Stage 2 Course Content 8 — Driving under Bad Conditions

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.

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.

Color Visibility
White, Yellow Easy to see
Red, Green, Brown, Black Difficult to see

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:

On an expressway:

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

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:

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:

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:

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)