Running Close to the Curb.—If he runs near the curb he will find it necessary to go very close up to the corner before he is able to notice an approach of a vehicle from the right. If he nears the corner running near the middle of the road, it will not be necessary for him to keep such a sharp watch for the sudden appearance of a vehicle, which gives the novice such a fright.
The Middle of the Road.—For this reason, therefore, the homely advice above, is very appropriate. When in the middle of the road, the looking to the right, or to the left is a matter which is unnecessary.
In every community certain local regulations are established, which should be learned, but there are well known rules, which have grown into well recognized laws everywhere, and if they are once understood, will apply wherever you happen to be.
Community Regulations.—The first of these is to keep to the right in passing a vehicle which is approaching you.
The second is, to pass to the left of a vehicle which is going in the same direction.
Third, in making a turn at the intersection of streets make a loop which will carry you beyond the farther side of the street, and do not try to turn within the limits of the crossing, or the corners of the street curbs.
Fourth, between street intersections, do not try to make a turn until you have examined the street behind you, and never attempt to make a long diagonal cut when the turn is being made.
Approaching Car Tracks.—In approaching car tracks do so on the principle that a train is coming, and act accordingly. Don’t take anything for granted. This applies when there are any obstructions either way along the track for several hundred feet from the roadway on which you are traveling.
Coasting.—It is a mistake to coast down hill with the brakes set for controlling the car. Instead, cut out the ignition, select a gear best suited for the grade of the hill, and run the machine down under compression; that is to say, against the engine. If the grade is very steep select low gear, and in that way you have a very strong leverage.
