2005 Model Commercial Driver’s License Manual 2.7.4 – Space Overhead Hitting overhead objects is a danger. Make sure you always have overhead clearance. •  Don’t assume that the heights posted at bridges and overpasses are correct. Re-paving or packed snow may have reduced the clearances since the heights were posted. •  The weight of a cargo van changes its height. An empty van is higher than a loaded one. That you got under a bridge when you were loaded does not mean that you can do it when you are empty. •  if you doubt you have safe space to pass under an object, go slowly. If you aren’t sure you can make it, take another route. Warnings are often posted on low bridges or underpasses, but sometimes they are not. •  Some roads can cause a vehicle to tilt. There can be a problem clearing objects along the edge of the road, such as signs, trees, or bridge supports. Where this is a problem, drive a little closer to the center of the road. •  Before you back into an area, get out and check for overhanging objects such as trees, branches, or electric wires. it’s easy to miss seeing them while you are backing. (Also check for other hazards at the same time.) 2.7.5 – Space Below 2.7.6 – Space for Turns •  Turn slowly to give yourself and others more time to avoid problems. •  if you are driving a truck or bus that cannot make the right turn without swinging into another lane, turn wide as you complete the turn. Keep the rear of your vehicle close to the curb. This will stop other drivers from passing you on the right. •  Don’t turn wide to the left as you start the turn. A following driver may think you are turning left and Page 2-18 Section 2 – Driving Safely  left Turns.  On a left turn, make sure you have reached the center of the intersection before you start the left turn. If you turn too soon, the left side of your vehicle may hit another vehicle because of offtracking. If there are two turning lanes, always take the right turn lane. Don’t start in the inside lane because you may have to swing right to make the turn. Drivers on your left can be more readily seen. See Figure 2.14. Many drivers forget about the space under their vehicles. That space can be very small when a vehicle is heavily loaded. This is often a problem on dirt roads and in unpaved yards. Don’t take a chance on getting hung up. Drainage channels across roads can cause the ends of some vehicles to drag. Cross such depressions carefully. Railroad tracks can also cause problems, particularly when pulling trailers with a low underneath clearance. Don’t take a chance on getting hung up halfway across. The space around a truck or bus is important in turns. Because of wide turning and offtracking, large vehicles can hit other vehicles or objects during turns. Right Turns.  here are some rules to help prevent right-turn crashes: try to pass you on the right. you may crash into the other vehicle as you complete your turn. • if you must cross into the oncoming lane to make a turn, watch out for vehicles coming toward you. Give them room to go by or to stop. However, don’t back up for them, because you might hit someone behind you. See Figure 2.13. Figure 2.13 Figure 2.14