Guidebook

for
Defensive Drivers

Saudi Aramco
Training & Career Development

Defensive Drivers
Development Program
 Prepared by:

TRAINING & CAREER DEVELOPMENT

This training material is the exclusive property of the Saudi Arabian Oil Company
(Saudi Aramco). Distribution, reproduction, or any use of this material, without the
express written consent of Saudi Aramco, is strictly prohibited.

Saudi Aramco November 2003

 Contents

Introduction Page
Defensive Driving 1
Driver Improvement Program 2
Driver Improvement Training & Testing Flowchart 3

Vehicle Inspection
Outside Your Vehicle 5
Under the Hood 6
Emergency and Special Equipment 7
Final Preparation 8

Traffic Rules
Speed Limits 9
Lane Usage 10
Pavement Markings 11
Traffic Lights 14
Traffic Signs 16
Intersections 33
Are You Too Close? 35
Point of No Return at Traffic Signals 35
Turns 36
Yielding the Right-of-Way 38
Following a Vehicle 40
Two-Second Rule 41
Passing or Overtaking a Vehicle 42

Defensive-Driving Techniques
Driving Errors 45
Defensive-Driving Formula 46
Space-Cushion Technique 47
Perception Time and Distance 51
Reaction Time, Braking Distance, & Stopping Distance 51
Types of Accidents to Avoid 53
Safe-Driving Tips 56
Driving Situations
City Driving 57
Expressway Driving 58
General Rules for Highway Driving 59
Night Driving 60
Safety Tips for Night Driving 61
Desert Driving 62
Navigation 66
Car Breakdown and Other Emergencies 73
Before Leaving the Road 74
Making a Water Trap 75
Emergencies 77
Emergency Communication 80
Parking 81

Adverse Driving Conditions

Driver Condition 85
Vehicle Condition 86
Road Condition 87
Traffic Condition 88
Light Condition 89
Weather Condition 90

Saudi Aramco Policy

Reporting an Accident 91
G.I. 6.030 Summary 92
 Introduction

Defensive Driving
Defensive-driving principles and techniques are the
cornerstones of the Driver Improvement Program. Defensive
driving is an attitude or approach one adopts when operating
a motor vehicle. It means driving so as to prevent accidents,
regardless of the bad driving habits of others.
The defensive driver maintains his vehicle in good running
condition and is always prepared for the unexpected. He is
always ready to yield the right-of-way to others, even when
the right-of-way should be yielded to him. He always knows
how to drive in adverse driving conditions, heavy traffic, and
during emergencies.
This handbook is intended as a quick reference of light and
medium categories of 2x4, 4x4 vehicles and trucks. It also
contains a section on off-road driving related mainly to deep
desert driving focused on light and medium 4x4 trucks to cover
navigation techniques with map and compass, GPS receivers,
and natural phenomena.
A summary of General Instruction 6.030 is included for the
review of Company employees and others operating assigned
or privately owned vehicles in Saudi Aramco communities.
This manual is not the final word on defensive-driving
principles and techniques. But in conjuction with the Driver
Improvement Program, it hopefully will provide useful
information for even the most experienced drivers. Defensive
driving is everyones responsibility. Do your part in helping
make our roads safe.

1
Driver Improvement Program
According to Loss Prevention General Instruction 6.030, the
Driver Improvement Program (DIP) is mandatory for all
employees who drive Saudi Aramco vehicles. The program
includes:
Instruction on driving in the Saudi Arabian environment.
Instruction on proper vehicle preparation and inspection.
Defensive-driving principles and techniques.
A written examination.
Individual driver counselling during and after an on-the road
evaluation.
The program is divided into two sessions. The first session is
a six-hour classroom discussion. The second one-hour session
comprises an on-the road evaluation.
DIP provides defensive-driving knowledge for new employees
required to drive Saudi Aramco vehicles, Saudi Arab
employees, contractor drivers, and employees involved in
traffic violations or motor vehicle accidents (MVA).
1. Porto-clinic test (for heavy Truck Drivers/Operators)
Peripheral vision.
Visual acuity.
Field of vision.
Depth perception.
Reaction time.
Night vision.
Glare recovery.
This test was discontinued as a pre-requisite requirement for
DIP effective 06/01/1999, however, it remains as an integral
part of Heavy Equipment Drivers/Operators tests required for
their certification program.

2
Saudi Aramco employees who fail DIP may be enrolled in the
On-Road Make Up Driving Evaluation Course.
After completing DIP, each employee must attend the Driver
Improvement Refresher Seminar (DIRS) once every three
years for reevaluating his driving authorization.

Driver Improvement Training &

Testing Flowchart
(BASED ON GI.6.030)

3
 Vehicle Inspection

Just as safe driving is the responsibility of each driver, so is

the condition of the vehicle (Ref. GI-6.029). If your assigned
vehicle is not safe to drive, it doesnt matter how defensively
you drive. You are an accident waiting to happen. If your
vehicle has a mechanical defect, take it to Saudi Aramco
Inspection immediately.
Most Company vehicles are shared-use (pooled) vehicles.
Many drivers operate them. Some drivers may not be as
responsible as they should be. To control vehicle use and
establish responsibility, vehicle log procedures are used. These
procedures vary from one location to another, but most require
the following entries:
Date.
Employee name and ID number.
Destination.
Time of departure.
The Defensive Driver Always
Estimated time of return.
Tells Someone Where
Mileage. He is Going And When
He Will Return

Odometer readings and other information may be required.

Follow your departments vehicle log procedure carefully.

4
Outside Your Vehicle
Before driving anywhere, always do the following:
Check for and report, as necessary, any physical damage
(dents, scratches) found.
Check that nothing is in front, behind, or under your
vehicle.
Check the wiper blades for cuts and wear.
Check that your headlights, signal lights, and taillights
are clean and work properly.
Check that your windows are clean and nothing blocks
your vision. Clean the entire windshield.
Check that side mirrors are clean and not broken. Replace
all defective mirrors.
Check that the tires are properly inflated.

Proper inflation varies according to vehicle, suspension

system, tire specifications, weather, and other factors.
Your area Transportation Division or Loss Prevention Division
can give you the correct tire pressure for your vehicle. Always
keep your tires inflated to the correct pressure. Improperly
inflated tires are the major cause of tire blowouts. Make it a
habit to check the tires (including the spare) for proper
inflation.

5
Under the Hood
The defensive driver periodically checks the following items
under the hood:
Engine oil level.
Radiator coolant level (do not open the radiator cap until
the engine is cool).
Drive belts are tight, not worn (they should not flex
more than 1/2 when pressed by your thumb).
Battery condition.
Water level in windshield washer.
Clutch/brake fluid level.

Make a mental checklist of the above items to insure the

mechanical integrity of your vehicle. Remember: the safe
condition of your vehicle is your responsibility.

You Are the Only One Who

Knows If Something Is Wrong
With Your Vehicle

6
Emergency and Special Equipment
Emergencies require immediate action. In an emergency
situation there is no time to search for needed equipment. The
defensive driver has the right equipment for every emergency.
Before driving, check that you have the following emergency
equipment:
Spare tire.
Jack.
Tire wrench.
Two warning triangles.
Fire extinguisher (if it is part of your work equipment).
Before driving on a long trip, check that you have the following
emergency equipment:
Drinking water.
Hand tools.
Extra vehicle supplies (i.e., spark plugs, fan belt, radiator
hoses).
Shovel.
FIRS
Map. AID T

Compass.
Oil.
First aid kit.
When driving in the desert, additional equipment is required.
Refer to Desert Driving on page 62 - 64 for additional
information and a checklist.

Defensive Drivers Keep the

Correct Equipment for
Emergencies

7
Final Preparation
After getting in your vehicle and firmly shutting the doors, do
the following before you start driving:
Adjust the seat.
Check that the gauges
work properly.
Make Seat Belts
Test the floor pedals. a Habit
Check the fuel gauge.
Test the horn.
Examine the headlights (low and high beams).
Check the indicator lights (especially the brake and
seat belt indicators).
Check the rearview mirrors. Adjust if necessary.
Ensure that the windshield wipers work.
Fasten your seatbelt. Make sure all passengers have
fastened their seat belts.

Now that you have checked everything inside

and out, you are ready to drive.
Make certain the parking brake is on.
Shift into park (automatic trans-
mission) or neutral (manual trans-
mission).
Start the engine.
With your foot on the brake, shift into gear.
Release the parking brake.
Drive cautiously.
But before you release your parking brake and merge into
traffic, you must know the traffic rules.

8
 Traffic Rules
Traffic rules are guides to safe driving, so they should be
obeyed. Disobeying rules is a major cause of traffic
accidents. Defensive drivers obey the rules of the road. By
following them they insure the safety of everyone.

Speed Limits
Speeding is the major cause of fatal accidents. SPEED
The defensive driver slows down for KILLS!
conditions and never exceeds speed limits.
Unless otherwise posted, follow established
speed limits:
50 kph for vehicles within city limits.
30 kph maximum speed in school zones.
80 kph for heavy trucks outside city limits.
100 kph for passenger vehicles outside city limits, or as
posted. Note: Crew-cab trucks are not passenger vehicles.

