Why You Should Diversify Your Navigation Skills
Showing posts with label GPS. Show all posts
Showing posts with label GPS. Show all posts
Where Do Self-Driving Cars Struggle? Top Challenges and Progress
Self-driving cars, also known as autonomous vehicles, have been the subject of immense technological advancements in recent years. With the promise of safer and more efficient transportation, self-driving cars have captured the world's attention. However, as with any emerging technology, they face several challenges and limitations. In this article, we will explore the areas where self-driving cars struggle, shedding light on the ongoing efforts to overcome these obstacles.
Tips To Avoid Distracted Driving
Be honest with yourself.
It's easy for most of us to overestimate how much we can accomplish in a given time. If you're prone to taking bites out of your sandwich while changing lanes, the first step toward becoming a more focused driver is, to be honest with yourself about your tendencies. Maybe you don't just check your phone while stopping at red lights—maybe you also use it while driving. Maybe you watch videos on YouTube or take selfies as part of Snapchat's Face Swap function. No matter what behavior keeps you from being present on the road, it's important to examine yourself critically and without judgment.
You may find that even once you've become aware of your distractions, bad habits are difficult to break. That's where technology comes in handy: try setting up an automatic reminder that prompts you to check your rear-view mirror before turning around every time. There are plenty of apps available online (just pop #distractionfree into Google) that do exactly this; all it takes is downloading one and setting parameters for how often the app should ping your phone or device!
Use the hands-free or voice control features on your phone.
Use the hands-free or voice control features on your phone. Regardless of which device you are using, most phones have a way to operate them without manually touching the screen or keyboard. In order to avoid taking your eyes off the road while driving, use these features in conjunction with voice commands instead.
Avoid earpiece use while driving. If you’re going to be on a call while driving, do not use an earpiece as it may cause you to be distracted by movements in your peripheral vision and make it difficult for you to hear things such as sirens and other warning sounds.
Limit phone use when driving is not necessary.
Do not text, use your phone or engage in any other distracted driving activities when you are not driving. Many people incorrectly assume that it is only dangerous to use a cell phone while they are behind the wheel. In fact, using a cell phone while stopped at a red light or waiting for a bus can also be dangerous.
Get into the mindset of being focused on your driving task before you get into your car and begin to drive. If you are not completely focused on the road ahead of you, then you should not be driving.
Avoid using your phone once you have started to drive, even if something urgent comes up and it seems like an emergency situation. If possible, find somebody else to help out with the emergency situation while you focus on getting yourself home safely.
Set a reminder to check your rearview mirror before you turn around.
Setting a reminder to check your rearview mirror before you turn around will help keep you from getting into an accident. Remember to check your mirror before looking behind you, since it can be difficult to remember to look when turning and it’s easy to get distracted.
Take a break when it's appropriate.
Take a break when necessary. If you are experiencing any level of stress or anxiety, it is best to stop driving and take a break. This can be as simple as closing your eyes for a minute and taking several deep breaths. It will help calm you down and help you focus on the task at hand—driving!
If you need to use the restroom, pull into a gas station or rest area and take care of business before you get back on the road. This applies to both hunger and thirst as well! Having to “go” while driving is dangerous because it takes your mind off of driving. Your brain should be 100% focused on what's in front of you, not what's behind you!
Putting your phone down when driving isn't necessary.
Putting your phone down when driving isn't necessary. If you don't need to use your phone while you're in the car, put it away. Don't take it out to check it at a traffic light, don't flip through your Instagram feed because you're waiting for someone, and don't even answer a text message that's not urgent. Essentially, don't use your phone in any way when you're behind the wheel unless you need to do so for safety reasons—and even then, make sure what you're doing is really necessary!
Avoid distractions behind the wheel, such as games, movies, and work-related emails.
It’s important to avoid distractions behind the wheel, such as games, movies, and work-related emails. Busy drivers sometimes feel that it is important to stay on top of things even when they are driving. It might seem like a good idea to text or return an email while in traffic but this can be dangerous. If you must check your email, wait until you get somewhere safe and pull over.
Always keep your eyes on the road while driving!
Be aware that every time you answer an incoming call or text message while driving, you're changing lanes and leaving yourself a smaller margin of error in case something unexpected happens.
In a car, every time you answer an incoming call or text message, you're changing lanes and leaving yourself a smaller margin of error in case something unexpected happens. You may not realize it at the moment, but your actions are affecting other drivers on the road, as well as passengers in your vehicle. When you take your eyes off the road for even a few seconds, you increase the risk of being involved in an accident. If something unexpected does happen and makes it necessary for you to react quickly, having less time to react can be extremely dangerous and put all parties at risk.
