Tractor-trolleys

Many tractors are not equipped with hydraulic brakes, mechanical

brakes are slow to react and take a longer distance to stop.

Tractors are manuactured without any suspension so at speeds

above 40kmph they become highly unstable i they have attached

trolleys. This trolley may jump and hit your car while you are trying

to overtake it. Keep good gap with them while overtaking.

Heavy Vehicles Buses/Trucks

Large heavy vehicles may be long, overloaded so will behave

dierently than your vehicle. You must have knowledge that they

need larger turning radius, are slow and take longer distance to

stop than your vehicle, so you need to be very careul while driving

alongside with them or overtaking them. Keep sucient gap in

ollowing them and while overtaking them. Be aware that the


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77

drivers visibility may be very less

due to extra loading and length o

vehicle. On highways they expect

you to overtake them rom let so

be very vigilant and look or driver

assistants hand signals. Make sure

you make the truck driver aware o

your intentions by blowing horn or

fashing head lamps during night.

During turning because o long

length o trailer they may come

in wrong lane beore completing a turn. These may be parked on road

without any warning light or triangle or repairs. Accidents happen routinely

because o this.

Because o very heavy weight, long

body and high speed they generate

air turbulence on road which can

make a car unstable. Keep your

steering in tight control while

overtaking or when overtaken by

trucks/buses on highways.


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Driving in Dangerous Conditions

Section 9

78

Driving at Night

Driving in darkness or in night time sometimes become challenging.

Take ollowing care during driving in night time:

Slow down as visibility1.

reduces considerably.

When aced with2.

blinding lights rom

other vehicles do not

switch on your og lamp

or main beams.

Start looking towards let side kerb, this will help you prevent3.dazzling o eyes.

Do not switch on og lamps to improve visibility on a4.

clear day.

During og do not continue to drive i you cant see road in5.

ront. Slow down or stop.

On city roads avoid switching on main beam, preerably use6.

only parking lights i street lighting is good enough.

Keep your windshield sparkling clean and ree rom scratches7.

caused by worn wipers.

Tilt down mirrors a bit i lights rom vehicle in rear are dazzling8.you. Use day-night mirror i your car is equipped with one.

I you are using spectacles, anti-glare coated lenses will help9.

reducing glare.


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Be very cautious in overtaking vehicles as it is dicult to assess the10.

ast changing situation on road.

Driving in Fog

Fogs are common in northern and

central part o India. Fog is generally

caused by presence o dust

particles, moisture accompanied

by low temperature and absence

o winds. Fog generally starts

developing around mid night and

continues till noon. So plan your

travel accordingly. Fog can reduce

visibility to just 1-2 meters. Take ollowing cares:

Use og lamps i your car is equipped else keep headlight on1.

dipped position.

Switch on rear og lamp to warn other vehicles ollowing you.2.

Never switch on hazard lights while moving in og it can be conusing3.

or other trac as they may consider you a stationary vehicle.

Never use main beam as dust particles and moisture will scatter the4.

light so much that visibility will get reduced urther.

Start heater to demist your windshield and windows.5.

Keep ollowing kerb stones or road markings to guide you. I both are6.not available on road, it is sae to stop journey, park the vehicle with

hazard lights on and wait or visibility to improve.

Blindly ollowing other vehicles in poor visibility is not a good idea as7.

this can start chain o accidents.


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80

Driving in Rains

Driving in rainy season may

be quite challenging or an

inexperienced driver. Take

care o ollowing points:

Beore rainy season1.

sets in, get your wipers

inspected i they need

replacement.

During rains road surace become slippery. Maximum accidents2.

happen when it is drizzling.

During drizzle roads are more slippery because water gets3.

mixed with oil on the road. Dry leaves on road also become

very slippery with water.

Ensure that your cars tyres have good amount o tread. The4.

tread in tyre is to squeeze out water between road and tyre.

A worn tyre will start skidding on road similar to a water skier.

I you experience aquaplaning remove your oot rom brake,

reduce speed and try to simply steer the vehicle.

I passing through a water logged road it is better to wait and5.

see i other vehicles are able to pass through. Follow exactly

the same path as the vehicle in ront. Do not try dierent path

as you are unaware o any big deep pot hole, open sewer

or drain.

While passing through water ensure that you keep throttle6.

at high rpm so that water does not enter in engine through

silencer route. Water entry in engine can severely damage your

engine called hydro lock. Do not reduce engine speed during


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81

the course, move slowly as water acts like solid when present in

large quantity.

