1.1 Driver Training

Chapter One

Vehicle Dynamics

Introduction

The law enforcement driver must be proficient in the actual operation of the vehicle and knowledgeable

about the dynamic forces at work. Proper application of this information enhances the driving expertise

of the individual officer and will reduce the number of traffic collisions involving law enforcement

personnel.

Methods of Vehicle Control

A vehicle has three basic inputs or means of control:

• Steering
• Braking
• Throttle

Application of any or all of the control functions will have an effect on the distribution of the vehicle’s weight

On a stationary vehicle, the vehicle’s weight is distributed between the front and rear wheels

Due to engine placement, weight distribution is seldom equal. The engine location will determine where the greater part of the weight distribution will be located.

For a vehicle in motion, the vehicle’s weight will be constantly shifted and redistributed in relation to the mode of operation.

Chapter Two

Emergency Driving Operations

Emergency response (Code 3) driving frequently demands split-second timing and instant reactions. This type of driving requires planning ahead without wasting valuable moments with panic or indecision. When confronted with hazards such as traffic congestion, slow down or even stop if in doubt as to what other drivers may do. Speed will depend on several variables and will ultimately be the decision of the

individual officer.

Passing on the Right

Section 21806 CVC requires traffic to immediately pull to the right edge of the roadway and stop in response to the red light and siren. A law enforcement emergency driver should give traffic a chance to respond to the emergency equipment and yield to the right-hand side of the road. Passing traffic on the

right when the emergency lights and siren are operating is extremely dangerous. This maneuver should be done with extreme caution and then only when no other alternative is available.

Speed

As speed increases, the effectiveness of the siren decreases.

Due to the increase of speed and the resultant increase of feet per second traveled by the emergency vehicle, other drivers and pedestrians may not have sufficient time to react to the sound of the siren.

When an emergency vehicle is about to overtake and pass another vehicle traveling at 60 mph or faster, the driver of that vehicle cannot typically hear the siren until the emergency vehicle is within 100’ of passing the vehicle.

Many serious law enforcement collisions occur at intersections

• Slow down or stop before entering intersections; look in all directions; clear the intersection lane- by-lane.

• Approaching drivers cannot always see the emergency vehicle due to visual impairments such as buildings, vegetation, or other vehicles.

• Observations of cross streets should start before entering the intersection. Depending upon the circumstances, consider reducing speed or even coming to a stop if necessary.

• By fluctuating the pitch or changing the pattern of the siren from wail to yelp, the chances of persons on the road hearing the siren are greatly increased.

When Responding

Plan the most desirable, safest route of travel.

When driving Code 3

Don't drive beyond the capabilities of the vehicle or self.

Use the Radio

Stay calm—let people know what is happening. Use the radio on straight stretches of road when possible

If traffic does not yield

Maintain a safe following distance until a motorist can see or hear emergency equipment and yield to the right

If weather is bad or traffic is congested

Response to an emergency should be at reduced speeds

Be sure windows are rolled up when driving Code 3

Reduce noise levels within the vehicle in order to hear radio traffic and for others to understand your radio transmissions