WHAT YOU EXPECT TO GET IN LOCAL DRIVING LESSONS

1. Steering:  Steer smoothly whether you are driving straight ahead, turning, or backing up.
2. Acceleration:  Accelerate smoothly and moderately. Do not race the engine or cause it to stall.
3. Braking:  Bring the vehicle to a stop gently. Start braking well before your stopping position to avoid abrupt stops. Make sure you stop your vehicle in the proper position of the lane.
4. Clutch/Gears:  Always be sure your vehicle is in the correct gear. With either an automatic or manual transmission, shift into the proper gear at the right time without "grinding" the gears.
5. Speed:  Obey the posted speed limit, of course, but also adjust your speed properly due to weather, road, visibility, and traffic conditions.
6. Following distance:  Keep an adequate space "cushion" between your vehicle and those you are following. Use the "two-second rule" described in the Driver's Manual. Be sure to increase your following distance in poor weather or visibility.
7. Traffic signs, signals, and markings:  Know the meanings of signs, signals, and pavement markings, and obey them consistently.
8. Stopping position:  If a stop is required, stop your vehicle before it reaches an intersecting street. If stop lines or crosswalks are present, stop before crossing them. If your view is blocked after stopping behind the crosswalk, move up until you can see your way, then stop again if necessary.
9. Lane selection and position:  Keep your vehicle in the proper traffic lane, especially when preparing to make turns. Don't allow room for another vehicle to pass you on the side that you are turning toward.
10. Communication: Let other drivers and pedestrians know which way you want to go. Use your directional signals or horn consistently and at the proper times.
11. Observation:  Look for and identify potential problems or hazards in the traffic around you - not just straight ahead, but behind you and on either side. Check your mirrors frequently but be sure to look over your shoulder behind you when changing lanes or backing up.
12. Anticipate and react:  Anticipate possible driving errors by others and be ready to react safely to make up for their mistakes.