Always drive slower than posted speed limits when

hazardous conditions exist (bad weather, poor visibility, at
night, etc.).
Speeding can result in wrecked vehicles, injuries, disabilities, and
death. U.S. National Safety Council statistics show that if you
are driving at 120 kph (75 mph) and have an accident, you are
likely to suffer serious or even fatal injuries. You have a one
in eight chance of being killed in an accident at 120 kph (75
mph). At 100 kph (65 mph) you have a one in 20 chance of
being killed. At 90 kph (55 mph) your chances are one in 50.

9
Lane Usage
Specific rules govern the use of traffic lanes. To avoid having
an accident obey the following rules.
Single-lane roads have one lane in each direction. Always
stay in the right lane unless you are overtaking another vehicle.
Dont move out of your lane unless it is safe to do so.

Do Not Weave from Lane to Lane

Double-lane roads allow two lanes of traffic in each direction.

Slower vehicles and vehicles turning right should drive in the
right lane. Faster vehicles and vehicles turning left should
travel in the left lane. Do not block the left lane.
Multiple-lane roads allow three or more lanes of traffic in
each direction. Vehicles turning right, or driving slower, use
the right lane. Vehicles driving straight ahead use the middle
lane. You may drive in the left lane when passing, making a
left turn, or when traffic is merging from the right.

The Defensive Driver

Makes
Few Lane Changes

10
Pavement Markings
Pavement markings show the following:
Where you should be on the road.
Where overtaking is restricted.
Where to wait to make a right turn.
Where and how to park (alternating yellow and black
lines on curbing means no parking; alternating white and
black lines on curbing means you can park).
Where parking is prohibited.
Where pedestrians may cross.
Where to stop at an intersection.

Observe Pavement Markings

11
Two white solid lines are used to indicate that you must not
overtake another vehicle.
A broken line next to a solid line indicates that the vehicle on
the side of the broken line can overtake a vehicle when it is
safe. The vehicle to the right of the solid line must not overtake.

The Centerline
is Your Lifeline

12
On some highways a physical barrier divides the roads. These
barriers are called median islands or highway dividers. It is
illegal to cross a highway divider or median. An open space
can also be a highway divider. Never cross any highway
divider.

Never Cross a
No-Passing Centerline

13
Traffic Lights
Traffic lights control traffic at intersections. They are meant
for your safety and the safety of others.
Obey them.

When the light is red, STOP behind the

crosswalk or at the intersection. Wait until
the light is green.

When the light is yellow, SLOW DOWN

AND PREPARE TO STOP. The light will
turn red in only three to five seconds.

When the light turns green, make sure the

intersection is clear. You must first yield
the right-of-way to traffic and pedestrians
that are still in the intersection, then proceed
cautiously.

Go in the direction of the arrow (right or

left). Always yield the right-of-way to
pedestrians and other vehicles. If there is
no arrow you must wait until the red light
changes to green.

Go straight ahead only. Do not turn left or

right.

14
A red flashing light means STOP! Then proceed with extreme
caution. Treat it the same as a stop sign.

A yellow flashing light means SLOW DOWN, look both ways,

then drive with caution. Treat it the same as a yield sign.
If a traffic light is out of order, treat the intersection as you
would a four-way stop sign (see Intersections, page 33).
You may see flashing red/yellow lights at dangerous
intersections.

Running a Red Light

Learn and Follow Traffic
is the Quickest
Signals Language
Road to an Accident

15
Traffic Signs
International traffic signs are used in Saudi Arabia to safely
control the flow of traffic. They point out dangers and give
important information about directions, destinations, and
points of interest.
There are three basic traffic signs:

Warning Signs
Triangular signs are cautionary and
advisory. They warn of approaching
danger. Black symbols indicate the type
of danger.

Regulatory Signs
Circular signs are either prohibitory (red),
which inform drivers of restrictions that
must be obeyed; or mandatory (blue),
which regulate traffic movement. Specific
directions are indicated by symbols
against a white or blue background.

Informative Signs
Rectangular signs are informational. They
tell you what you need to know, such as
traffic direction, names and distances of
towns, public service stations, hospitals,
and telephones.

Help Stop Accidents:

Observe Traffic Signs

16
Warning signs are placed beside the road to alert drivers of
possible dangers ahead. Extreme caution and speed reduction
must be applied upon the appearance of warning signs. The
following are examples of common warning signs:

Children Animal Pedestrian

Crossing Crossing Crossing

Dangerous Railroad Crossing Dangerous

Bends L-R w/o Gate Bends R-L

Left Bend Road Narrows Uneven Road

Crossroads Road Works Right Bend

17
Railroad Crossing Overhead
with Gate Powerlines

Two-Way
Falling Rocks
Traffic

Side Road
Traffic Lights
from Left

Road Side Road

Intersection from Right

Intersection of
Airstrip Main & Side
Roads

Road Narrows
Cyclists on One Side

18
 Motor Vehicles No U Turn
Prohibited

No Parking
No Stopping
or Waiting

No Left Turn
Traffic Rotary
(Roundabout)

No Overtaking Entry Prohibited

Speed Limit Closed to all

60 KPH Vehicles in
60 Both
Directions

Stop Buses
Prohibited
STOP

19
DETOUR
Detour Telephone

P Parking
Allowed
First-Aid
Center

H Hospital Bus Stop

Unified Traffic
Priority is Direction
yours

20
Camping International
Ground Road

Closed Road or
Repair Center
Dead End

Closed Road or
Restaurant Dead End

Closed Road or
Gas Dead End
Station

21
Parking Prohibited and
Parking Restricted Signs
Parking and Parking is
stopping are restricted
prohibited at during specific
all times. hours or days
indicated on a
plaque below this
sign.

One-Way Sign
This arrow sign indicates streets where traffic is allowed to
travel in one direction only.

One-way (R) One-way (L)

Signs that End Special Prohibitions
Imposed on Moving Vehicles
These signs indicate that prohibitory signs do not apply.
Examples of these signs would be for ending a speed limit or
ending prohibition for overtaking.

Restricted Speed End of 35-KM

Limit Ends Speed Limit Zone

End of
End of Overtaking by
Overtaking Trucks
Prohibited Prohibited

22
Mandatory Movement Signs
Mandatory movement signs indicate the direction of traffic
movement to be followed at intersections. Pairs of arrows indicate
that either direction is allowed.

Mandatory Mandatory Mandatory

Movement Movement Movement

Mandatory Mandatory Mandatory

Movement Movement Movement

Pass This Side Sign

Pass Either Side Sign
These signs are placed on an island or before an obstacle on
the highway and it means that vehicles must pass on the side(s)
of the island or obstacle as indicated by the arrow(s).

Pass this Side Pass this Side Pass Either Side

23
Diagrammatic Signs

24
Route Markers
Distinctive route markers are used on the various categories
of highways. Route numbers are assigned in accordance with
the functional classification criteria of Highway Design Manual
1-1.05.
1. Expressway (Primary System) route markers carry route
numbers imposed on the outline of the Arabian Peninsula,
white on green with black Naskh style numerals. Primary
routes have up to two digit numbers.

Primary Route

2. Secondary highways are numbered in three digits affixed

on white on green marker.

Secondary Route

25
3. Feeders are numbered in four digit numerals as per graphic
below.

Feeders
4. Kilometer Posting
a. Kilometer signs installed on all classes of highways.
Numbering runs from west to east and from south to
north.
b. Kilometer posting also will be used on ring roads
(loops).
c. On two-lane roads, a kilometer post is placed along the
right shoulder only, but with ascending-descending
kilometers on either side whichever is appropriate.

Secondary Route

Kilometer Post

26
 Interchange Informative Signs

1. Interchange Informative signs, in proper sequence, give all

necessary route and destination information through
interchanges. New destination information is introduced into
the major signs sequence for an interchange.
2. Interchange Informative signs may carry few sets of
information, some of which would be:
Next exit number
Primary or expressways
Secondary Highways, above
Next town name
Distance to next exit

27
Typical Interchange Numbering for
Mainline and Ring Routes

28
Cloverleaf Interchange

29
 Diamond Interchange

3 TOWN NAME (ARABIC)

6 TOWN NAME (ARABIC)
35 TOWN NAME (ARABIC)
TOWN NAME (ENGLISH) 3
TOWN NAME (ENGLISH) 6
TOWN NAME (ENGLISH) 35

N (Arabic)
ARABIC
S (Arabic) N (Arabic) ENGLISH

23 ARABIC

23 23 ENGLISH
ARABIC

S (Arabic) ENGLISH

OR

23 TOWN NAME (ARABIC)

TOWN NAME (ENGLISH)
TOWN NAME (ARABIC)
TOWN NAME (ENGLISH)

TOWN NAME (ARABIC)

TOWN NAME (ENGLISH)
S (Arabic)
TOWN NAME (ARABIC)
23 TOWN NAME (ENGLISH)
TOWN NAME (ARABIC)
TOWN NAME (ENGLISH)

EXIT 22 (Arabic)

TOWN NAME 456

(ARABIC)
12 TOWN NAME
(ENGLISH)
(Arabic)
EXIT EXIT 22 (Arabic)

TOWN NAME 456

(ARABIC)
TOWN NAME
(ENGLISH)

1 km (Arabic)

EXIT 22 (Arabic)

TOWN NAME
(ARABIC)
456
TOWN NAME
(ENGLISH)

2 km (Arabic)

30
Typical Interchange Numbering Where
Expressway Routes Overlap

31
 Series of Closely Spaced Interchanges
Using Sequence Signs and Sign Spreading

32
Intersections
Traffic moves in many directions at intersections. More
accidents occur at intersections than any other place on the
road. These accidents happen because some drivers don't obey
traffic rules.
Intersections may be regulated with signals, rotaries
(roundabouts), yield, and stop signs.
The following rules should be obeyed at intersections:
At intersections controlled by stop signs, stop your vehicle
completely behind the crosswalk. Look left, look right, look
left again, proceed cautiously.
If there is a stop sign at a blind intersection, come to a complete
stop at the sign. Stop at the line, and stop again at the edge of
the barrier which hides the oncoming traffic. If the way is
clear, then cross.

