California Driver's Exam (Permit Test)
From the 2012 California Driver Handbook.
Passing grade - 6 or fewer errors for original applicants
- 1.
It is illegal for a person 21 years of age or older to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) that is or higher.
- A.
0.08% - Eight hundredths of one percent
- B.
0.10% - One tenth of one percent
- C.
0.05% - Five hundredths of one percent
Correct Answer
A. 0.08% - Eight hundredths of one percentExplanation
The correct answer is 0.08% - Eight hundredths of one percent. This means that it is illegal for a person 21 years of age or older to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) that is 0.08% or higher.Rate this question:
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- 2.
You must notify DMV within 5 days if you:
- A.
Sell or transfer your vehicle
- B.
Are cited for a traffic violation
- C.
Paint your vehicle a different color
Correct Answer
A. Sell or transfer your vehicleExplanation
If you sell or transfer your vehicle, you must notify the DMV within 5 days. This is important because it allows the DMV to update their records and transfer ownership of the vehicle to the new owner. Failure to notify the DMV can lead to complications such as receiving parking tickets or being held responsible for any accidents or incidents involving the vehicle after it has been sold or transferred.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Drivers of large trucks often travel with a lot of space in front of their vehicle. This extra space is needed for:
- A.
Other drivers to use when merging onto an off-ramp
- B.
The truck driver to use for stopping the vehicle
- C.
Other drivers to use when they want to slow down
Correct Answer
B. The truck driver to use for stopping the vehicleExplanation
Large trucks require extra space in front of their vehicle for stopping because they have a longer stopping distance compared to smaller vehicles. This is due to their size, weight, and momentum. The extra space allows the truck driver to have enough distance to safely bring the vehicle to a complete stop, especially in emergency situations.Rate this question:
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- 4.
You must look for bicycle riders in the same lanes used by motor vehicles because they:
- A.
Must ride facing oncoming traffic
- B.
Illegally share lanes with motor vehicles
- C.
Are entitled to share the road with you
Correct Answer
C. Are entitled to share the road with youExplanation
Bicycle riders are entitled to share the road with motor vehicles. This means that they have the legal right to use the same lanes as motor vehicles. It is important for drivers to be aware of and look out for bicycle riders in order to ensure their safety on the road.Rate this question:
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- 5.
A red arrow pointing to the right on a traffic light means you may:
- A.
Turn in that direction after slowing and checking traffic
- B.
Not turn in that direction until the light turns green
- C.
Turn in that direction after you come to a complete stop
Correct Answer
B. Not turn in that direction until the light turns greenExplanation
A red arrow pointing to the right on a traffic light indicates that turning in that direction is not allowed until the light turns green. This means that drivers must wait until the arrow changes to green before they can proceed with a right turn. It is important to follow this signal to ensure the safety of all road users and to prevent any potential accidents or conflicts with oncoming traffic.Rate this question:
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- 6.
It is illegal to leave children age six or younger unattended in a car on a hot day:
- A.
Even if they are secured in a child passenger restraint system
- B.
If they are supervised by a person twelve years of age or older
- C.
Only if the key is in the ignition
Correct Answer
A. Even if they are secured in a child passenger restraint systemExplanation
It is illegal to leave children age six or younger unattended in a car on a hot day, even if they are secured in a child passenger restraint system. This is because young children are more vulnerable to heatstroke and dehydration, and leaving them unattended in a hot car can be extremely dangerous and potentially fatal. It is important to always ensure the safety and well-being of young children by never leaving them alone in a hot vehicle.Rate this question:
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- 7.
If your cell phone rings while you are driving and you do not have a hands-free device, you should:
- A.
Answer the call because it may be an emergency
- B.
Let the call go to voice mail
- C.
Check the incoming number before answering the call
Correct Answer
B. Let the call go to voice mailExplanation
When driving, it is important to prioritize safety. Answering a phone call without a hands-free device can be distracting and increase the risk of accidents. Letting the call go to voice mail allows the driver to focus on the road and avoid potential hazards. It is not advisable to answer the call because it may be an emergency, as the driver's attention should be solely on driving and ensuring their own safety as well as the safety of others on the road. Checking the incoming number before answering the call can also be distracting and is not recommended.Rate this question:
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- 8.
You are approaching a green traffic light, but traffic is blocking the intersection. What is the best thing to do?
- A.
Partially enter the intersection to establish your right-of-way
- B.
Don't enter the intersection until you can get completely across
- C.
