Espectro de diseño recomendado por el FEMA 450

Drivers MUST ensure that head lights, tail lights, side lights and clearance lights are switched on when driving between sunset and sunrise.

The use of lights at other times, such as during the day, or in fog, makes it easier for a heavy vehicle to be seen by other drivers.

ACT legislation requires a vehicle to be fitted with at least two red reflectors (one on either side) at the rear. Red reflectors must not be fitted to the front of a vehicle, however white ones are permitted at the front.

Points for night driving:

• When using high beam, drivers are required to dip their headlights for oncoming vehicles as early as possible and certainly at a distance of not less than 200 metres.

• Blinding another driver with headlights on high beam is illegal. It is also inconsiderate and dangerous.

• Drivers should always be on the alert for pedestrians and cyclists.

• When approaching oncoming vehicles, drivers should avoid looking directly into their headlights. If the oncoming vehicle’s headlights remain on high beam, drivers should look to the left hand edge of the roadway to avoid the glare, and if dazzled, slow down or pull over until their eyes recover.

• Drivers should always dip their headlights when following another vehicle. A following vehicle’s headlights should not shine into the vehicle ahead.

• Drivers should watch the road for animals which may be dazzled by a vehicle’s headlights. If an animal is dazzled, drivers should brake carefully and sound the horn.

Speed should be kept down to allow time to react. Drivers must always be able to stop within the distance they can see with their headlights, particularly on rural and/or unlit roads where they need to be prepared for the unexpected.

SAFETY TIP: Drivers will see better in fog if the headlights are dipped. High beam should not be used, as the light will be reflected back at the driver.

Fog Lights

Some modern vehicles, especially imported vehicles are fitted with fog lights as standard fitting from the factory. Should your vehicle be equipped with fog lights, be aware of how and when to use them.

Front fog lights - must only be used when driving in fog or other hazardous weather conditions causing reduced visibility. In severe conditions, it can be beneficial to drive with only the park lights and fog lights switched on, further reducing headlight glare.

Rear fog lights (Red) - must only be used when driving in fog or other hazardous weather conditions causing reduced visibility. Rear fog lights should be switched off as driving conditions and visibility improve.

Winter and Wet Weather Driving

It is essential that drivers ensure their vehicles are in good condition for cold weather motoring. Lights, brakes, tyres, windscreen wipers, steering, radiator and battery must be checked regularly.

The following tips and information should also be considered when driving during inclement weather:

• Anti-freeze in the radiator is helpful and recommended in the ACT;

• Do NOT drive with dirty or fogged up windows;

• Drivers should try their brakes cautiously to test a vehicle’s braking ability if the road is wet or icy;

• Brakes should be applied gently when stopping, as harsh braking may cause the vehicle to skid;

• Brakes should always be tested after driving through water; and

• Drivers should watch out for icy patches which often occur on the road in areas shaded by trees, on timber bridges or on exposed windy stretches.

Snow Conditions

• Drivers should always carry adequate warm and protective clothing to enable comfort, even survival, in the event of a breakdown or delay.

• The tread on all tyres including the spare should be checked before beginning a journey.

• Anti-freeze should be used in the radiator.

• A tool kit (including a jack and wheel brace), a strong tow rope and a shovel should be carried in the vehicle.

• It is mandatory for snow chains to be carried in certain areas of the Snowy Mountains (Kosciusko National Park).

• Drivers should find a safe place to fit snow chains to their vehicle. The middle of the road is not a safe place.

When travelling on snow covered or icy surfaced roads, drivers should always use smooth steering and braking.

Sudden or jerky movements can cause the tyres to lose their grip, and the vehicle to slide, possibly off the road.

Steep Hills and Descents

• When driving down a steep hill, drivers should reduce speed and engage a suitable low gear BEFORE starting the descent.

• The brakes should be used as little as possible.

If a driver must brake, he or she should do so on a straight stretch of road, using smooth controlled braking so as not to dislodge the load.

• When following another vehicle down a hill, a driver should allow at least four times the following distance that would be used under normal conditions (i.e. an 8 second rule).

• When loaded or towing a trailer, drivers should note the following points:

• Slow down well in advance of corners and accelerate lightly through them.

• Do not brake through corners.

• Be careful when descending hills or overtaking as a vehicle’s braking performance will be greatly reduced.

SAFETY TIP: It is essential that loads are carefully secured. Avoidable injuries and deaths have been caused in the ACT by poorly secured loads.

Unsealed Roads

When driving on loose surfaces drivers should:

• reduce speed;

• reduce speed further when approaching another

vehicle - loose stones thrown up by another vehicle’s tyres can shatter a windscreen;

• not brake or accelerate harshly;

• not allow his or her vehicle to drift out in corners. There is usually a build up of loose dirt and gravel on the outside of corners that may cause loss of traction and steering control;

• watch for corrugations and potholes in the road;

• when approaching railway crossings slow down, and have a good look to make sure that no train traffic is approaching. Look for any road signs and be prepared to stop if required.