Slow Down
Before
Entering
an
Intersection

STOP

View
Blocked

Crossing a Blind Intersection

33
At intersections controlled by yield signs, the driver should
slow down, check traffic on both sides, then proceed
cautiously if it is safe. Stop for cross traffic.
At intersections controlled by a policeman, always obey his
commands. A policemans directions overrule traffic signs and
signals.
An uncontrolled intersection has neither traffic signs nor lights.
To safely drive through, apply the following four-point rule:
KNOW your course.
SLOW down; be ready to react to any
situation.
SHOW others your intentions. When Four
GO cautiously. Vehicles Stop at
the Same Time
at a Four-way
P
O

Intersection,
ST

Courtesy and
Communication is
the Rule
ST
OP

OP
ST
ST
O
P

At a Four-Way Stop Intersection

At a four-way stop intersection, follow the rule, first stop,

first go. When two vehicles stop at the same time, the driver
on the left must be ready to yield to the driver on the right.

34
Are You Too Close?

You are at a safe stopping distance behind a vehicle at a traffic

light if you can see that vehicle's rear tires.

Point of No Return at Traffic Signals

Slow down gradually when you approach intersections
regulated by traffic signals. Be aware of:
Stale Green Light: A stale green light is one which has been
green for an unknown length of time. If it remains green
while you approach the intersection, slow down more; the
light will soon turn yellow.
Point of No Return: A marginal distance, six to ten meters
from the stop line at an intersection. When the light turns
yellow, you must decide whether to stop or proceed. If
stopping will cause a collision with the vehicle behind, you
should go through the intersection if it is clear of traffic.

35
Turns
Turns enable a driver to change direction at intersections,
junctions, detours, or roundabouts. Drivers must prepare to
turn ahead of time to avoid accidents resulting from last-second
decisions.
The following procedure is recom- Dont Take a Turn
for the Worse:
mended to perform a safe turn:
Drive Safely
1. Position your vehicle in the
appropriate lane a block ahead of the turn.
For right turns, stay in the right lane, 50 cm away from
the curb.
For left turns on multi-lane roads, stay in the left lane.
On single-lane roads, stay close to the centerline.
2. Signal your intention to turn 35 meters in advance.
Signalling may be done either by electric turn signals or by
hand.
3. Slow down and check the blind spot on the turning side.
4. Turn cautiously at a comfortable radius; do not
cut corners.
5. Finish the turn in the same lane that you started in.
Study the following diagrams. They show the proper lanes to
use when making turns.

Left Turn on Left Turn on Right Turn

Two-Way Street One-Way Street

36
When signal devices do not work, use the following hand
signals.

Stop
Forearm
Vertical

Left Turn
Palm Down, Arm
Extended

Missing
a Turn
is Better
Than
Missing the
Rest of Your
Life

Right Turn
Palm and Arm
Curved to the Right

37
Yielding the Right-of-Way
The defensive driver always yields the right-of-way to others.
To yield means to slow down or stop to allow other drivers to
continue. You yield to avoid an accident.
When making a left turn, yield the right-of-way to any vehicle
approaching or already in the intersection.

This Vehicle has the

Right-Of-Way

Yield the Right-of-Way to Vehicles

on Your Right
The
Defensive
Driver
Yields
to Arrive
Alive

38
Always yield the right-of-way to emergency vehicles when
they sound their sirens or flash their lights. Emergency
vehicles include ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars. Pull
off to the right side of the road. If you are in the middle lane,
wait until it is safe to pull off the road.

Always Yield to
Emergency
Vehicles

When backing up, always yield to other vehicles and

pedestrians.

Pedestrians always have the right-of-way at intersections. They

have the right-of-way even if the intersection is unmarked.

39
Tailgating
Following another vehicle too closely is called tailgating.
Tailgaters usually want to pass because they are in a hurry.
Stopping suddenly in front of a tailgater can cause an accident.
To avoid tailgating accidents, do the following:
Don't tailgate.
Allow a safe following distance between you and the car
ahead using the two-second rule (see the next page).
Be aware of your surroundings.

If you are being tailgated, do the following:

Slow down gradually.
Communicate your intentions to move right or left.
Tap your brake.
Look in blind spot Watch Your Back for
Tailgaters
Move to the right.

There should be one car length (6 meters) between you and

the vehicle ahead for each 16 kilometers per hour speed you
are travelling.

This rule only applies in ideal conditions. If the road is wet, or

vision is poor, increase the distance between you and the
vehicle ahead.

40
Two-Second Rule
The best way to determine if you are following a vehicle at a
safe distance under normal driving conditions is to apply the
two-second rule.
Watch the vehicle ahead of you. When it
passes a fixed reference point, say a telephone
pole or a road sign, start counting, one Two Seconds
thousand one, one thousand two. of Awareness
is all it
If your vehicle reaches the same fixed point
Takes to Avoid
before you finish counting one thousand
on Accident
two, you are following the other vehicle too
closely.
Slow down. Use the two-second rule again, until you are
following at a safe distance.

Application of the Two-Second Rule

The two-second rule only applies under ideal conditions and

when you are travelling at a moderate speed. If the road is
wet, or visibility is poor, increase your distance by counting
for three, four, or more seconds.

41
Passing or Overtaking a Vehicle
Passing or overtaking a vehicle is a normal part of driving, but
it can be dangerous. A misjudgment can cost you your life.
Learn and apply the following rules.
When passing or overtaking a vehicle always:
Ask yourself if there is any reason for the driver next to
you to turn left or move into your lane.
Stay back, using the two-second rule.
Check the traffic ahead. The left lane must be clear.
Turn on your left signal to show your intention.
Check the traffic behind. Use your mirrors.
Turn your head to check your blind spot to the left (on
multilane roads).
Move into the left lane. Leave enough room for the
vehicle you are passing.
Accelerate, but do not exceed the posted speed limit.
Warn the driver ahead by tapping your horn lightly, or
flash your headlights at night (if needed).
Switch on your right turn signal. Do not return to the
right lane until the vehicle you passed is visible in your
rearview mirror.
After moving to the right lane, stop your turn signal.
Resume your normal driving speed.

Before Passing, Check

Your Blind Spot

42
When being passed:
Decrease your speed.
Move as far to the right as you safely can to allow
others to pass.

Never pass a vehicle in the following situations:

Do not pass on hilltops.

Figure 1

Do not pass on curves when your

view is obstructed.

Never Pass on
Hills
or Curves
Figure 2

NEVER pass at intersections.

Figure 3

43
 D o not pass where there are
double lines or a No Passing sign.

Figure 4

Never pass where there is a solid

line in your lane.

Never Pass
at
Intersections

Figure 5

Never pass within 30 meters of a

railroad crossing.

Figure 6

Never pass a long row of vehicles.

Figure 7

44
 Defensive-Driving Techniques

Driving Errors
Driving errors are the major cause of traffic accidents. There
are four common categories of driving error: traffic violations,
vehicle abuse, poor planning, and discourtesy.
Traffic violations are the worst kind of driving error. The
defensive driver always obeys all traffic rules. Driving is a
privilege, not a right. You will lose your driving privilege if
you break the rules.
Vehicle abuse includes driving aggressively, speeding, and
overloading the vehicle. It also includes using company
vehicles for personal business. Always use company vehicles
with respect and care.
Poor planning often results in accidents. The defensive driver
always considers distance, speed limits, weather, and road
conditions when planning a trip. By planning your trip ahead
of time you avoid having to hurry.
Discourtesy is a lack of respect for other drivers and
pedestrians. The safe driver is always courteous to others. He
always gives other drivers the right-of-way, even when it
should be given to him. The safe driver is like a public relations
man. He projects a positive image. He does this by being
courteous.
Avoid these common driving errors. Obey all traffic rules.
Never abuse your vehicle or your driving privilege. Always
plan your trips well ahead of time. Allow enough time to
complete your trip safely. And always be courteous to others.
In addition to avoiding common driving errors, use the
following defensive-driving techniques. By applying these
techniques with the traffic rules you have learned, you greatly
reduce the risk of having a traffic accident.