Continue into the intersection and wait for traffic to clear
Correct Answer
B. Don't enter the intersection until you can get completely acrossExplanation
The best thing to do when approaching a green traffic light but the intersection is blocked is to not enter the intersection until you can get completely across. This is because entering the intersection and waiting for traffic to clear can cause congestion and block other vehicles, potentially leading to accidents or traffic violations. It is important to wait until the intersection is clear to ensure a smooth flow of traffic and to avoid obstructing other drivers.Rate this question:
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- 9.
You can drive off the road to pass another vehicle:
- A.
If the vehicle ahead is turning left
- B.
If there are two or more lanes travelling in your direction
- C.
Under no circumstances
Correct Answer
C. Under no circumstancesExplanation
Driving off the road to pass another vehicle is never allowed under any circumstances. It is illegal and dangerous to drive off the road, as it can lead to accidents, damage to property, and harm to pedestrians or other road users. It is important to always follow traffic laws and regulations, and to wait for a safe and legal opportunity to pass another vehicle.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Slowing down just to look at collisions or anything else out of the ordinary:
- A.
Causes traffic congestion
- B.
Prevents rear-end collisions
- C.
Improves traffic flow by preventing collisions
Correct Answer
A. Causes traffic congestionExplanation
Slowing down to look at collisions or anything out of the ordinary causes traffic congestion because it disrupts the smooth flow of vehicles. When drivers slow down to observe accidents or unusual events, it creates a bottleneck effect as other drivers behind them also slow down, leading to a decrease in overall traffic speed. This can result in long queues and delays for other motorists.Rate this question:
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- 11.
A curb painted blue means parking is:
- A.
Allowed for no longer than 15 minutes
- B.
For picking up or dropping off passengers
- C.
For disabled persons with a special placard or plate
Correct Answer
C. For disabled persons with a special placard or plateExplanation
A curb painted blue is a designated parking spot for disabled persons with a special placard or plate. This helps ensure that these individuals have convenient access to parking spaces that are closer to their destination. The blue color is used as a visual indicator to differentiate these spots from regular parking spaces, allowing disabled individuals to easily identify and utilize them.Rate this question:
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- 12.
A car suddenly "cuts" in front of you creating a hazard. Which of these actions should you take first?
- A.
Honk and step on the brake firmly
- B.
Take your foot off the gas
- C.
Swerve into the lane next to you
Correct Answer
B. Take your foot off the gasExplanation
When a car suddenly cuts in front of you, the first action you should take is to take your foot off the gas. This is important because removing your foot from the accelerator will help you slow down and maintain a safe distance from the car in front. It also gives you more time to assess the situation and react accordingly. Honking and stepping on the brake firmly may be necessary, but taking your foot off the gas should be the immediate response to prevent a collision and ensure your safety. Swerving into the lane next to you is not recommended as it can create further hazards and increase the risk of an accident.Rate this question:
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- 13.
You make make a left turn on a red light only from a:
- A.
One-way street onto a two-way street
- B.
One-way street onto a one-way street
- C.
Two-way street onto a one-way street
Correct Answer
B. One-way street onto a one-way streetExplanation
Making a left turn on a red light is only allowed when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street. This is because there is less risk of conflicting traffic and it is easier to judge the oncoming traffic. Turning from a one-way street onto a two-way street or from a two-way street onto a one-way street can be more dangerous and can result in collisions with oncoming traffic. Therefore, the correct answer is "One-way street onto a one-way street".Rate this question:
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- 14.
An orange and red sign of this shape on a vehicle always means:
- A.
The vehicle has the right-of-way
- B.
Slow-moving vehicle
- C.
Shoulder work ahead
Correct Answer
B. Slow-moving vehicleExplanation
The orange and red sign of this shape on a vehicle always means a slow-moving vehicle. This sign is used to alert other drivers that the vehicle ahead is moving at a significantly slower speed than the normal flow of traffic. It is important for drivers to be cautious and patient when approaching a slow-moving vehicle to ensure safe and smooth traffic flow.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Yellow lines separate:
- A.
Traffic lanes on one-way streets
- B.
Traffic moving in opposite directions on a two-way road
- C.
All carpool lanes from regular traffic lanes
Correct Answer
B. Traffic moving in opposite directions on a two-way roadExplanation
Yellow lines separate traffic moving in opposite directions on a two-way road. This is done to provide a visual indication to drivers that they are on a road where traffic is flowing in opposite directions. The yellow lines help to guide drivers and prevent them from crossing into the wrong lane, reducing the risk of head-on collisions. It also helps to maintain the flow of traffic and ensure that vehicles stay in their respective lanes, promoting safety on the road.Rate this question:
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- 16.