Distracted driving can happen to anyone, so follow these basic tips to make sure nothing happens to you for being distracted behind the wheel
Everyone knows that distracted driving is dangerous, and it can happen to anyone. Follow these basic tips to make sure nothing happens to you from being distracted behind the wheel:
Don't text while driving.
Limit eating, drinking, and smoking in the car.
Don't put on makeup or comb your hair while driving.
No adjusting music or programming navigation systems. If using a GPS, enter your destination before starting the car. In general, do not fiddle with any of your radio or climate controls while driving.
Do not drive if you are tired or sick. Be sure to get enough sleep before a long trip, and listen to your body's symptoms if you're ill and thinking about getting behind the wheel anyway. Driving when you're physically compromised will only increase the likelihood of having an accident due to mental distraction caused by physical discomfort. You may also want to avoid angry situations that could lead to road rage incidents where safety is compromised.* If a distraction occurs (e.g., spilled coffee), change lanes safely once clear so that no one rear-ends you as well as keep your eyes on the vehicle ahead of you.
Blind Intersection Drivers Test
When you approach a blind intersection, it means you can't see any traffic.
A blind intersection is where you approach a corner and cannot see if there is any traffic coming from the left or right.
When driving at night, approaching a blind intersection can be more difficult, as headlights from other vehicles may be shining directly in your eyes. But you still must follow the same rules as you would during the day.
As you begin to slow down before reaching a blind intersection, make sure that no one else is trying to enter it from either side. If it is safe for you to turn right or go straight ahead, do so carefully and watch out for any pedestrians that might be crossing the road.
Make sure there is no traffic.
Check for oncoming traffic and make sure there is no one coming through the intersection from the left. The last thing you want is to have a vehicle come zooming past you in the middle of your turn.
Check for pedestrians. This includes people walking, running, or skating across the street to your right or left. They might not stop if they see you perform a U-turn and could potentially get hit by your car.
Check for bicycles. Bicycles are another difficult-to-spot threat at intersections, especially if they are riding fast and/or weaving in between cars on the road. Make sure that you look out for anyone biking either across or down the street as well before making your turn.
Check for vehicles turning into the intersection from any direction (including behind you). You don't want these cars to end up blocking your path during their turns when you're trying to drive off after completing yours; it's never fun when two cars collide while trying to perform turns at an intersection!
Always slow down and be prepared to stop
If you’re driving in a state or province with a blind intersection, you should always be prepared to stop. If you do not have to stop at a blind intersection, it is recommended that you still slow down significantly, as the most common reason for failure at a blind intersection is not stopping when necessary.
Stop completely at the stop sign.
When you see a stop sign, make sure you come to a complete stop before the stop line. If there is no stop line, stop before the crosswalk or intersection.
While stopped, you must yield the right of way to anyone else in the intersection or who is within 30 meters (100 feet) of the intersection and is approaching it. Make sure you can clearly see in both directions before proceeding through the intersection.
If there is no traffic, proceed through the intersection.
If you are sure there is no traffic coming, you can proceed through the intersection. If you are not sure, do not proceed until it is clear. If there is traffic coming, you must wait. If there is a stop sign or stop line at your intersection and you have to wait for other traffic to clear before proceeding, come to a complete stop.
Do not attempt to turn into a blind intersection if there is any chance of other vehicles being present.
Before you enter the intersection, stop at the stop sign. Be sure that you cannot see any approaching traffic from either direction. In this situation, you should wait for all oncoming traffic to clear. Do not proceed until there is no more traffic coming from the right or left. Remember: a blind intersection is one where oncoming vehicles are not visible to each other until they enter the intersection.
Badintersections.com has a database of dangerous blind intersections. Please add new blind intersections to our map.
Tesla Autopilot Would Avoid 90% of Car Accidents
Tesla has made statements suggesting that their Autopilot system, an advanced driver-assistance feature, has the potential to improve overall vehicle safety and reduce the risk of accidents. However, it is important to approach such claims with caution and consider several factors:
Limitations of Autopilot: Tesla's Autopilot is designed to assist drivers with certain driving tasks but is not a fully autonomous system. It still requires driver attention and supervision. The system has limitations and may not be able to handle all driving scenarios or unexpected events.
Variability in Accident Scenarios: Car accidents can occur due to various factors, including the actions of other drivers, pedestrians, adverse weather conditions, and mechanical failures. While Autopilot may help prevent certain types of accidents, it may not be effective in all possible scenarios.