45
Defensive-Driving Formula
The defensive-driving formula consists of three simple steps:
1. See Danger Before it Happens
Develop the ability to see potential danger on the road before
it happens. Constantly be on the lookout for accidents
waiting to happen. Never assume that all is safe. Never assume
that everything is all right. Never drop your guard. Stay alert!
2. Know What to do When a Dangerous Situation Arises
Each dangerous situation requires a specific response. The
defensive driver learns the specific response for each
situation so he can apply it when the time comes.
3. Take Corrective Action in Time
Never assume the attitude that maybe the other driver will
change his mind and do the right thing. Never assume that
maybe nothing bad will happen. Assume the worst scenario
and then act in time, before its too late!
Take corrective action:
See danger before it happens.
Know what to do.
Act quickly and decisively.

The Defensive Driver Never Drop Your

Plans Trips Ahead Guard: Stay Alert

46
Space-Cushion Technique
The space-cushion technique consists of five key points:
1. Aim High in
Steering.
2. Get the Big
Picture.
3. Keep Your Eyes
Moving.
4. Leave Yourself an
Out.
5. Make Sure Others
See You.
Keep a Space-Cushion
Around Your Vehicle

1. Aim High: Look far ahead while driving. Train your eyes
to see where your vehicle will be 15 seconds from now. In the
city look one block ahead. On highways look 400 meters ahead.

Scan Ahead
to Stay Alive

Look Far Ahead While Driving

47
2. Get the Big Picture: See more than just whats in front of
your eyes. See the potential accident that lurks behind every
corner and ahead of every vehicle.

Daydreaming
and Driving
Dont Mix:
Keep Your Eyes
Moving
to Get the Big
Picture

Get the Big Picture

To get the big picture, first establish a safe following distance

by using the two-second rule. A safe driving distance is
the key to good visibility. Slow down in dense traffic.
Concentrate on driving, not talking.

48
3. Keep Your Eyes Moving: This helps you get and keep the
big picture. Because traffic is constantly moving, your eyes
should too. Glance continuously to the right and left, near and
far. Glance at your mirrors every five to eight seconds.
Occasionally glance at the instrument panel.
Avoid fixed stare: visually concentrating too long on one
object. To avoid affecting your peripheral vision, do not stare
at any fixed object for more than two seconds.

Avoid
Fixed Stare
Keep
Your Eyes
Moving

Look in the Rearview Mirrors Every five to eight Seconds

49
4. Leave Yourself an Out: Have an escape path available
should an emergency arise. Always keep an open area of space,
a space-cushion, around your vehicle.

Dont be
Cornered
into an
Accident:
Leave
Yourself
an Out

Leave Yourself an Out

5. Make Sure Others See You: Use your lights, horn, vehicle
position, hand signals, body movements, and eye contact. Let
other drivers know what you intend to do.
By letting others know what you intend to do, you can avoid
accidents. For example, tap your horn to let inattentive pedestrians
know you are turning.

Make Sure Others See You

50
Perception, Reaction, Braking, and Total
Stopping Distance
The time required to identify a situation is called perception
time. Perception time can vary according to visibility, the
intensity of the situation, and the driver's condition. The
distance covered by a vehicle during this time is called
perception distance.
Reaction Time is the amount of time a driver needs to react
to an emergency situation. The average reaction time is 3/4 of
a second. The distance covered during reaction time is called
the reaction distance.
Braking Distance is the ground a vehicle covers between the
time the brakes are applied until it stops. Factors affecting
braking distance include speed, the condition of brakes and
tires, road surface, weather, vehicle load, etc.
Stopping Distance is the total of reaction and braking
distances. Reaction, braking, and stopping distances increase
with an increase in speed. See chart on page 52.
Stopping distance involves three steps:
1. Identify the situation. The
Higher the
2. React safely. Speed
3. Stop your vehicle. the Longer
the
Each step takes adequate time. Youll be Braking
surprised how much distance you cover. Distance

See chart (2) on page 52

51
Total stopping distance is the ground a vehicle covers from the
instant that the driver perceives a danger until the vehicle is totally
stopped. The perception, reaction, braking, and total stopping
distance will be adversely affected by speed. See the chart below.
SPEED REACTION DISTANCE BREAKING DISTANCE STOPPING DISTANCE
(2) (2) (1+2)
KPH MPH Meter Foot Meter Foot Meter Foot
35 20 7 22 6-7 18-22 12-13 40-44
40 25 9 28 8-9 25-31 16-18 53-59
50 30 10 33 11-14 36-45 21-24 69-78
60 35 12 39 14-18 47-58 26-30 86-97
65 40 13 66 20-24 64-80 33-38 108-124
75 45 15 50 25-31 82-103 40-47 132-153
85 50 17 55 32-40 105-131 46-54 160-186
90 55 19 61 40-50 132-165 59-69 193-226
100 60 20 66 49-62 162-202 69-82 228-268
110 65 22 72 60-75 196-245 82-97 286-317
120 70 24 77 72-90 237-295 97-113 314-372
Chart (1): Reaction, Braking, and Stopping Distance
Defensive Driving is Everyones Responsibility: Including Yours!
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
Stopping Distance
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
Reaction Distance + Braking Distance
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
KM M
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
PER PER Speed and Stopping Distances
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
15
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
HR SEC Total Stopping Distances with Perfect
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
35 10 7 8 Brakes on Best Road and Under
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
28
Favorable Conditions.
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
50 16 10 18 Reaction Braking
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
48 Distance
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
Distance

1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
65 20 16 32
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567 63
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
85 25 18 45
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
94

1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
100 29 22 72
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
123

1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
120 34 26 97
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
Remember: These distances are for good brakes and good road
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567
surfaces. Increase your distance if roads are wet or slippery.

Chart (2): Stopping Distance

52
Types of Accidents to Avoid
Six common situations hold the potential for vehicle
accidents:
Vehicles ahead of you.
Avoid
Vehicles behind you. the Six
Passing a vehicle. Common
Accident
When being passed.
Situations
Oncoming vehicles.
Vehicles at intersections.
Vehicles Ahead of You: The defensive driver doesnt tailgate.
Always allow a safe following distance between you and the
vehicle ahead by applying the two-second rule. Refer to the
Two-Second Rule section on page 41.
Vehicles Behind You: A tailgating driver could cause an
accident that involves you. To avoid this:
Signal early when turning or changing lanes.
Flash your brake lights ahead of time to warn other
drivers that you may have to slow down or stop.
Carefully move to the right to let him pass.
Passing a Vehicle: Overtaking and passing can be done safely
when conditions are ideal. To pass safely, ensure that:
Passing is legal.
Conditions are good.
There are no oncoming vehicles.
There is enough room to pass safely.
No vehicle is trying to pass you.

53
When Being Passed: The defensive driver should always
expect others to pass him. To reduce the possibility of an
accident in this situation, the driver should:
Stay to the right side of his lane.
Travel at moderate speeds.
Frequently glance in the rearview mirrors.
Check the blind spots before turning or changing lanes.
Allow the passing vehicle to return to the right lane.
Oncoming Vehicles: Collisions with oncoming vehicles are
particularly deadly. Do the following to avoid head-on
collisions:
Slow down for better control.
Always watch the traffic condition at a good distance
ahead.
Use your lights and horn as necessary to warn dozers.
If they show no response, glance over your right shoulder,
and go off the right side of the road. Never drive off to
the left.
Vehicles at Intersections: More accidents occur at
intersections than anywhere else. Avoid this accident situation
by doing the following:
When turning right:
Accidents Get in the far right of the road or get in
Happen at
the right lane well in advance.
Intersections Flash the right turn signal at least 30
Due to
meters before the turn.
Drivers Errors Allow 50 cm between your vehicle and
the curb. This will discourage other
drivers from squeezing between you
and the curb.

54
 Be sure you have the right-of-way and there is
no cross traffic.
Check both ways and any blind spots.
When going straight through intersections:
Be sure you have the right-of-way.
Slow down and prepare to stop.
Count two seconds before moving when the light turns
green.
Look left (traffic coming from the left is closest), look
right, and then look left again.
Accelerate through the intersection when it is safe.
When turning left:
Get in the left lane well in advance.
Turn on the left signal at least 35 meters before
the turn.
Stop and yield the right-of-way to cross traffic and
oncoming vehicles.
Turn when it is safe.

Passing and Overtaking

is a Normal Part of Driving,
but It Must be Done
Carefully.

55
Safe-Driving Tips
A defensive driver is always prepared for the unexpected. He
develops skills in avoiding accidents. He is always expected
to do the following:
Fasten his seat belt and encourage passengers to do the
same.
Plan his route before driving anywhere.
Anticipate all turns.
Avoid unnecessary lane changes.
Adjust his speed according to the flow of traffic and
the road conditions.
Yield the right-of-way to others.
Constantly show others his intentions and communicate
as situations arise.
Maintain a space-cushion.
Slow down before driving into a
curve. Go
Keep both hands on the steering with the
wheel and steer high. Flow
Make courtesy a habit.

To avoid rear-end collisions, the defensive driver should

routinely do the following:
Check that his tail lights are working properly.
Frequently glance at his rearview mirrors.
Always signal well in advance.
Never stop suddenly. Slow down gradually.
Avoid driving too slowly. Go with the flow of traffic.

