Smith System Driver Evaluation Check List

Aim High in Steering

Keeps vehicle centered in the lane.
Sees moving and fixed objects at least a block away in city traffic and at least one half mile ahead on expressways or highways.
Maintains a safe following distance.
Avoids swerving when passing other vehicles, turning or approaching parked vehicles.
Reduces speed to allow for poor conditions or reduced visibility.

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Avoids being boxed in when lanes ahead are blocked.
Avoids severe breaking and abrupt turns.
Adjusts speed when approaching intersections.
Correctly anticipates moves of other drivers and pedestrians and avoids conflicts.
Slows down before entering “no control” intersections or where there is a possibility of conflict.

Keep eyes moving at least every two seconds and checks to the rear every five to eight seconds.
Checks to the rear before changing lanes, turning, or stopping.
Stays clear of erratic drivers.
Checks in all directions and leaves a space cushion before starting up at intersections.
Disposes of eye holding distractions quickly.

Recognizes the lane of least resistance and positions the vehicle accordingly.
Allows extra following distance when crowded by a tailgater.
When possible, leaves at least one side open for swerving room.
Passes only when there is space, visibility, and distance to do safely.
Quickly re-establishes space around the vehicle when space diminishes.

Alerts non-attentive drivers and pedestrians with gentle tap of the horn or flick of the lights to get eye contact (includes those on bicycles and motorcycles).
Turns on lights when visibility is low in order to be seen.
Tries to obtain eye contact with people when conditions dictate that it should be done.
Gives early signals for turns of lane changes and checks to see if they are heeded.
Does not ride in the blind zone of drivers on left right.

Note: This checklist is copyrighted by Smith System Driver Improvement Institute, Inc., 1993.