Course Content 4 — Blind Spots and Driving

• What is visible from a two-wheeled vehicle and from a four-wheeled vehicle
• Examples of blind spots
• How to drive defensively
• How to communicate between vehicles

The road is a place of mixed traffic where many persons and vehicles proceed. To drive safely, acquiring skills in correct driving operations and driving according to traffic laws and regulations are a given. Further, a driver must judge the traffic conditions accurately in each instant, anticipate what hazards might be present, and take specific corresponding actions to drive more safely.

1. What Is Visible from a Two-Wheeled Vehicle and from a Four-Wheeled Vehicle

Among traffic accidents, the number of collisions between a two-wheeled vehicle and a four-wheeled vehicle is not insignificant. In order to prevent such accidents, it is important to understand how a two-wheeled vehicle appears to a driver of a four-wheeled vehicle, and how a four-wheeled vehicle appears to a driver of a two-wheeled vehicle. Drivers of four-wheeled vehicles tend to think lightly of two-wheeled vehicles, with their smaller vehicle body. Consequently, they might consider two-wheeled vehicles as things that travel at speeds similar to bicycles or could overlook them.

Further, when a two-wheeled vehicle and a four-wheeled vehicle are at the relative positions shown below, the driver of the two-wheeled vehicle might not be able to see the four-wheeled vehicle or not be able to anticipate its movement, and vice versa.

Cautions for the driver of a two-wheeled vehicle

• Do not enter the blind spots of a four-wheeled vehicle.
• Ensure a necessary distance, and in other ways travel in a position more likely to be noticed by the driver of the four-wheeled vehicle.
• Sufficiently check the traffic conditions at the rear to the right.

Cautions for the driver of a four-wheeled vehicle

• Like four-wheeled vehicles, two-wheeled vehicles cannot stop easily, either. Do not think of them as the same as bicycles.
• It is easy for a two-wheeled vehicle to enter a blind spot, and it is difficult to notice their presence. Check for safety sufficiently when changing course, etc.
• A two-wheeled vehicle might seem slower or appear farther than it actually is.

2. Examples of Blind Spots

In actual road traffic, there are many areas which are blind spots. Accident-free drivers are driving cautiously at all times, searching whether hazards are present in blind spots. On the other hand, when drivers who have caused accidents are asked for reasons:

• "I didn't think there would be a pedestrian behind the parked vehicle."
• "I didn't think there would be an oncoming vehicle in the curve."
• "I didn't think a vehicle would be coming from the right in the intersection."

...and other assumptions had been made that no other traffic would be present. Selfish judgments had been made instead of anticipating hazards in blind spots. It is important to pay attention to traffic which is not in the field of vision and traffic which is not seen at the moment and to check sufficiently whether there really is no traffic to be anticipated.

Reference — "Blind spot" Refers to an area or location that is not visible from the driver's seat.

1. Blind Spots of the Automobile Itself

Though there might be differences in the area, all automobiles have blind spots resulting from the structure of the automobile itself. To compensate for blind spots, safety standards of the Road Transport Vehicle Act mandates the installation of rearview mirrors and under mirrors. Be watchful of the surrounding conditions.

Blind Spots of an Automobile

(Approximate distances for a standard sedan:)

• Approx. 12 m ahead (front blind zone)
• Approx. 7 m to front-left diagonal
• Approx. 1 m immediately to the front
• Approx. 4 m to each side
• Approx. 4 m to the rear-left and rear-right diagonals

※ The size of a blind spot is different depending on the type of vehicles or the build of the driver.

Reference — "Under mirror" Refers to a mirror for checking for safety below or below to the left (or below to the right for vehicles with the steering wheel on the left) immediately in front of the vehicle to prevent accidents of hitting unseen traffic when starting to move or when parking.

Attention — Blind spots of pillars and side mirrors

Blind spots created by the automobile's pillars

Front pillars and rear pillars are not wide, but they create large blind spots hiding pedestrians and two-wheeled vehicles that are far away. The front pillars create blind spots hiding crossing pedestrians, and the rear pillars create blind spots hiding bicycles and two-wheeled vehicles that are to the rear diagonally. Move the head a little to check the blind spots due to pillars.

Blind spots of mirrors

Some areas are not visible in the rearview mirrors. It is important to look with own eyes when turning right or left or changing course instead of relying solely on mirrors, because it is especially easy for two-wheeled vehicles to the rear diagonally to the left or right to be in blind spots.

2. Blind Spots Created by Parked Vehicles

① Blind spots created by vehicles parked or stopped on both sides

There are always blind spots created by parked and stopped vehicles. Especially when vehicles are parked and stopped on both sides, blind spots are created on both sides and the difficulty of discovering pedestrians, etc. is higher than when vehicles are parked or stopped on one side. A driver must pay attention to both sides.

② Blind spots created by a continuous row of parked and stopped vehicles

When vehicles are parked or stopped in a continuous row, the area of a blind spot is larger than when a single vehicle is parked or stopped, and there is a row of them, increasing the hazard.

③ Blind spots in the case of identifying preschool children

Since preschool children are short, it is easy for them to be in a blind spot, even if the parked or stopped vehicle is a passenger vehicle.

3. Blind Spots at Intersections

① Blind spot to the left

Since drivers of two-wheeled vehicles travel along the left side, it is especially likely for them to delay in discovering a vehicle approaching from the left. At an intersection where visibility is poor, always come to a stop or proceed slowly and check for safety before proceeding.

② Blind spot for vehicles turning right

When turning right at an intersection, a blind spot is created behind an oncoming (or stopped) vehicle, and a two-wheeled vehicle in the blind spot might not be noticed.

③ Blind spot due to a short-cut turn

When turning right at an intersection, a short-cut turn enlarges the blind spot to the right, increasing the hazard.

Attention — Blind spot when turning left

A two-wheeled vehicle that has entered the blind spot on the left side of a four-wheeled vehicle might not be noticed.

4. Blind Spots Created by Curves

Curves with poor visibility have larger blind spots. Even on the same curve, the size of the blind spot is different depending on whether there is an obstacle present.

Attention — Blind spots of traffic mirrors Be careful. Even traffic mirrors have areas they cannot reflect.

3. How to Drive Defensively

Driving in a way that does not cause an accident is a must for a driver, but endeavoring to select the less hazardous driving behavior to try to "avoid being involved in an accident" is also important from the perspective of preventing accidents.

1. Speed That Is Ready for Hazards

A cause of many accidents is speeding. Should a hazard arise, speeding could prevent a driver from avoiding what could have been avoided. Travel at a safe speed and drive ready for hazards.

(The space to ensure safety with others changes according to speed — e.g., 30 km/h vs. 50 km/h)

2. Appropriate Road Position

To avoid causing an accident, it is important to choose a road position from which it is easier to notice vehicles and people. Further, to avoid being involved in an accident, it is important to:

• Not enter the blind spots of other vehicles
• Be easily seen by other vehicles
• Avoid a hazardous situation, should one occur

...and otherwise take an appropriate road position.

(Which road position is the best for noticing hazards?)

4. How to Communicate between Vehicles

Communication between vehicles is extremely important for the safety of traffic and driving in comfort. It is important to communicate intent as much as possible. These are not mandatory, but here are some ways communication between vehicles is being done using devices equipped on vehicles. These methods have not been designated and might mean different things according to the circumstances, so there is a need to take the surrounding conditions into account in deciphering what a vehicle that flashes its headlights, etc. is intending to do next.

① Flashing headlights at an intersection

An oncoming vehicle proceeding straight might reduce speed or come to a stop and flash its headlights at a vehicle waiting to turn right to indicate "you can go first". Just flashing the headlights could mean "I'm going first, so don't proceed".

② Turning on hazard lights

• Hazard lights might be turned on to inform following vehicles of congestion on an expressway, etc.
• When a vehicle is allowed in front of another vehicle during congestion, the vehicle allowed in might use its hazard lights to express appreciation.

③ Turn signal on a single road

When a vehicle ahead turns on its turn signal on a straight road, reduces speed, and moves to the left, it could be indicating "please overtake (or pass) me". There is a need to make sure before traveling.

④ Switching headlights

When approaching an intersection without traffic lights at night or when it is otherwise dark, a vehicle might proceed at low speed while switching its headlights between high and low beams to be noticed by other vehicles. Further, a vehicle might turn off its headlights when yielding the road to an oncoming vehicle where the road is narrow.

Let's Try — Course Content 4 — Check your understanding with right/wrong questions.

(See page 275 for answers.)

1. Drivers of two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles both should understand the characteristics of the other vehicle, yield to each other, and be considerate in their actions.
2. Pedestrians crossing from behind parked vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles proceeding behind four-wheeled vehicles proceeding straight when making a right turn can be considered potential hazards in traffic.
3. A two-wheeled vehicle may be overlooked by a driver of a four-wheeled vehicle or appear farther or seem slower than it actually is. Two-wheeled vehicles must pay special attention to four-wheeled vehicles turning right at an intersection.
4. Blind spots from the driver's seat are created only to the rear of the vehicle, so blind spots need attention only when reversing.

(正: right, 誤: wrong)

Course Content 5 — Behavior Analysis Based on Aptitude Test Results

• Driving and personality
• Driving aptitude test
• Using the result of the driving aptitude test for driving, etc.

1. Driving and Personality

1. Personality Apparent in Driving

Even with the same driving skills, how a person drives is different for each individual. This is because an individual driver's personality and habits have a large effect on driving.

2. Persons Who Cause Traffic Accidents, Persons Who Don't

There is known to be a correspondence between whether a driver commits traffic violations or causes traffic accidents and his/her personality and habits. Some drivers are accident-free and violation-free for many years, while others commit traffic violations and cause traffic accidents repeatedly many times in 1 year.

Reference — Multiple-accident drivers exist

The graph at right is a result of research into how many traffic accidents were caused at a company in 2 years. Though driving under the same conditions, some drivers cause traffic accidents multiple times, and others do not cause any. Further, most of the traffic accidents were caused by drivers who caused traffic accidents multiple times.

(According to resources from the National Research Institute of Police Science)

Number of drivers (58 people in total)	Number of accidents (109 cases in total)
17 people (29.3%) — 0 times	13 cases (11.9%)
13 people (22.4%) — 1 time	44 cases (40.4%)
17 people (29.3%) — 2 to 3 times	33 cases (30.3%)
8 people (13.8%) — 4 to 5 times	19 cases (17.4%)
3 people (5.2%) — 6 times or more

2. Driving Aptitude Test

A way of finding out one's own personality and habits is to be watched by another person while driving, however, undergoing a driving aptitude test administered by a professional will provide more accurate knowledge of movements, actions, and personality that are deeply connected to driving. Driving aptitude tests include the National Police Agency Driving Aptitude Test Type K which is currently administered at many driving schools.

Reference — Types of driving aptitude tests

The driving aptitude test is a type of psychological test. Psychological testing is a method devised to scientifically assess individual characteristics such as personality and is used in fields such as education, medicine, and human resources. National Police Agency Driving Aptitude Test Type K and OD Safety Test are some examples.

National Police Agency Driving Aptitude Test Type K This was developed based on results of research into the personality and habits of drivers who frequently commit traffic violations or cause traffic accidents.

OD Safety Test This comprehensively diagnoses a person's fitness for safe driving from the four perspectives of motor function, health and maturity, personality characteristics, and driving manners.

3. Using the Result of the Driving Aptitude Test for Driving, etc.

1. Characteristics and driving by type

(according to National Police Agency Driving Aptitude Test Type K)

1. A person who is slow at judging conditions

Someone who is not good at quickly judging the surrounding conditions. They could act without thinking thoroughly when proceeding through an intersection with heavy traffic or on roads with many pedestrians and bicycles. It is dangerous to act on speculation in complicated conditions. Drive while recalling what you learned in driving lessons. It is important to perceive where the potential hazards are and take appropriate action in response to the hazard.

2. A person who can move quickly but lacks precision

Someone who could be said to be active at anything. In most cases, they are good at driving and travel briskly. However, once driving becomes familiar, they could become sloppy. Once in a while, self-check whether you are executing each maneuver with precision. Also, pay attention to surrounding conditions and pause before starting an action.

3. A person with a neurotic tendency

A person who can be attentive to detail. However, attention to too much detail could cause them to overlook important things, or thinking about what happened could cause them to drive inattentively. As a beginner, it is common to focus the nerves on driving. While paying balanced attention to the surrounding conditions, don't be too tense and drive in a relaxed manner.

4. A person prone to mood swings

A person whose moods change wildly. In particular, when the mood is down, both mental sharpness and response of the body decline, making it impossible to perform at the usual capacity. At such times, avoid driving or drive after taking a mental break and returning to a normal mood.

5. A person with an aggressive tendency

A person with a strong sense of justice. However, they tend to be judgmental of others. Even if laws and regulations give you the right of way, it does not give you the right to assert it to any extent. Some drivers are not good at driving, and people make mistakes at times. It is important to be in a frame of mind that is willing to yield.

6. A person with a self-centered tendency

Someone who always acts at their own pace. However, they could be lacking in attention to their surroundings. Someone could feel that they understand the feelings of pedestrians or other drivers, but, in reality, they could be thinking something completely different. Once in a while, review whether actions could have disturbed other people.

Reference — OD Safety Test

Diagnoses four aspects required for safe driving: motor function, health and maturity, personality characteristics, and driving manners. The test result is categorized into one of four broad driving types based on an overall rating of degrees of "driving fitness" and "driving safety".

1. Safe driving type — A person who is high in both driving fitness and driving safety. This does not mean that you will never cause an accident. Do not be caught off guard.
2. Involved in accidents (tendency) type — A person who is high in driving safety but is low in driving fitness. Caution is required when driving requires compound maneuvers.
3. Serious accident (tendency) type — A person who is high in driving fitness but low in driving safety. Endeavor to drive safely without putting too much trust in your driving skills.
4. Multiple accidents and violations (tendency) type — A person who is low in both driving fitness and driving safety. Think about what kind of mental preparation is important and drive while paying detailed attention.

※ Even if categorized in the Safe driving type, the shaded area could change to other types, so caution is required.

(Example: Overall rating — Driving fitness 3, Driving safety D → Serious accident tendency type)

2. Mental States Leading to Hazards

It would be ideal to drive in a calm state at all times, but there could be times when a driver is irritated or feeling down. Special caution is required at such times.

1. Irritation

If something unpleasant happens before departure or if congestion prevents traveling as expected, this could lead to irritation. Irritation could result in speeding or decreased attention to other vehicles. This is very hazardous.

2. Worry

If there are any worries about the home, work, or school, a person could become inattentive while driving, or his/her attention could become scattered due to declining mood.

3. Familiarity and lapse of attention

Beginners drive cautiously, but familiarity tends to lead to distracted driving, so attention is required.

Reference — "Distracted driving" Refers to lack of tension while driving, such as thinking of other things or not being focused. It is important to be in good physical condition and to feel a good amount of tension when holding the steering wheel.

4. Overconfidence in driving skills, etc.

Drivers tend to think that they are good at driving and that they would never cause a traffic accident. However, such thinking is very hazardous. It is important to always drive with caution and humility.

5. Hurrying

When running late for school, work, or an appointment, drivers tend to choose hazardous driving behavior, such as speeding and ignoring red signals. It is important to act with ample time.

Reference — Defense mechanism

The human mind becomes unstable when its desires are not satisfied. The human mind has a mechanism to attempt to maintain its stability by satisfying other desires if a desire is not satisfied. This is called the mind's defense mechanism. Caution is required, as driving behaviors which manifest themselves as a result of the defense mechanism are often hazardous driving behaviors leading to traffic accidents. Some examples are speeding or traveling too close to another vehicle in an attempt to diffuse irritation.

Let's Try — Course Content 5 — Check your understanding with right/wrong questions.

(See page 275 for answers.)

1. Being aware of one's fitness for driving is important to drive safely.
2. People who get upset by being overtaken or get irritated at congestion when driving must be well aware of such a personality and must work to always keep a calm judgment and drive safely so that they do not cause unexpected accidents.

(正: right, 誤: wrong)

Stage 2 Course Content 6 — Human Ability and Driving

• Recognition, judgment, and operation
• Factors that affect recognition, judgment, and operation

1. Recognition, Judgment, and Operation

1. Recognition, Judgment, and Operation

When a driver applies brakes while traveling, first he/she recognizes an obstacle by seeing or hearing, judges that he/she needs to apply brakes, and then operates the brakes. This process of recognition → judgement → operation takes a little time.

Perceiving every relevant information (obstacles, etc.) in a short time is difficult. Also, when you judge the traveling speed of the vehicle, distance to an obstacle, etc., note that your judgment may not match the actual speed or distance. Further, when the surrounding condition or condition of the driver is not good, making a proper judgment becomes much more difficult. Therefore, it is important to drive knowing that there is a limit to human abilities.

Recognition (Looking, Hearing) → Judgment (Deciding) → Operation (Acting)

2. Reaction Time

The time required for a driver to recognize a dangerous situation and apply the brakes as well as for the brakes to start working is said to be about 1 second. This duration is called reaction time. As the speed increases, the distance traveled by a vehicle in 1 second becomes longer and it becomes more difficult to avoid an obstacle. Therefore, try to drive slow enough and apply brakes early enough all the time.

Distances traveled in 1 second (approximately)

Three stages of reaction time

Reaction time = Reflection time + Time required to change pedals + Depression time

• Reflection time: Time required from when the driver notices danger and makes a judgement to apply the brakes until the hands and legs start moving. (Four-wheeled vehicle / Two-wheeled vehicle)
• Time required to change pedals: Time required until placing the foot on the brake pedal (Four-wheeled vehicle); Time required until putting the hand on the brake lever and the foot on the brake pedal (Two-wheeled vehicle)
• Depression time: Time required from when a driver steps on the brakes suddenly until the brakes start to engage (Four-wheeled vehicle); Time required from when a driver grips the brake lever and depresses the brake pedal with the foot until the brakes start to engage (Two-wheeled vehicle)

3. The Function of Vision

When driving a vehicle, you must use various functions of your body. Because we highly rely on information coming through our eyes, vision is the most critical function.

1. Vision

(1) Vision

Usually, vision is measured using the international visual acuity test chart. In such a way, the vision is measured by staring at one spot. Peripheral vision is weaker than the measured vision. Therefore, you should keep shifting your eyes as necessary instead of staring at one spot while driving, in order to pay equal attention to the surroundings. Especially, while traveling at high speed, you need to properly perceive information on the road far ahead. Always try to get information early.

• Static visual acuity: The vision when you stop and the other party also stops.
• Dynamic visual acuity: The vision when you are moving or viewing an object that is moving. Dynamic visual acuity is less powerful than the vision when you are stationary and viewing an object that is stationary (static visual acuity). Therefore, as the speed increases, vision decreases and it takes longer to find a dangerous situation.

(2) Dynamic visual acuity

(You move, and the other party also moves / You move, and the other party stops / You stop, and the other party moves — These cases are dynamic vision)

2. Field of Vision

(1) Field of vision

The view covered by the eyes without moving them is called field of vision. Field of vision of each eye when a person is stationary is about 160 degrees, and with both eyes, it is about 200 degrees. The extent to which colors can be judged correctly is up to around 35 degrees for each eye. People often fail to recognize the color of an object correctly when the object goes out of this extent. This means that a driver may fail to recognize a traffic signal or traffic sign correctly if he/she does not look at it carefully.

(2) The relationship between field of vision and speed

The faster the speed of a vehicle, the narrower the driver's field of vision becomes, while objects nearby become difficult to see as the driver tends to look to the distance. Therefore, be careful not to overlook pedestrians or bicycles that may dart out into the road from nearby when you are traveling at high speed.

3. Adaptation

When a person suddenly enters a bright place from a dark place, he/she cannot see things well at first because it is too bright, but after a moment his/her eyes get used to the condition and can see things as usual. This phenomenon is called brightness adaptation. On the other hand, when a person suddenly enters a dark place from a bright place, he/she cannot see things well at first, but he/she will gradually be able to see things. This phenomenon is called darkness adaptation. Darkness adaptation takes a longer time than brightness adaptation. When entering or exiting a tunnel, you must reduce speed and drive carefully.

※ During the twilight hours, it becomes dark quicker than eyes can adapt and therefore vision declines.

4. Judging Distance and Speed

Drivers should judge the distance from other vehicles or obstacles on their own during traveling. Sometimes he/she may judge the traveling speed without looking at the speedometer. However, such judgement is not always correct and may be subject to optical illusions. Therefore, drivers should make it a habit to check the speedometer instead of relying on their own judgment. Be especially careful not to exceed the speed limit when entering a general road from the expressway, as this is a common tendency. Furthermore, as road conditions change, there's a higher possibility of errors in judging the distance and speed.

• ① At night ················ Since it is dark and difficult to see the surroundings, you cannot judge the speed correctly. Also, assessing the distance between your vehicle and another vehicle, or its speed, by using the headlights of other vehicles is not always accurate.
• ② On expressways ········· A driver feels slower than the actual speed due to the wide open space ahead.
• ③ Size of a vehicle ·········· A driver feels that a large vehicle is closer to him/her, while he/she feels a small one is farther away.

(The large vehicle, the regular vehicle, and the two-wheeled vehicle appear to be lined up side by side when seen from 100 m away from them; however, actually, the large vehicle is 20 m away from the two-wheeled vehicle.)

Reference — Optical illusion

"Optical illusion" is a phenomenon that the size, length, or direction appears to differ from reality. This phenomenon is universal and can happen to anyone. It is possible that a driver makes a mistake in judging the situation due to an optical illusion and cause an accident.

(Examples)

1. The optical illusion in which a downward slope appears to be an upward slope, and vice versa
2. The optical illusion in which a small vehicle appears to be farther than a large vehicle
3. The optical illusion that causes the loss of the sense of speed after getting off an expressway

2. Factors that Affect Recognition, Judgment, and Operation

There are various factors that can affect recognition, judgment, and operation, and cause undesirable effects such as prolonged reaction time. These include fatigue and the influence of alcohol, which can be prevented in advance.

1. Drinking Alcohol

1. Effects of alcohol

The effect of alcohol varies with individuals. Since alcohol can temporarily relieve tension and elevate your mood, you may feel clear-headed. However, in reality, alcohol definitely decreases brain activity. You will not be able to make a cool decision or think logically. If you drive a vehicle after drinking alcohol, you will lose your power of judgment and self-control, and therefore will not be able to perform driving operations appropriately. Also, alcohol brings various negative effects, such as declined vision, misjudgment of speed or distance, etc.

Effects of alcohol:

• A person becomes overconfident
• A person speeds
• A person's range of vision becomes narrow
• A person's sense of distance becomes poor

2. The Fearful effects of drunk driving

Drunk driving can lead to serious traffic accidents including those resulting in death. It is very dangerous to easily assume that you can drive a vehicle because some time has passed after drinking alcohol. If you have had alcohol even a little, never drive!! Also, you must not provide or offer alcohol to someone who is going to drive.

Reference — Examples of accidents often caused by drunk driving

• As the driver's vision declines and his/her field of vision becomes narrow, he/she overlooks a traffic signal or traffic sign
• Neglects to keep moving the eyes and overlooks a pedestrian
• Driver's sense of balance is lost, and the vehicle enters the opposite lane
• Falls asleep while driving and the vehicle runs out of control

Reference — Drunk driving and penalties

Even a little bit of alcohol definitely decreases brain activity and brings bad effects on the abilities of recognition, judgment, and operation necessary for driving. Countless serious accidents have been caused by drunk driving. Never drive after drinking alcohol. Also, you must not encourage someone who is going to drive to drink alcohol or ask someone who has drunk alcohol to drive you home. Besides a driver who drives after drinking alcohol, a person who helps a drunk person to drive or asks a drunk person to drive is subject to heavy penalty.

Prohibition against hangover driving Regardless of the situation, driving under the influence of alcohol is presumed to be drunk driving. If you drink late at night or drink too much, alcohol still remains in your body even after sleeping one night. It takes a long time to decompose alcohol in your body, even if you have drunk only one cup of alcoholic drink. Be very careful that alcohol may still remain in your body on the following day.

Penalties

(The driver)		(People who are involved)
Drunk driving (Under the influence of alcohol)	Imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding 500,000 yen	Providing a vehicle — driver is under the influence of alcohol: Imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding 500,000 yen
Drunk driving (Intoxicated)	Imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or a fine not exceeding 1,000,000 yen	Providing a vehicle — driver is intoxicated: Imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or a fine not exceeding 1,000,000 yen
Violation of the duty to aid the injured (Hit and run)	Imprisonment not exceeding 10 years or a fine not exceeding 1,000,000 yen	Providing alcohol — driver is under the influence of alcohol: Imprisonment not exceeding 2 years or a fine not exceeding 300,000 yen
Refusal of alcohol test	Imprisonment not exceeding 3 months or a fine not exceeding 500,000 yen	Providing alcohol — driver is intoxicated: Imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding 500,000 yen

		Requesting or asking for a ride
Knowing that the driver is intoxicated	On a vehicle driven by an intoxicated driver	Imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding 500,000 yen
Other than above	On a vehicle driven by a driver under the influence of alcohol / On a vehicle driven by an intoxicated driver	Imprisonment not exceeding 2 years or a fine not exceeding 300,000 yen

① Driving under the influence of alcohol ············· An alcohol concentration of 0.15 mg per 1 L of breath or 0.3 mg per 1 mL of blood or more remains in the body. ② Intoxicated driving ················· Driving while drunk, regardless of the alcohol amount. ③ Refusal of alcohol test ················· If it is found that a person who is inside of or about to enter a vehicle is likely to drive the vehicle, etc. under the influence of alcohol, a police officer may test that person to determine the level of alcohol. Refusal of alcohol test refers to refusing or interfering with such test.

2. Fatigue

1. Causes of fatigue

Each of the following cases can be a factor that causes a driver to feel tired.

① Irregular lifestyle due to the reasons such as lack of sleep. ② Aged or not having much driving experience. Fatigability varies with individuals. Some people get tired easily. ③ People may get tired easily due to the conditions such as time, temperature, road conditions, travel distance, and the environment inside the vehicle.

2. Effects of fatigue

Fatigue causes the symptoms such as falling asleep and yawning and changes such as reaction delays. Invisible changes may include an increase in the number of heartbeats and blood pressure. When you feel changes in your body such as drowsiness, even if it is only a little change, you have to take a rest as soon as possible.

3. Avoiding driving while exhausted

Pay attention to the following points to avoid driving while being exhausted.

① Take enough sleep and ensure physical and mental well-being before driving. Do not drive when you are sick or mentally unstable. ② Make a driving plan with plenty of time to spend in advance, and take a rest at least once every 2 hours. ③ If you feel tired, do not force yourself to drive. Park in a safe place early and take a nap or do some light exercise.

3. Other Factors

If the driver's physical or mental condition is not good, his/her reaction may delay or his/her reaction time may fluctuate. Be careful of the following conditions.

① Physical and mental conditions

When a driver is sick due to cold or other diseases, when a driver's mental condition is not good, or when a driver is in a festive mood, his/her reaction time becomes longer or fluctuates.

② Illnesses and medicines

When a person has illnesses that can cause impaired awareness at any time, such as high blood pressure, low blood pressure, and diabetes, illnesses that accompany autonomic ataxia or an abnormal sense of balance, such as dizziness, a giddy feeling when standing up, a ringing in the ears, and blurring of the eyesight, his/her reaction time may be longer. Most of the antihistamine medicines such as cold medicines, tranquilizers, etc. can be a cause of prolonged reaction time.

③ Age

In general, a person's reaction time gets longer as he/she ages. The older a person becomes, the more his/her vision, hearing, reflexes, and muscular strength decline.

④ Other

When a person is not focused on driving or when a person does not have much driving experience, his/her reaction may delay.

Let's Try — Course Content 6 — Check your understanding with right/wrong questions.

(See page 275 for answers.)

1. Among the human senses, vision is the most important sense for safe driving.
2. While driving, it is better to look blankly at the whole scene rather than staring at one object.
3. As the speed increases, a driver tends to look to the distance and overlook pedestrians or bicycles that dart out into the road from nearby. This is dangerous.
4. As a driver drives longer time, his/her eyes are adjusted and overlooking is minimized. Therefore, he/she can drive safely.
5. When a person suddenly enters a dark place from a bright place, his/her vision drastically declines temporarily. However, a person's vision does not change when he/she enters a bright place from a dark place.
6. Never drive after drinking alcohol, because drunk driving can cause mistaking, overlooking, misjudgment, wrong operation, etc., which leads to an accident.

