through the curve to help the vehicle be more stable while turning. It also allows you to speed up as soon as you are out of the curve. 

## 2.3.2 – Multi-speed Rear Axles and Auxiliary Transmissions 

Multi-speed rear axles and auxiliary transmissions are used on many vehicles to provide extra gears. You usually control them by a selector knob or switch on the gearshift lever of the main transmission. There are many different shift patterns. Learn the right way to shift gears in the vehicle you will drive. 

## 2.3.3 – Automatic Transmissions 

Some vehicles have automatic transmissions. You can select a low range to get greater engine braking when going down grades. The lower ranges prevent the transmission from shifting up beyond the selected gear (unless the governor rpm is exceeded). It is very important to use this braking effect when going down grades. 

## 2.3.4 – Retarders 

Some vehicles have "retarders." Retarders help slow a vehicle, reducing the need for using your brakes. They reduce brake wear and give you another way to slow down. There are four basic types of retarders (exhaust, engine, hydraulic, and electric). All retarders can be turned on or off by the driver. On some vehicles the retarding power can be adjusted. When turned "on," retarders apply their braking power (to the drive wheels only) whenever you let up on the accelerator pedal all the way. 

Because these devices can be noisy, be sure you know where their use is permitted. 

Caution. When your drive wheels have poor traction, the retarder may cause them to skid. Therefore, you should turn the retarder off whenever the road is wet, icy, or snow covered. 

1. Why should you back toward the driver's side? 

2. If stopped on a hill, how can you start moving without rolling back? 

3. When backing, why is it important to use a helper? 

4. What's the most important hand signal that you and the helper should agree on? 

5. What are the two special conditions where you should downshift? 

6. When should you downshift automatic transmissions? 

7. Retarders keep you from skidding when the road is slippery. True or False? 

8. What are the two ways to know when to shift? 

These questions may be on the test. If you can't answer them all, re-read subsections 2.2 and 2.3. 

## 2.4 – Seeing 

To be a safe driver you need to know what's going on all around your vehicle. Not looking properly is a major cause of accidents. 

## 2.4.1 – Seeing Ahead 

All drivers look ahead; but many don't look far enough ahead. 

Importance of Looking Far Enough Ahead. Because stopping or changing lanes can take a lot of distance, knowing what the traffic is doing on all sides of you is very important. You need to look well ahead to make sure you have room to make these moves safely. 

How Far Ahead to Look. Most good drivers look at least 12 to 15 seconds ahead. That means looking ahead the distance you will travel in 12 to 15 seconds. At lower speeds, that's about one block. At highway speeds it's about a quarter of a mile. If you're not looking that far ahead, you may have to stop too quickly or make quick lane changes. Looking 12 to 15 seconds ahead doesn't mean not paying attention to things that are closer. Good drivers shift their attention back and forth, near and far. Figure 2.6 illustrates how far to look ahead. 

## Subsections 2.2 and 2.3 Test Your Knowledge 

