What does 'eight stops and three yields' mean in Subject 1?
4 Answers
In Subject 1, 'eight stops' refers to stopping and yielding, where you must come to a complete stop at an intersection, observe the traffic, and proceed only when it is safe. 'Three yields' refers to triangular road signs indicating the need to slow down and yield. Below is relevant information about Subject 1: 1. Introduction: Also known as the theoretical exam for drivers or the driver's theory test, it is part of the assessment for obtaining a motor vehicle driver's license. According to the 'Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driver's Licenses,' the exam covers theoretical driving knowledge, road safety laws and regulations, local regulations, and related topics. The exam is computer-based, consisting of 100 questions, with a passing score of 90 or above. 2. Learning aids: Students can use driver simulation exam software on mobile or computer devices to study traffic regulations. Additionally, the 'Safe Driving Starts Here' guide, compiled by the Ministry of Transport of the People's Republic of China, can be purchased and distributed by driving schools or bought individually by students.
Actually, this saying refers to a key traffic rule often tested in the Subject 1 exam, just as Coach Zhang from our neighborhood taught me when he was an instructor at the driving school. Simply put, there are three steps to follow when approaching an intersection: start slowing down about eight meters before the intersection—this is the 'slow down' step; then, pay attention to any yield signs or traffic lights, stopping for three seconds to ensure safety; finally, come to a complete stop, making sure no other vehicles or pedestrians are passing through. The key is to develop this habit so you won’t panic during the exam. When I was getting my driver’s license, I practiced this specifically, driving back and forth dozens of times in the simulation training field until it became second nature. Now, after driving for over a decade, I still subconsciously follow this routine at intersections, and it really helps avoid many accidents.
Last month, while accompanying my cousin in preparing for the Subject 1 test, I happened to come across this knowledge point in the question bank. The so-called 'eight-stop three-slow' is an operational procedure when passing through an intersection. The specific steps are as follows: when the vehicle approaches the intersection, the driver should observe and confirm safety conditions at approximately eight meters in advance. If there is a stop sign, the vehicle needs to stop for about three seconds; at the same time, gradually reduce speed to ensure the vehicle speed is controllable. This is mainly to prevent accidents caused by vehicles rushing through. I noticed that this operation requires the examinee to control the braking force properly, avoiding both sudden braking and being too slow. It is recommended that beginners practice starting and stopping coordination in an open area, as this is the part where examinees are most likely to cross the line or stall during the test.
This mantra was repeatedly emphasized by my instructor during the theoretical driving test preparation. 'Eight-stop' means completing the stopping maneuver within the eight-meter zone before an intersection, while 'three-reduction' refers to gradually decreasing speed in three stages starting from thirty meters away. In practical operation, you need to control your speed below 20km/h before entering the intersection and come to a complete stop before the stop line. The key is to develop the habit of early observation, remembering to turn your head left and right to check blind spots. The exam computer system monitors whether turn signals are activated at least 3 seconds in advance - a detail often overlooked by trainees. During practice, it's recommended to place a water cup on the dashboard; if the water surface wobbles, it indicates insufficiently smooth speed control.