(正: right, 誤: wrong)

Stage 2 Course Content 7 — Effects of Natural Forces on Vehicles and Driving

• Forces on a vehicle to keep it moving and forces to stop it
• How to load cargo, etc. and a vehicle's stability
• Driving on curves and slopes
• Special characteristics of two-wheeled vehicles, riding posture, and riding
• Speed and impact
• Prevention of traffic pollution, global warming, etc.

A traveling vehicle generates kinetic energy with its own weight and speed. Therefore, natural forces such as inertia, centrifugal force, frictional force, etc. act on a vehicle while traveling. In order to drive safely, it is important to understand such natural forces and to know that there is a limit in controlling a vehicle.

1. Forces on a Vehicle to Keep It Moving and Forces to Stop It

1. Use of Frictional Resistance

A moving object tends to keep moving until an external force is applied on it. This is called the law of inertia. A traveling vehicle has an inertia to keep moving, even if the gear is shifted to neutral, due to inertia. To stop the vehicle, frictional resistance generated by brakes is used. In other words, the inertia is controlled using frictional resistance. However, note that there is a limit to frictional resistance. When a vehicle cannot be controlled within the limit of the force of friction resistance, you cannot stop a vehicle before an obstacle, even if you apply brakes after recognizing the object. In such a case, the vehicle may collide into the obstacle or skid off the road. The limit of frictional resistance is not always fixed and changes depending on the condition of the braking device and a coefficient of friction between the tires and the road surface.

Reference — "Coefficient of friction"

A numerical value indicating the "non-slipperiness" between two objects is known as a coefficient of friction. Objects can slip easily when the coefficient of friction is small. Objects are less slippery when coefficient of friction is large.

The range of the coefficient of skid friction on different kinds of road surfaces:

Kind of road surfaces	Dry	Wet
Concrete road	0.5～1.0	0.4～0.9
Asphalt road	0.5～1.0	0.3～0.9
Gravel road	0.4～0.6	—
Steel plate, etc.	0.4～0.8	0.2～0.5
Snowy road surface	—	0.2～0.5
Frozen road surface	—	0.1～0.2

(According to a report from the Public Works Research Institute)

A coefficient of skid friction is the coefficient of friction when the tires lock. Differences arise depending on the condition of the road surface and the tires (the degree of wear, internal pressure, tread pressure, etc.), as well as how the brake pedal is depressed.

2. A Vehicle's Stopping Distance

A vehicle cannot stop immediately after the brakes are applied. Bringing a vehicle to a stop requires a certain distance (stopping distance) which is the sum of the distance traveled from when a driver notices danger and apply the brakes until the brakes do start to engage (reaction distance), and the distance from when the brakes start to engage until the vehicle stops (braking distance). You should drive at a speed which enables you to stop the vehicle safely even if a dangerous situation occurs.

(Apply brakes → Brakes start to engage → The vehicle stops) (← Reaction distance →← Braking distance →) (←————— Stopping distance ————→)

1. Factors that make reaction distance longer

The reaction distance becomes longer when a driver is tired because it takes time for him/her to notice a danger and make a judgment.

2. Factors that make braking distance longer

When a road surface is wet, or the tires are worn, the coefficient of friction is significantly reduced, extending the braking distance. In such cases, the braking distance may become about twice as long as that on a dry road surface with good tire conditions. Also, the braking distance extends when carrying a heavy load. Therefore, overloading is dangerous as it further extends the braking distance.

Standard stopping distance (when applying brakes suddenly)

• Reaction distance → Proportional to the speed
• Braking distance → Proportional to the speed squared

① This table shows an example when a driver in normal condition applies brakes suddenly while driving on a dry paved road. The stopping distance may be longer depending on the conditions. For example, the distance on a rainy day becomes 1.5 times or more than shown in the table. On a snowy or frozen road surface, it becomes three times or more. Also, making a sudden stop while driving faster than 60 km/h is dangerous, because under such situation a vehicle often spins or skids instead of stopping successfully.

② The reaction distance in this table is calculated based on the assumption that the reaction time is 1 second, assuming that a driver is paying attention normally. In actual situations, it may be longer than this.

3. Effective Braking Method

When stopping at an intersection or a stopping position, first lightly step on the brake pedal well in advance to blink the brake lights 2 or 3 times, to give a signal to the vehicle behind that you are going to stop. Then, lightly step on the brake pedal again and gradually apply more pressure, and adjust the depressing depth of the brake pedal to stop the vehicle at the stopping position. This is an effective method to prevent a rear-end collision.

When you are forced to stop suddenly to avoid danger, depress the brake pedal strongly while holding the steering wheel straight, but avoid locking the tires (stopping their revolution). This is the method to stop the vehicle within the shortest braking distance while keeping the vehicle stable. If you apply the brakes too strongly in a stroke and the tires are locked, the braking distance increases, control of the steering wheel is lost, and the vehicle may skid. This often occurs on a slippery road. In such a situation, hold the steering wheel firmly without panicking, and keep applying the brakes. In any case, it is often difficult to take such actions in an emergency situation. The most important thing is to anticipate hazards appropriately and reduce speed in advance.

Reference — ABS (Antilock braking system)

When the tires are locked, the coefficient of friction decreases. The coefficient of friction becomes the greatest during the time between when the tires are turning freely and when they are locked. Using this maximum coefficient of friction effectively is a way to make the braking distance the shortest and make skidding unlikely to happen. Repetitive braking (the method of repeating the braking operation in which the driver applies the brakes and releases them just before the tires stop revolving) is a method for making maximum use of coefficient of friction. However, since it requires a high skill, if a general driver attempts repetitive braking, it will end up in longer braking distance.

ABS is a device that executes such repetitive braking controlled by a computer. A vehicle equipped with ABS is considered to be able to stop without being unstable in the shortest braking distance. However, since some experiments show that a vehicle equipped with ABS needs longer braking distance while traveling slowly or on a gravel road, you need to use ABS carefully.

Note that when ABS is activated, you will hear valve-operating sounds and feel small vibrations on the brake pedal. This is a characteristic effect (referred to as kickback) while ABS is operating, and you have to keep depressing while the brake pedal vibrates.

2. How to Load Cargo, etc. and a Vehicle's Stability

1. Change in Stability Depending on Loading Methods

The center of gravity is the place where the weight of a vehicle is concentrated at one central point, and there is balance. As the height of the center of gravity goes up, the vehicle becomes more unstable. Therefore, you should not pile up cargo too high. If the cargo is not loaded evenly on the left and right sides, the center of gravity is on one side, and you may lose control of the steering wheel, or the vehicle may overturn while traveling on a gentle curve. Also, if brakes are applied suddenly while traveling, the center of gravity shifts to the front, making the rear wheels likely to lock and the vehicle unstable.

(Do not pile up too high / Load evenly on the left and right sides)

2. Checking Cargo on a Hump or Dip Road

On a hump or dip road, such as a gravel road, the cargo may shift to one side or the rope may become loose. Therefore, the driver needs to periodically check the cargo.

3. Driving on Curves and Slopes

1. Driving on Curves and Corners

1. Driving that regulates the force to pull the vehicle outward

When a vehicle turns a curve or corner, the centrifugal force works due to inertia. The centrifugal force increases in proportion to the square of the speed (four times as great at double the speed and nine times as great at triple the speed). Also, the smaller the radius of a curve is, the greater the centrifugal force is. When this centrifugal force is greater than the frictional resistance between the tires and the road surface, it becomes very difficult to control the vehicle, and the vehicle may skid off the road or overturn. It is important to keep in mind that centrifugal force works while traveling on curves and to reduce speed sufficiently before entering a curve.

2. Predicting driving conditions ahead

On curves, etc., the vision ahead is often restricted and the condition ahead is difficult to judge. Therefore, it is important to anticipate that there may be an oncoming vehicle, etc. and to travel at an appropriate speed along the safest course in advance, based on the conditions such as how the road is winding, the degree of the curve, width of the road, view ahead, etc.

Reference — Points to note when driving through curves and corners

① When approaching a corner or curve, reduce speed sufficiently on the straight part of the road before the corner or curve. If you turn the steering wheel or apply the brakes while turning the steering wheel without reducing the speed, the vehicle tends to skid or overturn easily. ② Operate the steering wheel gently, instead of suddenly. ③ Do not go beyond the center of the road. Also, since an oncoming vehicle may cross over the center of the road, drive carefully. ④ Pay attention to inner wheelbase differential. Due to inner wheelbase differential, a vehicle may hit a pedestrian or bicycle when turning, or the rear wheel may roll over the shoulder. ⑤ While driving on a curve, it may be difficult to judge the condition of the road ahead. It is also important to take a safe course anticipating invisible hazards. ⑥ Do not overtake the vehicle ahead on curves and corners. Though overtaking is not prohibited on curves, the driver's vision ahead is restricted and speeding on a curve accompanies danger. Therefore, avoid overtaking.

2. Driving on Slopes and Mountain Roads

On upward slopes, since a resistance is applied on a vehicle according to the vehicle's weight and the degree of the grade, a vehicle needs a large amount of power to travel. On downward slopes, since a vehicle may accelerate due to the grade, the force to slow down the vehicle is required. Therefore, correct and well-timed gear-shifting and braking operations appropriate for the degree of grade are required. On mountain roads, the view ahead is poor as they have many slopes and curves. Furthermore, other bad conditions, such as narrow road width, poor road surfaces, the danger of falling rocks, roads with cliff on one side, etc. accumulate. Therefore, drive very carefully.

1. Starting on upward slopes

When starting on upward slopes, you need to prevent the vehicle from rolling backward using the hand brake (parking brake) in the case of a four-wheeled vehicle and the rear-wheel brake in the case of a two-wheeled vehicle.

2. Distance between vehicles when stopping on upward slopes

When stopping your vehicle behind another vehicle on an upward slope, do not come too close to that vehicle. If you stop too close, the vehicle ahead of you may roll backward when starting and collide with your vehicle.

3. Use of engine braking on downward slopes and distance between vehicles

① On long or steep downward slopes, use engine braking. At the same time, use the foot brake (in the case of a four-wheeled vehicle) or the front- and rear-wheel brakes (in the case of a two-wheeled vehicle) as necessary. When doing so, note that the engine may revolve excessively if the selected gear is too low. It is dangerous to use the foot brake or the front- and rear-wheel brakes too much, because doing so may cause a fade effect or vapor lock effect, which results in braking failure.

② On downward slopes, a vehicle accelerates and stopping distance is increased, so maintain a longer distance from the vehicle ahead on downward slopes than on flat land.

Reference — The effects of engine braking

Engine braking is more effective in lower gears (either the "L" or "1" position in the case of automatic transmission vehicles). It does not work while the clutch pedal is depressed (or the clutch lever is gripped in the case of a two-wheeled vehicle), or while the gearshift is in the neutral position. Engine braking is particularly effective in the following situations:

• When going down a long downward slope.
• When traveling on a slippery road, such as snowy or frozen roads.
• When reducing the vehicle speed after traveling at high speed.

※ The engine braking in automatic transmission vehicles is generally weaker and slower to come into effect, so make sure to activate them early.

Braking troubles

Fade effect: If the foot brake or the front- and rear-wheel brakes are used excessively on downward slopes, etc., the brake pads or discs overheat and the frictional force dramatically decreases, resulting in brake failure. This phenomenon often occurs with drum brakes.

Vapor lock effect: If the foot brake or the front- and rear-wheel brakes are used excessively, the brake pads, discs, etc. overheat, allowing the heat to pass through to the brake fluid and cause bubbles within the fluid. In this condition, since the pressure generated by applying the brakes does not transfer successfully, the brakes may not work well. This phenomenon also often occurs with drum brakes.

4. Yielding way on slopes

① It is difficult for a vehicle to start moving on an upward slope. Therefore, a vehicle going down should give way to the vehicle going up. ② When there is a turnout nearby, a vehicle going up should pull in and wait there. ③ On narrow roads with a cliff on one side where there is a risk of falling, regardless of which vehicle is going up or down, the vehicle on the cliff side should stop in a safe place beforehand and give way. ④ When carrying a heavy load and driving up a long upward slope at a slow speed, occasionally move to the left side of the road and proceed slowly, or stop to allow following vehicles to pass you in order to avoid traffic congestion.

5. Cautions against shoulders

On mountain roads, shoulders may be likely to crumble. Especially when it is raining or the snow is melting, do not get too close to the shoulders. If it is unavoidable to get close to a shoulder, get out of your vehicle and check the conditions of the shoulder beforehand.

Reference — Optical Illusions on long downward slopes

When entering a road with a different grade after traveling on a long downward slope, you may mistake a gentle downward slope for flat land, or flat land for an upward slope due to optical illusion. If you carelessly accelerate the vehicle based on such illusion, you may cause an unexpected accident.

Reference — Parking on a slope (Four-wheeled vehicle)

If it is unavoidable to park on a gentle slope, pay attention to the following:

• Apply the hand brake (parking brake) securely.
• Shift the gear into low on an upward slope, and into reverse on a downward slope. In automatic transmission vehicles, shift to "P".
• Use wheel chocks (if that's not possible, wedge large stones, etc. under the tires).

4. Special Characteristics of Two-Wheeled Vehicles, Riding Posture, and Riding

1. Special Characteristics of Two-Wheeled Vehicles

Two-wheeled vehicles have structural characteristics that the vehicle is kept stable by the rider's body while moving and that the vehicle becomes unstable when stopped.

1. The center of gravity and stability

Both the body of a two-wheeled vehicle and a rider have their own center of gravity. When a rider rides on a two-wheeled vehicle, a combined center of gravity of the rider and the vehicle is generated. When the line of action of the unified force that includes the gravitational force from the combined center of gravity of the rider and the vehicle and other forces (e.g., centrifugal force) meets the tire contact point on the ground, the two-wheeled vehicle is traveling in a stable state. This means that if the combined center of gravity of the rider and the vehicle shifts to one side, the rider will lose control of the handlebars or will overturn while turning a gentle curve.

2. Riding posture and operation

The combined center of gravity of the rider and the vehicle does not shift while the rider keeps the same riding posture. Shifting the combined center of gravity of the rider and the vehicle according to the change of the vehicle's state is the knack of stable riding. When going up on a slope, shift the combined center of gravity of the rider and the vehicle forward by taking a forward-leaning posture, in order to prevent the front wheel from floating up. On a downward slope, push your buttocks backward to maintain balance. When the road condition is bad, take a half-rising posture so that you can shift the combined center of gravity of the rider and the vehicle smoothly.

Reference — Shifting the center of gravity of a two-wheeled AT vehicle (motor scooter type)

On a motor-scooter-type two-wheeled AT vehicle (on which you cannot grip the tank with both knees), you should shift the center of gravity while taking the sitting posture. Keep your legs braced by pressing your entire soles against the step board, and maintain balance by shifting your posture.

Automatic two-wheeled vehicle characteristics and points to note

2. Correct Riding Posture

Taking a correct riding posture is essential to stabilize the center of gravity while traveling. Note the following points and take a correct and comfortable riding posture.

MT vehicle: ① Put the arches of the feet on the step and keep the soles almost level. ② Point the toes forward and grip the tank with both knees. ③ Hold the handgrips lightly with the wrists downward, imagining pushing the handlebars slightly forward. ④ Relax the shoulders and bend the elbows a little. ⑤ Straighten the back and look far forward.

AT vehicle (Motor scooter type): ① Sit in a position neither too far forward, nor too far backward. (On a vehicle type which has an adjustable backrest, adjust the backrest so that the movement of the arms and legs are not obstructed, and sit with the buttocks against the backrest.) ② Position the feet so that the soles are entirely on the step board and point the toes straight forward. The toes should not go outside of the step board. ③ Bend the knees naturally so that they will not open outward. ④ Hold the center of each handgrip with the angle of the wrists slightly downward. ⑤ Relax the arms, and slightly bend the elbows. ⑥ Relax the shoulders and back, and look ahead.

(Refer to p. 15 for choosing a vehicle type)

3. How to travel

1. Taking a road position

As two-wheeled vehicles seem further away or to be moving slower than their actual speed, they are often overlooked. Therefore, travel while avoiding entering the blind spots of surrounding vehicles. Also, since riders of two-wheeled vehicles travel avoiding humps and dips or stones on the road, they tend to look at the traveling lane immediately in front of the vehicle, and look to left forward of the road. Due to such tendencies, a rider's visibility is often more restricted than that of a driver of a four-wheeled vehicle. Consciously try to look far ahead. At the same time, since you can get less information on the condition behind you compared to while driving a four-wheeled vehicle, try to get more information on the condition behind you. To do so, the position of the two-wheeled vehicle is important. Try to travel in a position where you can ensure safety. (Refer to p. 138 for information on appropriate positions)

2. How to travel on curves

① When approaching a curve, reduce the speed sufficiently while traveling on the straight road before the curve. While proceeding through the curve, travel by constantly applying engine power to the wheels without disengaging the clutch. ② When turning, make a turn naturally by tilting the vehicle body (banking) instead of turning the handlebars. ③ Do not enter the right side of the road. Proceed carefully anticipating that an oncoming vehicle may cross over the center of the road. ④ Do not overtake the vehicle ahead on curves and corners. ⑤ In the middle of a curve, adjust your speed using the throttle. ⑥ In the latter half of the curve, ensure safety ahead and then slightly accelerate.

3. How to apply brakes

① Methods

There are three ways to apply brakes:

• Front-wheel brake operated by a brake lever
• Rear-wheel brake operated by a brake pedal or brake lever
• Engine braking operated by releasing the throttle or downshifting (shifting to a lower gear)

※ On some two-wheeled AT vehicles or motorized bicycles, both the front- and rear-wheel brakes are operated by the hand-brake levers.

② Cautions when applying brakes

• When applying brakes, maintain the vehicle body upright with the handlebars straight, and apply the front- and rear-wheel brakes at the same time while engine braking. While doing so, keep the correct riding posture to prevent falling forward.
• When braking on a dry road, apply the front-wheel brake slightly harder. On a slippery road, apply the rear-wheel brake slightly harder.
• The engine braking is more effective in lower gears. However, shifting to a low gear directly from a high gear may damage the engine or cause the rider to overturn. Therefore, downshift one gear at a time.
• When brakes are applied suddenly, the wheels stop rotating and cause skidding. Pump the brake pedal several times.

Reference — Effective braking method

As two-wheeled vehicles have shorter wheelbase and higher center of gravity compared to four-wheeled vehicles, when the brakes are applied, the traction on the rear wheel decreases, while the traction on the front wheel increases due to inertia. Therefore, as long as the brakes are applied gently, you can make the actual braking distance shorter by increasing the braking power for both the front and rear wheels. When applying the brakes strongly, slightly stronger brakes should be applied to the front wheel, while slightly weaker brakes should be applied to the rear wheel as the traction on the rear wheel decreases.

Sudden braking of vehicles equipped with ABS

Some two-wheeled vehicles may be equipped with ABS, and some ABS for AT vehicles can distribute braking power to the front and rear wheels when the front- or rear- wheel brake is applied. Even if the vehicle is equipped with ABS, avoid applying brakes suddenly when the vehicle body is tilted on a curve. Sudden braking should be applied only when the vehicle stands up straight. If the rear wheel is locked when the brakes are applied, the rear section of the vehicle body swings right and left. In such event, keep applying the brakes until the speed drops sufficiently, while keeping balance using the handlebars. Then, when the vehicle is proceeding straight ahead again, release the brakes. There is a danger of overturning if the brakes are released too early.

4. What to Know When Riding Double

Riding double on a large motorcycle or regular motorcycle has different operating characteristics from riding alone. Therefore, even if riding double is allowed, you should ride double only after you are skilled in riding the vehicle alone. Also, take a training on riding double.

1. Special riding characteristics of riding double

① As a two-wheeled vehicle becomes heavier with the weight of the passenger, the accelerating force decreases, while the centrifugal force and inertia increase. The center of gravity of the vehicle shifts backward and raised.

② Maintaining balance is necessary when riding on two-wheeled vehicles. This means that if a driver and a passenger do not move in harmony with each other, the vehicle may lose balance and overturn. The passenger often does not move as the driver expects or moves in a way opposite to the driver. For example, at the time of acceleration and deceleration, the movement of a passenger tends to be a beat behind. That can make the movement opposite that of the driver and may pull the driver backward when accelerating and push the driver forward when decelerating. Also, when turning a curve, the passenger may raise his/her body instinctively as the vehicle body is tilted and may lean suddenly in the middle of the curve. Such behaviors of passengers become prominent especially when the driver attempts to avoid danger. Consequently, the driver's ability to avoid danger decreases.

(A driver is pulled backward when the vehicle accelerates. / A driver is pushed forward when the vehicle decelerates.)

2. Operation based on riding double

• As the center of gravity shifts to the rear, the front wheel tends to lift off the ground slightly, causing a danger that the operation may become unstable. Therefore, the driver needs to operate the vehicle more prudently and show consideration to the passenger.
• Acceleration is not smooth as the total weight increases with the weight of the passenger. Exercise due caution when overtaking another vehicle, merging with a main through lane of an expressway, etc.
• If the driver starts or accelerates the vehicle suddenly, he/she may be pulled backward by the passenger or the passenger may fall down. Therefore, operate the accelerator or other devices gently without rushing.
• If the driver decelerates or applies the brakes to the vehicle suddenly, the traction on the front wheel becomes greater and steering becomes more difficult. Therefore, reduce speed gently without rushing.
• As the weight of the passenger falls on the back of the driver when decelerating, the driver should keep his/her upper arms close to his/her sides, and hold the handlebars firmly.
• When traveling through a curve, since the centrifugal force increases in proportion to the weight, the driver should tilt the vehicle inwards to keep balance with the centrifugal force. At such times, tell the passenger to take a posture similar to the driver before entering the curve.
• When the vehicle body is tilted, the passenger may raise his/her body instinctively because of the fear of the ground coming closer. Therefore, reduce speed sufficiently before entering the curve. If a passenger raises his/her upper body, there is a danger that balance will be lost, and the vehicle cannot make the turn.
• When riding double, the traction of the front wheel becomes weaker, and the operational stability deteriorates. Therefore, do not accelerate until you have passed through the curve.
• When changing course, ensure sufficient clearance to the front and rear as well as to the right and left, and change course without rushing, while slightly accelerating.
• Ride double on a two-wheeled vehicle with the understanding that avoiding danger becomes very difficult compared to riding alone.

3. Duty to give guidance to the passenger

The important point in riding double is that the driver and the passenger should ride in harmony with each other. Unlike in four-wheeled vehicles, a driver and a passenger cannot hear each other's voice well while traveling. Therefore, communicate with each other while waiting for the traffic signal to turn green, etc. Note that drivers have a chance to receive training on riding double whereas passengers don't. Drivers should give guidance to passengers before riding double.

• Do not move the feet off the steps.
• Ride as one with the driver. Putting both arms around the driver's waist is one way to do so.
• Sit with a proper distance from the driver.
• Look ahead carefully and understand the movement of the driver.
• Prevent the body weight from moving forward at the time of braking by firmly holding the grab bar, etc.
• Follow instructions of the driver.

4. Prohibition against riding double

Riding double is not allowed in the following cases:

① When riding a large or regular motorcycle without a rear seat, or riding a general motorized bicycle. ② When a person who has held a large motorcycle license for less than a year drives a large or regular motorcycle. However, if the person has held a regular motorcycle license for 1 year or more, he/she is allowed to ride double. ③ When a person who has held a regular motorcycle license for less than a year drives a regular motorcycle. ④ When a person who has a large motorcycle license and is less than 20 years of age or a person who has held a large motorcycle license for less than 3 years drives a large or regular motorcycle on an expressway. However, if the person is 20 years of age or older and has held a regular motorcycle license for 3 years or more, he/she is allowed to ride double. ⑤ When a person who has a regular motorcycle license and is less than 20 years of age or a person who has held a regular motorcycle license for less than 3 years drives a regular motorcycle on an expressway.

5. Speed and Impact

The severity of a traffic accident depends on the impact a vehicle gives to the other party or receives from the other party in a collision. The impact becomes greater in accordance with speed and weight. Also, the impact is large when a vehicle collides with a hard object instantly. For example, if a vehicle collides with a wall of concrete at a speed of 60 km/h, the impact is about the same as that received when falling from a height of approximately 14 m (about the 5th floor of a building). When a vehicle collides with an object, the vehicle or the object will be damaged or thrown into the air by the kinetic energy. This kinetic energy increases in proportion to the square of the vehicle speed. Therefore, as the speed increases, the collision causes greater damage. Drive especially carefully when driving at high speed.

Damage from a collision:

Equivalent fall height at 60 km/h collision:

Reference — Minimizing collision damage

To minimize damage from a collision, you should recognize danger as early as possible and slow down, in order to minimize the kinetic energy. For example, if you can reduce speed from 60 km/h to 30 km/h immediately before the collision, the kinetic energy generated by the collision can be reduced to one fourth of that caused when colliding at 60 km/h.

6. Prevention of Traffic Pollution, Global Warming, etc.

Vehicles are very useful for people who use them. On the other hand, quite a few people are suffering from traffic pollution such as exhaust gases, noise, vibration, etc. caused by such vehicles. When driving a vehicle, try to drive in a way to mitigate traffic pollution.

1. Exhaust Gases and Photochemical Smog

Exhaust gases emitted by vehicles contain substances harmful to the human body such as carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), and nitrogen oxide (NOx), and these exhaust gases are one cause of air pollution. Refrain from using vehicles while photochemical smog is there or when there is a risk of photochemical smog to appear due to air pollution.

2. Noises and Vibrations Caused by Traveling Vehicles

While traveling, vehicles cause traveling noises including exhaust noises, tire noises, etc., in addition to vibrations in the areas around roads. Considering that such noises and vibrations increase as a vehicle's speed or weight increases, drivers should keep the maximum speed and load limits, and avoid starting or accelerating suddenly, racing the engine, unnecessarily applying brakes suddenly or leaving the engine running.

3. Preventing Global Warming

Emission of nitrogen oxide, which is harmful to the human body, and carbon dioxide is a cause of global warming. To reduce emission of such substances, try to drive in a way that minimizes the environmental load (eco-driving), such as by starting gently, driving with less acceleration, not leaving the engine idling when the automobile is parked or stopped.

Reference — Relationship between speed and fuel consumption

There is a close relation between a vehicle's speed and fuel consumption, and fuel consumption increases when the speed is too fast or too slow. Sudden starting, sudden braking, racing the engine, idling for a long time while waiting for passengers or loading or unloading cargo not only cause extra fuel consumption but also increase the emission of carbon dioxide, which is one cause of global warming.

Eco-driving

Practicing eco-driving reduces exhaust gas and fuel consumption of automobiles, which leads to less damage to the environment, and leads to safer driving.

① Endeavor to start gently. ② Do not idle unnecessarily. ③ If stopping can be predicted, such as when a traffic signal is going to change, release your foot from the accelerator early. ④ Maintain sufficient distance from other vehicles and keep a steady speed. ⑤ Actively use engine braking. ⑥ Do not park poorly or illegally as it hinders the traveling of other vehicles. ⑦ Use the air conditioner sensibly. ⑧ Maintain correct tire pressure. ⑨ Avoid loading unnecessary cargo. ⑩ Check traffic information and your route beforehand and leave with more than enough time to reach your destination. ⑪ Be aware of the fuel consumption of your vehicle.

Let's Try — Course Content 7 — Check your understanding with right/wrong questions.

(See page 275 for answers.)

1. There is a close relation between an automobile's speed and fuel consumption, and fuel consumption increases when the speed is too fast or too slow.
2. To turn a curve safely, it is better to decelerate sufficiently on the straight road before the curve, rather than decelerating in the middle of the curve.
3. Two-wheeled vehicles naturally turn when tilted. Therefore, it is not necessary to reduce speed in any kind of curve.
4. When holding handgrips of a two-wheeled vehicle, hold them lightly with the wrists downward, imagining pushing the handlebars forward.
5. As the speed increases, the impact a vehicle gives to the other party or receives from the other party becomes greater in the event of a collision. Therefore, you need to be very careful of excessive speed.
6. On an asphalt road wet with rain or snowy road, the frictional resistance between the tires and the road surface decreases, and the braking distance is lengthened.
7. Braking distance and centrifugal force increase in proportion to the square of the speed. Therefore, if the speed doubles, the braking distance and the force that makes the vehicle to skid or overturn at curves become four times as much.
8. Stopping distance of a vehicle depends on how fast and strong you depress the brake pedal and does not depend on the condition of the road surface or tires.
9. Keeping the maximum speed and load limits contribute to smooth traffic but does not prevent traffic pollution.
10. You should try to drive in a way that minimizes the environmental load (eco-driving), such as by starting gently, driving with less acceleration, not leaving the engine idling when the vehicle is parked or stopped.

