Florida CDL Handbook 2009

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2. Driving Safely

• 2.1. Vehicle Inspection
• 2.2. Basic Control of Your Vehicle
• 2.3. Shifting Gears
• 2.4. Seeing
• 2.5. Communicating
• 2.6. Controlling Speed
• 2.7. Managing Space
• 2.8. Seeing Hazards
• 2.9. Distracted Driving
• 2.10. Aggressive Drivers/Road Rage
• 2.11. Driving at Night
• 2.12. Driving in Fog
• 2.13. Driving in Winter
• 2.14. Driving in Very Hot Weather
• 2.15. Railroad-highway Crossings
• 2.16. Mountain Driving
• 2.17. Driving Emergencies
• 2.18. Antilock Braking Systems (ABS)
• 2.19. Skid Control and Recovery
• 2.20. Accident Procedures
• 2.21. Fires
• 2.22. Alcohol, Other Drugs, and Driving
• 2.23. Staying Alert and Fit to Drive
• 2.24. Hazardous Materials Rules For All Commercial Drivers

Listen to this chapter: Listen

When you're in an accident and not seriously hurt, you need to act to prevent further damage or injury. The basic steps to be taken at any accident are to:

• Protect the area.
• Notify authorities.
• Care for the injured.

2.20.1 – Protect the Area

The first thing to do at an accident scene is to keep another accident from happening in the same spot. To protect the accident area:

• If your vehicle is involved in the accident, try to get it to the side of the road. This will help prevent another accident and allow traffic to move.
• If you're stopping to help, park away from the accident. The area immediately around the accident will be needed for emergency vehicles.
• Put on your flashers.
• Set out reflective triangles to warn other traffic. Make sure other drivers can see them in time to avoid the accident.

2.20.2 – Notify Authorities

If you have a cell phone or CB, call for assistance before you get out of your vehicle. If not, wait until after the accident scene has been properly protected, then phone or send someone to phone the police. Try to determine where you are so you can give the exact location.

2.20.3 – Care for the Injured

If a qualified person is at the accident and helping the injured, stay out of the way unless asked to assist. Otherwise, do the best you can to help any injured parties. Here are some simple steps to follow in giving assistance:

• Don't move a severely injured person unless the danger of fire or passing traffic makes it necessary.
• Stop heavy bleeding by applying direct pressure to the wound.
• Keep the injured person warm.

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