A safety zone is a specially marked area for passengers to get on or off buses or trolleys. You may not drive through the safety zone:
- A.
Only when a bus or trolley is present
- B.
Only when a bus or trolley is unloading passengers
- C.
At any time or for any reason
Correct Answer
C. At any time or for any reasonExplanation
A safety zone is a designated area for passengers to safely board or exit buses or trolleys. It is important to not drive through the safety zone at any time or for any reason to ensure the safety of the passengers. This means that even if there is no bus or trolley present or if they are not unloading passengers, you should still refrain from driving through the safety zone.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Flash your brake lights or turn on your emergency flashers if you:
- A.
Need to warn other drivers of a collision ahead
- B.
Are temporarily parked in traffic lane to make a delivery
- C.
Are backing out of a parking space
Correct Answer
A. Need to warn other drivers of a collision aheadExplanation
Flashing your brake lights or turning on your emergency flashers is an effective way to warn other drivers of a collision ahead. This can help alert them to slow down and be cautious, potentially preventing further accidents or injuries. It is important to use these signals in such situations to ensure the safety of all drivers on the road.Rate this question:
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- 18.
You must yield the right-of-way to an emergency vehicle by:
- A.
Driving as near to the right edge of the road as possible and stopping
- B.
Moving into the right lane and driving slowly until it has passed
- C.
Stopping immediately, even if you are in an intersection
Correct Answer
A. Driving as near to the right edge of the road as possible and stoppingExplanation
When encountering an emergency vehicle, it is important to yield the right-of-way to allow it to pass quickly and safely. The correct answer suggests that the driver should drive as close to the right edge of the road as possible and stop. This allows the emergency vehicle to have enough space to pass on the left side without any hindrance. Stopping ensures that the emergency vehicle can proceed without any delays or obstacles. It is crucial to prioritize the safety and urgency of the emergency situation over personal convenience.Rate this question:
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- 19.
On a freeway, you should look farther ahead than you would on a city street:
- A.
In order to see potential hazards early
- B.
Because it takes 1/4 mile to stop your vehicle completely
- C.
Because it helps you keep up with the traffic
Correct Answer
A. In order to see potential hazards earlyExplanation
On a freeway, it is important to look farther ahead than on a city street in order to see potential hazards early. Freeways typically have higher speeds and more traffic, so being able to anticipate and react to potential hazards ahead is crucial for safe driving. By looking farther ahead, drivers can identify any potential dangers, such as sudden lane changes, merging vehicles, or debris on the road, and take appropriate actions to avoid accidents. This proactive approach helps ensure the safety of both the driver and other road users.Rate this question:
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- 20.
A pedestrian starts to cross the street after the "Don't Walk" signal beings to flash. The pedestrian is in the middle of the street when your signal light changes to green. You should:
- A.
Proceed if you have the right-of-way
- B.
Proceed if the pedestrian is not in your lane
- C.
Wait until the pedestrian crosses the street before proceeding
Correct Answer
C. Wait until the pedestrian crosses the street before proceedingExplanation
When the pedestrian is already in the middle of the street, it is important to prioritize their safety and allow them to finish crossing before proceeding. Even though your signal light has changed to green, it is necessary to wait until the pedestrian has safely crossed the street to avoid any potential accidents or harm.Rate this question:
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- 21.
A pedestrian who is blind or visually impaired uses traffic sounds before deciding to corss the street. If you see a pedestrian with a guide dog or white cane waiting to cross at a corner, you should:
- A.
Stop at the crosswalk and honk your horn
- B.
Drive into the crosswalk so the person can hear your engine
- C.
Pull up to the crosswalk so the person can hear your engine
Correct Answer
C. Pull up to the crosswalk so the person can hear your engineExplanation
Pulling up to the crosswalk allows the pedestrian who is blind or visually impaired to hear the engine of the car, which helps them determine when it is safe to cross the street. This allows the pedestrian to rely on auditory cues to make their decision. Honking the horn or driving into the crosswalk may startle or confuse the pedestrian, making it more difficult for them to safely navigate the street.Rate this question:
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- 22.
To help avoid skidding on slippery surfaces you should:
- A.
Shift to a lower gear after starting down a steep hill
- B.
Speed up to enter curves and slow down to exit them
- C.
