What factors should you consider when determining a safe speed to travel?

What factors should you consider when determining a safe speed to travel?

In establishing a safe operating speed, the operator must take into account visibility; traffic density; ability to maneuver the vessel (stopping distance and turning ability); background light at night; proximity of navigational hazards; draft of the vessel; limitations of radar equipment; and the state of wind, sea.

Why should drivers need to limit their speed when driving?

One reason why speed limits are important is because it is the law. Speed limits are not just there to protect pedestrians but also to protect the driver, it is proven to be easier to lose control of a vehicle at a higher speed.

What four factors should you take when selecting a safe speed?

What factors should you consider when selecting a safe speed? Amount of traffic, inclement weather, hills, curves, intersections and very narrow roads or lanes. You just studied 29 terms!

What is the following distance when driving?

It is recommended to keep a reasonable following distance so you can safely stop in a case of an emergency, e.g., if the car ahead of you stops suddenly. A defensive driver maintains a safe following distance of at least three seconds behind the vehicle ahead and increases it depending on weather and road conditions.

Why we should obey the speed limit?

The primary purpose of speed limits is to enhance safety by reducing risks imposed by drivers speed choices. A related function of speed limits is to provide the basis for enforcement and sanctions for those who drive at speeds excessive for conditions and endanger others.

How would reducing speed limits be beneficial?

Lower speed limits reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries for a combination of reasons. For one, driving at very high speeds can result in tunnel vision and decreased depth perception for the driver. At lower speeds, drivers have a wider field of vision and are more likely to notice other road-users.

When do you need to increase your following distance?

If the roads are slippery, you can increase your following distance by counting to a higher number. Always watch your speed and following distance when driving in weather conditions like rain, snow, or ice. Be especially vigilant when following motorcycles or bikes on wet or icy roads, gravel, and metal surfaces.

What should your speed be when driving in snow?

Did You Know? You should reduce your speed by 1/3 on wet roads and by 1/2 or more on snow packed roads (i.e., if you would normally be traveling at a speed of 60 mph on dry pavement, then on a wet road you should reduce your speed to 40 mph, and on a snow-packed road you should reduce your speed to 30 mph).

What can affect your following distance when driving at night?

This is especially true if you’re driving in inclement weather, the roads are icy, or you’re driving at night. Another thing that can affect your following distance is the type of vehicles on the road.

What’s the best way to maintain a safe speed?

Below are some tips that will help you maintain a safe speed for various driving conditions. Adjust your speed to safely match weather conditions, road conditions, visibility, and traffic.