(正: right, 誤: wrong)

Stage 2 Course Content 8 — Driving under Bad Conditions

• Driving at night
• When lights must be turned on
• Restrictions on lighting, etc.
• Driving in rain
• Driving in Fog, etc.
• Driving in bad road conditions
• Measures to take in emergencies, etc.
• In the event of a major earthquake, etc.

1. Driving at Night

While driving at night, drivers often fail to recognize a pedestrian or bicycle early enough because pedestrians and bicycles are less visible than while driving during the day. In addition, as there may be speeding vehicles, drunk pedestrians, etc., drive carefully at night. It is important for drivers to reduce speed when they sense even a little danger.

1. Headlights and Visibility

1. Headlights and illumination range

At night, on an unlit road, you can only see the range illuminated by the headlights. Headlights provide illumination with which drivers can recognize an obstacle up to 100 m ahead with high beam and up to 40 m ahead with low beam. Therefore, you should drive at a speed with which the vehicle can stop within these ranges. For example, if you find an obstacle while traveling at 60 km/h with low beam headlights, you cannot avoid it. Even when you drive on the same road, drive a little slower and keep a longer distance from other vehicles than when you drive during the day. Try to notice an obstacle ahead as soon as possible by looking as far ahead as possible.

• With high beam headlights — Basically, use high beams when driving at night. (As far as 100 m)
• With dim or low beam headlights — Use when passing oncoming vehicles or there is a vehicle ahead. (As far as 40 m)

When driving at 60 km/h, the stopping distance is approximately 44 m. Therefore, if you use low beam headlights, you cannot avoid danger even if you apply brakes after recognizing danger.

Also, since headlights of two-wheeled vehicles are darker and fewer than those of four-wheeled vehicles, a driver may overlook an oncoming two-wheeled vehicle or judge it to be farther away than it really is. Drive carefully.

2. How things look different depending on color

During the night, pedestrians and cyclists wearing dark clothes may not be very visible.

At night, the distance at which people can recognize the shape of an object with a dark color is about a half of that of yellow or white objects. Therefore, dark clothing is particularly difficult to see.

3. Headlights of the oncoming vehicle and being dazzled

At night, you may be blinded for a moment when you look directly at the headlights of an oncoming vehicle due to glare. This is called being dazzled. It should take at least a few seconds until the normal vision is recovered after the eyes are dazzled. Driving while being dazzled is the same as driving with your eyes closed, which is very dangerous. When the headlights of the oncoming vehicle are dazzling, you should look ahead and slightly to the left so as to avoid being dazzled. Before passing an oncoming vehicle, switch the headlights to low beams in advance so as not to dazzle the driver of the other vehicle.

4. Glare effect

While driving at night, pedestrians and bicycles near the center of the road may not be visible due to the headlights of your vehicle and those of the oncoming vehicle. This is referred to as glare effect. Remember that glare effect is likely to take place on a dark road and be very careful. Also, if it rains at night, visibility becomes especially bad due to diffused reflection of headlights on the wet road surface. Therefore, proceed at a reduced speed, looking ahead with sufficient caution.

5. Driving at night and sense of distance

When driving at night, a driver judges the distance to the vehicle ahead or an oncoming vehicle based on the positions and brightness of the taillights or headlights of the vehicle ahead or oncoming vehicle. Since the taillights and headlights of large vehicles are installed at higher positions than regular vehicles, a driver often judges the distance to the large vehicle ahead to be longer, and an oncoming large vehicle to be farther away than it really is. Also, since headlights of two-wheeled vehicles are darker and fewer than those of four-wheeled vehicles, a driver often overlooks an oncoming two-wheeled vehicle or judges it to be farther away than it really is. Drive carefully.

Reference — Cautions when driving on curves

When driving on a curve, proceed at a reduced speed until the curve ends, as the direction of headlights does not match the vehicle's traveling direction.

Driving during the twilight hours

Human eyes adapt themselves to darkness as it gets dark. However, during the twilight hours, it becomes dark quickly that the eyes cannot adapt themselves to darkness quick enough. This means that drivers are driving with reduced vision during the twilight hours. Therefore, turn on the headlights early in the evening. At dawn, you should also keep the headlights lit until late in the morning, in order to let others notice the presence of your vehicle.

2. Effects of Road Lighting, etc.

1. Cautions against effects of roadside lights

Recently there are more illuminated places even at night as road lighting systems are improved and more convenience stores are open until late at night, especially in downtown areas. However, note that in such places, vehicles parked and pedestrians walking outside the illuminated area are very difficult to see. Also, it is very dangerous if you are distracted by the illuminated roadside stores and look aside while driving. When it is unavoidable to stop or park your vehicle on the road at night, stop or park in a place as well-illuminated as possible and turn on the parking lights or hazard lights to avoid rear-end collision.

2. Cautions against high-speed vehicles and drunk people

While driving at night, there are many high-speed vehicles because roads are less congested than during the day. Also, there may often be drunk pedestrians and bicycles wander around. In addition to driving safely, be careful not to get involved in an accident.

2. When Lights Must Be Turned On

1. When Proceeding along Roads at Night or under Similar Conditions

When proceeding on roads at night, you must turn on the headlights, side marker lights, taillights, etc. Even during the day, the same rule applies when proceeding inside a tunnel, in dense fog, etc., where the visibility is less than 50 m (or 200 m on expressways).

Reference — "Night" Refers to the time from dusk until dawn.

2. When Parking or Stopping on Roads at Night or under Similar Conditions

If it is unavoidable to stop or park your automobile (excluding large motorcycle, regular motorcycle, and light special equipment) on the road at night, you must turn on the hazard lights, parking lights, or taillights. The same rule applies, even during the day, when stopping or parking inside a tunnel, in dense fog, etc., where your visibility is less than 50 m. However, when stopping or parking a vehicle in a place illuminated by road lighting, etc., where the vehicle is visible from 50 m behind, or when placing an emergency warning reflector device behind the vehicle, this rule does not apply. When stopping or parking your vehicle on an expressway at night is unavoidable, you must place an emergency warning reflector device, in addition to turning on the hazard lights, parking lights, or taillights.

On a general road:

• Turn on the hazard lights, parking lights, or taillights
• Place an emergency warning reflector device
• Stop or park the vehicle in a place illuminated by road lighting, etc., where the vehicle is visible from 50 m behind

On an expressway:

• Turn on the hazard lights, parking lights, or taillights and additionally place an emergency warning reflector device

Reference — Purpose of lighting

Lighting has the role of ensuring a driver's visibility as well as letting other traffic know of the presence of your vehicle.

Emergency warning reflector board

Emergency warning reflector devices include emergency warning reflector boards and emergency warning lights. Use an emergency warning reflector device with TS mark.

Hazard lights

The hazard lights are highly noticeable. Therefore, in addition to using them to indicate that the vehicle is stopped due to breakdown, etc., you should use them when you decelerate after finding a failure or other abnormalities while traveling to show your intention to stop urgently to other drivers. Such usage of hazard lights is effective for preventing an accident.

3. Restrictions on Lighting, etc.

1. Restriction on the Use of Interior Lights

Do not turn on interior lights of an automobile while traveling, except for buses.

Reference — If interior lights are on while driving...

Driving with interior lights on is the same as seeing a dark place from a bright place. As you cannot see the outside well, it is dangerous to do so. ※ In case of buses, the interior lights are kept on to ensure safety of the passengers.

2. Operation of Headlights at the Time of Passing Oncoming Vehicles and Measures to Avoid Being Dazzled

① Except for the cases when proceeding on roads in urban areas where traffic is heavy, switch the headlights to high beams so that you can find pedestrians, etc., as early as possible. However, when passing an oncoming vehicle or when proceeding immediately behind another vehicle, you must dim the headlights or use low beams. ② On roads in urban areas where traffic is heavy, drive with low beam headlights. When the headlights of an oncoming vehicle are dazzling, you should look ahead and slightly to the left to avoid being dazzled.

Reference — Glare proof mirror

A glare proof mirror is designed to prevent glare from the headlights of the following vehicle when they are reflected in the interior rearview mirror. If the interior rearview mirror is a glare-proof type, it is equipped with a lever under a normal interior rearview mirror. Pull the lever toward you to mitigate the glare. (Some glare-proof mirrors are automatic.)

3. Operation of Headlights at Intersections, etc. Where the Driver's Field of Vision Is Restricted

Before an intersection or curve where visibility is poor, use high beams or flash the headlights on and off to let other vehicles and pedestrians know that your vehicle is approaching.

4. Driving in Rain

In rain, your visibility is poor, and the road surface is slippery. In addition, pedestrians often do not notice an approaching vehicle due to the reasons, such as that they are busy watching their steps or their visibility is blocked by umbrellas. Since such bad conditions are combined, you should drive carefully in the rain.

1. Visibility

1. Wipers (Four-wheeled vehicles)

On a rainy day, visibility is restricted to the wipers' operating range, so it becomes difficult to judge the surrounding conditions. In addition, if the wipers do not work well, your visibility gets even worse. It is necessary to keep the wipers in good condition all the time.

2. Prevention of windshield clouding (Four-wheeled vehicles)

When you drive in the rain, the windshield often fogs up. Turn on the air conditioner and/or defroster, use an anti-fogging spray, or wipe the windshield with a cloth to keep your visibility clear.

※ Keeping the inner surface of the windshield clean can prevent it from fogging up easily and make the fog to disappear easily. Maintain the windshield clean.

Reference — Defogging using the air conditioner (Four-wheeled vehicles)

The windshield fogs up when warm moist air in the vehicle cools quickly on the windshield. You can defog the windshield effectively by using the dehumidifying capability of the air conditioner. ① Set the air flow indicator to defroster. ② Turn the air volume switch to ON. ③ Adjust the temperature indication dial. ④ Switch on the air conditioner (A/C).

※ To defog the rear windshield, use the heating wires to heat the rear windshield.

3. Using lights

When visibility is poor due to rain, turn on the headlights even during the day. Especially on expressways, etc., you may not be able to see the surroundings well due to splashed water. Turn on the headlights to show the presence of your vehicle to others.

2. The Slippery Conditions of a Road Surface

1. Reduce speed and keep a distance between vehicles

On a rainy day, the road surface is slippery and the stopping distance of a vehicle traveling fast becomes longer. Drive slower than on a fine day and keep a sufficient distance between vehicles.

2. Avoiding sudden starting, steering, and braking

Avoid sudden starting, steering, and braking, as these actions often cause skidding. Use engine braking and apply the brakes over several times.

3. Cautions against rails, iron plates, etc.

① If the streetcar rails are wet, try to cross the rails so that the tires meet them at as close to right angles as possible. ② Steel plates used at construction sites and manholes are also slippery when wet. Slow down sufficiently before such objects to avoid applying brakes suddenly on them.

4. Hydroplaning effect

If a vehicle travels at high speed on a road covered with water, the tires may slide on the film of water like water-skiing. This phenomenon is referred to as hydroplaning effect. Hydroplaning effect is very dangerous because if it occurs you will lose control of the steering wheel or brakes. Travel slowly when it is raining to prevent hydroplaning effect from occurring.

Reference — Preventing hydroplaning effect from occurring and actions to take when it occurs

When hydroplaning effect occurs, do not turn the steering wheel or apply brakes suddenly. Doing so is dangerous. Instead, calm down and hold the steering wheel with both hands, release the accelerator and do not depress the brake pedal. While doing so, wait until the vehicle is decelerated naturally and gradually and the tire grip recovers. The following lists the important points to prevent hydroplaning effect from occurring: ① Use the tires that are not worn. ② Maintain correct air pressure in the tires. ③ Travel slowly when it is raining. ④ Avoid traveling in ruts, where water tends to accumulate.

5. Avoiding deep puddles of water

Avoid deep puddles of water as much as possible, because if you proceed through them, you may lose control of the steering wheel and the brakes may not work properly.

Reference — After traveling through a deep puddle of water

In the case of drum brakes, the brakes may not work properly after the vehicle travels through a deep puddle of water. If such a problem occurs, dry the brake lining by depressing the brake pedal several times while traveling at a low speed. Do not accelerate until the brakes are fully recovered.

3. Consideration for Pedestrians, etc.

For pedestrians and bicycles, rainy weather is even more annoying than drivers feel. When passing near pedestrians or bicycles, try to drive carefully with consideration for them and do not splash water or dirt.

5. Driving in Fog, etc.

As visibility is poor in fog, snowstorm, etc., you need to drive slowly and carefully, while turning on the headlights or fog lamps or using the horn.

1. Using the headlights, etc.

In fog, snowstorm, etc., turn on the headlights or fog lamps early and travel at a reduced speed using the centerline, guard rail, taillights of the vehicle ahead, etc. as guides while maintaining a sufficient distance between vehicles. If you use high beam headlights, visibility becomes even worse because the light is diffusely reflected by the fog or snow. Use low beams.

2. Using the horn

If it is necessary to prevent danger, use the horn. In the case of four-wheeled vehicles, lower the window and listen to the sounds of other vehicles to determine how they are moving.

Reference — Driving according to weather conditions

• When your visibility is poor due to dense fog, snowstorm, etc., it is necessary to voluntarily travel at a safe speed.
• When your visibility is poor and you judge keeping on driving is dangerous, pull over to the shoulder, park, and wait for the visibility to restore. While doing so, place an emergency warning reflector device or turn on the hazard lights, taillights, or parking lights. If a parking zone is nearby, park there.
• If you carry a passenger, ask him/her to check the left and ahead of the vehicle to ensure safety.

Effect of fog lamps

Fog lamps are used as a supplement to headlights when visibility is poor due to thick fog, heavy rain, or snowstorm. Designed to avoid diffuse reflections due to fog, etc., and to illuminate the road surface widely to the left and right, they facilitate visibility of the road surface and help others notice the presence of your vehicle. Turning on them when not necessary can cause dazzling. Be careful not to forget to turn them off. ※ Some vehicle types may not be equipped with these.

6. Driving in Bad Road Conditions

1. Driving on Muddy Roads, Gravel Roads, etc.

① Using low gear, proceed at a constant speed. ② A driver must avoid sudden braking, sudden acceleration or reckless steering. ③ In a dusty area, note that dusts on a paved road may become like oil when it starts to rain and the road may become slippery. On such roads, drive extremely carefully. ④ Try not to be too close to the shoulder on mountain roads as the ground may become loose and collapse. ⑤ When traveling on a gravel road, etc. with a two-wheeled vehicle, your body will shake. Travel while absorbing shock from the road surface and keeping balance. To do so, stand on the steps while looking slightly ahead, bending your knees lightly (in a half-rising posture) so that a little of your weight is put on the rear wheel. Also, relax both arms but hold the handlebars firmly and press the fuel tank with both knees. On an AT vehicle, take a sitting or half-rising posture and proceed at a reduced speed while keeping your balance. ⑥ If a wheel spins on a muddy road, an old blanket or gravel is effective for traction, if available.

2. Driving on Snowy Roads, etc.

When it is snowing, visibility becomes poor, and the road becomes extremely slippery when snow settles on the road. Therefore, it is necessary to reduce speed and maintain a sufficient distance between vehicles. You need to be even more careful when traveling on a frozen road.

※ Avoid using a vehicle in snowstorm.

1. Deterioration in visibility

When it is snowing, visibility becomes poor, and the road ahead is difficult to see. If you proceed through a place where the visibility ahead is less than 50 m, turn on the headlights, side marker lights, taillights, etc. When it is sunny but the wind is strong, be cautious as the accumulated powder snow may blow up in the air and suddenly obscure your view ahead. Also, when the snow removed from the road is piled up high, anticipate that a pedestrian, etc. may dart out from behind the piled snow. Drive carefully when proceeding through such places. Snow and ice attached to the mirrors, windows, etc. make the visibility poor. You need to remove such snow or ice completely.

Reference — Proceeding slowly when your vision is restricted, etc.

If you proceed through a place where the visibility is poor by the snow that is removed from the road and piled up roadside, etc., proceed slowly with due caution and use the horn as necessary. Also, if your visibility is completely blocked due to bad weather, stop temporarily, turn on the lights, etc., and wait until the visibility is recovered.

2. Use of tire chains, studless tires, etc.

On snowy and frozen roads, use tire chains, studless tires, etc. However, on roads with a traffic sign prohibiting the passage of vehicles without tire chains, vehicles must not proceed without tire chains. (In such cases, even if a vehicle has studless tires, etc., it must be equipped with tire chains.)

In addition to conventional metal tire chains, non-metal tire chains, such as rubber or plastic chains are available. The tire chains should be attached to the drive wheels. When attaching or removing the tire chains, stop the vehicle at installation/removal locations or the left side of the road. Studless tires are the tires for snow and ice, developed to replace the studded tires. They should be attached to all wheels. Since studded tires damage road surfaces and cause dust, they can be used only on snowy or frozen roads. In some cities, use of studded tires is totally prohibited. Even if these tires are used, there is still a possibility of slipping, so drive with due caution.

Reference — "Drive wheels": Refer to wheels that receive the motive power from the engine. There are front-wheel-drive, rear-wheel-drive, and four-wheel-drive vehicles.

Snow tires: Snow tires have grooves thicker and deeper than regular tires, allowing them to grip the snow better. With these tires, the driving and braking performances of a vehicle on snowy or frozen roads are improved.

Studless tires: Studless tires are without metallic projections (studs). They use special composition rubber that does not lose softness even at low temperatures, and have uniquely shaped grooves and innumerable cuts called sipes. With these features, they exert excellent driving and braking performances on snowy or frozen roads.

Tire chains: Compared to studless or other winter tires, tire chains exert better braking effect, but it does not mean that they can address every problem. Since restrictions on mounting chains may be implemented depending on the snowfall level, be sure to carry tire chains. Net type tire chains that are made of rubber, plastic, urethane, etc. are also available. Compared to metal tire chains, these tire chains are more flexible and easier to attach.

3. Cautions against skidding (Four-wheeled vehicles)

There are a lot of dangers on snowy or frozen roads, such those caused by skidding. You must drive especially carefully on such roads. Sudden starting, sudden steering, and sudden braking must be avoided, as these actions cause skidding. Apply the brakes only when the vehicle is traveling straight. Before turning right or left or entering a curve, reduce the speed first, and then shift to an appropriate gear to use engine braking. While driving, travel at a slow and constant speed. When stopping, reduce speed sufficiently using engine braking, and pump the brake pedal several times.

Reference — Starting and stopping on winter roads

Starting the vehicle

Normal starting: The wheels are likely to spin if you depress the accelerator too strongly. In AT vehicles, start and proceed using the creep effect, and then depress the accelerator gradually. In MT vehicles, release the clutch pedal gently. Starting with second gear is also a good method.

Starting in the event of a problem: ① If the wheels slip and the vehicle does not move, release the accelerator immediately. The spot where the wheels spun and slipped becomes more slippery. Reverse the vehicle once and try starting on the different road surface. ② When a wheel gets into a dip, repeat moving forward and backward little by little to get out of it using the reaction of the fore-and-aft swing of the vehicle. ③ Other than the methods explained in ① and ②, you can try the following methods to move your vehicle:

• Use tire traction mats to move the vehicle to the spot where the vehicle can start easily. (A tire traction mat may fly out forward or backward as the wheel turns. Use tire traction mats carefully.)
• Spread sand in front and to the rear of the wheels.
• Attach tire chains.

Stop

Normal stopping: Even if snow tires, studless tires, etc. are used, the vehicle can slip on a winter road easily. To stop the vehicle, use engine braking and depress the brake pedal lightly at an early timing. Since the road around an intersection is especially slippery, apply brakes early to notify following vehicles.

If you depress the brake pedal on a winter road in the same manner as you do on the dry road surface, the wheels lock up and slip. Use the following braking operation to keep the wheels turning until the vehicle stops. ① Depress the brake pedal softly to prevent the wheels from locking up. ② Adjust the depressing pressure while checking the braking effect. ③ Keep the depressing pressure to the degree that the wheels almost (but do not) lock up.

As the braking distance becomes longer on snow roads or frozen roads, keep a longer distance between vehicles and apply the brakes early. Note that if you shift to lower gears too quickly, the vehicle may lose traveling stability. Sudden braking must be avoided on winter roads.

Stopping on a rough road, etc.: At the places such as in front of a railroad crossing or where vehicles come out from a narrow road and enter a wide road, dips are often made on the surface of the snowy road, due to the spins of wheels that occur when a vehicle starts. When you stop your vehicle at such places, consider the condition of the road surface or anticipate that there may be a step. A problem in starting is often caused by careless stopping or parking. When parking on soft snow, park your vehicle after moving forward and backward once or twice to tread down the snow, so that you can start the vehicle smoothly later.

4. Traveling in ruts, etc.

On a road where snow is piled up, it is difficult to identify the edge of the road. Therefore, when passing an oncoming vehicle, exercise caution against moving too close to the edge of the road.

Attention — Ruts

Refers to groove-like tracks of wheels that are made after a vehicle travels. On the road surface with ruts made with snow or ice, a driver may lose control of the steering wheel, and the vehicle may turn to face sideways or may spin and enter the opposite lane. Also, when the ruts are deep, tires may get stuck in them and the vehicle may not move at all. On winter roads, ruts can be made everywhere on the road surface, which means that the risk of unexpected accidents is everywhere. Keep this in mind when driving on winter roads.

Risk of traveling in ruts: When traveling in ruts, the vehicle's traveling direction tends to be unstable, and if you travel ignoring the ruts, you may lose control of the steering wheel to cause the vehicle to skid or spin, causing unexpected accidents. Try to reduce speed sufficiently and travel along the ruts.

Getting out of ruts: When getting out of ruts, make sure that there is no oncoming vehicle or pedestrian around, and then proceed slowly while turning the steering wheel to the right and left to rock the vehicle body sideways. You can get out of the ruts by using the reaction of the rocking. When you can't, search for a place where ruts are relatively shallow or remove the snow. Avoid steering or accelerating suddenly to get out of ruts. If you do so, you may lose control of the steering wheel and the vehicle may spin or enter the opposite lane.

5. Notes on two-wheeled vehicles

① Snowy or frozen roads are very slippery and therefore dangerous. Refrain from riding two-wheeled vehicles on such roads. ② If it is unavoidable to drive a two-wheeled vehicle on such roads, operate the handlebars and the brakes especially carefully not to cause skidding. ③ Try to travel in the ruts made by the vehicles ahead as much as possible. ※ Two-wheeled vehicle are also required to be equipped with winter tires, tire chains, studless tires, etc.

Reference — What to Know to drive on winter roads

Unexpected events can occur when driving on winter roads, so it is necessary to understand how they differ from summer roads. In winter, changes in weather conditions have great impact on your body and mind, such as your physiological functions decline due to cold weather. It is important to consider your health when driving, and allow yourself to have some physical and mental margin by wearing thermal clothing, etc.

① Winter equipment: Warm clothes, Tire chains, Tire traction mats, Boots, Tow rope, Anti-fogging spray, Gloves, Snow brush, Warm blanket, Shovel, Flashlight, Jumper cable, etc.

※ Prepare drinking water and emergency food, just in case of bad conditions such as blizzard.

② Making a driving plan with plenty of time to spend: Make a driving plan with plenty of time to reach your destination and alternative routes before departing. It is also important to fully refuel before departing, since the fuel consumption increases compared to driving in summer, and also you may get stuck due to a trouble. Depending on the weather conditions such as snow, freezing, and snowstorm, in some cases you may need to decide changing the traveling route, heading back, or not departing by a vehicle. Just in case, discuss with your family members on how you and your family members confirm the safety of each other.

③ Cautions on road surface conditions: As winter roads become slippery with snow and ice, they require a longer braking distance than roads in summer. Particular attention is required for the following places and road surface conditions:

• Intersections, Pedestrian crossings, Curves, Railroad crossings, Tunnel entrances/exits, Slopes, On bridges, Shaded parts of mountains
• Immediately after a snowplow has cleared snow
• When there is a thin layer of snow on black ice
• When snow or ice on the road is melting or beginning to freeze again (early in the morning or evening, etc.)
• Black ice (At first glance black ice looks the same as wet road surface. However, it is actually a thin coat of ice formed on the surface of paved roads due to freezing.)

④ Parking etiquette: A vehicle parked on a winter road may disturb the flow of traffic, disturb the snow removal works, etc., and in the event of snowstorm or drifting snow, may induce an accident such as rear-end collision. Refrain from parking your vehicle on the road easily in a selfish way.

Reference — Avoiding danger on winter roads

① Traveling on curves

Deceleration before the curve: The risk that the vehicle runs off the road, enters the opposite lane, and causes an accident increases at curves on snowy or icy roads. To mitigate such risks, you must decelerate to a safe speed before curves.

Prohibition against acceleration and deceleration on curves: Sudden acceleration or deceleration after entering a curve may cause unstable traveling. Traveling without changing the speed is the safest way. Especially on winter roads, the road surface condition changes continuously due to removal of snow, snowfall, generation of snowdrift or ruts, and other reasons. Be sure to travel at a safe speed, keep a safe distance between vehicles, and apply brakes early.

② Driving slowly, prohibition against overtaking: A road where the snow has been removed after snowfall appears to be easy to travel on and therefore drivers tend to travel fast on such roads. However, such roads are slippery and dangerous. Also, overtaking on a frozen road is extremely dangerous.

③ Traveling on slopes

Traveling on upward slopes: Sudden acceleration on an upward slope makes the vehicle to travel in unstable directions. Therefore, it is important to downshift early considering the grade. Also, note that accelerating immediately after downshifting may cause the tail of the vehicle to swing. Drive carefully considering the distance from the oncoming vehicles. If the tail of the vehicle sways on an upward slope, ease up on the accelerator and correct the direction of the vehicle.

Traveling on downward slopes: On a downward slope, the braking distance becomes longer and if you apply brakes too suddenly, the traveling direction of the vehicle often becomes unstable, which may lead to a collision with an oncoming vehicle, etc. Considering the grade, decelerate sufficiently using engine braking and depress the brake pedal lightly as needed to adjust the speed. On slopes, a vehicle going down should give way to the vehicle going up because it is difficult to start on an upward slope. By doing so, each vehicle can drive comfortably.

④ Avoiding a danger: Even if the driver is skilled, it is extremely difficult to avoid a danger on winter roads. Unless you do not disrupt other traffic, you may try stopping the vehicle by letting the vehicle body scrape against a snow wall or by driving into a piled snow.

7. Measures to Take in Emergencies, etc.

1. When unable to travel due to breakdown, lack of fuel, etc.

If the vehicle becomes unable to travel due to breakdown, lack of fuel, etc., move the vehicle to a place where it does not obstruct other traffic, and promptly take measures such as repairing or refueling. When it is unavoidable to park a vehicle on a general road at night, turn on the hazard lights or, in case of a four-wheeled vehicle, place an emergency warning reflector device behind the vehicle to show the presence of the parked vehicle to other vehicles. When parking a four-wheeled vehicle on a general road, even during the day, also place an emergency warning reflector device behind the vehicle, open the trunk, etc., to show that a vehicle is parked. Leaving a broken-down vehicle on the road is very dangerous as it may lead to accidents such as rear-end collision. Call JAF (Japan Automobile Federation) or a repair shop and ask them to promptly move the vehicle outside the road. Wait in a safe place such as outside of the protective fence, until JAF, etc. arrives. (Refer to p. 250 for expressways)

2. When the engine revolution fails to decline while traveling, due to breakdown or other reasons after the engine revolution increased

① Put the gear in neutral, and disengage the engine force from the wheels. ② Reduce speed by applying the brakes. ③ Steer gently to pull over to the left edge of the road. ④ Turn off the engine switch.

※ In the case of two-wheeled vehicles, turn off the ignition (or, kill switch), and stop the engine revolution.

Reference — Engine stop while traveling

In a four-wheeled vehicle, turning off the engine while traveling is very dangerous as it causes problems such as that the steering wheel becomes inflexible or inoperable and that the brakes do not work successfully or at all. Be sure to turn off the engine switch after stopping the vehicle.

