CTDL 1031 Syllabus

Subject Code

CTDL

Course Number

1031

Course Title

Combination Vehicle Advanced Operations

Prerequisites

Program admission

Corequisites

CTDL 1020

Terms Offered

Offered every semester

Credit Hours

(1-8-4)

Course Description

This course develops students' driving skills under actual road conditions. The classroom part of the course stresses safe operating practices, which are integrated into the development of driving skills on the road. Each student must complete at least 12 hours of behind-the-wheel (BTW) instructional time on the road. In addition, each student must have a minimum program total of 44 hours of BTW instructional time in any combination (with CTDL 1020) of range and road driving. Whenever a combination vehicle is operated on public roads, state law requires instructors to be present in vehicles while students are driving.

Course Outcomes

Vehicle Controls

Demonstrate proper technique for initiating vehicle movement.
Perform the proper execution of a left turn, including set-up and completion.
Perform the proper execution of a right turn, including set-up and completion.
Perform the proper execution of a right lane change, including signals and mirrors.
Perform the proper execution of a left lane change, including signals and mirrors.
Navigate curves properly at proper speed, including lane usage.
Perform proper entry and exit of interstate or controlled access highway.
Perform the proper technique for stopping the vehicle in a controlled manner.
Demonstrate proper use of engine retarder.
Demonstrate proper use of cruise control.
Demonstrate a roadside emergency stop.

Shifting/Transmission Use

Perform progressive shifting techniques.
Perform proper upshifting and downshifting techniques.
Perform proper use of the clutch, tachometer, and accelerator during shifting.
Perform take-off without rollback.
Perform proper use of "engine braking effect" to slow vehicle.

Communicating/Signaling

Demonstrate proper communication of intent.
Demonstrate proper communication of presence.
Demonstrate effective communication with other motorists.,

Visual Search

Perform proper visual scan of the driving environment.
Perform proper scanning of instruments and mirrors.
Demonstrate proper techniques for monitoring traffic, road conditions, and hazards.

Speed and Space Management

Perform adjustment of speed to conditions of weather, traffic, visibility, road, vehicle, cargo, and driver.
Demonstrate the appropriate following distances for various conditions.
Judge adequacy of gaps in traffic for passing, crossing and entering traffic and changing lanes.
Observe traffic adequately to be aware of vehicles in rear and side blind spots.
Maintain proper speed to manage space around vehicle.
Demonstrate maintaining maximum separation from other vehicles to ensure room to maneuver when responding to hazards or emergencies.

Safe Driver Behavior

Demonstrate proper and safe lane usage.
Demonstrate correct use of road signs such a speed limit, school zones, bridge height, etc.
Perform smooth brake applications.
Demonstrate proper speed and gear coordination before and during turns.
Perform proper passing and being passed by others,
Display proper regard of merging traffic.
Read and use gauge information in making ongoing decisions.
Demonstrate proper seat adjustment, mirror adjustment, steering wheel tilt adjustment, and safety belt use.
Judge and adjust maximum safe speed for vehicle control under traffic conditions, cross winds, road conditions and limited visibility.
Demonstrate knowledge of the laws and regulations concerning traffic signals and signs.

Hours of Service Requirements

Prepare a driver's record of duty state (daily log) and monthly recap.
Demonstrate knowledge of the Hours of Service (HOS) regulations.

Hazard Perception

Identify road conditions and other motorists that are a potential threat and suggest appropriate adjustments.
Identify potential hazards n the driving environment and explain ways to limit the hazard and neutralize possible emergency situations.
Describe how to respond to emergency vehicles.
Explain the visible characteristics of road conditions that present a hazard to safe operations including slippery or soft surfaces, dangerous curves, Obstructions to visibility, and locations where there are likely to be strong cross winds.

Railroad-Highway Grade Crossing

Explain railroad-highway crossing regulations, safe crossing procedures, as well as how to locate DOT crossing identification information and emergency numbers in the event of an accident.
Identify potential dangers of a railroad0highway crossing.
Demonstrate appropriate safety procedures while crossing a railroad track, when railroad-highway crossings are reasonably available.

Night Operation

Identify key factors that make night driving more dangerous.
Describe special requirements for night operation, including night vision, communications, speed, space management, and proper use of lights.

Extreme Driving Conditions

Explain the added precautions required to operate in clement weather, such as heavy rain, fog, snow, and ice.
Explain the added precautions required to operate in extreme temperatures, such as high and freezing temperatures.
Explain the added precautions required to drive in high winds.
Explain the added precautions required to negotiate steep grades.
Explain the added precautions required to navigate sharp curves.

Skid Control/Recovery, Jackknifing, and Other Emergencies

Explain the causes of skidding and jackknifing, and describe the techniques used to avoid and recover from these emergencies.
Explain emergency braking techniques and how to bring a tractor trailer to a stop in the shortest possible distance while maintaining directional control when operation on a slippery surface.
Estimate the procedures for handling brake failure and tire blow-outs.
Explain evasive steering techniques.
Explain off-road recovery techniques.
Explain techniques to prevent rollovers.
Explain how to prevent hydroplaning.