is used when preflighting an aircraft, a personal checklist based on such factors as experience, cur- rency and comfort level can help determine if you are prepared for a particular flight. Specifying when refresher training should be accomplished and desig- nating weather minimums, which may be higher than those listed in Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 91, are elements that may be included on a personal checklist. In addition to a review of SAFE Checklist to further evaluate your fitness for flight. [Figure 14-5] ers of fatal accidents. Fatal accidents, which occur  during approach, often happen at night or in IFR condi- tions. Takeoff/initial climb accidents frequently are due to the pilot’s lack of awareness of the effects of density altitude on aircraft performance or other improper take- off planning resulting in loss of control during, or shortly after takeoff. The majority of weather-related accidents occur after attempted VFR flight into IFR conditions. It is important to point out the fact that being familiar with the decision-making process does not ensure that you will have the good judgment to be a safe pilot. The ability to make effective decisions as pilot in  command depends on a number of factors. Some  circumstances, such as the time available to make a decision, may be beyond your control. However, you can learn to recognize those factors that can be man- aged, and learn skills to improve decision-making ability and judgment. The pilot in command of an aircraft is directly responsi- ble for, and is the final authority as to, the operation of that aircraft. In order to effectively exercise that respon- sibility and make effective decisions regarding the  outcome of a flight, you must have an understanding of your limitations. Your performance during a flight is affected by many factors, such as health, recency of experience, knowledge, skill level, and attitude. Exercising good judgment begins prior to taking the controls of an aircraft. Often, pilots thoroughly check their aircraft to determine airworthiness, yet do not evaluate their own fitness for flight. Just as a checklist Hazardous attitudes can lead to poor decision making and actions that involve unnecessary risk. You must examine your decisions carefully to ensure that your choices have not been influenced by hazardous  attitudes, and you must be familiar with positive alter- natives to counteract the hazardous attitudes. These substitute attitudes are referred to as antidotes. During a flight operation, it is important to be able to recognize Being fit to fly depends on more than just your physi- cal condition and recency of experience. For example, attitude affects the quality of your decisions. Attitude can be defined as a personal motivational predisposi- tion to respond to persons, situations, or events in a given manner. Studies have identified five hazardous attitudes that can interfere with your ability to make sound decisions and exercise authority properly. [Figure 14-6] 14-5 RECOGNIZING HAZARDOUS ATTITUDES PILOT SELF-ASSESSMENT FACTORS AFFECTING DECISION MAKING Figure 14-4. Statistical data can identify operations that have more risk. Figure 14-5. Prior to flight, you should assess your fitness, just as you evaluate the aircraft’s airworthiness. Illness —Do I have any symptoms? Medication —Have I been taking prescription or GLYPH<.notdef> over-the-counter drugs? Stress —AmI under psychological pressure from  the job? Worried about financial matters, health  problems, or family discord? Fatigue —AmI tired and not adequately rested? Eating —AmI adequately nourished? Alcohol —Have I been drinking within 8 hours? Within 24 hours? I'M SAFE CHECKLIST <51 101 201 501 <1000 <2000 10,000 Total Pilot's Total Time (Hours) 40 30 20 10 Night VFR Accident Rate Per 100,000 Hours