Rushing through water logged area will cause the water to enter areas7.

like air cleaner or spark plugs. In both cases your engine will stall and

serious damage may occur.

Immediately ater you come out o water, do not orget to dry your8.

brakes. Wet brake linings will have no riction. To dry the brakes put

the vehicle in rst gear, slowly race the engine and drive while putting

slight pressure on brake pedal, requently remove this pressure.

Friction in brake linings will generate heat which will evaporate any

water on brake linings.

Never cross a bridge on which water is fowing and road is not visible.9.

Driving in Snow/Ice

You may experience driving in snow/

ice i you are residing in such areas

where it snows or you visit such

an area. Beore the winter sets in

normal tyres are to be replaced

with snow tyres. Areas with heavy

snow all may require chains to

be strapped on tyres. In snow/ice

braking distance increases multiold.

I your vehicle is not equipped with Anti Lock Brake System ensure that you

use brake pedal sotly and as soon as vehicle starts skidding release the

brake. Fresh snow is less riskier than ice ew days old.

Do not sleep in car in open as it may snow and cover the vehicle. This can

result in suocation and occupants may not be able to open the doors.


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82

Overloading

Do not allow more passengers than the class o vehicle is permitted.

Most o the cars can accommodate 4/5 persons including

driver. Check the registration certicate which will indicate the

number o passengers allowed. Allowing more persons to sit in

a car is punishable oence.

Sometimes a child or a

person is accommodated

in space between ront

seats over parking brake

area. This can seriously

jeopardize the saety as

it may not be possible or

driver change required gearor apply parking brake.

Driving in Hills

While you are in hills keep

ollowing points in mind:

In hills particularly1.

while going downhill

never press clutch rst

to reduce speed, apply

brakes rst then use

clutch to downshit

or stop.

Never go downhill with engine switched o. Brakes will wear2.

down very ast.

Always use the same gear which you used while coming uphill,3.

or downhill driving.


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Always give way to trac coming uphill.4.

Blow horn wherever horn sign is there.5.

Reduce your speed as your vehicles acceleration and braking is going6.

to behave dierently here.

Stop or rests more requently while enjoying natural beauty o hills.7.

Do not overtake i the vehicle in your ront does not allow, it may be8.

potentially dangerous.

In Case o Breakdown

In the event o breakdown, parkyour vehicle on the side o road,

switch on hazard lamp to warn

other trac. Place the warning

triangle on road about 50 meters

behind the vehicle. Do not toe the

vehicle yoursel by tying it to other

vehicle. Call or the crane i vehicle

cant be repaired immediately. You

can contact Anytime Maruti at 1800

1800 180 indicating your location,

call centre will arrange to send the

repair team at the earliest.

Emergency situations during driving


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In Case o Accident

Section 10

84

In case o untoward incidence o an accident, immediately park

your vehicle on the side. Use hazard lamp or warning triangle i it

is not sae or other road users. Remain calm, by remaining calm

& ocussed demeanor you will remain in control & will be able to

provide key inormation.

I somebody is injured give st aid or arrange or medical aid by calling

Police and Ambulance on phone number 100 & 101 respectively.Collect the name and contact number o other people involved

in accident and o ew witnesses. Taking some photographs o

accident site would be o immense use in settling claim.

In case there is nobody injured, get in discussion with the other

party or amicable solution. Do not block trac, do not get into

argumentation mode or get involved in a trouble. Exchange driving

license number, registration no., insurance co. with other involved

party. There is no need o FIR to be lodged with the local police.

Immediately inorm the oce o your insurance co. which will

settle the claim without FIR.

Insurance company is to be reported with in 24 hours o

the accident.

I somebody in the cars or a third person is injured, accident is to

be reported to local police.


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In Case o Accident

85

In case you got injury, do not drive yoursel, ask or call or help. Always keep

the important inormation like contact person in case o emergency, blood

group or any other inormation important or a doctor, case you become

unconscious. This inormation can be saved under ICE heading (In Case o

Emergency) in your cell phone.

It is mandatory as per law to provide rst aid or medical attention i one

comes across a road accident victim. Anybody helping or providing help to

an accident victim can not be harassed as per law.

In automotive accidents many times victim gets entangled in the wreck, do

not try to pull out the victim i any body part is stuck.

Emergency Action Principles

Take ollowing steps to deal with a medical emer

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