TLP1-Vehicle Controls & Vision

Learning Objectives

Timed Lesson Plan

Part One: Nine Primary Controls

Steering Wheel: Engineered to go straight (Positive Caster). Three hand positions (9&3, 8&4, 10&2).

Pedals: Accelerator controls weight transfer (Squat). Brake offers hydraulic resistance; cannot be floored like a switch.

Gear Selector: P-R-N-D-L. Neutral disengages the drivetrain, terminating the link between motor and wheels.

Communication: Turn Signals (Intent), Flashers (Hazard), Horn (Warning), Headlights (Visibility).

Wipers: Single pass, intermittent, low, high.

Part Two: Pre-Drive Inspection (HB p. 59)

Tires: Pressure (32-35 psi), Tread (Grip), Damage. Question: What is tread for? (Displacing water).

Lights: Turn signals (F/R), Brake lights, Headlights (High/Low), Flashers.

Mirrors: Adjusted to ELIMINATE BLIND SPOTS. Head turning is only required if mirrors are poorly adjusted.

Cockpit: No loose objects (projectiles). Floor mat secured.

Part Three: Safety Laws

Safety Belt Law (FS 316.614): All drivers, front passengers, and passengers under 18 must be restrained. 45% of fatalities in 2021 were unrestrained.

Texting Ban (FS 316.305): No manual typing while moving.

The 3 Distractions: Visual (Eyes off road), Manual (Hands off wheel), Cognitive (Mind off driving).

True or False: It is legal to text while stopped at a red light? True (Vehicle is stationary), but unsafe. Best practice is to park.

Part Four: Verification

Hand Positions: Demonstrate 9&3, 8&4, 10&2.

Child Safety: Children 0-3 must be in separate carrier/integrated seat. Ages 4-5 must be in carrier/booster.

Front Seat: Rear-facing seats clearly unsafe in front due to airbags.

Citation: The Driver is responsible for all passengers under 18. Passengers over 18 receive their own citations.

Learning Objectives

Activity Breakdown

0-20 Min: Ergonomics

Objective: Proper seat position, steering wheel adjustment, and pedal reach.

The Standard: Wrist breaks over steering wheel. Knee slightly bent when braking. Ensure optimal control and comfort.

20-40 Min: BGE Mirrors

Objective: Blind Spot, Glance, Exit mirror setup.

The Drill: Push mirrors out until the side of the car disappears. Maximize field of view and minimize blind spots. (Handbook p. 59).

40-60 Min: Blind Touch

Objective: Practice operating all vehicle controls without looking away from the road.

The Drill: Instructor calls out "Wipers," "Hazards," "Defrost." Student activates them while keeping eyes on the horizon. Develop muscle memory.

60-90 Min: Creep

Objective: Master the art of slow, controlled forward movement using only the brake pedal.

The Standard: Essential for parking and tight spaces. Move 6 inches, stop smoothly. No gas pedal required.