nanway through the teen. Return the steering wheel to the straight ahead position. IS A 28 Chapter 4 Performing Basic Maneuvers Unit
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Based on the context of the image, which is from a driver’s education document titled “Chapter 4 Performing Basic Maneuvers,” the correct answer is:
Backing is a high-risk maneuver.
Explanation
This statement is a fundamental safety principle taught in virtually all driver’s education programs. The question is designed to test a student’s understanding of the inherent dangers associated with specific driving actions covered in the chapter on basic maneuvers.
The primary reason backing is classified as a “high-risk maneuver” is due to severely limited visibility. When a driver is moving a vehicle in reverse, there are significant blind spots directly behind the car that cannot be seen using only the rearview and side mirrors. These blind spots can easily conceal pedestrians, especially small children, as well as pets, bicycles, or other low-profile obstacles. To compensate, drivers are taught to physically turn their bodies to look over their shoulder, but even this does not provide a complete, unobstructed view of the area behind the vehicle.
Furthermore, a vehicle handles differently in reverse. The steering can feel more sensitive, and it is easier to lose control or misjudge the car’s path, leading to collisions with parked cars, poles, or other objects. The combination of poor visibility and altered vehicle dynamics significantly increases the potential for property damage and, more critically, for injuring someone.
Because of these elevated risks, driver’s education curricula place heavy emphasis on this concept. Instructors stress the importance of being exceptionally cautious when backing up. This includes performing a “360-degree check” around the vehicle before getting in, backing up slowly, and avoiding backing for long distances or into busy traffic whenever possible. The phrase “Backing is a high-risk maneuver” serves as a constant and critical reminder of the need for heightened awareness and care when performing this common but dangerous action.
