Traffic and Transportation Terms You Should Know as a Driver

Not all drivers are aware (or even familiar) with certain traffic and driving terms. In America alone, the number of unaware drivers is almost overwhelming. Ideally, every licensed driver should have a working knowledge of driving terms and symbols on the road. The same is for the sake of general safety and convenience.

Are you guilty of having a very limited driving vocabulary? You should do something about that. For starters, AODD’s Online Traffic School prepared a few for you.

1. ABS (acronym).
   ABS or Antilock Braking System is a technology infused with modern cars that allows effective steering even in the midst of intensive braking.

2. BLIND SPOTS (n).
   These are areas that are not visible to the driver when seeing through rear and side mirrors. Normally, the driver will have to turn his back for a clearer view.

3. CONTROLLED INTERSECTIONS (n).
   Compared to open intersections, this type is regulated by signs and traffic signals. In entering this crossing, drivers must adhere the rules imposed (such as right-of-way rules).

4. INTERSTATE (n).
   This refers to long roads that usually connects a state to a neighboring one. It does not exist within cities, but outside or along boundaries. Interstates are usually stretched in several kilometers. Minimum speed limits are high encouraging drivers to drive faster than usual.

5. PASS (n).
   This occurs when you outspeed the vehicle that is in front of you. Before passing, it is ideal to signal the vehicle before you through light flickers or car horns. If the leading car speeds down, it is also a passive permission that the following car may pass.

6. PERPENDICULAR PARKING (n).
   A type of parking wherein cars are positioned perpendicularly against aisles. Lesser parking space is needed.

7. SKID MARKS (n).
   This refers to the marks made be vehicle tires when abrupt stops are made. Due to friction, dark discolorations are imprinted in the road. Usually, skid marks are used to determine the vehicle speed. Also, it is a tool utilized during investigations of vehicle accidents.

8. SWERVING (v).
   This is the act of quickly moving the vehicle to the left or right while moving. Swerving is resorted to when a driver is trying to avoid hitting other vehicles or solid establishments. In some jurisdictions, swerving on speed lanes is prohibited. Swerving is not appreciated because following vehicles are left with little or no time to decide where to turn.

9. TAILGATING (v).
   This is the act of another vehicle getting too close to the rear side of another vehicle. Tailgating is discouraged, especially on traffic-packed roads. Minor to major vehicular damages are prone to occur.

The enumerated jargons are not yet sufficient to establish a concrete grasp on driving vocabulary. To learn more, visit one of the most trusted Online Traffic Schools in San Juan Capistrano CA – AODD’s Online Traffic School. We offer driving classes for varied audiences. You can go through our programs and become a top quality driver soon!