Slow down before entering curves and intersections
Correct Answer
C. Slow down before entering curves and intersectionsExplanation
To help avoid skidding on slippery surfaces, it is important to slow down before entering curves and intersections. This allows the driver to have better control of the vehicle and reduces the risk of skidding or losing traction on the slippery surface. By reducing the speed, the driver can navigate the curve or intersection more safely and effectively, minimizing the chances of skidding or sliding.Rate this question:
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- 23.
You are driving and there are oncoming cars on your left and a row of parked cars on your right. You should steer:
- A.
Closer to the oncoming cars than the parked cars
- B.
Closer to the parked cars than the oncoming cars
- C.
A middle course between the oncoming and parked cars
Correct Answer
C. A middle course between the oncoming and parked carsExplanation
When there are oncoming cars on the left and a row of parked cars on the right, it is important to steer a middle course between them. This means maintaining a safe distance from both the oncoming cars and the parked cars. Steering closer to either side can increase the risk of a collision. By choosing a middle course, the driver can ensure that there is enough space for their vehicle to pass safely without hitting any obstacles on either side.Rate this question:
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- 24.
You are driving on a freeway posted for 65 mph. Traffic is heavy and moving at 35 mph. The best speed for your vehicle is most likely:
- A.
25 mph
- B.
35 mph
- C.
30 mph
Correct Answer
B. 35 mphExplanation
In this scenario, the best speed for your vehicle would be 35 mph. Since traffic is heavy and moving at 35 mph, it is important to match the speed of the surrounding vehicles to maintain a safe and smooth flow of traffic. Going slower than 35 mph may cause disruption and increase the risk of accidents, while going faster could be dangerous and lead to collisions. Therefore, 35 mph is the most suitable speed in this situation.Rate this question:
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- 25.
You exit a freeway on a ramp that curves downhill. You should:
- A.
Slow to safe speed before the curve
- B.
Slow to the posted speed limit for the freeway
- C.
Wait until you have entered the curve to begin braking
Correct Answer
A. Slow to safe speed before the curveExplanation
When exiting a freeway on a ramp that curves downhill, it is important to slow down to a safe speed before entering the curve. This is because the downhill slope can cause your vehicle to gain momentum, making it harder to control. By slowing down before the curve, you can maintain better control of your vehicle and reduce the risk of skidding or losing control.Rate this question:
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- 26.
When a school bus with its red lights flashing is stopped ahead on your side of the road, you must:
- A.
Stop until all the children have left the bus
- B.
Stop until the lights stop flashing
- C.
Change lanes, drive slowly, and pass cautiously
Correct Answer
B. Stop until the lights stop flashingExplanation
When a school bus has its red lights flashing, it indicates that children are either boarding or exiting the bus. It is crucial to prioritize their safety, so you must stop until the lights stop flashing. This ensures that all children have safely reached the sidewalk and are out of harm's way before you continue driving. Ignoring the flashing lights and proceeding can put the lives of the children at risk.Rate this question:
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- 27.
When should you yield your legal right-of-way?
- A.
Often, even at controlled intersections
- B.
When it helps prevent collisions
- C.
Never, it confuses other drivers
Correct Answer
B. When it helps prevent collisionsExplanation
Yielding the legal right-of-way is necessary when it helps prevent collisions. This means that even if you have the right-of-way, you should still yield if it can help avoid a potential accident. This is an important safety measure to ensure the smooth flow of traffic and reduce the risk of collisions on the road.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Smoking inside a vehicle when a person younger than 18 years of age is present is:
- A.
Legal, if it is your child
- B.
Illegal at all times
- C.
Not restricted by law
Correct Answer
B. Illegal at all timesExplanation
Smoking inside a vehicle when a person younger than 18 years of age is present is illegal at all times. This means that regardless of whether the person is your child or not, it is against the law to smoke inside a vehicle when a minor is present. This regulation is in place to protect the health and well-being of children by preventing their exposure to secondhand smoke.Rate this question:
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- 29.
This white sign means don't pass:
- A.
Until after you pass the sign
- B.
Unless it seems safe to do so
- C.
Other vehicles for any reason
Correct Answer
C. Other vehicles for any reasonExplanation
This white sign indicates that passing is prohibited for any reason involving other vehicles. This means that a driver should not attempt to pass any other vehicles while this sign is in place, regardless of the circumstances.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which of these statements is true about drinking alcohol and driving?
- A.
If you can walk a straight line after drinking, it is safe to drive
- B.