Overheating of the engine while traveling

Overheating refers to the condition in which the coolant for keeping the engine working normally has become hot, exceeding its proper temperature. If the water temperature gauge indicates a point close to H, the engine generates abnormal noise, the engine revolution is unstable, there is a smell of burning oil, or smoke comes out from the hood, overheating is suspected. In such cases, follow the steps below: ① Stop the vehicle in a place where the vehicle does not obstruct other traffic. ② Do not stop the engine or add water immediately. Instead, wait until the engine cools down naturally by such means as leaving the vehicle idling while opening the hood. Be careful not to get burnt by carelessly removing the radiator cap. ※ However, if the cooling fan is not operating or the coolant or other liquid is leaking, stop the engine immediately and wait for the engine to cool down naturally. ③ Check the water level in the reservoir for cooling devices, and refill if it is lower than the lower limit.

3. When brakes fail to work on downward slopes (Four-wheeled vehicles)

① Try depressing the brake pedal several times. ② Downshift promptly to apply the engine braking, and pull the hand brake (parking brake). ③ When your vehicle still does not slow down, let the side of your vehicle body scrape against the mountainside, or drive into roadside earth and sand.

4. When your vehicle gets a flat tire while traveling (Four-wheeled vehicles)

① Calm down and hold the steering wheel firmly, and try to keep the vehicle body straight. ② Ease up on the accelerator, and reduce speed by stepping on the brake pedal repeatedly. (Avoid sudden braking) ③ Pull over to the left edge of the road.

5. When there is a danger of head-on collision with an oncoming vehicle

Find an abnormal behavior of an oncoming vehicle as soon as possible, and take the following actions depending on the situation.

① Use the horn and apply the brakes to reduce the speed at the same time, turn the steering wheel to move to the left as far as possible. ② If the space outside the road is safe, drive off the road and avoid a collision.

※ Try to avoid collision using the brakes and steering as much as possible. Do not give up until the last moment.

6. When the rear wheels start skidding (Four-wheeled vehicles)

① Do not depress the brake pedal. ② Turn the steering wheel lightly to the direction in which the rear wheels skid to restore the orientation of the vehicle. When the rear wheels skid to the right (or left), the vehicle faces the left (or right). In such a case, turn the steering wheel to the right (or left). ③ Gradually depress the accelerator.

Reference — Actions to take in emergency in winter

When the vehicle strands

If it becomes impossible to drive a vehicle due to poor visibility, pull over to the left side of the road as much as possible and park. Then, turn on the hazard lights, place an emergency warning reflector device, or use a smoke flare to signal to following vehicles that a vehicle is stopped.

In blizzard

① If you feel danger while driving due to drifting snow, do not force yourself to keep on driving. Stop at a Michi-no-Eki, gas station, or convenience store until the weather gets better. ② If the vehicle strands due to heavy snow or snowdrift, the muffler of the vehicle may be clogged with snow and the exhaust gas may enter passenger compartment, causing carbon monoxide poisoning. To avoid such an accident, call emergency dial or road service such as JAF for help. Alternatively, ask nearby residents for help. ③ If there is no place to evacuate or there is no house, etc. that you can ask for help nearby and you have to wait for help in the vehicle, remove the snow periodically to prevent the muffler from being clogged by snow. Also, keep the window slightly open for ventilation until help arrives. If you cannot remove snow from the muffler, turn off the engine to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. ④ When a whiteout phenomenon (in which the scene all around you becomes just white due to snow or heavy storm and you cannot recognize the direction, height, and unevenness of terrain) is observed, do not get out of the vehicle carelessly. Instead, stay inside the vehicle until help arrives while paying close attention to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. ⑤ When you evacuate leaving your vehicle behind, leave a note, etc. with your contact information in the vehicle and leave the engine key inserted or put it on a prominent place.

When the vehicle gets stuck due to snowstorm

① Do not leave the vehicle: Unless you are sure that there is a place to evacuate or that a person who can help you is around, do not leave the vehicle. If you leave your vehicle in snowstorm, you may not be able to identify where you are and get lost. Since such situation is very dangerous, avoid leaving the vehicle. ② Seek for help: Call police or fire department or visit nearby houses, etc. to ask for help. ③ Until help arrives: It may take a long time before help arrives. Calm down and wait for help to arrive, while paying attention to the following points:

• To avoid causing carbon monoxide poisoning due to exhaust gas, remove snow from around the muffler periodically and slightly open the window on the lee side for ventilation.
• Take every possible measures against cold to prevent hypothermia and frostbite.
• Anticipate that you may receive a call from police or fire department, refrain from using a mobile phone as much as possible.
• The fuel or battery may run out, so use the passenger compartment heater carefully.

8. In the Event of a Major Earthquake, etc.

1. When an Alert Has Been Issued Concerning Earthquake Disasters

At present, concerning Tokai earthquakes, the whole area of Shizuoka Prefecture and parts of Tokyo, Kanagawa, Yamanashi, Nagano, Gifu, Aichi and Mie are designated as reinforced areas, which are the areas where major earthquake disasters may occur (under the Act on Special Measures Concerning Countermeasures for Large-Scale Earthquakes). When there is an imminent danger that a major earthquake may occur in this reinforced areas, and urgent measures for the prevention of earthquake disasters need to be implemented, the Prime Minister is supposed to issue an alert. If an alert is issued, passage of vehicles is prohibited or restricted. Drivers within any of the reinforced areas should take the following actions.

1. When an alert has been issued while driving

① Reduce speed sufficiently to prepare for the earthquake, listen to the earthquake information or traffic information on the radio in a four-wheeled vehicle and by any other available methods on a two-wheeled vehicle, and take actions according to the information. ② When you evacuate leaving your vehicle behind, move the vehicle out of the road as much as possible. If parking your vehicle on the road is necessary to evacuate, pull over to the left side of the road and park, stop the engine, leave the engine key inserted or put it on a prominent place in the vehicle such as on the driver's seat, close the windows (in case of a four-wheeled vehicle), and do not lock the doors. Also, take any valuables with you. Do not park your vehicle in a place where the parked vehicle obstructs the passage of other evacuees or implementation of urgent measures for the prevention of earthquake disasters.

Reference — The reason why leaving the engine key inserted

The reason why you should not lock the doors and should leave the engine key inserted or put it on a prominent place such as on the driver's seat when you evacuate leaving the vehicle behind is to let others move your vehicle in case that it hinders the passage of an emergency vehicle, working vehicle, etc. The purpose of shutting the vehicle windows is to prevent flames from entering the vehicle if a fire occurs.

2. When an alert has been issued at times other than while driving

If you use a vehicle to evacuate, roads become disordered and vehicles may obstruct the passage of an emergency vehicle. Unless it is necessary to evacuate from tsunami, do not use vehicles for evacuation.

2. When an Earthquake Early Warning Has Been Issued

The Earthquake Early Warning is issued by the Japan Meteorological Agency, in cases such as when the seismic intensity is estimated to be approximately 5 lower or greater, for areas such as those where a seismic intensity of 4 or greater is anticipated, before the shaking arrives. When you become aware that an Earthquake Early Warning has been issued while driving, you should avoid sudden braking and decelerate gradually after alerting other vehicles around you by turning on hazard lights, etc., while remaining calm, taking appropriate action according to the situation.

3. When a Major Earthquake Strikes

When a major earthquake strikes, drivers should take the following actions.

1. When a major earthquake has occurred while driving

① When a major earthquake has occurred, you may lose control of the steering wheel due to the violent shaking. In such a case, hold the steering wheel firmly, pull over to the left side of the road as safely as possible. Do not steer or apply brakes suddenly. ② After stopping the vehicle, listen to the earthquake information or traffic information on the radio in a four-wheeled vehicle and by any other available methods on a two-wheeled vehicle, and take actions according to the surrounding condition. ③ If you continue to drive after an earthquake, pay sufficient attention to the damaged road, malfunction of traffic lights, obstacles on the roads, etc. ④ When you evacuate leaving your vehicle behind, move the vehicle out of the road as much as possible. If parking your vehicle on the road is necessary to evacuate, pull over to the left side of the road and park, stop the engine, leave the engine key inserted or put it on a prominent place in the vehicle such as on the driver's seat, close the windows (in case of a four-wheeled vehicle), and do not lock the doors. Also, take any valuables with you. Do not park your vehicle in a place where the parked vehicle obstructs the passage of other evacuees or implementation of disaster-relief measures.

2. When a major earthquake has occurred at times other than while driving

① Unless it is necessary to evacuate from tsunami, do not use vehicles for evacuation. ② If it is necessary to use a vehicle to evacuate from tsunami, drive very carefully, paying attention to the damaged road, malfunction of traffic lights, obstacles on the road, etc.

4. When Traffic Is Controlled Based on the Disaster-Measures Basic Law and Other Regulations

In the prefectures where a disaster has happened or is going to happen (including the prefectures neighboring such prefectures), the passage of vehicles other than emergency vehicles will be prohibited or restricted when there is an urgent need to carry out disaster-relief measures reliably and smoothly, based on the Disaster-Measures Basic Law. Additionally, the same applies from the time a nuclear emergency declaration is issued until a nuclear emergency situation cancellation declaration is made, in accordance with the Act on Special Measures Concerning Nuclear Emergency Preparedness. Where this traffic control is enforced, drivers of general vehicles inside the no-passage districts, etc. (districts or road sections where traffic is being controlled) must take the following actions.

① Immediately move the vehicle to a place other than the roads where traffic is controlled. ② When it is difficult to move the vehicle immediately, pull over to the left edge of the road as much as possible or take other ways to park so that the vehicle will not obstruct the passage of emergency vehicles. ③ Move or park your vehicle according to the instructions of police officers.

A police officer may order a vehicle driver, etc. to take necessary measures, when the vehicle, etc. is obstructing the passage of emergency vehicles. If the driver, etc. does not take the measures as ordered or the driver, etc. is not present at the site and cannot be ordered to take the measures, the police officer may take the measures him/herself. In this case, the police officer may, to the extent unavoidable, damage the vehicle, etc. When there is no police officer at the site, such orders, etc. may be given by a Self-Defense Force officer or a fire officer engaged in disaster relief operations.

5. When Traffic Is Controlled Based on the Act concerning the Measures for Protection of the People in Armed Attack Situations, etc.

Based on the Act concerning the Measures for Protection of the People in Armed Attack Situations, etc., in order for the measures for protecting the people to be taken reliably and immediately, the passage of vehicles other than emergency vehicles will be prohibited or restricted, when it is urgently necessary to do so. Also, based on the Road Traffic Act, in order for the actions of Self-Defense Forces, etc. to repel armed attacks from the outside against our country to be taken reliably and smoothly, the passage of vehicles other than those used by Self-Defense Forces, etc. will be prohibited or restricted, when it is urgently necessary to do so. When these traffic controls are enforced, drivers of general vehicles within the no-passage districts, etc. must take the same measures as drivers of general vehicles within the no-passage districts, etc. should take when the traffic control based on the Disaster-Measures Basic Law is implemented.

Let's Try — Course Content 8 — Check your understanding with right/wrong questions.

(See page 275 for answers.)

1. When a driver becomes temporarily blinded by the glare from the headlights of oncoming vehicles, the driver should close his/her eyes to avoid the lights.
2. Since many traffic accidents occur during the twilight hours, it is safer to turn on your headlights after your eyes get used to the darkness.
3. On rainy days, roads are slippery, and drivers are at greater risk. However, if you operate the steering wheel and brakes reliably, you can avoid accidents. Therefore, the distance between vehicles and the speed would be the same as those when you travel on fine days.
4. When visibility is poor due to dense fog, you should turn on the headlights early and use the horn when necessary.
5. When the rear wheels start to skid to the right, the vehicle body faces the left, so it is advisable to restore the vehicle body's direction by steering to the right.
6. When raining at night, you must drive carefully as it may be difficult to see a pedestrian due to diffused reflection of headlights on the wet road surface.
7. If the brakes fail to work while traveling down a long downward slope, it is advisable to shift the gear to neutral.
8. On snowy roads, vehicles often skid. Therefore, you should operate the steering wheel and the brakes especially carefully and must avoid sudden starting, sudden braking, and sudden steering.
9. When stopping or parking a vehicle on the road at night, it is unnecessary to turn on the hazard lights, parking lights, or taillights in a place illuminated by roadside lights, etc., where the vehicle is clearly visible from 50 m behind.
10. If a major earthquake has occurred while driving and parking your vehicle on the road is necessary to evacuate, pull over to the left side of the road and park, stop the engine, leave the engine key inserted or put it on a prominent place in the vehicle, close the windows, and do not lock the doors.

(正: right, 誤: wrong)

Stage 2 Course Content 9 — Common Characteristics of Accidents and the Tragic Effects of Accidents

• Common characteristics of actual accidents
• Exposure on two-wheeled vehicles and injury
• The tragic effects of traffic accidents
• Respect for human life
• The importance of seat belts

1. Common Characteristics of Actual Accidents

Vehicles are convenient and comfortable transport, but at the same time, if you use a vehicle improperly, it can be a deadly weapon that causes tragic traffic accidents. Traffic accidents are a major social problem and every year, a lot of people lose their precious lives in traffic accidents. In recent years, accidents resulting in death or injury in which senior citizens are involved as either an injured party or injuring party are prominent. Among them, accidents in which a senior citizen is involved while crossing a road occur very often.

1. Characteristics of Traffic Accidents

1. When accidents occur

Many fatal accidents take place during the hours from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The reasons why many fatal accidents occur during these hours include the facts that driver's recognition and judgment are delayed because of difficulty in getting information necessary to drive compared to during the day, that vehicles can speed easily due to low traffic volume, that the power of attention declines, etc.

2. Where accidents occur

The most likely place where fatal accidents occur is at or near intersections. This is because intersections are the places where the traffic that goes up and down and the traffic that goes right and left intersects with each other, and vehicles and pedestrians proceed being involved with other traffic. The accidents on single roads take the second place. This result is related to the fact that drivers can speed easily and often drive recklessly on single roads. The third place is the accidents on curves and turns. Accidents on curves and turns are caused by driving ignoring safety, such as speeding or inappropriate operation of the steering wheel.

3. Driver's age

When the number of traffic accidents resulting in death or serious injury is classified by age groups, the number of accidents caused by senior drivers who are 65 years of age or older is the most. The number of traffic accidents resulting in death or serious injury caused by young drivers (16 to 24 years of age) is decreasing recently. Among the fatal accidents caused by young drivers, accidents of two-wheeled vehicles are prominent. This result is related to the tendency that such drivers often drive recklessly or inattentively.

4. Driving experience

As for the driving experience, drivers with shorter years of driving experience occupy a higher percentage of causing traffic accidents. This result indicates that such drivers are not skilled enough to anticipate hazards and that they are not prepared enough to drive safely.

5. Violations against traffic laws and regulations

Among violations against laws and regulations resulting in fatal accidents, careless and lax driving is the most common cause, followed by improper driving operations and failing to ensure safety. However, with young drivers, careless and lax driving is the second most next to the violation of the maximum speed limit. With senior drivers, the second most is improper driving operations. Each of them can be prevented if drivers are prepared and make a little effort of paying attention or anticipating hazards.

2. Types of Traffic Accidents

Traffic accidents can be classified into some types. Each of them can be prevented depending on the driver's attitude.

1. Traffic accidents due to speeding

If a vehicle speeds too much, it cannot avoid danger and can cause a serious accident. The important thing is to drive at a safe speed all the time, in accordance with the road and traffic conditions. Especially, when traveling a curve, you should reduce speed sufficiently before entering the curve.

2. Traffic accidents due to unreasonable overtaking

Overtaking carries many risks. Do not overtake another vehicle without ensuring safety.

3. Traffic accidents due to looking aside while driving

It is very dangerous to look aside while driving. You must not look aside while driving, being distracted by surrounding scenes, conversations with passengers, operation of car stereo or mobile phone or attentively viewing the screen of the car navigation systems.

If you look aside for 2 seconds while traveling at 60 km/h, you would proceed 30 m or more while looking aside.

4. Traffic accidents at intersections

① Accidents when turning right

When you are turning right, a two-wheeled vehicle may come out from behind an oncoming vehicle where you cannot see (blind spot) to proceed straight. It is important to ensure safety thoroughly. You should drive anticipating invisible hazards.

② Accidents when proceeding straight

A driver must not proceed straight through an intersection easily, assuming that the oncoming vehicle turning right would stop. Pay special attention to the behavior of the oncoming vehicle turning right.

③ Accidents when turning left

Pay attention to the behavior of the vehicle ahead. Even if the vehicle ahead slows down, you should not pass by the vehicle ahead carelessly. Doing so may result in an accident. Also, at a narrow intersection, a vehicle turning left may move close to the center of the road before turning left. You should stop before the intersection.

④ Rear-end collision accidents

Keeping a sufficient distance from the vehicle ahead so that you will not collide into it even if it stops suddenly, and pay attention to the vehicle ahead as well as the condition ahead of it. Also, be careful not to collide into a vehicle parked on the road.

※ Since it is especially difficult to have correct sense of distance at night, you need to drive carefully.

5. Traffic accidents while driving along roads with the right of way

Even while proceeding on a road with the right of way, ensure safety and proceed carefully, anticipating that a vehicle or pedestrian may dart out from a byway. Driving along a road with the right of way doesn't mean you can take it easy. Try to drive safely anticipating hazards.

6. Side collisions at intersections (Road Junctions)

To prevent a side collision, coming to a stop (or proceeding slowly) and ensuring safety without fail are important.

Attention — Traffic mirrors

Even if a traffic mirror is installed, some areas are in the blind spots of the mirror and are not visible. Also, you may overlook or mistake an object reflected in the mirror. Do not rely too much on traffic mirrors.

2. Exposure on Two-Wheeled Vehicles and Injury

Since the whole body of a rider on a two-wheeled vehicle is always exposed, if an accident occurs, it is highly likely to be a serious accident. Especially, in many fatal accidents, riders die from head or chest injury. Wear clothing which exposes as little of the body as possible and wear a helmet and protectors properly.

Parts of the body that were fatally injured in accidents (2022): Head 37.7%, Chest 27.6%, Neck 8.0%, Abdomen 6.7%, Lower back 5.1%, Others 15%.

1. Clothing, etc.

1. Wear clothing which exposes as little of the body as possible, and wear protectors as much as possible.
2. Wear noticeable clothing so that other drivers notice you easily.
3. A driver must not wear footwear that may interfere with driving operation, such as sandals and wooden sandals (geta).
4. At night, wear reflective clothing or a motorcycle helmet with reflective stickers.
5. A passenger should observe the above rules as well.

Attention — Watch out for leg injuries

Leg injuries are the most common injuries resulting from traffic accidents. In the event of overturning, be careful not to be trapped under the vehicle.

Injuries of two-wheeled vehicle drivers from traffic accidents classified by body parts (2022, 38,510 people): Legs 33.6%, Arms 21.7%, Neck 17.6%, Lower back 9.3%, Chest 7.3%, Head 5.0%, Others 5.5%.

2. Wearing a Motorcycle Helmet

1. Do not ride a motorcycle or general motorized bicycle without wearing a motorcycle helmet. Also, do not ride a motorcycle with a passenger wearing no motorcycle helmet. Injury to the head is the most common cause of death of two-wheeled vehicle (including general motorized bicycle) riders in traffic accidents.
2. Wear a motorcycle helmet that bears PS (C) mark or JIS mark. Wear it properly by fastening the chinstrap firmly, etc. Helmets for construction are not motorcycle helmets.

3. The Tragic Effects of Traffic Accidents

A driver who causes a traffic accident bears civil liability (compensation of damages) and criminal liability (imprisonment, imprisonment without work, or fine) and receives administrative punishment (revocation or suspension of a driver's license). It is not only the driver him/herself who gets hurt and suffer from a traffic accident, but also his/her family who shares a heavy burden with the driver, in terms of economic loss, mental pain, etc. Needless to say, the driver imposes unbearable suffering to the victim and his/her family. Taking such tragic effects of traffic accidents into your heart, make your best efforts to drive safely.

Dear my parents, N.H., Asahikawa city

One day, my parents passed away suddenly.

On that day, a passenger vehicle collided into a mini-truck that my parents were on. That vehicle didn't make a stop at the stop sign.

My mother died on the spot. My father died during the operation. I know they were fine until the day before the accident. They were looking forward to seeing their grandchild enters a school and to attend my little sister's wedding. But they are gone, all of a sudden.

That accident put me through hell and my happy life disappeared. My life has been changed totally.

As a victim, the hardest thing is to see the face of the person who caused the accident. I don't have a grudge, but I just can't forgive him. Whenever I see his face, I feel that "This person killed my parents and changed our life". My heart aches and my tears never stop. After the memorial service of 49 days, I asked him not to visit us through the insurance company. My parents will never come back.

The person who killed them will live the rest of his life repenting his mistake.

"Why it turned out this way?", "Why he hit my parents' vehicle?", "Why my parents had to die?" ... Why ... Why ... But nobody answers. ...(omitted)...

Whenever I hear a news of a traffic accident, my heart aches, thinking that "both the injured and injuring people and their families would be in grief".

(An excerpt from "Grief over Road Tragedies that Can Never Be Healed": Voices of Traffic Accident Victims issued by Hokkaido Traffic Safety Association)

4. Respect for Human Life

Traffic accidents are caused by slight carelessness or negligence of drivers or pedestrians, so they can be prevented with efforts. On the roads crowded with vehicles and people as seen today, a slight negligence in following rules or a slight carelessness can cause a traffic accident very easily. Each driver must have awareness and responsibility as a member of a motorized society, fully understand that "single momentary mistake in driving operation can make a vehicle a dangerous object that can take someone's life" and try to drive safely making full use of each one's ability.

1. Importance of Appreciation for Human Lives

Drivers are especially required to "hold appreciation for human lives and deep human love". Drivers with such quality would naturally travel at a reduced speed, steer more carefully, and drive with consideration for others.

2. Observing Traffic Rules is the First Step in Safe Driving

Just as an athlete who does not follow the rules is not allowed to play a sport, a driver who does not follow traffic rules is not allowed to drive. Traffic rules have been established so that people and vehicles can proceed safely, so following these rules is the foundation of safe driving.

3. Not being Overconfident in Your Driving Skills

Overestimating your own driving skills leads to reckless driving. Not a few major accidents have been occurred due to overconfidence in driving skills, in which drivers believed that they were good at driving. Inexperienced drivers should drive more carefully, and even very experienced drivers should drive with humility.

4. Having a Sense of Responsibility

Drivers have a duty to observe traffic rules and drive safely, but at the same time, they must also have firm awareness and a sense of responsibility that they will never cause an accident.

5. Importance of Being Yielding

People should use roads giving way to each other. Throw away selfish thoughts and try to drive with a yielding spirit. In real traffic, there are many situations that cannot be resolved by traffic rules alone. Being yielding is what solves these situations.

5. The Importance of Seat Belts

1. Wearing a Seat Belt

Some drivers and passengers do not wear their seat belts, saying that they are cumbersome and tight, or that they do not need them. However, wearing seat belts has the following advantages. When driving an automobile equipped with seat belts, the driver must wear seat belts, and make sure that passengers in the passenger and rear seats also wear them.

The effects of wearing seat belts:

1. They greatly reduce damage to the head and chest in the event of a collision. They also greatly reduce the risk of passengers in the rear seats harming other passengers.
2. Injuries are reduced in the event of an overturn or falling accident.
3. Prevents being thrown out of the vehicle even if the door opens.
4. Promotes correct driving posture and ideal steering wheel operation.
5. Helps to maintain dynamic visual acuity.
6. As your waist and upper body becomes stable, you feel less tired.

Attention — If seat belts were NOT worn...

A person who doesn't wear seat belts will be smashed against the ceiling, windshield, steering wheel, dashboard, etc., or thrown out of the vehicle. In traffic accidents, fatality rate varies greatly depending on whether seat belts are worn or not. If people who died in an accident had worn seat belts, most of them may be alive today.

2. Wearing a Seat Belt During Pregnancy

Even during pregnancy, proper use of seat belts can safeguard the mother and her unborn baby from the damage in case of a traffic accident. However, conditions during pregnancy differ from person to person. Seek a doctor's advice as to whether wearing a seat belt would be appropriate in maintaining health. To reduce the adverse effect on the unborn baby in the event of an accident, pregnant women should not wear only the lap belt. They should wear both the lap belt and shoulder belt and otherwise wear the seat belt correctly, including avoiding wearing the belt across the belly.

(Refer to p.17 for how to wear a seat belt correctly when pregnant)

3. Using Child Seats

In addition to dramatically reducing damage in the event of traffic accidents, child seats can also prevent children from interfering with driving operations. Children who are unable to wear seat belts properly should use child seats. In particular, when preschool children (under 6 years of age) are passengers in an automobile, child seats of a design corresponding to the child's growth must be used. However, exemptions are available for unavoidable reasons such as illness. Child seats lose effectiveness when used incorrectly. Therefore, use them correctly, following the manufacturer's instructions, etc.

(Refer to p.11 for how to use a child seat properly)

Reference — Importance of child seats

• If sitting on a normal seat: Since a small child cannot touch the floor with their feet, he/she cannot plant his/her feet firmly on the floor. Therefore, his/her body may fly in the passenger compartment, slip out between the seats, be smashed against a window or windshield, and sometimes be thrown out of the vehicle.
• If sitting on an adult's lap: If an adult holding a child does not wear a seat belt, he/she will be pushed forward with the child, and at worst, the child may serve as an airbag for the adult. Also, even if the adult wears the seat belt, the child may be thrown out.
• If wearing a seat belt: Seat belts are designed to be fitted to adults' bodies. If a child wears a seat belt that does not fit his/her body, it cannot be an effective safety measure. Even worse, the belt may bite into the child's neck, face, or abdomen to injure or kill the child.

Let's Try — Course Content 9 — Check your understanding with right/wrong questions.

(See page 275 for answers.)

1. When riding on a two-wheeled vehicle on a hot summer day, wearing clothing that exposes much of the body can reduce fatigue and helps the rider to drive safely.
2. In the event of an accident, a person not wearing a seat belt may be smashed against the ceiling, windshield, steering wheel, dashboard, etc.
3. With majority of the people who died while riding on two-wheeled vehicles, the fatal wound is the injury to the head. Therefore, riders must wear a motorcycle helmet.

(正: right, 誤: wrong)

Stage 2 Course Content 10 — Maintenance of Automobiles

• Maintenance and care of each part of the automobile
• Checking items to carry, tools, etc. and using them
• Changing tires, etc.
• How to conduct pre-driving checks

1. Maintenance and Care of Each Part of the Automobile

Maintaining a vehicle in good condition all the time by checking it helps to prevent traffic accidents. It is drivers' responsibility and duty. Taking care of a vehicle is also important, since in addition to that a driver can always drive comfortably, he/she can notice an abnormality of the vehicle.

1. Maintenance and Care of Four-Wheeled Vehicles

① Lights

Wipe dirt off the lights and check the lens for any damage. Also, check the lighting and flashing conditions. If a light does not light up, replace its bulb or fuse.

• When you check the brake lights or reversing lights by yourself, check the reflection on a wall or glass.
• Check the headlights to make sure that both the high beams and low beams light up successfully.

※ When you replace a bulb or fuse, replace with ones that have the same shape, voltage (V), current (A), watt (W), etc. as the old one.

② Windshield and side window glasses

If the windshield and side window glasses are dirty, your visibility will be impaired and consequently a traffic accident may be caused. To ensure good visibility, always keep the glasses clean using a glass cleaner or oil film remover. Especially, if an oil film is formed, visibility becomes poor due to glare when traveling in the rain at night.

Attention — Do not impair your visibility

Do not hang a doll, etc. near the front windshield, place an object between the rear seats and the rear windshield, or apply any tint film or blinds to the windows. Doing so will impair your visibility.

Prohibition against tint film

Applying dark tint film to the windshield or the side windows on both sides of the driver's seat is prohibited. Since tint film shades lights from outside, the driver's ability to make a proper judgment will be impaired. Further, the driver's face cannot be recognized from outside. For other traffic, a driver's face is one of the important information.

③ Wipers

If the wipers do not work properly in the rain or snow, the front visibility will be restricted, causing danger. Check the wipers to make sure that they work properly and wipe off well.

• Check if the wipers operate smoothly at low and high speeds.
• Check if the wiper blades (rubber) are damaged or worn.
• Check if the windshield washer fluid in the tank is sufficient. Also, check if the spraying height and direction are appropriate.
• In winter, vehicles in snowy regions should use winter wipers and a cold weather washer fluid.

