Western states also mandate using a turn signal before changing lanes. Blinkers and Hand Signalsĭrivers are legally required to signal at least 100 feet before turning, using a blinker or a hand signal, in every state in the West. Here’s how and when to use blinkers and hand signals when driving and biking. “Traffic will flow much smoother when there is communication among road users, and the risk of a collision will be much lower if there’s communication as well,” he says. Signaling is a vital way to help prevent crashes, says William Van Tassel, manager of AAA Driver Training Programs. Nearly 40 percent of a vehicle’s outer perimeter is hidden by blind spots, which means drivers may not always be able to see other traffic in the vicinity. Even when it's not illegal, failing to signal can compromise safety.Įlectric turn signals or hand signals let everyone on the road, including cyclists and pedestrians, know your intentions. Yet most states in the West require signaling-with either a blinker or a hand-at least some of the time. Department of Transportation statistics show that one in four drivers fails to signal when turning, and twice as many neglect to do so when changing lanes. These plans can significantly reduce, or possibly eliminate, the need for vehicles to back up on a site.Are you breaking the law without even knowing it? U.S. These are plans that project managers can use to coordinate the flow of moving equipment, workers, and vehicles at a worksite to minimize or eliminate vehicles and employees from crossing paths. Internal Traffic Control PlansĪn internal traffic control plan (ITCP) is another method used to address backover hazards. These electromagnetic field-based systems can be programmed to warn affected workers, stop the vehicle, or both, when workers get within the predefined danger zone of the vehicle. Another electromagnetic field-based system uses field generators worn by persons working near the vehicle, with the sensing devices installed on the vehicle. One electromagnetic field-based system uses electromagnetic field generators installed on a vehicle and electronic sensing devices (a tag) worn by persons working near the vehicle. This system consists of electromagnetic field generators and field detecting devices. Tag-based SystemsĪnother type of proximity detection system is an electromagnetic field-based system, which is a type of tag-based system. These systems alert the driver with a visual and/or audio warning. When the waves strike an object, they generate echoes used to determine the distance to the object. Ultrasonic systems, such as sonar, emit bursts of ultrasonic waves in a frequency above the hearing threshold of humans. Like cameras, this equipment can be mounted on most vehicles and may be an option from some manufacturers. Also, the composition of an object can affect detection, with some materials being virtually invisible to radar. These systems must be positioned so that they won't detect harmless objects, such as the concrete slab of a driveway, which can interfere with the detection of an object or person behind the vehicle or mobile equipment. The signal is then received by a receiver. A radar system transmits a signal, which is bounced off an object. Radar and ultrasonic technology both are used in backing safety systems. For example, dump trucks may require two or three cameras to monitor the blind spots on the front, rear, and side of the vehicle. Determining where to mount a camera for maximum effectiveness may be difficult, especially on large vehicles. Harsh environments, such as some construction sites or mines, may require more rugged cameras. Viewing screens may be dash-mounted but must not block the driver's view out the windshield. Camera systems can also be purchased as after-market equipment for vehicles. Some vehicles come equipped with cameras or may be offered with them as optional equipment. Most vehicles (and some types of mobile equipment) can accommodate a camera that provides operators with a view to the rear. It is provided for informational purposes only. Note: The following list of solutions is not required by any OSHA standard.
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