Chapter 7 Negotiating Intersections

THINK*PAIR*SHARE

Why do you think the chances of a collision are greater at an intersection than at any other point on the roadway? (Your answer should be at least 2 sentences)

INTERSECTION FACTS:• The chances of a collision are greater at

intersections than at any other point on a roadway.

• Intersections are dangerous because many drivers cross paths there, and many unexpected stops occur there.

• More than one-third of all collisions and one-fourth of all fatal collisions take place at intersections.

INTERSECTION FACTS: (CONT)• One reason for the large number of collisions

at intersections is the driver’s failure to identify a safe path of travel through the intersection.

• Remember, you are not allowed to make lane changes within an intersection

Intersection Designs

• Most are simply two roadways crossing or a

railroad crossing a roadway in a + or X pattern.• Others may form a Y when one roadway divides

into two or when two join to form one.• Some meet to form a T.• A few are formed when several roadways meet

at a circle called a traffic circle.

Intersection Designs

What type of intersection is this?What must you do at this intersection?

close to yellow line

Where should you position your vehicle?

Turn left

What type of intersection design is this??

You are approaching a large circle intersection, with an inner lane and an outer lane. These are often confusing, exercise caution.

You are approaching a large circle intersection, with an inner lane and a outer lane. These are often confusing, exercise caution.

It is usually better to stay in the outer lane, this way, you won’t miss your exit.

Approaching An Intersection

• Plan a path of travel– Check Left front, center front, and right front. – 4-6 seconds from the intersection widen your

visual scan. WHY?– Be ready to change path of travel to ensure safety.

CONTROLLED VS. UNCONTROLLED INTERSECTIONS

Controlled intersections are protected by a signal or sign. Regulates traffic.Two kinds of signs that control intersections are:1.Stop2. YieldUncontrolled Intersections: No signs to regulate traffic. Usually found in areas of light traffic.In your own words, briefly describe the potential dangers associated with an uncontrolled intersection.

What should you be doing at this intersection? Stale green…coast and cover brake

in case light turns.

RULES FOR UNCONTROLLED INTERSECTIONS1.When approaching an uncontrolled

intersection always check to the left first and last!!

2.Never assume that other traffic will stop or follow the rules of the road.

3.Be sure that you can clearly see to the right and left.

4.Always let others go first.

HOMEWORK

Complete the information and charts on page 3 and the vocabulary on page 4 of your packet. This is homework and should be completed before the next class.

Controlled Railroad Crossing• Usually has red lights along with crossing

gates.• Do NOT proceed around gates going down or

are already down!!

UNCONTROLLED RAILROAD CROSSING: Do not have flashing red lights or crossing gates. However, nearly all are marked with a sign as you approach them.

Rules For Crossing Uncontrolled Railroad Tracks

1. Slow down. Check tracks to both sides and traffic to the rear as you approach crossing sign.

2. If a train is approaching, stop at a safe distance before the tracks.

3. When following school buses or trucks hauling flammable contents, be prepared to stop. Many states require such vehicles to stop before crossing railroad tracks.

Gap: the distance between vehiclesJUDGING THE SIZE OF A GAP• **You must be able to judge the gaps between

vehicles and how long it takes to pass through or enter intersecting traffic lanes.

**Gap = the distance between vehicles.**Crossing through traffic intersections, requires you to judge the size of gaps in traffic going in both directions.**When joining traffic, the size of the gap required increases as the speed of traffic increases.

HOMEWORK: Should be done for the next classUse the chart on page 144 in your book to complete the chart on page 6 in your packet.HOMEWORK: Should be done for the next classSITUATIONS WHERE YOU MUST YIELD: Use the pictures and information on pages 142-143 in your book to list what and who you must yield for in each of situation listed on the chart on page 6.