Reference — Other checks

Steering wheel: Check the steering wheel to make sure that the play is appropriate and that there is no backlash. Also, check if the steering wheel swings to one side, has a tendency to turn, or is heavy.

Exhaust device: When combustion is normal, the exhaust gas is colorless or pale blue (complete combustion). When it is abnormal, the color is black (incomplete combustion) or white (engine oil burning). If such gas is observed, the vehicle needs to be checked and serviced.

④ Battery (Storage battery)

A battery is the power source of electrical devices of an automobile. Since the engine does not start if the electric capacity of a battery lowers, pay attention to the following points.

• Check the battery fluid level. Since the battery fluid decreases little by little, you need to add distilled water (refill fluid) once in a while.

※ Since battery fluid is diluted sulfuric acid, do not touch it with bare hands and keep your clothes from touching it.

• Check if the terminals are tightened firmly. If not, retighten them. If white powder, etc. generated by corrosion is observed around the terminals, remove it with warm water, and apply grease, etc.

Reference — In the event of a flat battery

If you forget to turn off the lights or keep the radio or car stereo turned on without starting the engine, this may result in a flat battery (the battery does not function due to low electric capacity). One way to start the engine in the event of a flat battery is to connect the battery of the broken-down vehicle to that of another vehicle (a rescue vehicle) with jumper cables. In doing so, make sure to connect the cable in a proper method and procedure, otherwise electronic devices, etc. may be damaged.

1. Connect the red cord to the positive electrode (red) of the broken-down vehicle, and then connect the other end of the red cord to the positive electrode (red) of the rescue vehicle.
2. Connect the black cord to the negative electrode (black) of the rescue vehicle, and then connect the other end of the black cord to the engine block (iron part of the engine body) of the broken-down vehicle. ※ You may connect the other end of the black cord to the negative electrode of the battery or metal part in the engine compartment.
3. Start the engine of the rescue vehicle first, and then start the engine of the broken-down vehicle.

2. Maintenance and Care of Two-Wheeled Vehicles

1. Rearview mirrors: Check if they are well-adjusted. Also, check the mirror for stain or damage.
2. Handlebars: Check if the handlebars are not heavy, no wire is caught, and there is no backlash.
3. Wheels and axles: Check the wheel bearings for "backlash" and the wheels for "distortion".
4. Muffler: Check if the muffler is installed integrally and is not damaged or corroded.
5. Chains: Press the middle part of the chain by finger to check if it is too loose or too taut.
6. Nuts and bolts: The nuts and bolts securing the devices may come loose due to the vibrations and shocks while traveling. If you find a loose nut or bolt, retighten it.
7. Lubrication: When grease applied to parts where the brake lever or the clutch lever is attached or where metals rub against each other, such as a drive chain, runs out, they will not move smoothly and make metallic sounds. To make them move smoothly, lubricate them once in a while.

※ Check the lights and the battery in the same manner as four-wheeled vehicles.

2. Checking Items to Carry, Tools, etc. and Using Them

1. Inspecting Items to Carry

Just in case, make sure to always carry the following items, which may be used in the event of breakdown or accident, in your vehicle.

1. Emergency signaling devices — Red flashlight / Smoke flare. It is a driver's duty to carry either of them in his/her automobile. (Heavy special equipment, light special equipment, two-wheeled motor vehicles including those with sidecars, and automobiles being towed are exempted.)
2. Emergency warning reflector device — Emergency warning reflector board / Emergency warning light
3. Tools
4. Spare tire
5. First-aid kit
6. Fire extinguisher — A vehicle that carries gunpowder, hazardous materials, or combustible materials, or an automobile with a seating capacity of 11 people or more must carry a fire extinguisher.

※ Just in case, carry a wire, rope, and jumper cable. In addition to them, carry tire chains, shovel, etc. in winter.

2. Using the Tools

To use spare tires, jacks and tools used to fix minor problems whenever necessary, you need to check these tools and learn how to use them in advance.

※ In addition, it is recommended to carry waste clothes, gloves, buckets, etc. They are useful at such times as fixing the vehicle.

3. Changing Tires, etc.

1. How to Change Tires

When you have to change a tire of a four-wheeled vehicle after getting a flat tire, etc., work while paying attention to the following points.

• Work in a safe place with a hard flat road surface, where the vehicle does not obstruct other traffic.
• Before starting the work, apply the parking brake firmly and shift the gear into low (1) or reverse (R) in the case of a manual transmission vehicle, or parking range (P) in the case of an automatic transmission vehicle, to prevent the vehicle from moving.
• To show the presence of your vehicle clearly to other traffic, place an emergency warning reflector device or turn on the hazard lights.

※ Changing a tire at night is especially dangerous. Do it in an illuminated place as much as possible.

Procedure for changing a tire:

1. Place wheel chocks. Place wheel chocks to prevent the vehicle from moving when it is jacked up (lifted). The wheel chocks should be placed in front and rear of tire positioned diagonally opposite from the tire to be changed.
2. Loosen the nuts. If a hub cap is installed, remove it from the vehicle. Then slightly loosen the nuts with a wheel nut wrench.
3. Set the jack and jack up the vehicle. Apply a jack to the jack-up point near the tire to be changed, and then jack up the vehicle until the tire is slightly raised from the ground (2 to 3 cm above the ground). If you apply a jack to a place other than the jack-up points, the vehicle body may be damaged or the jack may come off. Place a jack carefully to avoid such risks.
4. Remove the nuts and replace with a spare tire. Remove all the nuts that you have loosened slightly, and then replace the tire with a spare tire. Keep any removed nuts together.
5. Tighten the nuts temporarily. Paying attention to the orientation and turning direction of each nut, tighten the nuts temporarily, to the degree that the tire does not rattle. The thinner side of the nut should face inward.
6. Lower the jack and tighten the nuts firmly. Lower the jack, and when the tire touches the ground, firmly retighten the nuts in a star pattern.
7. Attach the hub cap and remove the jack.
8. Check the tools, etc., and place them in the trunk together with the removed tire.

Reference — Tire for temporary use (spare tire) for four-wheeled vehicles

The air pressure of a tire for temporary use is higher, and the diameter and width are slightly smaller than standard tires. Since it is only for temporary use, it cannot withstand high-speed or long-distance traveling. Also, chains, etc. cannot be installed. Just in case, check the spare tire for air pressure, etc. on a routine basis.

Emergency flat tire repair kit

Recently, many vehicles are not equipped with a spare tire. Instead of a spare tire, such vehicles are provided with "emergency flat tire repair kit" to be prepared for a flat tire. Repair the flat tire temporarily using this repair kit. After repairing the tire temporarily, replace it with a new one as soon as possible.

Rotation of the tires (exchange of tire positions) for four-wheeled vehicles

On a four-wheeled vehicle, if the tires are used in the same positions for a long time, the tires wear unevenly, reducing the life of the tires and affecting safe driving. Change the tire positions periodically (about once in 3,000 to 5,000 km of travel).

2. How to Install Tire Chains

When installing tire chains, stop the vehicle in a safe place where the vehicle does not obstruct other traffic, and place an emergency warning reflector device or turn on the hazard lights. In doing so, note the following points.

• Use a chain which fits the size of the tire.
• Install chains on the drive wheels. (On the rear wheels for FR vehicles, on the front wheels for FF vehicles)

With the vehicle jacked up:

1. Place wheel chocks.
2. Set the jack and jack up the vehicle.
3. Put the tire chain on top of the tire. ※ Be careful not to mistake the inside of the chains for the outside. Install so that the folded parts of the connectors are facing outside.

Without using a jack:

1. Lay out the chains near the tire.
2. Reverse the vehicle so the wheel is on the chain (10–20 cm).
3. Install the chain to the tire, like wrapping it from the rear side.

For both methods:

4. Connect the inner hook, and then the outer hook. The inner hook should be connected to the other end of the chain. Connect the outer hook while pulling both ends of the chain closer as much as possible, so that the chain is taut. The extra chain on the outer side of the tire should be fastened using a wire, etc. to keep it from hitting and damaging the vehicle body while traveling.
5. Install a chain band. After driving a short distance with the chain installed, check the chain condition and how well it is fitted to the tire. Attach a chain band evenly in diagonal order, with the claws of the clips (clasps) face outside. Be careful not to mistake the orientation of the clips.

4. How to Conduct Pre-driving Checks

1. Necessity of Pre-Driving Checks and Obligation to Conduct Them

In order to prevent a failure or traffic accident from occurring, automobile user must carry out necessary maintenance on their automobiles including pre-driving checks depending on usage conditions and periodic inspections at predetermined times. Pre-driving checks are inspections that an automobile user or a person who is going to drive an automobile does on his/her own responsibility in the daily use of an automobile. Pre-driving checks should be carried out at an appropriate time judged based on the travel distance, condition while traveling, etc. Those who are going to drive taxis or other automobiles for business use, rental automobiles or predetermined private-use automobiles must conduct an inspection once a day before driving them.

Automobiles that must undergo pre-driving checks once a day before their use:

1. Automobiles for business use (excluding automobiles of 660 cc or less, large motorcycle, and regular motorcycle)
2. Rental automobiles
3. Private-use automobiles that fall under the following categories:
   • Automobiles with a seating capacity of 11 people or more
   • Trucks (excluding 660 cc or less)
   • Automobiles for picking up preschool children (excluding 660 cc or less)
   • Vehicles for special use (excluding 660 cc or less)
   • Heavy special equipment
   • Automobiles with 3 wheels
   • Automobiles of 660 cc or less equipped with caterpillar tracks and skis

Attention — Types of checks and maintenance

• Pre-driving checks: Checks and maintenance conducted by the user, etc. of an automobile at appropriate times judging from the vehicle's mileage, operating conditions, etc.
• Periodic inspections: Inspection and maintenance that must be conducted periodically to prevent the breakdown of an automobile and to maintain its performance (legally designated inspection). (Refer to p. 233)
• Automobile inspections (vehicle inspections): A periodic inspection to confirm that an automobile meets the required safety standards (in safety, environmentally, etc.). (Refer to p. 232)

2. Items to Check and Checking Methods

On a four-wheeled vehicle, checks should be carried out while sitting on the driver's seat, by looking into the engine compartment, and by looking the vehicle from around it. On a two-wheeled vehicle, checks should be carried out from around the vehicle.

(1) Defective parts found when traveling

(2) Checks from the driver's seat

Apply brakes (Depression range of the brake pedal / Pull range of the brake lever / Effectiveness of the brakes)

• Four-wheeled vehicles: Depress the brake pedal fully and check if the clearance between the pedal and the floorboard (pedal reserve) and the feeling of depressing the brakes are both appropriate. If the clearance with the pedal and the floorboard is too narrow, or if the feeling of the pedal is too soft, the brakes may not be effective due to a leakage of brake fluid or air mixed in the fluid.
• Two-wheeled vehicles: Inspect whether the play in the brake pedal or brake lever and the feeling of depressing (pulling) the pedal (lever) are appropriate. As for the hydraulic brakes, if the clearance between the lever and handgrip is too narrow when you pull the lever strongly, or the depression range of the pedal is too large or the feeling of the pedal is too soft when you depress the pedal strongly, the brakes may not be working properly due to a leakage of brake fluid or air mixed in the fluid.

Brake terminology:

• a Play: The extent to which the brake pedal first moves when a driver steps on the brake pedal. The brakes do not engage within this range of movement. If the play is too large, the brake engagement may delay, or the brake does not work well. If the play is too small, the brakes are likely to be kept engaged.
• b Depression: The range in which the brakes start to engage and works completely.
• c Clearance (Pedal reserve): The space between the pedal and the floorboard when the pedal is fully depressed. If the clearance is too small, the brakes will not work effectively.

Parking brake lever (pedal)

Pull (depress) the lever (pedal) fully and check if the pull range (depression range) is too large or too small. ※ If you drive a vehicle without releasing the parking brake (hand brake) completely, the brake may be damaged or a fire may be caused. When you release the parking brake, confirm that the warning light (red light) goes off.

Engine (How the engine starts / Abnormal noise / Conditions when the vehicle travels at low speed or accelerates)

1. Check if the engine starts promptly, and the revolution is smooth. Check if there is any abnormal noise when the engine starts or is idling.
2. While keeping the engine warm, check if the revolution continues smoothly during the engine is idling. Accelerate the engine gradually and check if there is any hindrance in the accelerator and the engine revolves smoothly without causing stalling or knocking. These should be checked while driving the vehicle or using other methods.

Windshield washer (Spraying condition): Check if the spraying height and direction of the windshield washer fluid are appropriate.

Wipers (Cleaning condition): Turn on the wipers and check if the wipers run successfully at both low and high speeds. If the wiper blades are worn and the wiper does not move smoothly, replace the blades. Check if they can clean the windshield completely.

(3) Check of the engine compartment

(4) Checks from around the vehicle

Lamps and turn signal lights (Lighting and flashing conditions, dirt, and damage): Start the engine and check the lighting condition of the lamps, including the headlights, taillights, number-plate lights, brake lights, and side marker lights. Also, check the turn signals for flashing condition. Check the lenses, etc. for dirt and damage.

Tires (Air pressure / Cracks and damages / Abnormal wear / Tread depth):

1. Check the flexure of each tire at the tread to determine whether the air pressure is appropriate.
   • When the air pressure is high, the tire tread becomes small, making the vehicle more likely to skid.
   • If the air pressure is low, the tire wears fast, the steering wheel becomes heavy, and the cracks and damages appear on the surface, which may result in a traffic accident while traveling at a high speed.
   • If the air pressure is different in the right and left tires, the steering wheel tends to turn to the side with lower pressure.
2. Check the entire circumference of each tire for cracks and damages. Also, check the entire circumference of each tire to confirm that there are no nails, stones, or other foreign objects stuck or embedded in the tires.
3. Check the tread of each tire for notably worn portions.
4. Check to see that the tread depth is enough by looking at the wear-indicator (slip sign) or using other methods. A wear-indicator appears when the tread depth becomes 1.6 mm in the case of a four-wheeled vehicle, and 0.8 mm in the case of a two-wheeled vehicle. When a wear-indicator appears, replace the old tire with a new one.

Wheel discs (Attaching condition): Check if there are any loose or fallen wheel nuts, bent or unevenly protruded wheel bolts, and traces of liquid containing rust by visual check or using a tool such as an inspection hammer.

Check mark legend:

• Items with ■ mark: Even for automobiles that must undergo pre-driving checks once a day, these items only have to be checked at appropriate times judged based on the vehicle's mileage, the conditions while driving, etc.
• Items with ▲ mark: In the case of regular passenger vehicles for private use, etc., these items only have to be checked at periodic inspections.
• Items with □ mark: These items are checked only for the automobile with a vehicle gross weight of 8 tons or more or with a seating capacity of 30 people or more.

(5) Checks of vehicles equipped with air brakes

Vehicles equipped with air brakes must undergo the checks listed below additionally.

Reference — Examples of malfunctions that may occur if checks and maintenance are not carried out

An automobile is comprised of many components. Friction or deterioration is inevitable with some parts (rubber parts, oils, etc.), and some other parts (bolts or nuts) may become loose in using an automobile. Therefore, if you fail to carry out checks and maintenance, the following malfunctions may result.

Part	Consequence of neglect
Battery fluid	If a battery is used with the battery fluid insufficient, the battery may generate heat or explode.
Brake fluid	Brake fluid absorbs moisture that comes in through a vent and deteriorates with use. Therefore, if the same brake oil is used for a long time, the brakes will not work effectively.
Engine oil	Using deteriorated engine oil decreases the lubrication performance, leading to an engine problem or burn in.
Wiper blades	Using deteriorated wiper blades decreases the performance of windshield wipers, which leads to poor visibility.
Air cleaner element	If the air cleaner element is clogged with dust or dirt, the engine cannot intake necessary air, causing low output, high fuel consumption, and emission gas problem.
Coolant	Using deteriorated coolant causes corrosion in the radiator or overheating.
Fan belt	Using a loose fan belt causes a flat battery or overheating.
Oil filter	Using a clogged oil filter causes a problem in oil flow, causing damage inside the engine.
Brake hose	Using a deteriorated brake hose causes problems such as cracks, leading to fluid leak, etc. Consequently, the brakes will not work effectively.
Brake pads and linings	They wear as the travel distance and usage count increases. When they are worn exceeding their limit, fluid leakage occurs and the brakes will not work effectively.

Let's Try — Course Content 10 — Check your understanding with right/wrong questions.

(See page 275 for answers.)

1. If the resistance to depression of the brake pedal feels weak, there is a risk of brake fluid leaking or air in the brake hose.
2. The purpose of coolant in the radiator is to cool the engine, and is not required to check or refill coolant during winter when temperatures are low.
3. If an oil film has been formed on the windshield, visibility becomes poor when it starts to rain while traveling. It is advisable to remove dirt with detergent.
4. Exhaust gases are colorless or pale blue when the level of gas mixture is high and combustion is incomplete.
5. When the chain of a two-wheeled vehicle is checked by pressing the middle of the chain with a finger while the vehicle is supported with the center stand, a taut chain is preferred over a loose chain.
6. Checking the wear-indicator (slip sign) is an easy way to check whether the tread depth is sufficient.
7. The battery fluid must be maintained at the specified level, otherwise a flat battery may be caused, and the engine may not be started.
8. Pre-driving checks are inspections that an automobile user or a person who attempts to drive an automobile does on his/her own responsibility in the daily use of an automobile.

(正: right, 誤: wrong)

Stage 2 Course Content 11 — Parking and Stopping

• Definitions of parking and stopping
• Prohibition against parking and stopping and its exceptions
• Parking and stopping
• Restrictions on parking duration, etc.
• Measures to take when leaving your vehicle
• Securing a storage place
• Effects of parking

1. Definitions of Parking and Stopping

1. Definition of Parking

Parking means stopping a vehicle in the following conditions.

The vehicle is stopped continuously:

• Waiting for passengers or cargo
• Loading or unloading exceeding 5 minutes
• Breakdown or other reasons

The vehicle is stopped and the driver being away from the vehicle and not able to drive it immediately.

2. Definition of Stopping

Stopping means stopping a vehicle for a short period of time, not to be considered parking.

• People getting on and off
• Loading and unloading within 5 minutes
• Stopping in the situation where the driver is not away from the vehicle
• Stopping in the situation where the driver is away from the vehicle but can drive immediately

2. Prohibition against Parking and Stopping and Its Exceptions

1. Necessity of Prohibiting Illegal Parking and Stopping

Parking or stopping vehicles illegally is prohibited because it could disturb traffic in the vicinity and restrict the visibility of the road, leading to accidents due to dart-out into traffic. Also, it could obstruct the passage of emergency vehicles, such as police cars and fire trucks. When you park or stop your vehicle, be sure to confirm that parking or stopping a vehicle is allowed in the place.

2. Where Parking and Stopping Are Prohibited

In the following places, a driver must not park or stop a vehicle. However, this does not apply if you have to come to a stop in order to wait at a red signal or to prevent hazard.

1. Where there is a "no parking or stopping" sign or marking
2. On a streetcar track
3. Near the top of a slope and on a steep slope (Both upward slope and downward slope)
4. In a tunnel (Regardless of whether there are vehicular lanes)
5. At an intersection and within 5 m of its edge
6. Within 5 m of a road corner
7. At a pedestrian crossing or a bicycle crossing zone as well as within 5 m before and after its edge
8. At a railroad crossing and within 10 m before and after its edge
9. The left side of and within 10 m before and after a safety zone
10. Within 10 m of the signboard (sign poles) in bus stops or streetcar stops (Limited to operating hours)

Reference — Summary of no parking or stopping areas

Range not specified	Prohibited within 5 m	Prohibited within 10 m
Areas prohibited by traffic signs or pavement markings	At intersections and from their edges	At railroad crossings and before and after their edges
Near tops of slopes or on steep slopes	Road corners	The left side of safety zones and before and after them
On streetcar tracks	At pedestrian crossings and bicycle crossing zones as well as before and after their edges	Bus or streetcar stops
In tunnels

※ You can assume that the length of a regular passenger vehicle is approximately 5 m to understand the range on actual roads.

※ Note that this is not equal to the No overtaking area. (Refer to p. 97)

3. Where Parking Is Prohibited

In the following places, a driver must not park a vehicle. However, this does not apply if the permission has been granted by a police chief.

1. Places where parking is prohibited by a "no parking" sign or marking
2. Within 1 m of fire alarms
3. Within 3 m of an automobile entrance or exit of parking lots, garages, etc.
4. Within 5 m of the edges of roadwork zones
5. Within 5 m of places where firefighting machinery or equipment is stored, water tanks for firefighting, or entrances or exits connecting either of these to the road
6. Within 5 m of hydrants, the locations of traffic signs indicating designated firefighting water supply and the inlet of water tanks for firefighting

Reference — Vehicles that are allowed to park with permission from a police chief

1. Vehicles requiring urgent repair
2. Vehicles that cannot load or unload within 5 minutes
3. Vehicles for ceremonial use
4. Vehicles that the police chief approves due to other compelling reasons

4. Prohibition against Parking with No Space Left and Its Exceptions

A driver must not park if doing so would fail to leave 3.5 m or more of road to the right side of the vehicle. Or, if the distance is specified by a traffic sign, a driver must not park unless the specified distance is ensured.

However, the following cases are exceptions and parking is permitted:

1. When the cargo is being loaded or unloaded and the driver can drive immediately
2. When it is necessary to park to rescue an injured or sick person

5. Parking or Stopping Permitted by Traffic Signs

Even in places where parking or stopping is prohibited or where parking is prohibited, you can park or stop your vehicle provided that it is specifically allowed by a traffic sign.

3. Parking and Stopping

When you park or stop your vehicle, you must do it in one of the following ways.

1. On roads without a sidewalk or side strip, park or stop along the left edge of the road.
2. On general roads with a sidewalk, park or stop along the left edge of the roadway. (The same applies when there is a roadway edge line.)
3. General roads with a side strip:
   • When the width of a side strip is 0.75 m or less — Park or stop along the left edge of the roadway.
   • When a side strip is wide enough — Park or stop in the side strip, ensuring a space of 0.75 m or more to its left side. (When entering a side strip, a vehicle must come to a stop just before it to prevent obstructing the passage of pedestrians.)
   • Even if the side strip is wide enough, a vehicle must not enter it when it is delineated by two solid lines or by solid and broken lines — park or stop along the left edge of the roadway.
4. When it is unavoidable to park or stop on an expressway due to a breakdown, etc., enter the side strip, and park or stop along the left edge of the road. (Passage of pedestrians is prohibited)
5. You must not park or stop a vehicle alongside a vehicle parked or stopped in parallel with the road. (No double parking or stopping)
6. When the method of parking or stopping is designated by a traffic sign or a pavement marking, follow its instructions.

4. Restrictions on Parking Duration, etc.

1. Prohibition against Parking for a Long Time

1. Do not use a road as your personal garage.
2. When parking your vehicle on a road, you must not leave it parked in the same place for continuous 12 hours or more (or 8 hours or more during the night). (Excludes roads in certain areas of designated villages.)

※ Night refers to the period from sunset to sunrise.

2. Parking Methods, etc. in Time-Limited Parking Zones

In urban areas, parking is prohibited on most of the roads. However, if there is a place with parking meter or parking ticket dispenser (time-limited parking zones), you can park your vehicle provided that you observe the restrictions. You must observe the following rules in the time-limited parking zone with a parking meter, etc.

1. When there is a parking meter, put the parking fee in the parking meter to activate immediately.
2. When there is a parking ticket dispenser, put the parking fee in the dispenser and receive a parking ticket immediately, and then display it in a visible place at the front of the vehicle (inside the windshield, if the vehicle is equipped with it) so that it is easily seen from the front.
3. You must not park exceeding the duration indicated on a traffic sign. The parking duration should be counted from the time when the parking meter detects your vehicle, or you receive a parking ticket.

※ Park properly in the parking line. Otherwise, it is illegal parking. Also, it is illegal to keep parking a vehicle in the same spot beyond the parking end time specified by the parking ticket, even if you get a ticket issued again and display it. Updating of parking duration by buying the ticket again is not allowed.

3. Special Exceptions for Vehicles with a Senior Driver, etc. Sticker

1. Even in places where parking or stopping is prohibited or where parking is prohibited, a regular automobile with a registration number (vehicle number) on the parking in exclusive sites sticker may park or stop, provided that it is a place where only vehicles with a sticker are permitted to park or stop by traffic signs (sites exclusively for senior drivers, etc.), or that it is a time-limited parking zones where only vehicles with a parking in exclusive sites sticker are permitted to park (time-limited parking zones exclusively for senior drivers, etc.).
2. When parking or stopping a vehicle in a site exclusively for senior drivers, etc., or a time-limited parking zone exclusively for senior drivers, etc., the vehicle must display a parking in exclusive sites sticker in a visible place at the front of the regular automobile (inside the windshield, if the vehicle is equipped with it).
3. Drivers who have not been given a parking in exclusive sites sticker by the Public Safety Commission must not park or stop in sites exclusively for senior drivers, etc., or time-limited parking zones exclusively for senior drivers, etc.

Reference — Parking in exclusive sites sticker (Senior driver, etc. sticker)

This is a sticker that may be given to a driver who has a license that permits driving of regular automobiles and meets any of the following conditions, based on the application to the Public Safety Commission. Lending or giving this sticker to others is not allowed.

1. Senior drivers 70 years of age or older
2. Drivers who have a license to which any condition is attached because the licensee has a hearing impairment to a degree that Cabinet Order prescribes
3. Drivers who have a license to which any condition is attached because the licensee has a physical disability
4. Drivers who are pregnant or have given birth within preceding 8 weeks

4. Measures against Illegal Parking

1. Moving a vehicle

1. A driver or another person responsible for the oversight of an illegally parked vehicle (hereinafter referred to as a "driver, etc.") must remove the vehicle when he/she is given an on-site instruction to move the vehicle from a police officer or traffic warden (hereinafter referred to as a "police officer, etc.").
2. When a police officer, etc. cannot order to move an illegally parked vehicle because the driver, etc. is not present at the site, the vehicle may be removed by a wrecker.
3. The expenses including moving and storing the vehicle should be borne by the driver, etc.

Reference — "User"

Refers to a person who holds the title to a vehicle, controls the operation of the vehicle, and manages the vehicle is referred to as a user. Usually, the owner of a vehicle is the user of the vehicle. (In the case of leased vehicles, etc., the user may not be the same as the owner.)

2. When a determination of illegally parked and left vehicle sticker has been attached

1. A determination of illegally parked and left vehicle sticker may be attached to illegally parked vehicles.
2. A driver of a vehicle to which a determination of illegally parked and left vehicle sticker is attached should take the procedures of an abandoned parking violation.
3. In cases such as the driver of the vehicle fails to pay the penalty, the user of the vehicle may be ordered to pay the abandonment penalty.
4. The user, driver, or person responsible for the oversight of the vehicle may remove the attached determination of illegally parked and left vehicle sticker. To prevent a traffic accident, the determination of illegally parked and left vehicle sticker should be removed before the vehicle is driven. People other than above must not damage, deface, or remove these stickers.

Reference — Abandoned parking violation

A vehicle that has been parked in a place where parking is prohibited or parked against a specified parking method, etc., and cannot be driven immediately because the driver has left the vicinity is found to be an "abandoned parking violation". The penalty to an abandoned parking violation is severer than a parking violation with a driver in the vicinity.

Abandonment penalty system

A driver of a vehicle found to be an abandoned parking violation and to which a determination of illegally parked and left vehicle sticker is attached must pay the penalty within 30 days. When the driver fails to pay the penalty or the driver cannot be identified within that period, the Public Safety Commission may order the user of the vehicle to pay the abandonment penalty. A vehicle to which payment orders are given a certain number of times or more in 6 months is ordered to be subject to usage limitation for a period not exceeding 3 months, and a driving prohibited sticker is attached to the vehicle. If a person fails to pay the abandonment penalty within the specified period and receives a demand for payment, he/she cannot receive an automobile inspection certificate (vehicle inspection) until he/she presents a document evidencing that the abandonment penalty, overdue fines, and service fees have been paid.

5. Measures to Take When Leaving Your Vehicle

1. Measures to Prevent Danger

When you leave the vicinity of your vehicle, you must take the following steps to prevent the vehicle from rolling away (or overturning in the case of a two-wheeled vehicle).

