Overview
This lecture covers core rules and regulations for passing the California DMV Driver's Written Test, focusing on speed limits, right-of-way, parking, driving hazards, and legal driving behaviors.
Passing and Lane Use
- Never drive off the paved roadway to pass another vehicle.
- You may cross a broken yellow line to pass, but not solid double yellow lines that are two or more feet apart.
- You may drive in a bike lane only within 200 feet of making a right turn.
- When merging onto the freeway, match your speed to traffic.
Speed Limits and Traffic Laws
- In residential areas, the speed limit is typically 25 mph unless otherwise posted.
- Approaching a railroad crossing with limited visibility: speed limit is 15 mph.
- Never drive faster than is safe for current conditions (Basic Speed Law).
- Maximum legal freeway speed is 65 mph, even if others are driving faster.
- Do not block intersections under any circumstances.
Parking and Stopping Rules
- Parallel park within 18 inches of the curb.
- Never park next to a red painted curb or in an unmarked crosswalk.
- When parking uphill with no curb, turn wheels to the right, away from the street.
- White painted curbs indicate loading zones for passengers or mail only.
Right-of-Way and Turns
- Signal continuously for the last 100 feet before turning.
- To turn left from a one-way to another one-way street, use the leftmost lane.
- For right turns at intersections, slow down and signal 100 feet in advance.
- Always stop for school buses with flashing red lights.
Special Situations and Hazards
- Use low beams in fog and headlights when visibility is reduced.
- Streets are most slippery after the first rain following a dry period.
- Large trucks have bigger blind spots and may need to swing wide to turn.
- Always obey school crossing guards and road construction signal persons.
Collisions and Reporting
- Leave a note and notify police/CHP if you hit a parked vehicle and cannot find the owner.
- Submit a report (SR1) to DMV if there is over $750 property damage or any injury.
Defensive Driving and Safe Practices
- Look 10-15 seconds ahead to avoid last-minute moves.
- Keep your eyes moving to look for hazards and drive farther behind large trucks.
- Never assume other drivers will make room when you pass.
- Use hands-free devices for phones; headphones covering both ears are illegal.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Basic Speed Law — Never drive faster than is safe for current conditions.
- Unmarked Crosswalk — The area at an intersection that exists even when not painted.
- Blind Spot — Area around a vehicle not visible in mirrors.
- SR1 Report — Accident report required for certain damages or injuries.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review all flashcards for more sample questions.
- Practice identifying speed limits, signs, and right-of-way rules for different scenarios.