VEHICLE CONTROL

In this unit, you will begin to apply your theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. The maneuver yard provides a controlled environment where you can practice and build confidence in your driving skills before venturing onto the open road. The essential skills you’ll acquire in this unit are crucial for safe and effective driving.

Driving Preparation

As a learner, it’s essential to prepare your vehicle and yourself before setting off on a drive. These preparations include the vehicle self-inspection covered in Unit 7. Once you are certain that your vehicle is safe to drive, follow these steps:

1. Adjust the Seat: Make sure your driving seat is properly adjusted to suit your comfort and reach the pedals effectively.
2. Mirror Adjustment: If needed, adjust the mirrors to ensure you have clear visibility around your vehicle.
3. Check Doors: Ensure that all vehicle doors are securely closed.
4. Fasten Seat Belt: Fasten your seat belt, and make sure all passengers do the same.
5. Correct Driving Position: Sit in the correct driving position with your back well-supported, and your feet able to reach the pedals comfortably.
6. Steering Wheel: Hold the steering wheel correctly with both hands. Your grip should be natural, not too stretched or bent.
7. Dashboard Check: Inspect all instruments on the dashboard to ensure they are in working order.
8. Ignition: Turn on the ignition to start the engine. Wait for a few seconds.

Car Movement and Control

1. Starting the Vehicle:

• Depress the clutch pedal fully and wait for three seconds.
• Follow the ignition procedure: Handbrake ON, ignition switch ON, motor switch ON.
• Start the motor by turning the ignition key and releasing it when the engine starts.
• Gently tap the accelerator to warm up the engine.
• Check rearview mirrors.
• Signal your intention.
• Select the appropriate gear.
• Increase engine speed with the accelerator.
• Release the handbrake.

1. Stopping the Vehicle:

• Check the rearview mirrors.
• Signal your intention.
• Release the accelerator.
• Apply the foot brake as needed.
• Depress the clutch pedal as the car comes to a stop.
• Engage the handbrake.
• Shift to 1st gear.
• Turn off the engine.
• Release your feet from the pedals.

1. Using Gears:

• Understand the gear range and their speeds.
• Learn to shift gears smoothly without looking.
• Ensure the gear is in the neutral position before starting the engine.

1. Steering the Vehicle:

• Hold the steering wheel correctly.
• Use the appropriate hand positions for different situations.
• Steering effectively involves both pushing and pulling the wheel.

1. Parking at the Curb:

• Choose a legal and convenient parking spot.
• Use indicator signals to notify others.
• Slow down and gradually approach the curb.
• Apply the brake gently.
• Engage the handbrake and select neutral.
• Turn off the ignition.
• Remove your feet from the pedals.

1. Types of Parking:

• Angle parking
• Flash parking
• Parallel parking

1. Turning:

• J-turns (for experienced drivers)
• U-turns

1. Driving on Bends:

• Adjust your speed based on the bend’s sharpness.
• Use road signs and surroundings to gauge the bend’s type.
• Communicate with other road users using the MSM technique.

1. Driving on Hills:

• Anticipate and adjust your speed based on uphill or downhill conditions.
• Downhill: Use a lower gear to control speed.
• Uphill: Use a lower gear to maintain speed.

1. Reversing:
   • Use mirrors and head tilting to see behind.
   • Reverse at a slow speed for better control.
   • Turn the steering wheel in the direction you want the rear of the car to go.

These essential skills will help you become a confident and safe driver on the road. Practice these maneuvers in the maneuver yard to hone your abilities before venturing into traffic.