For four-wheeled vehicles:

1. Apply the parking brake and stop the engine.
2. The gear should be in reverse on a flat land or a downward slope, and in low on an upward slope. As for automatic transmission vehicles, put the gearshift in P irrespective of the place.
3. Attach wheel chocks on a slope.

For two-wheeled vehicles:

1. Choose a place where the ground is hard and flat.
2. Lower the center stand.
3. When using a side stand, shift the gear to low, and turn the handlebars fully to the left.
4. Stop the engine and pull out the engine key.

Attention — Do not leave children alone inside a vehicle

Leaving children alone inside a vehicle is very dangerous, because the vehicle may start by mischief, or a child's neck or hand may be caught in a power window. Especially, because the temperature becomes high in vehicles under the burning sun of high summer, tragic accidents have occurred in which children died of dehydration. Do not go away from the vehicle leaving children alone inside it, even for a short time.

2. Measures to Prevent Theft

There are many cases where a stolen vehicle is used for criminal activities. To prevent such crimes as well as to prevent your vehicle from being stolen, you must take the following steps when you leave the vicinity of your vehicle.

For four-wheeled vehicles:

1. Stop the engine and carry the engine key with you.
2. Make sure the windows are closed, and lock the doors.
3. If the vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, such as a steering wheel locking device, activate it.
4. If you do not take away your valuables, put them into the trunk and lock it.

For two-wheeled vehicles:

1. Lock the handlebars and pull out the key.
2. Lock the vehicle, using a cycle lock (wheel-locking device), etc.

Reference — Immobilizer (Anti-theft device)

An immobilizer is an anti-theft device using an electronic key verification system, in which an encrypted code (ID code) transmitted from a dedicated key is checked by a computer in the body of the vehicle, and the engine cannot be started unless it is identified as an authorized key.

6. Securing a Storage Place

A person in possession of (an owner, user, or oversight person of) an automobile (excluding two-wheeled vehicles) must secure a storage place for the automobile within 2 km of the vehicle's base of operations, such as the person's residential location, in places other than roads.

※ There is no legal requirement to secure a storage place for two-wheeled vehicles; however, secure a storage place other than roads.

Reference — Notification of a storage place

• Storage place certificate: When you wish to have your automobile (excluding light motor vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles) newly registered, or change the vehicle's base of operations, you must receive a storage place certificate from the police chief, and submit it to a Transport Branch Office, etc. (excluding specific areas).
• Storage place sticker: When you have a storage place certificate issued or notify of a storage place, you will be given a storage place sticker by the police chief. The storage place sticker must be displayed by sticking it to the rear windshield, etc. of the automobile.
• Change of a storage place: When you have changed the location of the storage place certified by the storage place certificate, you must notify the police chief having jurisdiction over the new location of the location of the new storage place, etc., within 15 days of that date (excluding specific areas).
• Notification of a light motor vehicle's storage place: When you have bought a light motor vehicle (including when one is assigned to you), or have changed the storage place, you must notify the police chief having jurisdiction over the location of the location of the new storage place, etc. (excluding specific areas).
• Ban on driving sticker: If an automobile's storage place has not been secured, a ban on driving sticker will be attached to the automobile and driving of that automobile will be prohibited. This sticker will be removed by a police officer who has confirmed that a storage place is secured for that automobile. Do not remove it yourself.

7. Effects of Parking

Illegal parking not only disturbs the safe and smooth traffic, but also affects every area of our social life. When you park a vehicle on the road, in addition to observing the laws, you should pay sufficient attention to the following to avoid obstructing other traffic, disturbing other people, or causing a traffic accident, even if parking is not prohibited in the area.

① Is it safe?

• An accident may occur due to dart-out of a person from between parked vehicles.
• A parked vehicle is difficult to see at night and can be a cause of a rear-end collision accident.

② Does it cause disturbance to others?

• The road becomes narrow due to a parked vehicle, which may cause traffic congestion.
• A parked vehicle obstructs the passage of emergency vehicles.
• A parked vehicle obstructs the operation of road maintenance vehicles, such as sweeper trucks and snowplows.

③ Isn't it violating the laws and regulations?

• Parking for a long time may be illegal, even if you park in the area where parking is not prohibited.

Let's Try — Course Content 11 — Check your understanding with right/wrong questions.

(See page 275 for answers.)

1. Parking refers to a continuous stopping of a vehicle, etc., or the vehicle is stopped and the driver being away from the vehicle and not able to drive it immediately.
2. Parking and stopping are prohibited in the areas within 10 m of a signboard (sign pole) of a bus stop during operating hours of the buses.
3. Areas within 3 m of the entrances and exits of sites for automobile use, such as parking lots and garages, are no parking or stopping areas.
4. A person in possession of an automobile must secure a storage place for the automobile that is not on the road and is within 2 km of the automobile's base of operations.
5. Stops to load and unload passengers or stops within 5 minutes to load and unload cargo is not considered parking.
6. When a side strip is wide enough, you can park or stop in the side strip, provided that you ensure a space of 0.75 m or more to the left side of the vehicle.
7. Parking is prohibited within 5 m of hydrants, the traffic signs indicating firefighting water supply, and the inlet of water tanks for firefighting.
8. Though the space on the road to the right side of the vehicle was less than 3.5 m, a vehicle was parked because the traffic was light.
9. When a driver leaves the vicinity of his/her vehicle, he/she should put the gear in reverse on a flat land or a downward slope, and in low on an upward slope. As for automatic transmission vehicles, the driver should put the gear to N (neutral).
10. On the road where the no parking/stopping sign (8-20) is displayed, parking and stopping are prohibited throughout the day.

(正: right, 誤: wrong)

Stage 2 Course Content 12 — Passenger and Cargo Loads

• Loading passengers or cargo
• Special exceptions to loading passengers or cargo
• Restrictions on passenger or cargo load
• Prevention of falling off, etc.
• Transporting dangerous substances

1. Loading Passengers or Cargo

1. A driver must not have people sit in places other than the seats, or load cargo in places other than carriers and seats. However, when loading a truck with cargo, the driver may carry the minimum number of people necessary to watch over the cargo on the carrier.

Reference — The minimum number of people necessary to watch over the cargo

When carrying cargo, you may carry the minimum number of people necessary to watch over the cargo on the carrier as an exception, for preventing danger such as falling off or collapse of the cargo, as well as for preventing theft. (A permission from a police chief is not required.) However, after the cargo is unloaded, that person is no longer allowed to ride on the carrier.

2. The driver must not carry a passenger or cargo on an automobile in a way that could obstruct the driving operations, harm the stability of the automobile, or obstruct the visibility of the automobile's turn signals, number plates, brake lights, taillights, etc. from the outside of the automobile.

2. Special Exceptions to Loading Passengers or Cargo

1. When the police chief of the place of departure grants permission, you may load cargo in places other than carriers and seats or drive a truck while carrying people on the carrier.
2. When the police chief of the place of departure grants permission, you may drive, carrying cargo that exceeds loading restrictions (weight, length, width, height, or loading method) because the cargo cannot be divided. In this case, the police chief of the place of departure may attach the following conditions to prevent danger. You must drive while observing the attached conditions.
   • When the length or width of loaded cargo exceeds the restrictions, the following objects must be attached to a visible position on the cargo:
     • During the day: Red, square cloth with sides 0.3 m or more
     • During the night: Red light or red reflector
   • A permit must be displayed in a visible place on the front of the vehicle.
   • Take any other measures necessary to prevent danger on the road.

3. Restrictions on Passenger or Cargo Load

1. Seating Capacity and Restrictions on Cargo Load

You must not load passengers exceeding the designated seating capacity (including the driver) or load cargo violating the restrictions on cargo load shown in the table below.

Notes:

• For automobiles that the Public Safety Commission approves, the height should be 4.1 m or less.
• For regular automobiles with 3 wheels and regular automobiles with a total engine displacement of 660 cc or less (light motor vehicles), the height should be 2.5 m or less.

Seating capacity:

• The seating capacity includes the driver.
• For children under 12 years of age, 3 children are counted as 2 adults.
• Formula: (Seating capacity − Number of adult passengers) × 1.5 = Number of children who can ride (Round down to the closest whole number)

Reference — Prohibition against requesting drivers to drive a vehicle when overloaded, etc.

Do not ask the driver to overload a vehicle (load cargo that exceeds a vehicle's maximum weight limit) and drive it, or sell or give him/her anything that exceeds a designated weight restriction.

Attention — Proceeding through a place with height limitation

The bodies of large automobiles, medium-sized automobiles, and semi-medium-sized automobiles are higher than regular automobiles. When proceeding through a place with a vehicle height limitation, confirm that the vehicle height is equal to or less than the height limitation. Especially, pay attention to the height of the cargo on the carrier, since it may exceed the height limit of automobiles that can proceed through there.

If you drive a vehicle violating the restrictions on cargo load:

If the weight limit is exceeded:

• The brakes do not work effectively, and the braking distance becomes long.
• Vibrations or noises may be more significant.
• Exhaust gas increases.
• The tires and roads are damaged.

If the height limit is exceeded:

• The vehicle often hits elevated bridges, footbridges, etc.
• The vehicle often cuts electric wires, communication wires, overhead train wires, etc.
• The center of gravity is elevated, and therefore the vehicle is prone to overturn on curves.
• The cargo is prone to collapse.

2. Prohibition against Riding Double on Novice Drivers

When a person who has held a large motorcycle license or regular motorcycle license for less than a year rides a large motorcycle or regular motorcycle, he/she must not ride double. However, if the vehicle is equipped with a side car, this does not apply.

Reference — Cases where riding double is not prohibited

1. When a person who has held a regular motorcycle license for 1 year or more before he/she is given a large motorcycle license.
2. When a person who has held a large or regular motorcycle license for 1 year or more in total receives a new large or regular motorcycle license within 6 months of the previous license ceasing to be valid.

※ When riding double on a vehicle, the vehicle body becomes heavier compared to when only a driver is on it and therefore traveling while maintaining a balance becomes difficult. Even if riding double is allowed, you should carry a passenger only after you are skilled in riding the vehicle alone.

(For riding double on expressways, refer to p. 248)

4. Prevention of Falling Off, etc.

The driver must shut the doors firmly or load the cargo securely with a rope, cover, etc., so that the passengers will not fall off or cargo will not fall off or scatter around. If cargo has fallen off or scattered around, the driver must take necessary measures, such as removing it immediately. When doing so, exercise due caution toward following vehicles, etc.

Reference — Measures to take when an object has fallen

If cargo loaded on a vehicle falls off or scatters around on the road, it may endanger other traffic or may lead to traffic congestion or traffic accidents. In such an event, the driver must take the following actions:

1. Remove the fallen objects.
2. Guide following vehicles to keep them from hitting the fallen objects.
3. If the driver cannot remove the fallen object by him/herself, contact a relevant authority or wrecker service.

It is very dangerous to try to collect an object fallen on an expressway by yourself. You should place an emergency warning reflector device to prevent danger and wait until a relevant authority arrives.

Reference — How to secure cargo

The following methods can be used to prevent cargo from collapsing:

1. Place the cargo so that the center of gravity of the entire cargo is located in the center of the carrier.
2. If there is a gap around the cargo, use wood blocks, etc. as stoppers to prevent the cargo from moving.
3. Secure the cargo to the carrier using ropes, etc.

※ If you cover cargo to prevent it from getting wet, tie the cover to the carrier firmly to keep the cover from swelling or flipping while the vehicle is traveling.

5. Transporting Dangerous Substances

When carrying dangerous substances, pack and load them securely, attach a signboard, etc. to show that dangerous substances are being carried. Also, when you park the vehicle, avoid dangerous places and watch the dangerous substances.

(Signboard attached to a vehicle transporting dangerous substances: 危)

Let's Try — Course Content 12 — Check your understanding with right/wrong questions.

(See page 275 for answers.)

1. When loading a truck with cargo, the driver may drive the truck while carrying the minimum number of people necessary to watch over the cargo or to load or unload the cargo on the carrier.
2. To calculate the seating capacity of an automobile, 2 children under 12 years of age are counted as 1 adult.
3. Cargo loaded on a regular truck may protrude beyond the front or rear end of the vehicle body if the protrusion is within one-tenth of the length of that truck.
4. The maximum permitted width of cargo that can be carried on a carrier of a large automobile is the width of the vehicle plus two-tenths of the width of that vehicle.
5. When carrying cargo on a motorcycle or general motorized bicycle, the cargo may protrude up to 0.15 m beyond either side of the carrier.
6. If the driver accepts, you may have the driver to overload a vehicle (loading cargo that exceeds a vehicle's maximum weight limit) and drive it.
7. The maximum cargo height limit for large automobiles and regular automobiles (excluding the regular automobiles with 3 wheels and the regular automobiles with a total engine displacement of 660 cc or less) is 3.8 m from the ground.
8. It is permitted to load cargo up to 60 kg on the carrier of a large motorcycle, regular motorcycle, or general motorized bicycle.

(正: right, 誤: wrong)

Stage 2 Course Content 13 — Towing

• How to tow broken-down vehicles, etc.
• Restrictions on towing

In order to tow another vehicle, both the towing automobile and the vehicle being towed must have a towing structure and device.

However, if it is unavoidable due to breakdown, etc., you may tow the broken-down vehicle using a rope, crane, etc., since leaving a broken-down vehicle on the road may cause a rear-end collision accident and is very dangerous.

Towing vehicle: An automobile with a structure and device for towing

Towed vehicle: A vehicle with a structure and device for being towed

Reference — Towing license

When towing another vehicle with large, medium-sized, semi-medium-sized, or regular automobiles or heavy special equipment with a towing structure and device, the driver needs to have a towing license as well as a license for the particular type of vehicle being used for towing.

	Towing license is required	Towing license is not required
License needed	License for the towing automobile + Towing license	License for the towing automobile only
When	When towing a vehicle with a vehicle gross weight exceeding 750 kg (Full trailer, Semi-trailer)	When towing a vehicle with a vehicle gross weight of 750 kg or less (Camping trailer, Boat trailer)
		When towing a broken-down vehicle (Towing using a rope, etc. / Towing by a wrecker)

(Refer to p. 107)

1. How to Tow Broken-Down Vehicles, etc.

1. Towing a Broken-Down Vehicle Using a Rope, etc.

When towing a broken-down vehicle, etc., you must observe the following instructions.

1. Keep a safe distance (within 5 m) between the towing automobile and the broken-down vehicle (or, when towing 2 vehicles, between each vehicle).
2. The vehicles must be tied securely to each other by a strong rope, etc., and a white cloth (square with sides 0.3 m or more) must be attached to the rope.
3. In doing so, have a person who has a license that permits driving of the broken-down vehicle ride it and operate the steering wheel, etc.

Attention — Points to note when towing using a rope

Start the engine of the broken-down vehicle

• Without the engine started, the power steering doesn't work.
• Without the engine started, the brakes do not work effectively.
• Put the gear in neutral.

Points to note when traveling

• When you drive a preceding vehicle, keep in mind that there is a following vehicle within 5 m and drive while maintaining a constant speed and distance between vehicles.
• Drive the preceding vehicle slowly.
• Keep the rope taut.

2. When a Broken-Down Vehicle Is Towed with the Front or Rear Wheels Raised

When a broken-down vehicle is towed with its front or rear wheels lifted by a crane, etc., or with its front or rear wheels put on the rear section of the towing vehicle, you must observe the following instructions.

1. Lift the front or rear wheels of a broken-down vehicle with a towing vehicle's crane, etc., or put the front or rear wheels on the rear section of the towing vehicle, and then secure the broken-down vehicle firmly at the position using a rope, etc.
2. When towing with the rear wheels raised, secure the steering wheel of the broken-down vehicle so that its front wheels are in parallel with the center line of the vehicle.

• Towing with the front wheels raised
• Towing with the rear wheels raised

(Fix the steering wheel of the broken-down vehicle so that its front wheels are in parallel with the center line of the vehicle. In some vehicle types, the steering wheel is designed to be locked automatically by key locking.)

2. Restrictions on Towing

When towing another vehicle, the following limits must not be exceeded. However, if the Public Safety Commission grants permission for a vehicle to tow another vehicle specifying the road or limiting the timeframe, these limits may be exceeded.

① The limit on the number of vehicles

• When a large motorcycle, regular motorcycle, or light special equipment tows another vehicle ················ 1 vehicle
• When a large automobile, medium-sized automobile, semi-medium-sized automobile, regular automobile, or heavy special equipment tows another vehicle ················ 2 vehicles

② The limit on length

The length from the front end of the towing vehicle to the rear end of the vehicle being towed ······ Within 25 m

Reference — Maximum speed limits when towing another vehicle

When towing another vehicle	Legally designated speed limit
When a vehicle equipped with a towing structure and device tows another vehicle equipped with a structure and device for being towed (Trailer)	60 km/h
Other than described in the above column, when a vehicle with the gross weight of 2,000 kg or less is towed by a vehicle with the gross weight three times greater or more the towed vehicle	40 km/h
Other than described in the columns above and below, when a vehicle tows a broken-down vehicle	30 km/h
When towing two-wheeled carts, etc. using a light two-wheeled vehicle or general motorized bicycle	25 km/h

(Refer to p. 72)

Let's Try — Course Content 13 — Check your understanding with right/wrong questions.

(See page 275 for answers.)

1. When towing a broken-down vehicle using a rope, the towing vehicle and the vehicle being towed must be securely tied with a strong rope or similar, and a white, square cloth with sides 30 cm or greater must be attached to the rope in a visible place.
2. A broken-down general vehicle being towed by a rope has no functions as a vehicle, so a person without a driver's license may be at the wheel of the vehicle.
3. When towing two broken-down vehicles without raising wheels, a 5-meter rope must be used to tow the first vehicle, and a 10-meter rope must be used to tow the second vehicle.
4. When towing a broken-down vehicle with a general vehicle using a rope, the distance between the towing vehicle and the broken-down vehicle must be maintained within 5 m.

(正: right, 誤: wrong)

Stage 2 Course Content 14 — When Traffic Accidents Occur

• Duties of drivers, etc.
• When you become the injured party
• When you are at the scene of an accident

1. Duties of Drivers, etc.

Even if a driver drives safely, a traffic accident may occur. In the event of a traffic accident, the driver and staff must take the following actions as their duty.

Reference — "Traffic accident"

A traffic accident refers to injury or death to a person (accidents resulting in injury or death) or damage to an object (accidents resulting in property damage) caused by the traffic of vehicles, etc.

1. Measures to Prevent Accidents from Occurring Consecutively

To prevent another accident from occurring consecutively, the driver should move his/her vehicle to a safe place where it does not obstruct other traffic (shoulder, vacant lot, etc.) and turn off the engine.

※ If you cannot move the vehicle, take other measures to prevent another accident from occurring consecutively, using a smoke flare or an emergency warning reflector device.

2. Helping the Injured

If anyone is injured, you should give possible first aid such as stopping the bleeding with a gauze, clean handkerchief, etc., while waiting for the arrival of a doctor, ambulance, etc.

In doing so, you should not move an injured person any more than necessary. (In particular, when the injured person has a head injury, do not move him/her.) However, when there is a risk of accidents occurring consecutively, carry the injured to a safe place quickly.

※ When helping an injured person who is bleeding, wear vinyl gloves or use plastic bags as gloves, if possible. The last thing you should do is to leave the site without helping injured people.

3. Reporting to a Police Officer

Report the accident site, number of the injured, degree of the injuries, degree of the damage, cargo of the vehicles involved, etc. to a police officer and receive his/her instruction.

※ While calling police or fire department (110 or 119), remove the fallen object that may disrupt the passage from the site. Even if no one is injured in the accident, do not end only with the discussion between the parties involved in the accident.

Reference — Duties of emergency vehicles, vehicles that are transporting injured or sick people, or buses...

Such drivers may ask a staff member to take necessary measures, such as helping an injured person or reporting to a police officer, so that they can continue driving the vehicle.

Measures to take when you cause a traffic accident

An accident occurs → Stop driving immediately

※ Severe punishments for:

• Leaving the site
• Continuing to drive
• Taking the automobile away

When a police officer is at the scene → Follow a police officer's instruction

When a police officer is not around:

1. Taking measures for preventing another accident from occurring consecutively:
   • Move the vehicle to a vacant lot, etc. and turn off the engine
   • Set up an emergency warning reflector device
   • Ask people nearby to control the traffic, etc.

When there are no injured people (property damage only):

• Dial 110 / Dial 119
• Report clearly whether it is an accident resulting in injury or death or an accident resulting in property damage

3. Reporting to a police officer:
   • Measures to prevent danger
   • Removal of the obstacles

When there are injured people:

2. Helping the injured → Give first aid → Take the injured to the hospital

※ When you cause a traffic accident, you must never take the following acts:

• Leave the site leaving your vehicle behind, without taking necessary measures.
• Continue driving and leave the site, without taking necessary measures.
• A person other than the driver (such as a passenger) takes the vehicle away.

Attention — Confirmation and contact

① Items to check about the other party

• Name, address, and contact information of the other party
• Place of employment of the other party (The company's name, address, and phone number)
• Registration number of the other party's vehicle
• Name of the insurance company that the other party uses

When identifying the other party, you should check with your own eyes his/her driver's license card or vehicle inspection certificate and make a note on your own. A business card or a memo that the other party provides is sometimes untrustworthy.

② Items to check about the accident

• Time and place of the accident
• Circumstances of the accident (Cargo, degree of damage, etc.)
• Whether or not the other party is injured and degree of the injury

③ Contacting your insurance company

Notify your insurance company of the occurrence of the accident.

2. When You Become the Injured Party

1. Notifying a Police Officer

If you are involved in a traffic accident, even if your injury is minor, identify the other party and notify a police officer. If you fail to do so, you may be put in a disadvantageous position or cannot receive a traffic accident report certificate.

Reference — Traffic accident report certificate

It is a certificate issued by the Japan Safe Driving Center, for evidencing a traffic accident of which the police has confirmed the facts. It is required when using automobile insurance.

Dashcam

It is an on-board camera device. When a vehicle receives a substantial impact due to accident or sudden stop, the dashcam records the time, position, front view, etc. of a vehicle for several ten seconds before and after the impact. It can record the image of the moment when an accident occurs, and the recorded image can be submitted to the police or insurance company. In some cases, accident processing may be performed smoothly using the recorded image as a reference. With some types of dashcam, parking monitoring mode is available, and you can check the image in the event of a vehicle break-in, etc.

Also, by watching the recorded image, people can objectively check which driving behavior of the driver is likely to cause a traffic accident, near miss, or potential incident. As such, it is expected to be used for raising awareness about safe driving, which may help prevent traffic accident, and for traffic safety education. Dashcams are gathering attention and becoming popular.

2. Having a Doctor's Diagnosis

If you have received a strong impact on your head, etc., you should see a doctor even if an external injury does not appear. Sometimes a person will suffer from after-effects that do not appear until much later.

3. When You Are at the Scene of an Accident

1. Helping the Injured, etc.

When you are at the scene of an accident, you should offer assistance proactively in helping the injured, removing the vehicles involved in the accident, etc., and prevent another accident from occurring consecutively.

2. Confirming a Hit-and-Run Vehicle

When you see a hit-and-run accident, you should help the injured and notify a police officer of the hit-and-run vehicle's number, type, color, and other features by dialing 110, etc.

Also, if you know in which direction the vehicle headed, whether there was a passenger or not, the degree of damage on that vehicle, and any parts of that vehicle left at the site of the accident (which part is missing), report such information to a police officer.

3. Prevention of a Fire

At the site of an accident, since there may be a leak of gasoline or the cargo may include dangerous substances, do not smoke a cigarette or throw away a match.

※ When gasoline is leaking, report it when you call 110 or 119.

Let's Try — Course Content 14 — Check your understanding with right/wrong questions.

(See page 275 for answers.)

1. If an injury or damage resulting from a traffic accident is minor, you do not have to notify the police of the accident.
2. If a part of your body has received an impact in a traffic accident, you should see a doctor without fail. Even if an external injury does not appear, you may suffer from after-effects later.
3. If a traffic accident occurs, the person who should help the injured and make a necessary report to a police officer is the driver whose degree of fault is greater in the accident.
4. If a traffic accident occurs, you must not move the injured person who has a head injury while waiting for the arrival of a doctor or ambulance, even if there is a risk of another accident occurring consecutively.
5. It is important to work with each other, such as by reporting or helping when noticing a traffic accident or breakdown.
6. When you cause a traffic accident, discontinue driving the vehicle immediately, help the injured, take measures to prevent another accident from occurring consecutively, and report the accident to a police officer.

(正: right, 誤: wrong)

Stage 2 Course Content 15 — Duties of Automobile Owners, etc. and the Insurance System

• Registration (notification) of automobiles and inspection
• The necessity of purchasing insurance
• Types of automobile insurance and the system

1. Registration (Notification) of Automobiles and Inspection

1. Registration (Notification) of Automobiles

Automobiles (excluding light special equipment and light two-wheeled vehicles) must be registered (notified) and fitted with number plates.

Number plates of four-wheeled vehicles

Number plates of two-wheeled vehicles

※ Those for light special equipment, light two-wheeled vehicles, general motorized bicycles, and specified light motorized bicycles are specified separately.

Attention — Display of number plates

A driver must not drive a vehicle from which a number plate has been removed or of which a number plate is bent, etc. and the number cannot be recognized.

• Bent ✗
• Damaged ✗
• Tapes, etc. attached ✗
• Visors, etc. attached ✗

Reference — How to read a number plate

• Letters that indicate the Transport Branch Office or the Office for Motor Vehicle Inspection and Registration having jurisdiction over the base of operations
• Hiragana or Roman alphabet that indicates the classifications such as for private use, for business use, etc.
• Arabic numbers of 4 digits or less
• Seal — A cap-like object attached to the top left part of a rear number plate of an automobile is referred to as a seal for a number plate and is required to be attached to a rear number plate by law. This seal indicates that the automobile has got the number after having been registered and inspected officially at a Transport Branch Office. It is attached by a specialist at a Transport Branch Office. If you remove it on your own, you will be subject to penalty. Since light motor vehicles do not need to be registered at Transport Branch Offices, they do not bear seals.
• Class numbers based on the type and usage, in Arabic numbers or Roman alphabets of 3 digits or less
• Colors of the number plates:
  • (Registered automobiles) For business use: White letters on green background / For private use: Green letters on white background
  • (Light motor vehicles) For business use: Yellow letters on black background / For private use: Black letters on yellow background

Class numbers on number plates and types of automobiles

2. Automobile Inspections

1. Duty to receive inspections

You must not drive an automobile (excluding light motor vehicle not subject to inspection and light special equipment) that has not received an inspection at a prescribed time and not given an automobile inspection certificate.

Automobile inspection (vehicle inspection) timing — Major inspections —

※ For trucks with a vehicle gross weight of less than 8 tons, regular passenger automobiles used as rental automobiles, large motorcycles, and regular motorcycles, the first inspection should be done in 2 years.

※ For private-use regular passenger automobiles, large motorcycles, and regular motorcycles (excluding 250 cc or less), the first inspection should be done in 3 years.

2. Inspection sticker

If an automobile passes a vehicle inspection, an inspection sticker will be issued together with an automobile inspection certificate. An inspection sticker must be attached to the inner side of the automobile's front windshield in a way easily visible from the front. In the case of automobile not equipped with a driver's cabin or front windshield (such as two-wheeled vehicles), it should be attached to the top left part of the rear number plate of the automobile in a visible manner.

Inspection sticker (Four-wheeled vehicles exceeding 660 cc and two-wheeled vehicles exceeding 250 cc):

The figures show the year and month of the end of the validity period. The location of the figure indicating the year of the validity period is changed to make it recognizable. The placement of the years is repeated in the following order: top left, top right, bottom right, bottom left. (Example: May of Reiwa 6 / 2024)

Inspection sticker (Light motor vehicles subject to inspection — Regular automobiles of 660 cc or less):

The upper figure and the figure in the center show the year and the month of the end of a validity period, respectively.

Reference — Insurance sticker

Vehicles that are not subject to inspection (light motor vehicles not subject to inspection and motorized bicycles) are supposed to display an "insurance sticker", which is issued when automobile liability insurance is purchased for the vehicle. This sticker should be attached to the top left part of the rear number plate.