56
 Driving Situations

City Driving
City driving requires different skills than those used when
driving in the desert or on a highway. So keep the following in
mind:
Always watch for vehicles coming out of side streets.

If You Don't
Notice Drivers in
Parked Vehicles,
It Doesn't Mean
there
are None

Always watch for vehicle doors opening.

Be patient when driving in slow-moving traffic.
Always watch for pedestrians and children.
Always plan your trip ahead of time.
Do not concentrate on non-traffic related objects.

57
Expressway Driving
Most expressways provide acceleration and deceleration lanes.
These lanes allow drivers to adjust their speed to match the
flow of traffic. When exiting an expressway:
Signal your intention.
Move to the lane nearest the off-ramp. Backing up
on an
Pull into the exit before slowing Expressway
down. is
When entering an expressway: Suicidal
If the outer lane is clear, increase your
speed gradually.
Use your signal.
Watch for an opening in expressway traffic.
Yield the right-of-way.
Pick up your speed to match the flow of traffic.
Do not stop at the end of the acceleration lane unless
traffic is heavy.
Merge with traffic through the outer lane.
If you need to get in the inner lane, signal, view your
mirrors, look into the blind spot, then change lanes.

58
General Rules for Highway Driving
Always fasten your seat belt.
Plan your trip in advance so you will If You Cant
know where you want to get on and Reach
off. Your Exit
Go with the flow of traffic. Safely,
Drive on to
Do not follow vehicles too closely. the
Always leave yourself an out in case Next One
of an emergency.
Drive in the right lanes and pass on the left.
Use your rearview mirrors to check the traffic be-
hind you.
Pull over to the right shoulder to stop. Never stop on
the road.
Allow enough room when passing.
Never try to flag or stop traffic. If you do, you may
be hit by a passing vehicle.
Stay out of blind spots.
Constantly check your speed and fuel supply.
Be prepared for merging traffic.

59
Night Driving
At night your vision is reduced. The average range of your
headlights is limited to 150 meters. Because of this you must
reduce your speed to avoid an accident. There is also the
problem of the blinding glare. Dont look directly into
oncoming headlights. Look to the right side of the road.
Defensive drivers use the low beam to avoid blinding other
drivers.
Always dim your headlights:
When an oncoming vehicle comes within 150 meters.
When you are 90 meters behind a vehicle.

Use High Beam Only When Driving in Open Areas

Without Other Cars Near

Always Use Low Beam When Approaching Other Cars

so as Not to Blind the Driver

Always:
Turn your headlights on half an hour
Slow Down
before sunset.
at Night
Use your lights until half an hour
after sunrise.
Apply the four second rule to ensure stopping
capability within the lighted span.

60
Safety Tips for Night Driving
When you begin to feel tired or sleepy, park on the side
of the road to rest.
Keep your eyes moving to avoid dangerous fixed stare.
Never wear sunglasses at night.
Use your headlights, not your parking lights.
Use your high beam only when you are driving outside
cities and there are no oncoming vehicles or vehicles
ahead of you.
Even with your high beam on, drive slower than you
would during the day.
If an oncoming driver has high beams on, take these actions to
avoid being blinded by the glare of those headlights:
If the car is far enough away, flick your high beams on
briefly to remind the oncoming driver to dim his lights.
If the oncoming driver continues to use high-beam
lights, slow down and glance at the right edge of the
road as a guide for your lane position.
Glance ahead frequently to check the position of
oncoming traffic. Do not look directly at the bright
headlights.

61
Desert Driving
Desert driving is extremely dangerous. The smallest mistake
can lead to disaster. You must know preparation procedures
and safety guidelines. Inexperienced drivers should know of
the dangers before leaving and take necessary precautions.
Remember: safety is a personal responsibility.

Vehicle Checklist
When driving in the desert use a four-wheel drive. Never drive
alone. Always travel with two or more vehicles.
Preparation for desert driving requires a thorough vehicle
check:
Fuel: Make sure you have enough fuel to reach and return
from your destination. Carry extra fuel in a vapor-tight metal
can. Never fill it completely. Leave room for the fuel to
expand. Ensure that vehicles have extra fuel tanks.
Sand Tires: Check for cuts and wear. Check for proper
inflation. Before driving in soft sand, lower the pressure
12 to 16 psi. Always use a pressure gauge.
Oil: Check the oil level; check for oil leaks (filter, gaskets,
oil pan, etc.).
Cooling System: Check the radiator water
level. Make sure the cap is tight. Check for A Mistake
leaks in the radiator, hoses, and engine in the
block. Also check that the fan belts are tight Desert
and not cracked. Can be
Electrical System: Check the following Fatal
items: battery electrolyte level, battery
cables, lights, starter, horn, and dashboard
gauges. Make sure the engine runs smoothly.
Undercarriage: Inspect for broken springs or loose parts.

62
Supply Checklist
After inspecting the vehicle, run through a checklist of
supplies. The amount of supplies you will need is determined
by the length of your trip. Following is a partial list:
Compass for map reading, GPS, or cell phone if available.
Map or a guide.
Water (five gallons or 30 liters in summer, and 15 liters in
winter per day, per person, with a minimum of a three-day
extra supply per person for emergencies).
Food (canned or dried, not fresh; omit salty food items).
Can opener, salt, plastic or glass container for drinking.
First-aid kit with appropriate medicines.
Pressure bandages, antiseptic lotion, and other suitable
medicines.
Iodine or bleach to disinfect water (five drops of iodine for
each quart of clear water, 10 drops for dirty water, and let
is stand for 30 minutes; 10 drops of bleach for each quart
of clear water, 20 drops for dirty water, and let it stand for
30 minutes).
Two spare tires.
Lug wrench for changing
tires. Driving in the Desert?
Dont Forget Your Compass
Hydraulic and bumper and Map
jacks.
Air and fuel pumps.
Low-pressure tire gauge.
Fan belt, radiator hoses, and band clamps.
Tool box containing basic tools.
Electrical wire and jumper cables.
Water pump, carburetor, distributor (including breaker
points) for older vehicles.

63
 Condenser.
Spark plugs and wrench.
Hose 1/4 x 8 meters long.
Hand pump for blowing out gas lines.
Friction tape to repair hose leaks.
A Trip to the Desert
CO2 fire extinguisher.
Begins By Signing Out
Shovel. at the Main Gate
Sand grates (two minimum).
Nylon tow rope 20-meter x 1 diameter shackles.
One liter of engine oil.
Wooden blocks (to put under vehicle frame and on sand to
jack it out of a hole in the sand).
Sunglasses, hat or helmet, tie ropes or twine.
Signal flares.
Cotton shirt (long-sleeved) and trousers.
Comfortable shoes.
Sleeping bag for overnight travel.
Large-mouthed containers (four plastic buckets).
Clothespins (wooden).
Tarpaulin for protection from the sun (bright color).
Four large plastic sheets and 1/4 nylon hose, 2 meters long.

Driving on Desert driving increases

deflated tires in fuel consumption by 64%
sand will shorten compared with
their life service. on-road driving.

Loading the vehicle top

will increase the possibility
to over turn it.

64
 0 cm

0 in
1

0.5
2

1
3

1.5
4
5

2
6

2.5
0 30
33
0
30

60
0
24

12
0

0 15
21 0
4
10

TOKYO COMPASS JAPAN

Do Not Drive in the Desert

Without a Compass

65
 Navigation
How to Use a Map-Reading Compass for
Navigation
A map-reading compass has a special function for using it
with a map. It provides higher accuracy than a conventional
pocket, wrist, or dashboard compass.

Figure 1

General Knowledge for Using a Compass

Geographical North (Map North), Magnetic North and
Variation (Declination)
Ordinarily we use the words "north," "south," etc.,
unconcernedly. However, we must realize there are two kinds
of north; i.e., geographical north and magnetic north.
Geographical north is established geographically. The circles
of longitude of a map are drawn in correlation to the
geographical poles, and the lines show the direction of the
geographical north. The direction of these lines is different
from the direction the magnetic needle points to. On an
ordinary map, up is the direction of geographical north and

66
down is geographical south. The right and left sides of the
map are east and west, respectively. The magnetic poles are
close to the geographical poles, but are not coincidental. The
angle between the straight lines pointing from the place of
observation to the geographical poles and magnetic North Pole
is called variation or declination of the place. The variation
differs from place to place in the world.
The lines of equal variation are very
irregular; however, an area
topographical map gives the local
variation. (Refer to Figure 2)
To get the geographically correct
degree of a direction, you must either
subtract or add the local variation,
depending on which side of the zero
declination line you are on. To obtain
a true map bearing, read the bearing
on your compass. If the local
Figure 2
variation is western, subtract the
variation from the reading; if it is
eastern, add it to the reading. However, it is more practical for
you to use the bearing you get when you set the magnetic
north as 0.

