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• Every driver’s actions, when behind the wheel, are reactions to what they see in the driving environment that surrounds them.

• The information people use to make those decisions is drawn from an area of awareness that moves with them as they travel. • We call this area the driver’s

“Reaction Zone

TM

”

•

Reaction Zones

change size and shape continuously • A driver’s

skill

determines the size and content of their

Reaction Zone

• The average driver’s

Reaction Zone

extends 3 – 6 seconds ahead of their vehicle

•This happens because drivers tend to travel in clusters •In these clusters, drivers cannot:

•SEE

what they need to see

•THINK

about all of the traffic dangers - or-

•DO

what needs to be done

•Driving in packs makes it difficult or impossible to obtain: •Space for the vehicle •Visibility for the driver •Time to make decisions •Space, Visibility, and Time are the key elements of safe driving

Advanced drivers should change the content of their

Reaction Zone

to maximize their space and visibility, insulating themselves from the unexpected When you maximize your space and visibility, you create a much larger zone that we refer to as a

Pre-Action Zone

TM

This larger

Pre-Action Zone

gives us a greater awareness of potential problems farther ahead, to the sides and to the rear. In addition it allows us more time to SEE, THINK and DO.

The Smith System’s 5 Keys can teach you how to recognize and use the zones that surround your vehicle.

1. Aim High In Steering ® 2. Get The Big Picture ® 3. Keep Your Eyes Moving ® 4. Leave Yourself An Out ® 5. Make Sure They See You ®