Light motor vehicles not subject to inspection and motorized bicycles: The upper figure and the figure in the center show the year and the month of the end of a validity period, respectively. The colors (blue, orange, purple, yellow-green, red, yellow, and green) of the backgrounds on insurance stickers vary according to the year which includes the day on which the coverage period expires, so that uninsured vehicles can be recognized easily.

Reference — Light motor vehicles not subject to inspection

Refers to motorcycles with a total engine displacement of 250 cc or less and automobiles equipped with caterpillar tracks and skis and with a total engine displacement of 660 cc or less (such as snowmobiles).

Light motor vehicles subject to inspection

Refers to regular automobiles with a total engine displacement of 660 cc or less.

3. Carrying an Automobile Inspection Certificate and an Automobile Liability Insurance Certificate

1. An automobile that has received an inspection must not be driven unless it is equipped with a valid automobile inspection certificate and either an automobile liability insurance certificate or an automobile mutual relief system insurance certificate.
2. An automobile or motorized bicycle which does not need to be inspected must not be driven unless it is equipped with a valid automobile liability insurance certificate or an automobile mutual relief system insurance certificate.

(For information on automobile liability insurance and automobile mutual relief system insurance, refer to p. 235)

4. Periodic Inspections

Users of automobiles (excluding light two-wheeled vehicles and light special equipment) must carry out inspections and necessary maintenance at times prescribed by type and usage of automobiles, as summarized below.

Inspection and maintenance completion sticker

Affixed to automobiles that have undergone inspection and maintenance at a certified factory and indicates when it is due for the next periodic inspection and maintenance. The background (the outer dial) color is different for each year (green, orange, blue, red) to make it easier to recognize.

5. Oversight of an Automobile

An owner, user, and oversight person of a vehicle must not lend the vehicle to others carelessly. If a person to whom you lend your vehicle causes a traffic accident, you may have to bear responsibility for the accident.

Particularly, you must never lend your vehicle to a person without a valid driver's license or a person who has drunk alcohol.

Also, to prevent your vehicle from being taken out without any notification to you, keep the key with enough care.

Reference — Duties of vehicle users, safe driving supervisors, etc.

Duties of users, etc.

1. A vehicle user must endeavor to make the drivers of its vehicle observe the traffic regulations and make the safe driving supervisors, etc. manage safe driving. The same applies to the cases where a designated driver service provider makes a driver engaged in its business activities drive an automobile that is to be driven by a professional designated driver.
2. A user of emergency vehicles such as fire trucks or automobiles designed for road maintenance work must endeavor to provide the drivers of its automobiles with the traffic safety education necessary for safe driving, except for the cases where the user has appointed a safe driving supervisor.
3. A vehicle user must take necessary measures for the proper parking of the vehicles.
4. If a driver commits the following acts, the Public Safety Commission may order the user of the relevant vehicle to take measures necessary for preventing recurrence of such acts. Nevertheless, if the following acts are committed repeatedly, the user may be ordered not to drive or allow any person to drive the relevant vehicle for a certain period of time.
   • a. Violation of the maximum speed limit (Refers to an act to drive a vehicle at speed exceeding the maximum speed limit.)
   • b. Driving while overloaded (Refers to an act to drive a vehicle when overloaded.)
   • c. Driving while exhausted (Refers to an act to drive a vehicle in the state of being likely to unable to drive successfully due to overwork.) If a driver of an automobile that is to be driven by a professional designated driver or an accompanying automobile commits the acts a and c, or a parking or stopping violation (which refers to an act to park or stop a vehicle illegally), the relevant designated driver service provider may also be ordered to take measures necessary for preventing recurrence of such acts or be ordered to suspend its business operation by the Public Safety Commission.
5. If a user of a vehicle for which the payment of the abandonment penalty has been ordered has a record of being ordered to pay the abandonment penalty before, the Public Safety Commission may order the user not to drive or allow any person to drive the relevant vehicle for a certain period of time.
6. A user of a vehicle for which the abandonment penalty has not been paid within the specified period and for which the Public Safety Commission has issued a demand for payment cannot receive an automobile inspection certificate until he/she presents a document evidencing that the abandonment penalty, overdue fines, and service fees have been paid, etc.

Safe driving supervisors, etc.

1. For each place of business at which 1 or more automobiles with a seating capacity of 11 people or more or 5 or more automobiles of other types (however, a large motorcycle and a regular motorcycle should be counted as 0.5, respectively) are used, a vehicle user must appoint a safe driving supervisor to perform the duties necessary for driving automobiles safely. (A designated driver service provider must appoint a safe driving supervisor for each of its business offices.)
2. For each place of business at which 20 or more automobiles (however, a large motorcycle and a regular motorcycle should be counted as 0.5, respectively) are used (or, in the case of a designated driver service provider, each business office at which 10 or more accompanying automobiles are used), a prescribed number of deputy safe driving supervisors must be appointed based on the number of automobiles used there.
3. A safe driving supervisor must conduct the following activities reliably to make the drivers drive safely. A deputy safe driving supervisor must assist the safe driving supervisors with respect to these activities.
   • Provide a traffic safety education.
   • Take measures to grasp the drivers' fitness, skills, and knowledge with respect to driving automobiles, as well as whether they observe the traffic regulations.
   • Prepare operation plans with careful consideration to prevent violation of the maximum speed limit, driving when overloaded, driving while exhausted, and an act to let the driver being away from the vehicle and not able to drive it immediately when he/she has illegally parked the vehicle (or, in the case of an automobile that is to be driven by a professional designated driver or an accompanying automobile, a parking or stopping violation).
   • Assign a stand-by driver for a long driving, etc.
   • In the event of extreme weather or natural disaster, provide necessary instructions or take other measures to make drivers drive safely.
   • Confirm that pre-driving checks have been done, check the drivers' health conditions, etc., and provide necessary instructions for safe driving.
   • Before and after driving, visually or otherwise check the driver's condition for any signs of alcohol influence, and in addition, verify using an alcohol detector. Keep a record of such checks for 1 year and ensure that the alcohol detector is always kept functional. (Enforced on December 1, 2023)
   • Make drivers keep a driving log.
   • Provide guidance about necessary things for safe driving, such as skills and knowledge with respect to driving an automobile.
4. The users of automobiles must grant the necessary authority to the safe driving supervisors for the performance of their duties, as well as maintain the necessary equipment for the performance of their duties.
5. An automobile user, a safe driving supervisor, or other people who directly controls operation of automobiles must not make a driver commit the following acts or tolerate them. Otherwise, they may be ordered not to drive or allow any person to drive the relevant automobile for a certain period of time.
   • a. Driving without a valid license (including driving while the license is suspended) or driving without a qualification
   • b. Violation of the maximum speed limit
   • c. Drunk driving or driving under the influence of alcohol
   • d. Driving while taking narcotics, stimulants, paint thinner, etc., driving while exhausted, etc.
   • e. Driving an automobile violating the restrictions on cargo load
   • f. An act to let the driver being away from the vehicle and not able to drive it immediately when he/she has illegally parked the vehicle

Also, a designated driver service provider or its safe driving supervisor, etc. must not make a driver of an automobile that is to be driven by a professional designated driver commit the acts a to d or a parking or stopping violation, or a driver of an accompanying automobile commit the acts a to e or a parking or stopping violation, or tolerate them.

2. The Necessity of Purchasing Insurance

Should a traffic accident be caused, the person in possession or driver of the vehicle is obliged to compensate for the damage to the injured party. Insurance is designed to compensate for that damage.

In terms of respecting human life, the amount of compensation has been in an increasing trend in recent years. To fulfill your responsibility as a driver or person in possession of an automobile, purchase insurance without fail, in case the worst should happen.

3. Types of Automobile Insurance and the System

1. Types of Automobile Insurance

There are two types of automobile insurance; one is the insurance that must be purchased as a legal obligation (compulsory insurance), and the other is the insurance that an owner or a driver may purchase voluntarily (voluntary insurance).

2. Automobile Liability Insurance (Compulsory Insurance)

1. Purchasing compulsory insurance

Unless automobile liability insurance or automobile mutual relief system insurance has been purchased for an automobile (excluding light special equipment for agricultural work) or a motorized bicycle, they must not be driven. If you drive an automobile without compulsory insurance, you will be subject to penalty.

Besides, if no compulsory insurance has been purchased for a vehicle that needs to be inspected, the vehicle cannot undergo an inspection.

Reference — Automobile mutual relief system insurance

It is a mutual-aid program conducted by agricultural cooperatives (JA) or consumers' cooperative societies. Its purpose is the same as that of automobile liability insurance.

2. Making an insurance claim, etc.

For compulsory insurance, there are two ways to make an insurance claim for a traffic accident:

1. Claim by the injuring party — An injuring party may make a claim to their insurance company for the insurance money up to the amount of compensation paid to the injured party. This claim should be made within 3 years after the payment to the injured party; otherwise the statute of limitations expires.
2. Claim by the injured party — In the case where it is unable to settle out of court amicably, the injured party may make a claim directly to the insurance company of the injuring party for the compensation of damages, instead of making such a claim to the injuring party. When the injured party needs money for the time being, it can claim for temporary payment as part of the compensation they will receive later.

3. Limit of insurance money payments (amount of compensation) and temporary payments (per person)

4. Other

The injured party who suffered death or injury by a hit-and-run accident or an uninsured vehicle may utilize the Government Compensation Plan. This application is accepted over the counter of a general insurance company or automobile mutual relief system insurance association.

3. Voluntary Automobile Insurance (Voluntary Insurance)

Compulsory insurance is insurance intended for the relief of injured parties in traffic accidents. Its coverage is limited to accidents resulting in injury or death, and there is a limit to the amount of compensation. Also, an insured's injury and expenses for repairing a vehicle are not covered. To prepare for heavy compensation of damages, solo accidents, and accidents resulting in property damage, it is advisable to purchase voluntary insurance.

1. Types of voluntary insurance

2. Making an insurance claim, etc.

1. Claim by the insured — When an automobile accident has occurred and damage was done to another party, after the amount of compensation of damages is determined through talks, conciliation, trial, or other methods, the insured is to make a claim to his/her insurance company for the insurance money.
2. Claim by the injured party — As for voluntary automobile insurance, basically, the insured should claim. However, the injured party may make a claim directly to the insurance company of the injuring party, against damages from an accident resulting in bodily injury (in the case of private automobile insurance) or against damages from an accident resulting in bodily injury or property damage (in the case of comprehensive private automobile insurance).

3. Traffic accident consultation counters

When you cause a traffic accident or suffer damage from a traffic accident, the amount of compensation of damages, etc. will be decided after discussion with the other party. In such event, you should discuss with the other party in good faith. If a settlement cannot be reached between the parties, consult with a qualified lawyer or the traffic accident consultation counters. Avoid interventions of commercial settlement services. You can consult at a consultation counter free of charge.

Reference — Traffic accident consultation counters

1. Prefectural traffic accident consultation offices (in prefectural government offices)
2. Municipal traffic accident consultation offices in major cities (in city halls)
3. Traffic accident consultation counter (in police stations)
4. Nichibenren Traffic Accident Consultation Center (in regional bar associations) — Main office in Tokyo (03) 3581 - 4724
5. Traffic Safety Association's traffic consultation offices (in Traffic Safety Associations)
6. Traffic accident consultation rooms in Prefectural Centers for Facilitating Traffic Safety Activities (in Traffic Safety Associations)
7. Traffic accident consultation offices of general insurance companies (in insurance company offices across the country)
8. Sonpo ADR Centers (10 centers across the country) — From anywhere in Japan: 0570 - 022808
9. The Japan Center for Settlement of Traffic Accident Disputes
   • Tokyo (03) 3346 - 1756 / Sapporo (011) 281 - 3241
   • Sendai (022) 263 - 7231 / Nagoya (052) 581 - 9491
   • Osaka (06) 6227 - 0277 / Hiroshima (082) 249 - 5421
   • Takamatsu (087) 822 - 5005 / Fukuoka (092) 721 - 0881
10. Traffic accident consultation offices of Zenkyoren (National Mutual Insurance Federation of Agricultural Cooperatives) (47 offices across the country)

4. Comparative negligence

In traffic accidents, there are many cases where not only one party but also the other party is at fault. In the case where fault is also with the injured party, the amount of compensation of damages may be reduced according to the degree of the fault of the injured party. This is referred to as comparative negligence, which is provided in the Civil Code.

Comparative negligence may be applied, for example, in the cases where the injured party is with a fault such as ignoring traffic signals, crossing a road where crossing is prohibited, or ignoring a "Stop" sign, or in the cases where a parent fails to watch his/her preschool child, etc.

However, according to the Act on Securing Compensation for Automobile Accidents, if the accident results in death or injury, the driver, etc. of a vehicle or motorized bicycle must compensate for all damages arising from the accident even if he/she is not at fault, unless he/she can give evidence of the following.

• The injuring party is not at fault (the driver had exercised due care)
• The injured party acted intentionally or negligently
• There were no defects in the structure or functions of the vehicle

On the other hand, if the accident results in property damage only, the injured party must provide evidence that the injuring party acted negligently (provide a proof of injured party), etc.

Let's Try — Course Content 15 — Check your understanding with right/wrong questions.

(See page 275 for answers.)

1. Every regular passenger vehicle must receive vehicle inspection periodically.
2. The responsibility of a traffic accident should be borne by the driver only. The owner of the vehicle is not responsible for the accident in the case where the vehicle is used without the permission of the owner due to that the vehicle has not been overseen carefully.
3. No one can drive an automobile or a motorized bicycle unless automobile liability insurance or automobile mutual relief system insurance is purchased for it.
4. The number on the inspection sticker attached to the front windshield is the expiry date of automobile liability insurance.
5. A regular passenger automobile for private use must undergo a periodic inspection once a year and be given necessary maintenance.
6. To be prepared for a traffic accident, it is important to acquire the knowledge necessary for first aid; however, it is not so important to purchase automobile insurance.

(正: right, 誤: wrong)

Stage 2 Course Content 16 — Planning Routes

• Reading information from a map
• How to plan a route
• Using guidance signs, etc.
• What to do after taking an incorrect route, etc.
• Cautions for motorcycle touring

1. Reading Information from a Map

1. Importance of Planning Routes

If you are not sure about the route to the destination, you will be anxious, which can be a cause of fatigue or carelessness. Also, if a driver tries to find the way while driving, driving is likely to be dangerous, due to the behaviors such as looking aside while driving, changing course suddenly, etc. Such driving behaviors cause disturbance to others. To avoid such situations, plan a route using a road map, etc. in advance so that you can drive without rushing.

2. Reading Information from a Map

When you make a driving plan, prepare an appropriate map that serves your purpose (such as national or local version), and use it effectively. From various descriptions and symbols displayed on a map, you can collect information as follows:

1. Name and type of the road that you use (name of the expressway, national highway, or local road)
2. The distance and required time to the destination
3. Presence of traffic signals and traffic controls (that a road is closed, is a one-way road, etc.)
4. Landmarks (Name of a facility, bridge, railroad, etc. that can help find the place)

Major map symbols:

Reference — Using a car navigation system or using the Internet

A car navigation system is a convenient tool. Once you set your destination on it, it navigates you to the destination with the on-screen or voice guidance. Besides, it automatically displays the required time and distance to the destination, and if the road is congested or you take an incorrect route, it re-plans the route. However, you should set the destination and check the route before departing. Do not operate the system or fix your eyes on the screen while traveling, since it is dangerous. Also, avoid watching a TV program on the screen while traveling.

Alternatively, you can use the Internet as a navigation tool today. You can search the required time and distance to the destination conveniently only by entering the place of departure and the destination.

2. How to Plan a Route

When planning a route, it is important to take everything into consideration such as by checking for detours based on the information on roadworks, traffic controls, congestion, etc., determining the places to rest on the way, and determining whether or not to use expressways or toll roads. When planning a route, take the following into consideration.

• Plan your travel with ample time.
• Select wide and easy-to-find roads for your route.
• When you use an expressway, check the locations of the interchanges.
• Check the tolls of expressways and toll roads.

<Steps for planning a route>

1. Check the place of departure and the destination on a map.
2. Think of several routes, and then select one with wide and easy-to-find roads.
3. Check the facilities, etc. that serve as landmarks for the locations where you turn right or left.
4. Check the distance and required time (including the time required for traveling, resting, fueling, etc.) to the destination. (When calculating the required time, assume that you travel at 30 km/h on general roads, and at 80 km/h on national expressways, as a rough guide.)
5. When the destination is far away, include the time to rest in the calculation, assuming that you will take a rest at least once every 2 hours.

※ The required time may become longer depending on the traffic conditions, weather, etc. Make a driving plan with much time to spend.

※ The conditions ahead may be difficult to see when the evening sun is dazzling. You need to prepare sunglasses.

3. Using Guidance Signs, etc.

Guidance signs show information such as route numbers, street names, major locations, destinations, distance, etc. To travel along the planned route without making a wrong turn, pay attention to the guidance signs and avoid overlooking them. Also, check the road and traffic conditions on the car radio, road information boards, etc.

• Guidance signs for general roads (Blue)
• Guidance signs for expressways (Green)
• Highway radio
• Road information board

4. What to Do after Taking an Incorrect Route, etc.

1. When You Took an Incorrect Route or Got Lost

If you take an incorrect route or get lost while traveling, do not try to go back to a previous place hastily. If you do so in a hurry, you may overlook the signals or traffic signs, turn without giving a turn signal, etc., which is danger. In such a case, you should stop the vehicle in a safe place that does not disrupt traffic without rushing, and then take actions to handle the situation calmly, such as confirming the route on the map again, asking for directions at a police box or gas station, etc.

Reference — Correcting the route

When you correct the route, it is important to confirm the following before taking an action.

• That U-turn is not prohibited.

• That you are not driving into a no entry road.

• That turning right or left is allowed.

• That there are no pedestrians, other vehicles, or other danger in the vicinity.

• Detour: Take a detour by making a turn at an intersection, etc.

• U-turn: Make a U-turn at a safe place.

• Three-point turn: Make a three-point turn by reversing.

2. When You Cannot Proceed to the Desired Direction Due to Traffic Control, etc.

Even if you have planned the route in advance, there are cases where you cannot proceed as planned, due to that turning right or left is prohibited by a traffic sign or pavement marking, or roadwork blocks the road, or you fail to change course. In such a case, proceed to the direction you can go without rushing, stop the vehicle in a safe place, and then find out the way to return to the planned route.

Attention — Traffic signs requiring special attention when planning a route (Examples)

• Closed to all vehicles
• One way
• No vehicle crossing
• No U-turn
• No entry for vehicles
• Lane direction
• Proceed only in designated directions

5. Cautions for Motorcycle Touring

Motorcycle touring is fun. However, if a driver goes touring without preparing enough, devises a reckless plan, or acts selfishly, a traffic accident may result. Observe the following to enjoy your motorcycle touring.

1. Basics of Motorcycle Touring

When a large group of riders goes motorcycle touring together (mass touring), as a general rule, an experienced rider should play a central role in making every member of the group understand the rules to observe and in preparing a plan that is not hard even for novice drivers.

<Preparations>

1. Be physically ready such as by going to bed earlier the night before.
2. Conduct checks and maintenance reliably before departing.
3. Assuming that weather may change while traveling in mountains, prepare warm equipment, rain gear, etc.

<Cautions for motorcycle touring>

1. Prepare a plan with plenty of time to spend.
2. A leading driver (leader) should be a person who does not drive recklessly or hastily. Novice or inexperienced drivers should be in the middle of the group, and a skilled and experienced driver (sub-leader) should be at the end of the group to guide group members who fall behind due to red signals, etc.
3. The places to rest and the means of communication should be agreed in advance. ※ It is advisable to prepare a walkie-talkie (that you can use without getting your hand off the handlebar), etc.
4. As a general rule, members of a touring group should travel in a single line behind each other.
5. If a large group of motorcycles makes a long line, it may disturb other traffic. To avoid this, a large group should be divided into small groups (with 4 to 5 members).
6. Travel at speed slightly slower than the regulated speed limit. (Otherwise, the vehicles in the back of the line may fall behind and then may exceed the speed limit.)
7. To prevent cargo from collapsing, secure it firmly using a net, etc.
8. During hot summer, drink enough water to replenish sweat losses.

2. Motorcycle Touring Etiquette

A driver who drives ignoring traffic rules or disturbing others is a failure as a driver. To enjoy safe and fun motorcycle touring, be aware of your responsibility as a member of a motorized society and behave sensibly.

Let's Try — Course Content 16 — Check your understanding with right/wrong questions.

(See page 275 for answers.)

1. If a driving plan has been prepared in advance, a driver can't help but try to travel following the plan. Therefore, when driving a long distance, a driver should not make a driving plan but drive on an ad hoc basis to suit the situation.
2. A motorcycle touring in which a large group of riders travels together should be comfortable and fun. Therefore, an experienced rider should play a central role in preparing a driving plan with plenty of time to spend, which is not hard even for novice or inexperienced drivers.

(正: right, 誤: wrong)

Stage 2 Course Content 17 — Driving on Expressways

• Vehicles not permitted to proceed
• Speed and distance between vehicles
• Lane divisions, etc.
• Prohibited actions
• Measures to take when broken down, etc.
• Hints on using expressways
• Making a traveling plan
• Entering a main through lane
• Traveling on a main through lane
• Turning off a main through lane

1. Vehicles Not Permitted to Proceed

1. Definition of an Expressway

National expressways and motorways are collectively referred to as expressways. The expressways are separated from general roads for the sake of high-speed traveling of automobiles. They are designed for automobiles to travel safely and comfortably at high speed, such as by restricting the entrance and exits, building two-level crossings, dividing lanes in different directions by center strips, and building gentle curves.

• National expressways ·········· Roads built for the high-speed passage of automobiles. They serve as key components for national traffic network, connecting especially important regions in terms of politics, economy, and culture.
• Motorways ·········· Roads for automobiles only. They are built for smooth traffic in urban areas and their vicinities.

(Indicates a national expressway or a motorway — Automobiles only)

2. Vehicles Not Permitted to Proceed

1. Minicars, light two-wheeled vehicles, and general motorized bicycles are not allowed to proceed on either national expressways or motorways.
2. Automobiles that cannot travel at speeds of 50 km/h or greater due to structural limitations, such as vehicles used for agricultural work, and automobiles that cannot travel at speeds of 50 km/h or greater because they are towing another vehicle may not proceed on national expressways. (In the case where an automobile with a structure and device for towing is towing a vehicle with a structure and device to be towed, the automobile may proceed on expressways.)

Vehicles not permitted to proceed on national expressways or motorways

2. Speed and Distance between Vehicles

1. Observing the Maximum Speed Limit and Minimum Speed Limit

1. In places where the maximum or minimum speed limit is designated by traffic signs or pavement markings, automobiles must not exceed that maximum speed limit or drive under the minimum speed limit.
2. In the main through lanes of national expressways where the maximum or minimum speed limit is not designated by traffic signs or pavement markings, automobiles must not exceed the maximum speed limit or drive under the minimum speed limit listed in the table below.
3. The maximum and minimum speed limits on motorways where there are no speed designations by traffic signs or pavement markings are the same as those for general roads. The following table does not apply to those roads.

Reference — "Main through lane"

A main through lane refers to areas of expressways usually used for traveling at high speed (traveling lanes and overtaking lanes). Acceleration lanes, deceleration lanes, climbing lanes, side strips, and shoulders are not included.

The maximum and minimum speed limits for national expressways (main through lanes)

※ In zones where main through lanes are not divided according to their direction due to the road structure, the speed limits are the same as those for general roads. The above table does not apply to such zones.

※ An automobile towing another vehicle is allowed to travel on national expressways only if it has a towing structure and device and tows a vehicle that has a structure and device for being towed.

※ If according to the stipulation of laws and regulations or when unavoidable to prevent danger, a vehicle may travel at a speed under the minimum speed limit.

※ The maximum speed limits of the acceleration lane and deceleration lane adjacent to a main through lane are the same as that of the main through lane.

2. Checking the Speedometer

While traveling on expressways, drivers are likely to feel that they are traveling slower than they actually are, due to that there are no obstacles in the near distance on the road, that you can have a wide visibility, and that the landscape does not change so much. Also, while traveling at high speed for a long time or during the night, a driver is likely to lose his/her sense of speed and exceed the speed limit. You should check the speedometer occasionally while traveling.

Attention — Be careful about speed on downward slopes

On downward slopes, a vehicle speeds before you know it. Drive while paying attention to the distance from the vehicle ahead.

3. Maintaining a Safe Distance between Vehicles

On expressways, the number of collision accidents caused by not ensuring a safe distance between vehicles is not a few. When traveling on an expressway, travel while keeping a sufficient distance between vehicles.

As a rough guide, at least the distance obtained by reading "km/h" of the current traveling speed as "meters" is required as a safe distance between vehicles when the road surface is dry and the tires are new (80 m when traveling at 80 km/h and 100 m when traveling at 100 km/h).

When the road is wet with rain or the tires are worn, the distance required between vehicles may be approximately twice as long.

Reference — Guides for estimating the distance between vehicles by eye

Measuring the distance between vehicles using installed objects

1. Check the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead using a section to check the distance between vehicles set on the expressway.
2. You can also measure the distance between vehicles using a broken line or delineator. It is recommended to remember that a white section of a broken line is 8 m and a space between white sections is 12 m, so the length of a white section and an adjacent space totals approximately 20 m.

Measuring the distance between vehicles using time

If your vehicle reaches a certain point (a traffic sign, etc.) in approximately 4 seconds or more after the vehicle ahead has passed that point, you can keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.

3. Lane Divisions, etc.

1. Lane Divisions

As a general rule, lane divisions for main through lanes are the same as those for general roads with vehicular lanes. (Refer to p. 49)

While traveling, use the white line on your left as a guide and proceed in a position slightly closer to the left side in a vehicular lane. If you do so, a safe distance can be maintained when the vehicle behind overtakes you, which helps to prevent minor collisions.

2. Lane Division for Towing Automobiles (Vehicles Towing a Trailer)

When a towing automobile is towing a vehicle having a gross weight exceeding 750 kg must proceed in the following vehicular lanes.

1. On motorways with vehicular lanes (limited to the zone designated by traffic signs or pavement markings), the leftmost vehicular lane within the main through lanes.
2. On main through lanes of national expressways, the leftmost vehicular lane (however, if lane divisions are designated by a traffic sign or pavement marking, follow the designation).
3. In zones where lane divisions for large trucks, etc. are designated by a traffic sign or pavement marking, large trucks, specified medium-sized trucks, and heavy special equipment must proceed while following the designated lane divisions.

Attention — Exceptions to the lane division for towing automobiles on national expressways

In the following cases, a vehicle is allowed to proceed in vehicular lanes other than the leftmost one.

• When a traffic sign or pavement marking designates other lanes to proceed for towing automobiles
• When overtaking an automobile traveling at a speed under the minimum speed limit
• When proceeding in a vehicular lane where changing course is prohibited
• When giving way to emergency vehicles
• When unavoidable due to roadwork, an accident, etc.

3. Prohibition against Proceeding on a Side Strip or Shoulder

Do not proceed on side strips or shoulders on expressways, except for the cases where you have to proceed on side strips or shoulders to the extent necessary to stop or park due to breakdown, etc.

4. Using Climbing Lanes

On a road with a climbing lane, slow vehicles such as trucks loaded with cargo should use a climbing lane.

Attention — Proceeding on a climbing lane

Since climbing lanes are not included in main through lanes, vehicles may proceed at speed under the minimum speed limit. However, parking or stopping a vehicle in a climbing lane or overtaking another vehicle using a climbing lane is prohibited.

4. Prohibited Actions

1. Prohibition against Riding Double on a Two-Wheeled Vehicle

On expressways, riding double is not allowed if any of the following conditions is met (excluding motorcycles with sidecars).

1. A person who is under 20 years of age.
2. A person who has held a large motorcycle license for a period of less than 3 years. (Excludes a person who has held a regular motorcycle license for 3 years or more.)
3. A person who has held a regular motorcycle license for a period of less than 3 years.
4. When the zone is restricted by a traffic sign prohibiting riding double.

(When a driver is under 20 years of age or has a driving experience of less than 3 years, the driver may not enter an expressway while riding double.)

2. Prohibition against Making U-Turns, Reversing, or Cutting Across the Road

In main through lanes, vehicles must not make a U-turn, reverse, or cross the center strip.

Attention — When you passed the intended interchange

Even if you have missed the interchange, you must not make a sudden stop or U-turn or reverse. Instead, you should proceed to the next interchange. Stopping suddenly, making a U-turn, or reversing is very dangerous and may cause a traffic accident.

