Team Work In Vehicle Testing.
In this current project we make a simple change at the first of each month. The lead and pursuit drivers switch positions. With the first of the month arriving shortly, here are some considerations for team drivers to keep in mind when making this switch.

Concerns For The Lead Driver.
Remember, as the lead car you set the tempo for the days driving. First is the pace. As the winter months approach, a major factor will be the changing weather. Without the lead car as a familiar reference, you’re the first to decide the right speed for conditions. Second is the line. In front you are leading with your lane position. This is important when driving from suburban to city areas and from highway to city streets. Because of your visual awareness in the lead position, you will likely have advance warning of the movements of other vehicles.

Concerns For The Pursuit Driver.
As the pursuit driver don’t let your attention become fixed on the lead car. A basic mistake driving in formation is forgetting the proper following distance—especially during challenging road conditions. The lead car is your professional co-worker and likely paying more attention then other drivers, but you’re still responsible for your vehicle. Remember, at just 30 mph, your total stopping distance might be 104 feet.

Get Back In The Swing.
Both drivers should continue to maintain good defensive driving practices. For a full refresher visit the DMV links at the end of this article.

As the lead driver be extra alert. Increase your following distance as road conditions worsen and visibility changes. When changing lanes leave time for the pursuit car to react. Most important, notice how well other drivers and pedestrians are paying attention. Avoid any unnecessary distractions until you’re reacquainted with the various parts of your route that are typically congested. Take a break to collect yourself and refocus on paying attention, because paying attention is exhausting work.

As the pursuit driver you are responsible for your driving choices. If you see congestion ahead, be prepared to take action. A defensive driving strategy called “Split The Difference” suggests when there are multiple hazards in your path of travel, make choices ahead of time to eliminate hazards before they can effect you. If you must, pass the lead car, then return to a slower lane to let them retake the lead.

Conclusion.
The winter months are here. Don’t get caught making costly errors as road conditions worsen with the weather. And, be extra careful around the change in the month. As your work pattern changes make adjustments to ensure your safety, care of your vehicle and of other motorists.

Links And Notes.
1. Defensive Driving Keywords For Your Web Search.
safe operating practices, defensive driving, risk management

2. Driving Defensively, Massachusetts Registry Of Motor Vehicles State Driving Manual
Even the most experienced drivers make mistakes. Regardless of how many years you’ve been driving, at some point you will have to face equipment failures, bad weather conditions, unskilled drivers on the road, unpredictable pedestrians, and drivers who ignore traffic regulations. The best way to prepare yourself for unpredictable events is to drive defensively.

• Always maintain good vision ahead and around your vehicle.
• Stay alert and be prepared to react to the unexpected.
• As a defensive driver, you should constantly look ahead of and around you, and always check your mirrors. Be aware of the road conditions or possible hazards that lie in front, to the sides and behind you.
• Take in the whole scene in front of you. Scan the roadside for vehicles stopping ahead or entering from the side, pedestrians, or people getting in and out of parked cars.
• Anticipate mistakes or unsafe maneuvers from other drivers.
• Watch for reverse lights of any vehicle ahead of you.
• Pay close attention to crosswalks. Don’t rely on traffic signals alone to alert you to your driving environment. Motorists and pedestrians may ignore traffic signals.
• Always pay close attention when driving in the vicinity of playgrounds, schoolyards, and shopping center parking lots.
• Remember that the right-of-way is something you give. A big part of driving defensively is giving the right-of-way to prevent unsafe traffic situations.

3. Five Keys Of Space Cushion Driving, Smith System.
Smith System is a professional driver training program. Their trademarked Five Keys of Space Cushion Driving is a useful tool to remember the core driving fundamentals of space, visibility and time. The five keys give you space for the vehicle, visibility for the driver, and time to make decisions.

The Five Keys:

1. Aim high in steering: Avoid collisions by seeing, evaluating and acting on all the available information. Expand your vision to 15 second ahead of your vehicle. Pick your lane in advance.
2. Get the big picture: Fewer mistakes are made when you have the complete traffic picture. Scan the 360 degree view surrounding your vehicle for 6-8 seconds. Identify 4 second following distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you using the street post technique.
3. Keep your eyes moving: Proper scanning techniques separate safe drivers from people who make costly and daily errors. Avoid blank and fixed stares.
4. Leave yourself an out: All that separates drivers from a collision is space. Use it to your advantage. Surround yourself with space. Anticipate the needs of other drivers.
5. Make sure they see you: Make eye contact and use your warning devices at the proper time (turn signals, horn and hazards). Signal 100 yards in advance. Indecision leads to collision. Proper timing is essential.