You Drive Defensively When
Defensive driving is a style of driving that emphasizes being aware of your surroundings and taking steps to avoid accidents. Defensive drivers are always on the lookout for potential hazards, and they are prepared to react quickly if something goes wrong.
Here are some things you do when you drive defensively:
- Be aware of your surroundings. This means paying attention to the cars around you, as well as pedestrians, cyclists, and other hazards. You should also be aware of the road conditions, including the weather, traffic, and construction.
- Leave enough space between you and the car in front of you. This gives you time to react if the car in front of you stops suddenly.
- Obey the speed limit. Speeding increases your risk of an accident.
- Avoid distractions. Don’t talk on the phone, text, or eat while driving.
- Be predictable. Use your turn signals and signal your intentions before changing lanes or turning.
- Be prepared to yield. Don’t assume that other drivers will yield to you.
Here are some questions you can ask yourself to determine if you are driving defensively:
- Am I aware of the cars around me?
- Am I leaving enough space between me and the car in front of me?
- Am I driving at a safe speed for the conditions?
- Am I avoiding distractions?
- Am I being predictable?
- Am I prepared to yield?
By following these tips, you can help to keep yourself and others safe on the road.
Here are some additional tips for defensive driving:
- Be prepared for the unexpected. Anything can happen on the road, so it’s important to be prepared for the unexpected. This could include a sudden stop, a pedestrian crossing the street, or a car coming out of nowhere.
- Be patient. Don’t get angry or aggressive when other drivers make mistakes. Just stay calm and take action to avoid a collision.
- Be prepared to take evasive action. If you see a potential hazard, be prepared to take evasive action to avoid it. This could include braking, swerving, or honking your horn.
Defensive driving is a skill that takes practice. The more you drive defensively, the better you will become at it.