67
How to Use a Map Reading Compass
How to Maintain the Direction of an Object
Suppose you can see an object like a communication pole. If
you can see the pole while you are walking, there is no problem.
However, on the way to the pole you may have to go through
wadis or high hills where you cannot see the pole. In such
cases, you may lose the direction of the pole and need your
compass to find it.
1. Before you start walking, hold your compass as level as
possible and point the arrow on the scale to the direction of
the pole.
2. Turn the rotating ring and put N (0) in the direction of the
N end (the luminous end) of the magnetic needle.
3. Read the bearing at the index line. This is the bearing of the
pole. Keep this bearing until you reach a place from where
you can clearly see the pole again.
For instance, in Figure 3 the
direction of the object is
320. (To express it exactly,
you must adjust the local
variations as explained.
However, as long as you
understand the meaning of
0
32

variation, you can say the

direction of the object is
320 from magnetic north.)

Figure 3

68
How to Reach the Destination Shown on
a Map
Find your present location, the direction of the destination, and
magnetic north.
1. First, spread the map and draw directional lines of mag-
netic north according to the variation given on the map. For
drawing lines, use the sides of the compass or a ruler. If the
variation of the place is 5 western, subtract 5 from 360
and set the bearing graduation 355 to the index line. Then
make the arrows in the compass capsule parallel to the north-
south line of the map (longitude
line or up-down frame lines of
the map) without moving the ro-
tating ring, and draw a line as
shown in Figure 4.
2. Find your present location
and your destination on the
map and draw a straight line
between these two places.
Place your compass on the
line so the index line (arrow
mark) points to the
destination.
3. Then, turn the rotating ring
Figure 4
and make the arrows in the
compass capsule parallel to
Draw several lines parallel to
the first magnetic north line you
the magnetic north lines you
drew. drew in step 1. (At this stage
you do not have to mind the
position of the magnetic
needle.)
Next, hold your compass and turn yourself slowly until the
north end (the luminous end) of the magnetic needle is
parallel to the arrows in the compass capsule.

69
 Figure 5

Now proceed in the direction the arrow of the travel line points.
Keep the magnetic needle parallel to the arrows of the compass
capsule. Go in this direction until you reach the destination.
When you arrive at the first destination, repeat the same
procedure. Repeat the procedure until you reach your final
destination.
While you are proceeding toward the destination, you have to
make sure of the direction by looking at your compass. Go as
straight as possible. If the deviation to the right or left of the
correct course is large, the error at your goal becomes even
larger.

70
Finding your Location on the Map
Locate yourself on a high point from where any two distinctive
features of the landscape are visible. The two distinctive
features must be shown on the map.
Suppose you can see mountain A on the left and
communication pole B on the right side.
Point the index line (arrow) toward mountain A. Then, turn
the rotating ring and set "N" of the dial to the north end of the
compass needle. Place the compass on the map and adjust the
map so that the magnetic north line on the map becomes
parallel to the magnetic needle and the NS lines in the compass
capsule. Keeping that state, slide the compass on the map until
one side of the scale points to the mountain A on the map.
Then, draw a line as shown in Figure 6.

Plan Your Trip Carefully

so You do Not Get Lost in
the Desert

Figure 6

71
Then, turn towards communication pole B and repeat the same
procedure. The point of intersection of these two straight lines
is your present location on the map (Figure 7).

Figure 7

Mirages or Shamals may Flashlights or Flares are

Hide Important Handy to Signal with
Geographical Features at Night

72
 Car Breakdown and Other
Emergencies
If your car breaks down or is stuck in sand or subkha, stay
close by it. It is a large object that can be easily located by
search teams.
Signalling to Rescuers
Some of the signals used to attract the attention of rescuers
are:
Lighting a fire by using a mixture of engine oil and 20%
gasoline.
Burning a tire or bushes.
Using the internal rearview mirror of the car to signal to
aircraft, other distant motorists, or beduins.
Spreading the colored (bright) tarpaulin 2 meters from the
car.
Make sure the airplane pilot sees you before you start sig-
nalling the following:

Ground-To-Air Signal Code

73
Before Leaving the Road
Before leaving the road and driving into the desert, always
establish your location. Look for landmarks (such as jebels or
pipelines). Mark them down on your map or in a notebook as
you pass them. Also note the sun and wind direction. The desert
wind usually blows from the north. Always check weather
conditions before beginning your trip. Never travel in windy
or wet weather. Never drive off-road at night. This is the
quickest way to get lost or have an accident.
Never Drive
When stuck in the sand: Off-Road
Engage second gear low range at Night
before leaving the road.
Take everybody out of the vehicle if your vehicle gets
stuck in sand, and make them push.
Have the driver (the lightest person) apply power slowly.
Be careful not to spin the wheels.
Determine which direction has firmer ground (forward
or backward).
If the vehicle remains stuck:
Lower tire pressure to 15 psi. (Use automatic tire
deflators.)
Dig sand away from front, back, and sides of tires (dont
dig too deep).
Stuff material (bushes, boards, or sand mat) under
the wheels in the direction you will go.
Lighten the load by removing cargo.
It is always preferred to back up if the sand is softer
ahead.
Another method, if you are travelling with a second vehicle,
is to use a tow line. Be careful the second vehicle doesnt
travel too closely. You dont want it to get stuck too!

74
When Lost in the Desert
The first thing you should do is park on high ground. Dont
continue driving. Dont panic. Do not abandon the vehicle
and walk away. Vehicles are easier to spot in the desert than a
walking person. Soak the spare tire in kerosene and light it.
(Dont use gasoline only; mix it with oil because gasoline is
dangerous.) The black smoke will alert the search team of
your location.
Drink plenty of water and rest in the shade. Remain fully
clothed to minimize sweating. If you are stuck overnight, make
water traps to collect extra drinking water (four traps per
person).
Making a Water Trap Lost in the Desert?
Dig a hole 12 to 18 inches deep. Dont Walk Away
from Your Vehicle
Place a wide-mouthed recep-
tacle in the hole.
Stretch a plastic sheet across the hole, staking it down
with rocks or sand. Make sure it is taut.
Place a small rock over the receptacle to create a slight
sag in the plastic sheet.
Place one end of a hose in the bottom of the bucket.
Fasten it to the bucket side with a clothes-pin. Keep the
other end of the hose closed to prevent entry of dust and
insects.
During the night, condensation will create drops of water that
fall in the receptacle. Make several water traps.

75
Checking Before Leaving and After Returning
Before beginning a desert trip, all Saudi Aramco employees
must notify their supervisor(s) of their destination, their
estimated time of arrival and return.
For work trips you must sign out in the Industrial Security log
at the nearest main gate. Sign in the same log upon returning.
For recreational trips, inform the main gate and a good friend.
Provide both with a map of where you intend to go and the
time you expect to return.
When you leave the desert and return to the road:
Disengage the front-wheel drive.
Remove the automatic deflators, if any.
Reinflate the tires to the designated psi.
Report to the main gate.
Notify your supervisor and friends.
Fill out designated Saudi Aramco forms if vehicular
damages occurred.
Take the vehicle to the repair shop and use a replacement
vehicle temporarily.

Never Drink
Water
from a
Radiator:
Coolant is
Poisonous

76
Emergencies
An emergency situation can occur at any time. As a defensive
driver, you must know what to do in an emergency.
Accelerator Sticks
Concentrate on your steering. Slap the pedal with your foot.
If it remains stuck, shift to neutral and turn off the engine.
Pull off the road and brake to a stop.
Brakes Fail
Pump the pedal several times to see if the pressure builds up.
If it doesnt, coast in gear and use the parking brake. Shift
into a lower gear. If you are on a hill, look for something
to sideswipe, like a guardrail. Honk your horn to warn
pedestrians and other vehicles.
Wet Brakes
After driving through deep water, test the brakes lightly. If
they are wet, they will pull to one side or not work at all.
Drive slowly in low gear.
Apply your brakes lightly to
If Your Tire Blows Out,
dry them.
Dont Brake
Tire Blowout Decelerate Gradually
If your tire blows out, keep a
firm grip on the steering wheel. Dont brake! Concentrate on
steering. Slow down gradually and pull off the road.
Wheels Go Off the Pavement
Take your foot off the gas pedal. Hold the steering wheel
firmly. Apply the brakes softly. Wait until there is no traffic,
then turn both front wheels onto the pavement slowly.
Skidding
Skidding occurs when the tires lose their grip on the road.
When your vehicle skids, turn the steering wheel in the
direction of the skid. Do not apply the brake or clutch pedal.
Reduce speed gradually.

77
 Rollovers
Rollovers may occur when vehicles are forced off the road
into the sand. The vehicle rolls over when the driver tries to
drive back onto the road without slowing down. If you find
yourself off the road, take your foot off the accelerator. Let the
vehicle coast. Do not brake! Steer straight.
Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning occurs when water builds up on the tires. The
vehicle is lifted off the road on a film of water. The driver
does not have complete control of the vehicle. Drive slowly
in heavy rain to avoid hydroplaning.

Steer Clear of Accidents:

Learn What to do in an
Emergency

At low speeds, a tire cuts

through water at tire-road
juncture, and remains in
complete contact
with the road.

At speeds above 50 kph, a

water wedge may penetrate
tire-road contact and
partial hydroplaning
occurs.

At speeds above 90 kph, a

water wedge may increase
and the tire loses complete
contact with the road,
causing total
hydroplaning.

