NOTE: A majority of the backing mishaps that haveoccurred in the NCF could have been avoided had theoperators used a backup guide.4. Ensure the reverse signal alarm works when youmake the prestart operational inspection. If yourvehicle is equipped with a reverse signal alarm,it must work during the entire backwardmovement of the vehicle.EXPRESSWAYSExpressways are designed for high-speed driving,and to avoid mishaps on them, drivers must be moreskillful and alert. All expressway entrances have threebasic parts: an entrance ramp, an acceleration lane, anda merging area. (See fig. 5-4.)On the entrance ramp, begin to speed up and checkfor an opening in traffic. Be sure to signal beforeentering. As the ramp straightens into the accelerationlane, continue to speed up. Try to adjust your speed soyou can move into traffic. Merge into traffic when youcan do so safely. You must yield the right-of-way totraffic on the expressway. You cannot always count onother drivers moving over to give you room to enter, butdo not stop on an acceleration lane unless traffic is heavyand there is no space for you to enter safely.When traveling on an expressway, you should neverexceed the posted speed limit and should maintain thedistance between vehicles needed for safe stopping.Avoid highway hypnosis by taking rest stops andopening vents or windows. Should you have andemergency situation develop, you should get the vehicleoff the expressway as fast as safely possible. Aftercoming to a stop, you should look behind you foroncoming or passing traffic before opening any door onthe vehicle. When safe to do so, exit the vehicle andplace flasher lights or flares behind the vehicle to warnother motorists.When you are leaving expressways, get in theproper lane well before the turnoff, and use turn signalsto warn other drivers. Slow down in the decelerationlane only. Check the posted speed for the exit ramp. (Seefig. 5-5.) Be prepared to obey posted signs like stop,yield, or merge. Should you miss your exit, do not stopor backup to the ramp. You must go to the next exit toturn around.PERIODIC STOPSDriving for long distances or operating equipmentfor long periods of time can become hypnotic. You needto stop at least every couple of hours and walk aroundyour vehicle to wake up and loosen up. This improvesyour awareness and allows you to operate the equipmentmore safely.While you are stopped and walking around, lookover your vehicle; give it a quick safety inspection.1.2.3.4.Look at your tires. Check the lug nuts and ensurethey are tight.Listen for any air leaks. Look for leaks that mayoccur during operation from the engine,transmission, or differential.Look at the general condition of your vehicle.Check the load to see if it has shifted.Figure 5-4.—How to enter an expressway safely.5-4
Integrated Publishing, Inc. - A (SDVOSB) Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business