If you are under the legal blood alcohol concentration limit, your driving isn't impaired
- C.
Alcohol affects judgment, which is needed for driving safely
Correct Answer
C. Alcohol affects judgment, which is needed for driving safelyExplanation
Alcohol affects judgment, which is needed for driving safely. This statement is true because alcohol impairs cognitive functions such as decision-making, reaction time, and concentration. These impairments can make it difficult for a person to assess and respond to traffic situations appropriately, increasing the risk of accidents. Even if a person is able to walk a straight line after drinking or is under the legal blood alcohol concentration limit, their ability to make sound judgments while driving may still be compromised.Rate this question:
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- 31.
After passing a car, it is safe to return to your driving lane when:
- A.
The driver you just passed signals you to return to your lane
- B.
You signal for three seconds your intention to return to your lane
- C.
You see the headlights of the passed car in your rear-view mirror
Correct Answer
C. You see the headlights of the passed car in your rear-view mirrorExplanation
When you see the headlights of the passed car in your rear-view mirror, it indicates that you have enough distance between your car and the passed car to safely return to your driving lane. This ensures that you are not cutting off the other driver and maintains a safe distance between both vehicles.Rate this question:
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- 32.
On freezing, wet days, which of the following roadways is most likely to hide spots of ice?
- A.
Roadways near the tops of hills
- B.
Roadways on bridges and overpasses
- C.
Roadways paved with asphalt
Correct Answer
B. Roadways on bridges and overpassesExplanation
Roadways on bridges and overpasses are more likely to hide spots of ice because they are elevated and exposed to the cold air on all sides, causing them to freeze faster than other roadways. Additionally, bridges and overpasses do not have the ground beneath them to provide insulation, making them more susceptible to freezing temperatures.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Three of the most important times to check traffic behind you are before:
- A.
Backing, making a sharp turn, or crossing an intersection
- B.
Backing, changing lanes, or slowing down quickly
- C.
Changing lanes, crossing intersections, or slowing down quickly
Correct Answer
B. Backing, changing lanes, or slowing down quicklyExplanation
The correct answer is "Backing, changing lanes, or slowing down quickly." These are the three most important times to check traffic behind you because when you are backing up, you need to ensure that there are no vehicles or pedestrians in your path. When changing lanes, you need to be aware of any vehicles approaching from behind to avoid a collision. Lastly, when slowing down quickly, it is crucial to check traffic behind you to ensure that the vehicles behind you have enough time to react and avoid a rear-end collision.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Which statement is true about motorcyclists and motorists?
- A.
Motorcyclists are not allowed to drive faster than other traffic during congested road conditions
- B.
Motorcyclists have the same rights/responsibilities as other motorists
- C.
Motorcyclists are heavier than other vehicles and are less affected by wind/rain
Correct Answer
B. Motorcyclists have the same rights/responsibilities as other motoristsExplanation
Motorcyclists have the same rights/responsibilities as other motorists. This means that they have the same legal rights to use the road and must also follow the same traffic laws and regulations as other drivers. They are expected to obey speed limits, yield to pedestrians, and follow all other traffic rules, just like any other motorist. This statement emphasizes the equality in terms of rights and responsibilities between motorcyclists and other drivers on the road.Rate this question:
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- 35.
You must notify law enforcement and file a Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California (SR 1) with DMV when:
- A.
You intend to file a certificate of non-operation for your vehicle
- B.
Your vehicle is towed for parking illegally
- C.
You have a collision and there is an injury or death
Correct Answer
C. You have a collision and there is an injury or deathExplanation
When you have a collision and there is an injury or death, it is necessary to notify law enforcement and file a Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California (SR 1) with DMV. This is because accidents involving injuries or fatalities require immediate attention and investigation from law enforcement authorities. Filing a report helps in documenting the incident, gathering evidence, and determining liability. It also ensures that the appropriate legal and insurance procedures are followed, and helps in providing support and compensation to the affected individuals or their families.Rate this question:
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- 36.
You should signal continuously while turning because it:
- A.
Is illegal to turn off your signal before completing a turn
- B.
Lets other drivers know what your intentions are
- C.
Is always unsafe to turn off a signal before completing a turn
Correct Answer
B. Lets other drivers know what your intentions areExplanation
The correct answer is "Lets other drivers know what your intentions are". Signaling continuously while turning is important because it informs other drivers on the road about your intended actions. This helps to prevent confusion and potential accidents by allowing other drivers to anticipate your movements and adjust their own driving accordingly.Rate this question:
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Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
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