78
 Vehicle Approaching in Your Lane
Steer to the right side of the road. Give the entire lane to the
oncoming car. Sound your horn and flash your headlights. If
you cannot leave your lane, brake sharply. This will lessen the
impact if there is a collision.

Fire
If your vehicle catches fire, there is probably a short circuit.
Try to extinguish the fire with your fire extinguisher. Use a
jack handle or other tool to rip out burning wires. If you dont
have a tool, try to smother the fire with sand or a blanket.
If the fire gets out of control, get away from the vehicle quickly.
The gas tank may explode. Use good judgment. Personal
safety comes first.

79
 Emergency Communication
If your vehicle breaks down, use the emergency flashing lights
to signal other drivers. Emergency flashing lights tell other
drivers that you can't move, or if you can, you are moving
very slowly.
It is not safe to open the hood or trunk cover. Instead, turn on
your four-way or emergency flashers.
In fog or heavy rain, if visibility is so poor that driving is
dangerous, pull off the road and park. Turn on your four-way
flashers to warn others that your vehicle is not moving.
When you think a tire is punctured, or the dashboard indicators
signal engine failure, turn on your four-way flashers, reduce
your speed gradually, and firmly move out of traffic toward
the right shoulder of the road. Keep the flashers on after placing
the warning triangles.

80
Parking
A vehicle doesnt have to be moving to cause an accident.
Improperly parked vehicles can cause accidents and even
death. When parking, do the following:
Bring your vehicle to a
complete stop.
Set the parking brake. A Vehicle Doesnt Have
to be Moving to
Turn your wheels toward the
Cause an Accident
sidewalk shoulder if you are
parking downhill, and away
from it if you are parking uphill.
Switch off the ignition.
Shift into park (automatic transmission) or first gear or
reverse (manual transmission).
Remove your keys.
Lock the doors.
Emergency Parking
In addition to following the above steps during an emergency
parking situation, you must do the following:
On two-way roads:
Move your vehicle at least 2 meters away from the road.
Place one warning triangle 50 meters in front of the
vehicle.
Place another warning triangle 100 meters behind the
vehicle.
On multi-lane roads:
Place two warning triangles behind the vehicle: one at
10 meters, and another at 100 meters.
Dont forget to retrieve the rear triangles on the road
before moving your vehicle.

81
Parallel Parking
Contrary to what some people think, parallel parking is easy.
Practice the following steps.

Stop even with the vehicle ahead (about 60 cm away).

Turn the wheels sharply to the right and back slowly

toward the vehicle behind.

Never Leave Your Vehicle

Without Setting the
Parking Brake

82
 When your front door passes the back bumper of the
vehicle ahead, straighten the wheels and continue straight
back.

When clear of the vehicle ahead, turn the wheels sharply

to the left and back up slowly.

Turn the wheels sharply to the right and pull toward the
curb.

83
Never Park:
Next to any vehicle parked along a curb. (double park)
On a sidewalk.
In an intersection.
Where you obstruct traffic or entrances of garages.
On a bridge or overpass.
In a tunnel.
On railroad tracks.
Where signs prohibit parking.
Within 5 meters of a fire hydrant.
Within 6 meters of a fire station driveway.
Within 10 meters of a stop sign.
Near street excavation.
On highways. Move your vehicle off the road.

Sidewalks It is Against the Law

are for to Double Park
Pedestrians, Not
Vehicles: Dont
Park on
Sidewalks

84
 Adverse Driving Conditions
Most accidents are caused by driver error. This is particularly
true when driving under adverse conditions. But even under
the most adverse conditions (rain, fog, shamal, etc.), it is
possible to drive safely.

Driver Condition
The most important factors affecting safe driving are the
physical, mental, and emotional condition of the driver. An
alert and physically fit driver is able to respond to any situation.
Never drive when you are tired or sleepy. If you are sleepy,
pull off the side of the road and rest.
Never drive when you are taking prescription drugs that cause
drowsiness. Read instructions regarding possible side effects.

85
Always take into consideration any physical impairments you
may have. These include old age, poor vision, and disease. If
you suffer from a physical impairment, consult your physician
before driving.

Vehicle Condition
The condition of your vehicle affects your ability to control
it. It also affects your ability to see other drivers and
pedestrians. Like the driver, the vehicle should be in excellent
condition. When your vehicle has a mechanical defect, take it
to a mechanic immediately.
Never drive a vehicle that has faulty brakes.
Never drive in the rain or fog if your windshield wipers are
not working properly.
Never drive if you have a defective muffler. It could cause
your vehicle to fill with carbon monoxide, which will kill you.
Make sure your tires are properly inflated and not worn.
Defective tires cause skidding and blowouts.

The
Condition
of Your
Vehicle
Affects Your
Ability to
Control it

86
Make sure your turn signal and headlights work properly. They
affect both your vision and your ability to signal other drivers
of your intentions.
Make sure your horn works. In an emergency situation, you
may need to sound a warning.
Make sure the seat belts are in good condition. The
defensive driver always fastens seat belts and enforces their
use.
Dont Become Another Statistic:
Keep Your Vehicle in Excellent
Condition

Road Condition
The condition of the road affects your ability to steer the
vehicle. It also affects your ability to stop. Poor weather is the
biggest factor affecting road condition.
The defensive driver always adjusts his speed to the road
surface condition. When the road surface is wet and slippery,
decrease your speed. Posted speed limits are for ideal
conditions only.
Watch out for potholes and dips in the road surface. If you hit
a pothole or dip too hard, you could misalign your front wheels
or even lose control of your vehicle.
Speed must be reduced when roads are:
Curved (bends, detours, and cloverleaf interchanges).
Undergoing maintenence or repair.
Uneven, rocky, or sandy.
About to become narrow.
Intersecting with railroads or bridges.
Fitted with speed bumps or rumble strips.

87
Traffic Condition
Traffic condition is determined by the number of other drivers
on the road. It is also determined by the number of pedestrians.
The amount of traffic depends on the time of day and the day
of the week. Traffic is heavier during the morning and
afternoon when people are going to and coming from work.
When possible, avoid rush traffic. Remember: the more traffic,
the greater the risk of an accident.
If you are unable to avoid driving during rush traffic, plan
your route to avoid heavily congested streets (feeders).
When in heavy traffic, go with the flow. This means
conforming to the pace of the traffic around you. If you drive
faster or slower than the
vehicles around you, you cause The Defensive Driver
additional passing. Additional Avoids Rush Traffic
passing increases the chance of
an accident.

STO
P

P
STO

In Heavy Traffic Go with the Flow

88
Light Condition
The light condition affects your ability to see and be seen.
Night driving is particularly dangerous. See Night Driving on
page 60 for safe-driving techniques for nighttime driving.
When driving in too much light, such as driving directly in
the morning sun, wear sunglasses or use your sun visor.

Also remember that when you have difficulty seeing other

drivers, they have difficulty seeing you. So take extra
precautions. Take care so others can see you. Switch your
headlights on at dusk and at dawn.

Always
Reduce
Your Speed
at Night

89
Weather Condition
Bad weather includes rain, fog, and sandstorms. When your
vision is reduced to 300 meters or less during the daytime
because of bad weather, you should turn on your low-beam
headlights.

Slow Down in Bad Weather

When the weather is very bad, it is best not to drive at all. If
you must drive, reduce your speed. Always be prepared to
make an emergency stop. Always watch for red taillights.
Do not drive with your flashers on. Turn your low-beam lights
on in fog. If you are on the road and the weather gets worse,
pull over and wait.

Never Drive
Faster Than is
Safe Under
Existing
Conditions

90
 Saudi Aramco Policy

Reporting an Accident
If you are involved in, or become aware of, a traffic accident,
contact the nearest main gate. Use the telephone numbers listed
below. If you do not have access to a telephone, send someone
in person to the main gate.

Dhahran 874-2055
Abqaiq 572-5291
Ras Tanura 673-5231
Safaniya 378-3301
Udhailiyah 577-8212
Yanbu 321-4500
AbuAli 678-2228
Berri 678-7226 Dial 110
Juaymah 678-9227 for
Mubarraz 577-2344 Emergency Service

Tanajib 378-3274
Riyadh 285-1812, 1816
Jiddah 427-5555

Do not leave the scene of the accident. If you must take

someone to the hospital, return as soon as possible. Also, do
not move your vehicle until you have been told to do so by the
investigating traffic officer.
Cooperate with the investigating officer. He is there to help
you.

91
G.I. 6.030
Loss Prevention General Instruction 6.030, states that all Saudi
Aramco licensed driver employees and contractor employees
assigned to drive company vehicles must satisfactorily
complete the Driver Improvement Program. Unassigned Saudi
Aramco drivers are also included. Following is a brief
summary of important points:
1. Requirements to Drive a Company Vehicle:
Hold a valid drivers license recognized by the
Government.
Complete DIP.
Take supervisors road test.
Off-road vehicles and heavy trucks drivers must pass
the related *T&CD tests.
Authorized drivers should take a **DIRS every three
years.
2. Motor Vehicle Accidents resulting in damage to Company
vehicles must be reported on Saudi Aramco form 1193,
according to G.I. 6.029.
3. Criteria Determining Safe-Driving Incentives:
Number of kilometers driven (refer to G.I. 50.007).
Number of days driven without MVA/violations.
Criteria of employees department.
4. Citations for Unsafe Driving Practice:
Industrial Security is responsible for issuing citations for
traffic violations using SA-2412 "Notice For
Unauthorized Parking and Unsafe Driving Practice"
Department head takes corrective action.
A copy is kept in the employees file.
Note: Whether employees are assigned to drive Saudi Aramco vehicles
or not, must complete DIP and take DIRS
*T&CD
**Driver Improvement Program Refresher Seminar

92
5. Penalty points will be issued to the drivers involved in the
infraction. Penalty point categories are listed below. Pen-
alty points assigned should reflect such factors as whether
an *MVA or violation involved personal injury, damage to
property, or repeated infractions.

