Page 133 - CARS Standard Program

As stated at the beginning of this section, never attempt to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs as this adversely affects reaction time, coordination and judgment.
Never operate your vehicle over excessive periods of time or when you are over-tired. Drowsiness and fatigue are warning signs that you should pull off the road and refresh yourself. By continuing to operate a motor vehicle under these adverse conditions you not only endanger yourself but other drivers as well. Remember, as a Recovery Agent, IF YOU CANNOT OPERATE A MOTOR VEHICLE, YOU ARE OUT OF BUSINESS.
Avoiding Head-On Collisions
The following formula is a proven method for avoiding head-on collisions. It was developed over time with input from law enforcement and various motor vehicle safety organizations and is referred to as the Four Rs’.
1. Read the Road Ahead: Be constantly aware of oncoming traffic and alert to any problems the oncoming driver will encounter, such as pedestrians or bicyclists who might cause that driver to swerve into your lane. Try to “scan” the road at least 15 seconds ahead to spot potential problems.
2. Ride to the Right: Always drive in an effort to give the center lane maximum room. On roads four lanes or wider, always drive in the far right lane and try to determine the safety of the shoulders in the event it becomes necessary to drive off the roadway.
3. Reduce Speed: Immediately upon observing an oncoming vehicle moving toward your lane, reduce your speed, sound your horn or flash your lights to warn the oncoming driver. By reducing speed and moving further to the right, you give the other driver time to return to the proper lane. Continue to slow your vehicle and move to the right until the danger is passed.
4. Ride Off the Road: Should the oncoming vehicle continue in your path, it may be necessary to completely leave the roadway. In that event, remember to leave the roadway at an angle while continuing to search the shoulder for possible obstructions and watching the oncoming driver. Do not leave the roadway at excessive speed or apply too much pressure to the brakes so as not to put your vehicle into a skid. It may be necessary to hit a fixed object in order to avoid a head-on collision. If so, hit that fixed object at a glancing blow, never head-on.