3. Prohibition against Obstructing the Passage of Emergency Vehicles

When an emergency vehicle is entering or leaving a main through lane, you must not obstruct its passage.

4. Prohibition against Parking and Stopping

On expressways, you must not park or stop the vehicle except for the cases listed below.

1. When coming to a stop to avoid danger, etc.
2. When it is unavoidable to park or stop the vehicle due to breakdown, etc. on a shoulder or side strip that is wide enough.
3. When you park or stop the vehicle in a parking or service area.
4. When you stop to pay a toll.

Reference — Parking or stopping at a stop for route buses is prohibited

Vehicles other than route buses are not allowed to park or stop at bus stops on expressways. This rule also applies to the hours outside the operation hours of the buses. Since stopping or parking at a bus stop may induce an accident or obstruct safe passage of route buses, do not stop or park the vehicle there for the reasons such as waiting for someone or taking a rest.

5. Measures to Take When Broken Down, etc.

1. Using a Side Strip or Shoulder

If it is unavoidable to park or stop due to breakdown, running out of fuel, traffic accident, etc., you must park or stop the vehicle in a side strip or shoulder that is wide enough so that parking or stopping there does not obstruct the passage of other vehicles. If the side strip or shoulder is not wide enough, move the vehicle to the place with enough width, such as emergency parking zones.

2. Indication of a Broken-Down Vehicle

When a vehicle becomes unable to continue driving on an expressway due to breakdown, running out of fuel, traffic accident, etc., the driver must indicate that his/her vehicle is stopped using the following methods, so that drivers of following vehicles can notice the stopped vehicle and accidents can be avoided.

1. During the day, you must place an emergency warning reflector device on the road behind the automobile (or, if you have difficulty walking and cannot place it, you may display an emergency warning light in a place visible from the rear, such as on the road beside the automobile).
2. During the night (and when the visibility is 200 m or less during the day), you must turn on the hazard lights, parking lights, or taillights in addition to placing an emergency warning reflector device.

3. Cautions When Indicating

When placing an emergency warning reflector device, watch out carefully for following vehicles, such as by giving a signal with a smoke flare.

Also, when placing an emergency warning reflector board under strong wind, take necessary measures to prevent it from falling over, such as by putting a weight on it. Especially, if you try to reinforce the board by attaching it to the rear of the vehicle, it is important to attach it firmly.

When leaving the site after finishing repairs, etc., make sure to take the emergency warning reflector device with you.

(For how to use a smoke flare, refer to p. 68)

4. Removing the Vehicle and Using an Emergency Telephone

1. When a vehicle becomes unable to continue driving due to breakdown, running out of fuel, traffic accident, etc., the driver must move his/her vehicle to a safe place immediately, by calling a wrecker using a nearby emergency telephone, etc., as well as calling 110 to inform the police. If possible, move the vehicle to the side strip or shoulder by using the starting motor with the gear either in low or second (This method cannot be applied to automatic transmission vehicles and vehicles with the device that does not allow the engine to start unless the clutch pedal is depressed). (Refer to p. 69)
2. As it is dangerous to be on an expressway, if cargo has fallen or scattered on the road and you have to take necessary measures for removing it, etc., use the emergency telephone to ask for the removal of the cargo, etc., as well as calling 110 to inform the police.
3. In the case of a two-wheeled vehicle, move your vehicle immediately to the side strip or shoulder, watching out carefully for following vehicles.

Reference — Using an emergency telephone

Emergency telephones are usually installed at intervals of approximately 1 km. (The intervals may be shorter in tunnels, etc.) Once you pick up the receiver, you will be put through to the expressway traffic control room. Report the following information clearly without rushing.

1. The telephone booth number (the number of the emergency telephone)
2. Whether it is a "traffic accident" or "breakdown" (and what cargo the vehicle is carrying, if there is any)
3. Where the vehicle is stopped (in a side strip or main through lane)
4. The scale of the accident such as the numbers of casualties and damaged vehicles involved, the condition and severity of injuries, the condition of damages, the condition on the road, etc.
5. In the case of breakdown, breakdown condition, model year and type of the vehicle, etc.

5. Evacuation

On an expressway, it is hazardous to stay in a vehicle that cannot move, since there is a high risk of a vehicle following at a high speed colliding into it and causing a traffic accident. After having taken necessary measures, evacuate to a safe place such as outside of a guard rail, instead of staying inside the vehicle.

Attention — Points to note when evacuating

• If you carry a passenger, evacuate the passenger first, and then use a smoke flare or place an emergency warning reflector device.
• Evacuate to an area behind the vehicle and wait. If you wait in an area ahead of the vehicle, should a following vehicle collide into the parked or stopped vehicle, you may be hit by flying debris.

6. Hints on Using Expressways

An expressway is a road designed for automobiles to travel at high speed safely and comfortably. However, the sense of traveling on an expressway is very different from that on a general road, and therefore a small mistake made by a driver may lead to an unexpectedly major accident. It is important to acquire the knowledge necessary for traveling at high speed and make thorough preparation, such as checking the vehicle reliably, before traveling on an expressway.

1. Checking the Vehicle

Before getting on an expressway, you must check your vehicle, especially for the following points, to avoid stopping on an expressway due to a shortage of fuel, coolant, or engine oil.

1. Is there a sufficient amount of fuel?
2. Is the coolant level within the regulated range?
3. Is the radiator cap fastened securely?
4. Is the engine oil level appropriate?
5. Is the fan belt tension appropriate? Is there any damage to it?
6. Is the tire air pressure appropriate? (When traveling at high speeds, make the tire pressure slightly higher)
7. Is the tire tread depth sufficient? Is the tire damaged?

Reference — Major breakdowns on expressways and their causes

Breakdown	Cause
Out of fuel	Since there are only a few gas stations on expressways, you should check the remaining fuel amount and fill your vehicle up with fuel in advance.
Overheating	The amount of coolant is low, a radiator hose is damaged, the fan belt is broken, or the amount of engine oil is low.
Flat tire	The tire has been worn or damaged, the air pressure in the tire is low (standing wave effect), or the vehicle is overloaded.

※ If an automobile runs out of fuel, coolant, or engine oil while traveling on an expressway, you will be subject to penalty.

Standing wave effect

If a vehicle continues traveling at high speed with low air pressure in the tire, a wave formed at the back part of the tire. This is referred to as "standing wave effect". If this effect occurs, there is a danger that the tire overheats and the surface of the tire peels off, leading to the tire bursting. Since the lower the air pressure in the tire, the higher the risk of occurrence, increasing the air pressure in the tires (by about 20%) can be an effective measure against the standing wave effect, to some extent.

2. Checking the Cargo

While traveling at high speed, the risk that the cargo falls off and scatters around is higher. Therefore, you must check your cargo and, if necessary, take measures such as fastening the rope again, reload the cargo, etc. before getting on an expressway.

Attention — If a cargo scatters around on an expressway...

A cargo fallen off from a vehicle is hazardous and can cause a serious accident. Further, if a cargo scatters around on an expressway, the expressway may be closed to collect it.

Reference — Highway hypnosis

While driving on an expressway, the driving operation may be monotonous because vehicle travels in the same direction at a constant speed, and less exciting because similar landscape continues. Due to such monotonous driving, a driver may fall in a state like being hypnotized. This phenomenon is referred to as "highway hypnosis", which often occurs on a long, straight road where traffic volume is low. If a driver under high-speed hypnotic effect continues driving, he/she may cause a serious accident due to impaired judgment or attention. Therefore, if drowsiness is felt, take a rest at the nearest service area, etc.

3. Preparing an Emergency Warning Reflector Device

In the event that your vehicle stops due to a breakdown, etc. on an expressway, you must place an emergency warning reflector device to indicate that your vehicle is stopped. Therefore, prepare an emergency warning reflector device in advance.

Also, use an emergency warning reflector device with TS mark as much as possible.

Reference — Basic criteria for emergency warning reflector devices

① Emergency warning reflector board

• It must have a triangular reflection or fluorescent reflection member
• Its fluorescence must be easily recognizable from 200 m away during the day
• When illuminated by headlights from 200 m away at night, its reflected light must be easily recognizable from the position of the headlights
• The color of the reflected light must be red
• It must be able to stand vertically on the road

② Emergency warning light

• It must be a flashing type
• The lighting color must be purple
• When placed on the road, its light must be easily recognizable from 200 m away, whether it is day or night

7. Making a Traveling Plan

1. Making a Sound Driving Plan

Driving at high speed for a long time is risky. Make a driving plan with plenty of time to spend, based on the assumption that you will take a sufficient rest at least once every 2 hours of drive.

Reference — Highway hypnosis

While driving on an expressway, the driving operation may be monotonous because vehicle travels in the same direction at a constant speed, and less exciting because similar landscape continues. Due to such monotonous driving, a driver may fall in a state like being hypnotized. This phenomenon is referred to as "highway hypnosis", which often occurs on a long, straight road where traffic volume is low. If a driver under high-speed hypnotic effect continues driving, he/she may cause a serious accident due to impaired judgment or attention. Therefore, if drowsiness is felt, take a rest at the nearest service area, etc.

2. Physical Well-Being

Driving on an expressway requires a driver to read the information accurately, make appropriate decisions, and operate the vehicle accordingly while traveling at high speed. Since you may overlook information or make a wrong decision if your physical condition is poor due to a lack of sleep, illness, etc., driving on an expressway in such state is very dangerous. Make sure that you are in good shape.

3. Checking the Traffic Information

In the event of a traffic accident or bad weather, an expressway may be closed to traffic, by blocking interchanges. Therefore, before entering an expressway, check the conditions of the road and traffic, by listening to the radio or contacting the Japan Traffic Information Center, etc.

Reference

Highway radio — Highway radio broadcasts the latest information based on the expressway's traffic condition on a moment-to-moment basis, in intervals of 5 minutes on 1620 kHz that general car radios can tune to.

Expressway's traffic signboard — Electronic or other types of signboards are installed on main through lanes of expressways, at interchange exits, tollgates, tunnel entrances, inside the tunnels, junctions, and on general roads leading to an expressway, to provide road conditions, weather conditions, and other traffic information.

Interchange (IC) — Interchanges are the gateways connecting expressways and general roads. They may include tollbooths for issuing passage tickets and collecting tolls as well as ramps.

Junction (JCT) — Refers to an interchange that connects an expressway to another expressway.

Ramp — Refers to a road from an interchange to a main through lane.

8. Entering a Main Through Lane

1. Points to Note at an Interchange (Entrance)

1. Checking a traffic sign, etc.

Carefully check guidance signs on the general roads, which provide advance notices about the direction and distance to the entrance to the expressway. Enter an interchange after making sure that you are entering the intended interchange. Also, check the expressway's traffic information for whether the expressway is closed or not, or if there is any speed restriction.

2. Approaching the gate

• When you are approaching the gate, reduce speed while paying attention to other vehicles around you, and proceed to a booth (toll gate) with green lamp (or an exclusive gate for vehicles equipped with an ETC device). In doing so, you should decide which booth to enter early. Do not change course suddenly or make a sudden stop.
• Note that automobiles not equipped with an ETC device cannot proceed through an exclusive ETC lane.

3. Receiving a passage ticket and paying tolls

• At a booth (tollgate), always come to a stop and receive a passage ticket from the staff or passage ticket dispenser. (On some toll roads, you are required to pay the toll at the entrance.) Pay attention to stop at a position where you can receive a ticket or pay money easily. Do not go too far or pass.
• At booth, drivers are often distracted with receiving a ticket or paying money and release the brake pedal. Since many rear-end collision accidents have occurred due to such behavior, stay alert at the booth.

Reference — ETC (Electronic Toll Collection System)

Refers to a system for collecting tolls for toll roads automatically (Electronic Toll Collection System). As payments are made automatically using wireless communication, vehicles can pass through tollgates without stopping. Therefore, ETC has the advantage of alleviating congestion.

2. Points to Note When Entering a Main Through Lane

1. Checking the direction

After passing the gate, check guidance signs and enter the ramp without mistaking which direction to take. If you have entered a wrong ramp, proceed to the next interchange, and then get back. (Never attempt to reverse the vehicle, since it is very dangerous.)

2. Traveling on a ramp

A ramp is not a main through lane. Since most ramps are continuously curved or inclined, travel within the speed limit (The maximum speed limit is provided by traffic signs).

3. Entering a main through lane

If there is an acceleration lane that merges into a main through lane, you must accelerate sufficiently in the acceleration lane.

4. Prohibition against obstructing the passage of vehicles on a main through lane

When you are entering a main through lane, do not obstruct the passage of vehicles traveling on the main through lane as you enter.

How to use exclusive ETC lanes

1. Before entering an expressway, insert an ETC card into the ETC device and confirm that it operates successfully.
2. Check the guidance sign, etc. to proceed to an ETC lane.
3. Paying attention to the distance from the vehicle ahead, reduce speed to a sufficiently safe level (20 km/h or less) before entering the lane. ※ Note that there are some lanes that both the general vehicles (not equipped with an ETC device) and ETC vehicles can use.
4. When the gate antenna receives information from the ETC device on your vehicle, the gate bar opens. Proceed without stopping (At the exit, the amount of toll is displayed on the display panel). ※ If the sensor does not detect your vehicle or when you enter an ETC exclusive gate with a vehicle not equipped with ETC, do not reverse. Calm down and follow the instructions from the staff.

Where 2 main through lanes merge

Where a main through lane merges into another main through lane, if a pavement marking designates that the main through lane ahead has the right of way, you must not obstruct the progress of vehicles traveling on that main through lane.

9. Traveling on a Main Through Lane

1. Avoiding Sudden Braking

Applying brakes suddenly while traveling at high speed is very dangerous, because it may lead to a skidding or rear-end collision accident. When applying the brakes is unavoidable, use engine braking by shifting to a lower gear and apply the brakes over several times.

Remember that applying brakes suddenly on a two-wheeled vehicle is especially dangerous, as the vehicle may overturn easily.

2. Avoiding Sudden Steering

Sudden steering while traveling at high speed is very dangerous, as it may lead to losing stability and directional control of the vehicle, and cause an overturn accident. Check the road ahead carefully to ensure safety and detect information indicating hazards early to avoid sudden steering.

Attention — Operation of the steering wheel when traveling at high speed

In a curve where it is necessary to turn the steering wheel by 80 degrees while traveling at 50 km/h, 20 degrees, which is approximately a quarter, will do if you are traveling at 100 km/h. Even in the same kind of curve, if you operate the steering wheel in the same way as on a general road while traveling at high speed, the steering can be sudden and dangerous.

3. Cautions When Entering a Tunnel

If you enter a tunnel while traveling at high speed, your vision declines drastically. Therefore, you should reduce speed before the tunnel. Also, note the following.

1. To prevent causing a rear-end collision, keep a long distance between vehicles.
2. Even if the tunnel is equipped with lights, turn on the headlights. ※ Turning on the headlights can mean to indicate the presence of your vehicle to other vehicles.
3. If there are traffic lights or signboards, follow them.
4. If any information is broadcasted on the radio, listen to the radio.

4. Cautions When Traveling Near an Interchange, etc.

When traveling near acceleration lanes coming from interchanges, service areas, etc., pay attention to the vehicles coming from the acceleration lane into the main through lane. If you find a vehicle coming from the acceleration lane into the main through lane, reduce speed or, according to the situation, move to the overtaking lane in advance to give way.

Also, because there may be a vehicle that has entered the main through lane by mistake and has been proceeding in the wrong direction (wrong-way driver), or there may be a pedestrian, you should drive carefully, checking the information on the road information boards installed on the expressway, etc.

How to give way to a vehicle on the acceleration lane:

1. Check whether there is a vehicle proceeding on an acceleration lane or not, and if there is, estimate when it will enter the main through lane based on the distance from the main through lane and its speed.
2. When you are approaching the vehicle on an acceleration lane, adjust the speed with the accelerator depending on the movement of that vehicle and the situation of the vehicles behind.
3. Upon ensuring there are no vehicles on the overtaking lane, move to the overtaking lane depending on the circumstances to give way to the vehicle on the acceleration lane.

5. When You Are Tired

If you continue driving at high speed for a long time, you may get tired from being under tension continuously or may be drowsy suddenly because of monotonous environments of the road (highway hypnosis). If you feel tired or drowsiness, even if it is only slightly, take a rest at the nearest service area or parking area. Take a nap or do exercises to get rid of tiredness and relax.

Reference

Service area — Service areas are located at intervals of approximately 50 km. There may be a kiosk, gas station, repair facility, parking lot, cafeteria, etc.

Parking area — Parking areas are located at intervals of approximately 15 km. There may be a parking lot, kiosk, toilet, etc.

6. Cautions When Overtaking

Since overtaking on an expressway is very dangerous, avoid overtaking if it is unnecessary or unreasonable. When it is unavoidable to overtake another vehicle, note the following.

1. Check the movement of the vehicles on the overtaking lane behind you with the rearview mirrors and the space ahead of the vehicle that you intend to overtake. If you are sure that it is safe, turn on the right turn signal early.
2. Moving closer to the dividing line between the current lane and the overtaking lane, check the conditions of the road ahead and behind again. After checking the blind spots of the rearview mirrors by looking directly, gently enter the overtaking lane, and then turn off the signal.
3. Proceed along the lane, paying attention to the conditions of the road ahead and behind, and maintaining a safe passing clearance with the vehicle that you intend to overtake. Then, overtake the vehicle while being careful not to exceed the speed limit.
4. Turn on the left turn signal, and after ensuring that the whole body of the vehicle you have overtaken is reflected in the interior rearview mirror (or, in a rearview mirror in the case of a two-wheeled vehicle), gently return to the traveling lane and turn off the signal.

Reference — Example of distances required for overtaking

While traveling at high speed, you need a long distance to overtake a vehicle. For example, if you overtake a vehicle traveling at 90 km/h while you are traveling at 100 km/h, a distance of approximately 2,100 m is required. If the difference in speed between you and the vehicle ahead is small, or there is a possibility that overtaking that vehicle takes a long time, or that you may exceed the speed limit, do not attempt overtaking.

Difference in speed	Speed of vehicle ahead	Speed of own vehicle	Distance between vehicles	Distance required to overtake
10 km/h	90 km/h	100 km/h	100 m	2,100 m
20 km/h	80 km/h	100 km/h	80 m	850 m

7. Driving According to Weather, etc.

When the weather is bad, the driver must drive carefully according to the situation.

1. Driving in rain, etc.

When the weather is bad due to rain, snow, fog, etc., traveling at high speed is especially dangerous. When traveling at high speed in rain, the vehicle may skid or the tires may float, resulting in loss of control in steering and braking (hydroplaning effect). Slow down and travel at a safe speed. (Refer to p. 172)

On a snowy day, since the road surface is slippery and visibility is poor, avoid traveling at high speed. Interchanges may be closed in bad weather, so make sure to check the traffic information.

2. Driving in strong wind

In strong wind, since steering control is likely to be lost, you should reduce speed and drive carefully. You should drive especially carefully at an exit of a tunnel or open passage, as at such places, vehicles are often exposed to crosswind, causing steering control to be lost.

Reference — Streamers

"Streamers" are installed at places often exposed to strong wind, etc. You should know how to check the force of wind from a streamer. In general, it is said that being exposed to a side wind of 7 m/s while traveling at 100 km/h in a regular passenger vehicle is dangerous.

Angle of the streamer and wind strength:

• Nearly horizontal → Wind velocity: Approx. 7 m/s or greater
• At approximately 45 degrees → Wind velocity: Approx. 5 m/s or greater
• At approximately 30 degrees → Wind velocity: Approx. 3 m/s or greater

3. Driving at night

1. Except when passing oncoming vehicles and proceeding immediately after another vehicle, you should use high beam headlights so that you can find fallen objects or vehicles stopped due to traffic accidents, etc., as early as possible.
2. You may not be able to find an obstacle early enough, or you may see a vehicle parked or stopped in a shoulder as moving and cause a rear-end collision accident. Drive carefully.
3. Since your visibility is restricted to the range illuminated by the headlights, you are likely to lose your sense of speed and exceed the speed limit. Check the speedometer occasionally while driving.

10. Turning off a Main Through Lane

1. Checking the Exit by Guidance Signs

1. When you turn off the main through lane, pay attention to guidance signs that indicate the exit and direction for your destination.
2. As you approach an exit, you will see the traffic signs that indicate the exit number, national highway route number of a connecting road, etc. installed at 2 km, 1 km, and 500 m before the exit.
3. Making a U-turn or reversing on an expressway is not allowed. Therefore, if you overlook a guidance sign and fail to get off at the intended exit, you need to go to the next exit. Pay due attention to guidance signs.

2. Using a Deceleration Lane

When approaching the intended exit, you must travel along the vehicular lane leading to the exit. If there is a deceleration lane, proceed in that lane. Since your sense of speed may have been lost after traveling at high speed, reduce speed while checking the speedometer, instead of relying on your sense. Drive carefully to avoid sudden steering or sudden braking after entering the ramp.

Steps for using a deceleration lane:

1. Pay attention to the traffic sign indicating the exit.
2. Paying attention to following vehicles, turn on the left turn signal before changing lanes.
3. Enter the deceleration lane gently. Avoid moving into the deceleration lane suddenly. It is dangerous.
4. Reduce speed after entering the deceleration lane. (Reducing speed suddenly on a main through lane is dangerous.)
5. Reduce speed sufficiently, down to the speed limit.

3. Cautions When Traveling on a Ramp

Traveling on a ramp is dangerous, because it is continuously curved or inclined. Reduce speed sufficiently and drive within the regulated speed limit.

4. Cautions near Exit Gates

Since many drivers have lost their sense of speed or are distracted, rear-end collision accidents often occur near the gate. Reduce speed sufficiently, decide the lane to enter early, and avoid changing course without due cause.

5. Appropriate Speed on General Roads

When you have entered a general road after getting off an expressway, switch to the driving method appropriate on the general road immediately. The sense of traveling at high speed may remain in you for a while, so you are likely to speed, overlook traffic signals, or proceed through an intersection carelessly. Drive with due care.

Let's Try — Course Content 17 — Check your understanding with right/wrong questions.

(See page 275 for answers.)

1. The maximum speed limit for large passenger automobiles and that for large trucks on national expressways are the same.
2. Side strips and shoulders are parts of main through lanes of expressways.
3. When an automobile becomes unable to continue driving on an expressway due to breakdown, running out of fuel, etc., in addition to placing an emergency warning reflector device on the road behind the vehicle, the driver must turn on the hazard lights, parking lights, or taillights during the night and, if the visibility is 200 m or less, also during the day.
4. At a place where an acceleration lane merges into a main through lane on an expressway, it is advisable to accelerate sufficiently before entering the main through lane, considering a safe gap in the flow of traffic on the main through lane.
5. When you find an emergency vehicle coming close to you from an acceleration lane while traveling near an acceleration lane merging point on an expressway, it is advisable to move to the overtaking lane to give way to the emergency vehicle.
6. Minicars, regular motorcycles with a total engine displacement of 125 cc or less, and motorized bicycles may not proceed on expressways.
7. The minimum speed limit on national expressways where there is no speed designation by traffic signs, etc. are 50 km/h.
8. While traveling at high speed in rain, the vehicle may skid or the tires may float, resulting in loss of control in steering and braking. This is referred to as hydroplaning effect.
9. On expressways, trucks must travel on climbing lanes regardless of whether the cargo is loaded or not.
10. On national expressways, when turning off a main through lane and entering a deceleration lane, it is advisable to enter the deceleration lane after having reduced speed sufficiently by applying the brakes on the main through lane in advance.

(正: right, 誤: wrong)

Stage 2 Course Content 18 — Information on Riding Double on Two-Wheeled Vehicles

※ This course content is for people intending to acquire a large motorcycle license or regular motorcycle license.

• Laws and regulations concerning riding double
• Special riding characteristics of riding double

1. Laws and Regulations concerning Riding Double

The cases where riding double on a large motorcycle or regular motorcycle is allowed and prohibited are provided as follows (excluding those with sidecars).

(Refer to p. 162)

2. Special Riding Characteristics of Riding Double

Fully understand the difference in riding characteristics between riding double and riding alone and drive carefully. To ride double safely, becoming skilled in riding the vehicle alone is important. Also, take a training on riding double.

1. Preparations for Riding Double

1. Choose a vehicle of the type that you can ride double comfortably, that has superior stability, and has enough space in the rear seat.
2. Give instructions to a passenger about how to ride properly, so that he/she can ride safely.
   • A passenger should ride as one with the driver, and avoid moving in an unwanted way.
   • Follow instructions of the driver.
   • Since it is difficult to talk with the passenger while traveling, notify the passenger of the destination, the places to rest before starting. Also, signals to communicate with each other should be agreed in advance.

<Proper riding posture>

• Face: Look ahead carefully and understand the movement of the driver.
• Knees: Press both knees firmly against the driver's hip.
• Feet: Do not move the feet off the steps. Keep the feet firmly on the step to remain stable during acceleration and deceleration.
• Hands: Ride as one with the driver. Putting both arms around the driver's waist is the ideal way to do so. Prevent the body weight from moving forward at the time of braking by firmly holding the grab bar, etc.
• Sitting position: Sit with a proper distance from the driver. (Do not be too close or too far)

Clothing, helmets, and protectors — A passenger should also wear a motorcycle helmet correctly and wear noticeably colored clothing with minimal exposure, suited to protecting and maintaining the temperature of the body. Also, wear protectors when possible.

2. Operation Based on Special Characteristics of Riding Double

When riding double, as a vehicle becomes heavier with the weight of the passenger, the driving characteristics that are not observed in riding alone appear, such as a shift in the center of gravity, change in inertia, etc. Since such differences have a considerable impact when a driver takes action suddenly to avoid danger, etc., the driver should try to drive carefully without hurrying.

1. Cautions when accelerating

• Note that since acceleration becomes hard compared to riding alone as the vehicle becomes heavy with the passenger's weight, you will need a longer distance to overtake a vehicle or to merge on an expressway.
• If you start or accelerate suddenly, the passenger may be pulled backward and lose balance. Accelerate the vehicle gently.

2. Cautions when decelerating

As the weight of the passenger falls on a driver's back, the driver should keep his/her upper arms close to his/her sides, hold the handlebars firmly, and decelerate gently. Sudden braking is especially dangerous, since the weights of the driver and the passenger are both applied to the front wheel, which leads to losing balance. Decelerate sufficiently in advance, without hurrying.

3. Cautions when driving on curves

Since the gross weight increases, it becomes hard to tilt the vehicle body, and once the vehicle starts to tilt, it tilts very quickly. Also, the passenger may raise his/her body instinctively because of the fear. Since the driver does not expect such action of the passenger, he/she may lose balance and become unable to deal with the curve. The important points are "to reduce speed sufficiently before curve", "not to tilt the vehicle body excessively", and "to avoid sudden operations".

Also, tell the passenger to take a posture similar to the driver before entering the curve.

When riding double, the center of gravity shifts to rearward and the traction of the front wheel becomes weaker, and driving becomes unstable. Therefore, do not accelerate until the curve is passed.

4. Cautions when changing course

As the vehicle is heavier, moving to the right or left becomes harder, and the balance is easily lost. You should ensure sufficient clearance to the front and rear as well as to the right and left, and change course without hurrying, while slightly accelerating.

5. Avoiding danger

Drive with the understanding that avoiding danger becomes very difficult compared to riding alone.

6. Consideration for the passenger

Consideration for the passenger is also important. To prevent the passenger from falling asleep or to help them recover from fatigue, take a rest occasionally in good time.

Let's Try — Course Content 18 — Check your understanding with right/wrong questions.

(See page 275 for answers.)

1. (Traffic sign: Prohibition against riding double on a large or regular motorcycle) — On the road where this traffic sign is posted, riding double on large motorcycles and regular motorcycles is prohibited.
2. When a driver applies brakes while riding double on a large or regular motorcycle, the passenger's weight shifts, due to which the vehicle is likely to lose balance and overturn.
3. When riding double on a large or regular motorcycle, a driver does not need to worry about the fatigue of the passenger.
4. Since riding double on a large motorcycle or regular motorcycle has different driving characteristics from riding alone, a driver should be skilled in riding the vehicle alone before riding double.
5. When riding double on a motorcycle, it is better to choose a vehicle equipped with a narrow rear seat, so that unwanted movement of the passenger can be restricted.

(正: right, 誤: wrong)