I. Motor Vehicle Accidents

1. Preventable MVAs:
Vehicle a total loss 14
$1,000 or more damage 9
Less than $1,000 damage 4
2. Reckless driving which results in injury 14
3. Non-preventable or non-recordable MVAs 0

II. Moving Traffic Violations

1. Reckless driving (combination of moving
violations) 10
2. Speeding: Exceeding speed limit by
10 kph or less 3
10 to 20 kph 6
21 to 30 kph 8
Over 30 kph 10
3. Driving on the wrong side of a divided roadway 10
4. Passing in a "No Passing" zone 6
5. Failure to obey a traffic signal or stop sign 8
6. Not using seat belts (drivers or passengers) 8
7. More than 3 people in front seat 5
8. Passengers in back of open pickup truck 4
* Motor Vehicle Accident

93
III. Parking Offenses
1. Parking in an emergency route or emergency
vehicle space 4
2. Parking in a posted Handicapped Parking area 4
3. Parking on the wrong side of the street (against
the traffic flow) 3
4. Parking in a posted "No Parking" zone 2
5. Parking in a posted "Reserved" area 1

Multiple Driving
Violations is a
Could Lead Privilege,
to the Not a
End of Your Right
Driving
Privilege

94
Notes
Notes
Notes
Notes
 WARNING REGULATORY INFORMATION SIGNS TRAFFIC SIGNALS PAVEMENT MARKINGS PEDESTRIAN SIGNALS
b b W J l U I d  d UA* u d l UI vK dO WIDM v  O z o d l U I uu uD  U ( d  u M 2 5 L O K  U & uM 2 t d K  b v B  b b % tID M W U N 5 L O  e  U p  U  d * t O KC  U N t O K C  t I d r F D c d d C U O F D  U  u M 2 d * b b % j n
t u b 5U& vd  l tMOF U UU r K r K  t d  U  O  5 L O K d *

P
RAILROAD SIDE ROAD PARKING/STOPPING MAXIMUM MANDATORY ROAD WITH LANE
CROSSING DRAW PEDESTRIAN CROSSROADS TWO-WAY CROSSES THE MAIN NO BUSES NO RIGHT END 60-KM SPEED PASS THIS END OF THE RESTAURANT GO CAUTIOUSLY OVERTAKING IS
CROSSING ZONE TIME-RESTRICTED SPEED LIMIT PRIORITY DETERMINATION STOP
WITHOUT GATES BRIDGE TRAFFIC ROAD PERMITTED TURN LIMIT ZONE SIDE MOVEMENT RIGHT OF WAY PROHIBITED
60 KPH LINE

b b W J l U I t u K t O z U d N  dD l H d  5LOK nDFM s oOC odD d b   U & v  u  u  uM 2 U M U A  d  u M 2 U U& u M 2 t u L v B  U  u M 2 W U N U  O  e  d b   U & bu U &  e d  tK  U n  u  n  d L U U `L  d Q o d D  UI  dE d L

t u 5 L O  U  l O L s v d

P
RAILROAD ROAD BENDS PARKING/STOPPING END OF ROTARY TRAFFIC SERVICE SIDEROAD WAIT
ELECTRICAL UPHILL INCLINE RIGHT LANE APPROCHING NO TRUCKS NO LEFT OVERTAKING PASS THIS UNIFIED DIRECTION OVERTAKING
CROSSING WITH TO THE RIGHT PROHIBITED 10-TON LIMIT SIDE (ROUND ABOUT) STATION BUS STOP STOP INTERSECTION (ON RED)
WIRES (8:1 RATIO) ENDS MERGE LEFT TRAFFIC CIRCLE PERMITTED TURN PROHIBITION OF TRAVEL IS ALLOWED
GATE AHEAD

d z U j N  t D  U   u   dD b M  U  O K nD F M  s oOC odD d* WOKC j U E u M 2 U d * d u M 2 n K  K b  uM 2 uLK tuL vB U & u M 2 t U N v U b v K d O   t U t d v vK d* tOKC p U d  W D  h B  o d u  u K bF d H U O  K  U  U ` L d Q o d D  U I  QON lDI dC
5 U' uD I * s b u  U M U A  odD tK UI * UO   j I  U O  K s 1_ d  * v  v O z uFK

DOWNHILL NO TANDEM END OF OVERTAKING OVERTAKING MAINROAD PREPARE TO CROSS

FALLING ROAD BENDS ROAD YIELD THE NO WAITING NO 3-TON LIMIT BY TRUCKS PASS EITHER COMPULSORY PRIORITY PETROL STATION THIS ROAD IS PREPARE TO
AIR STRIP INCLINE TO THE LEFT NARROWS PERMITTED TRUCKS U-TURN SIDE MINIMUM AHEAD FOR CARS ONLY IS ALLOWED INTERSECTION (ON FLASHING
ROCKS RIGHT OF WAY PERMITTED EACH AXLE PROHIBITION IS YOURS STOP FROM RIGHT AHEAD
(7:1 RATIO) GREEN)

UN  d D UO M M e * o d D  W U N n U E u u  u M 2 u D I * d  uM 2 UOK tOKC d  \ U H v K b b % tID M t UN U  O K  U U & t d v t U N cU dO od U F e d  n U b l D I  dH  UO  K  U U `L  U b M u  u  j c d dC

c u   d O o d 5LOK  tU
d  t U I t d  t d  d  d  * v tOz u {
b b WJ   j s t U * d R 

DIVIDED NO STOPPING/ VERTICAL RESTRICTED MANDATORY END COMPULSORY FIRST AID OVERTAKING CROSS
CAUTION UNEVEN DANGEROUS BENDS HIGHWAY STOP NO TRAILERS PRIORITY FOR CLEARANCE THIS SIDE ROAD TELEPHONE FLASHING STOP LINE AT
RIGHT - LEFT WAITING SPEED LIMIT ENDS MOVEMENT MINIMUM SPEED STATION IS ALLOWED CAUTIOUSLY
150 METERS ROAD ENDS PERMITED INCOMING TRAFFIC 5.5 METERS IS CLOSED AHEAD YELLOW (YIELD) TRAFFIC SIGNAL
PERMITTED FROM LEFT (ON GREEN)

UuOK dF o  od UN  d D UO M M  5LO s vd od u b  uM 2 v  U E uM 2 U O  K  U  u M 2 t M * U L F uM 2 v? UO d uM2 5 L O K  b U & 5LOK U U& UA L K  U o d cU dO od vH A   WM b * b n  l DI  d L o d D n B M  j U bM u  u  j U  uM 2
d  U O K  t d H  U d s UN{d be n

ONE WAY
H Ud
RAILROAD TRACKS AHEAD

100 METERS RIGHT ENTRY OVERTAKING HORIZONTAL ONE WAY MANDATORY FLASHING
ANIMAL DANGEROUS BENDS ENTERING NO WAITING DO NOT PEDESTRIANS THIS SIDE ROAD HOSPITAL CITY LIMITS CENTER STOP LINE OVERTAKING IS
CROSSING SLIPPERY ROAD LEFT - RIGHT PROHIBITED FOR PROHIBITTED SOUND HORN CLEARANCE RIGHT MOVEMENT PERMITTED
TRAFFIC ON ODD DAYS 2-METERS IS CLOSED RED (STOP) OF ROAD LINE AT "STOP" SIGN PROHIBITED
ALL VEHICLES

d  d  U p  U d D U O M M  t K  K U O  s v d  od UO d uM2 v  U E uM 2 U  u M 2 5 U O 5 t U   q  U u O ( d  uM 2 U O K  b U & U  O K  U U & U d O U & v  o d U O n u  U& U U& W  t d c % uD o d p  U n  v M M od D 

o d D  U U L t O e  U U M U AK 
tOz u { d  tOK C
;
;

50 METERS
TRAFFIC SIGNALS WINDING LEFT ENTERING NO CARS NO WAITING NO TRUCKS 50-METERS DO NOT
ONE WAY

ONE WAY MANDATORY MANDATORY INTERNATIONAL

P Ub dNE
d)

WARNING STOP, ROAD WITH BENDING

ROADWORK BETWEEN PASS FARM PARKING DIRECTION SIGNS DIRECTION SIGNS
AHEAD ROAD TRAFFIC PERMITTED ON EVEN DAYS PASSING AHEAD ANIMALS LEFT MOVEMENT MOVEMENT HIGHWAY LINES YIELD IS AHEAD OF THE ROAD
VEHICLES