Reliability and Validation: The claim that Autopilot could avoid 90% of car accidents would need to be supported by comprehensive and independent studies analyzing real-world data. It is important to examine the methodology and evidence behind such claims.
Reporting Bias: It is worth considering the possibility of reporting bias, as accidents involving Tesla vehicles equipped with Autopilot might receive more media attention, leading to a potential overemphasis on those incidents.
Assessing the safety impact of any advanced driver-assistance system like Tesla's Autopilot requires extensive research, analysis of real-world data, and independent evaluation. It is always crucial for drivers to remain vigilant, follow traffic laws, and be prepared to take control of the vehicle at all times, even when using driver-assistance systems.
To stay informed about the latest developments and safety information regarding Tesla's Autopilot system, it is recommended to refer to official statements from Tesla, follow updates from regulatory authorities, and consult reliable sources of automotive news and analysis.
Capture Every Moment Safely: The Rexing Dash Cam
In today's fast-paced world, having a reliable dash cam in your vehicle is more than just a trend—it's a smart investment in your safety and peace of mind. One of the top contenders in the dash cam market is the Rexing Dash Cam, known for its cutting-edge technology and impressive features. Let's dive into why the Rexing Dash Cam is a must-have and how it can enhance your driving experience.
Why Choose Rexing Dash Cam?
Rexing has gained a stellar reputation for producing high-quality dash cams that excel in performance and durability. Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider a Rexing Dash Cam:
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Crystal Clear Video Quality: The Rexing Dash Cam offers superior video resolution, capturing details like license plates and road signs with clarity. Whether it's day or night, you can rely on its advanced imaging technology to record crisp footage.
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Wide-Angle Coverage: Equipped with a wide-angle lens, the Rexing Dash Cam provides a broader field of view, ensuring you don't miss a thing on the road. Its panoramic perspective enhances your overall driving awareness and safety.
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G-Sensor Technology: This intelligent feature detects sudden acceleration, collisions, and hard braking. In the event of an accident, the dash cam automatically saves and locks the footage, preventing it from being overwritten.
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Compact and Discreet Design: The sleek design of Rexing Dash Cams makes them virtually unnoticeable on your windshield, preserving your car's aesthetics while still offering powerful functionality.
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User-Friendly Interface: Rexing prioritizes user experience, with easy-to-navigate menus and controls. Setting up and operating the dash cam is hassle-free, even for first-time users.
Enhancing Safety and Security
Beyond capturing stunning footage, the Rexing Dash Cam contributes significantly to your safety and security on the road. Here's how:
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Evidence in Accidents: In the unfortunate event of a collision or dispute, your Rexing Dash Cam serves as an impartial eyewitness, providing crucial evidence for insurance claims or legal proceedings.
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Monitoring Driving Habits: By reviewing recordings, you can assess your driving behavior and make necessary adjustments to become a safer driver.
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Preventing Fraud: Dash cams are effective tools against insurance fraud and false claims, offering undeniable proof of events as they unfold.
Choosing the Right Model
Rexing offers a range of dash cam models tailored to different needs and budgets. Whether you're looking for basic functionality or advanced features like GPS tracking or dual-channel recording, there's a Rexing Dash Cam to suit your preferences.
Conclusion
Investing in a Rexing Dash Cam is not just about owning a piece of technology—it's about taking proactive steps towards safer and smarter driving. With its innovative features, sleek design, and user-friendly interface, Rexing Dash Cams stand out as reliable companions on every journey.
Make the Rexing Dash Cam your trusted driving partner and capture every moment with confidence. Stay safe, stay protected, and drive smarter with Rexing.
15 Tips on How to Safely Drive Through Dangerous Intersections
The very idea of multiple vehicles going in separate directions is dangerous when you think about it, but converging at a single point might be something you would arrange to happen if you were to cause an accident deliberately!
Here are some fast tips to negotiate intersections, prevent collisions, and reach your destination safely. But what can you do at intersections to improve safety?
- DO NOT drive aggressively. A risky strategy is to accelerate to "create" a red light. A yellow signal means planning to brake; you can stop or slow down to a stop by the time the signal is red.
- Distracted driving. In almost all nations, talking on the phone and texting are obvious distractions and are illegal. But there are also other forms of distracted driving, such as shaving, applying makeup, or looking at a map, that may lead to an accident. Searching for an address can also lead to the inattention and distraction of drivers. So set your GPS or find directions on a site you want, before leaving for your destination. Go to the street level view, if you use Google maps, so you have an idea of what your destination building looks like.
- Control the speed. Speeding is one of the significant contributing factors to accidents, especially those occurring at intersections or at intersections that enter or exit.
- Maintain a car. The malfunctioning of warning lights (turn signals, brakes, headlights, etc.) makes predicting your actions difficult for other motorists.
- Boost your degree of vigilance. Display extra caution during congested traffic periods, such as rush hours, building zones, and accident scenes while passing.
- Learn patience. Impatience raises feelings and focus decreases.
- Do not drive with impaired control. A simple "do not do" is to drive after drinking or taking medication (illicit or prescription). Insufficient sleep may also affect drivers, often as great as drinking and driving.
- Do not drive and eat. When you take your hands off the wheel and your eyes off the road, tempting as it may be to whip through a drive-through and pick up a burger and shake, eating while driving proves risky.
- Never run a red light. This bears repeating: The outcome of someone running a red light is almost one in eight intersection collisions.
- Wear your seatbelt still. Insist that everyone else buckles up in your car too. In child safety seats suitable to their age and height, children need to be in the back seat.
- Stow the electronic devices away. If they are securely stored out of reach, you would not be tempted to lunge for your cellphone or tablet.
- Assess your own driving ability. Do a self-assessment of your driving abilities and behaviors, and ask others too, then think about how you might change.
- Take an assessment course for a defensive driver. These classes are offered by several cultures and the American.
- Driving is not a competition. Your aim is to get from point A to point B safely and without an accident while you are driving.
- For other drivers, be courteous. The Golden Rule is it!
The first measure to improve intersection safety is driver etiquette. But at an intersection, who has the right-of-way? The reply is, it depends!
Emergency vehicles will have the first right-of-way, of course. Remain stopped and still until the intersection area is completely cleared by the emergency vehicle. Check before you travel to make sure all emergency vehicles do not obey the first one.
The right-of-way still refers to pedestrians. Even if a pedestrian is crossing illegally (jaywalking), the right-of-way must still always be granted.
The right-of-way is still open for unrestricted traffic flow. The unrestricted flow of traffic has the right-of-way at an intersection controlled only by a stop sign at one of the cross-streets.
At intersections controlled by stop signs at all crossroads, the vehicle that enters the intersection first and stops first always has the right-of-way. You can return to the car on your right if vehicles arrive at the intersection at about the same moment. For vehicles going straight ahead, vehicles turning left should always yield.
Make sure that when you pass different traffic signals and controls, you know exactly what to do.
If heavy traffic on the highway demands a halt, yield signs do not mean "halt". Yield means slowly and deliberately merging with traffic going in the same direction you are going in and giving the right-of-way, if possible, to vehicles approaching or already at the intersection.
Traffic lights come in various colors and kinds. In each direction, the completely controlled traffic light has a red, yellow, and green light that regulates the traffic flow. A green light means continuing with responsible caution; yellow signals at the intersection to brace for a transition, most frequently followed by a red light, which means stopping, of course.
Yellow signals are not an invitation to cars to "beat" the red light by accelerating into the intersection. To avoid breaking the subsequent red light and, at the same time, to prevent having to pause in the middle of the intersection, use good judgment.
You will sometimes experience flashing lights: Flashing amber lights warn the driver to approach and proceed through an intersection with caution. Blinking red lights require that motorists stop at the intersection before proceeding through.
Before continuing, unmarked intersections that have no control lights or signage should be considered as full stops in both directions.
Planning ahead will stop the rush, reduce traffic tension, and help make sure you get where you go on time.
Rushing to make an appointment is a recipe for an accident because of bad preparation. Because you are in that rush, running a red light is asking for an accident! Plan ahead, expect delays in traffic and leave for your destination early.
Before leaving for your ride, listen to the traffic forecasts. In order to maneuver around traffic snarls and incidents that can clog your expected path, consider alternative travel routes.
Ignore distractions that interfere with your safe driving ability. Significant cognitive resources are required for driving. To keep you going safely down the lane, your brain uses visual signals, audio signals, and elevated thought processing. Driving a car does not mix well with distractions such as talking on a mobile phone, emailing, shaving, eating, putting on makeup, reading a newspaper, or any of the many other things that drivers frequently attempt to mix with the driving job.
Drive defensively before they arise, anticipating challenging circumstances and issues. When approaching an intersection, think about what other drivers might do, particularly when you change your own direction to reach the intersection.
When you approach or exit an intersection, do not change lanes. And always surrender to other traffic when making a U-turn on the highway at an intersection or elsewhere.