Defensive Driving Introduction
The roads today are busier than they've ever been, and they're getting busier all the time.
As well as heavy traffic, the driver often has to cope with unpredictable, irrational, offensive and sometimes dangerous driving behaviour.
Such behaviour makes today's road conditions hostile in a very real sense, with a higher risk of accident. In such conditions, drivers need to learn and practise a defensive strategy.
That strategy is called "defensive driving", sometimes known as "planned driving".
This section covers the following topics
- Defensive Driving
- Observation
- Signalling
- Hazards
- Lightning & Weather Conditions
- Other Road Users
Defensive Driving The Principles
Defensive driving is based on effective observation, good anticipation and control. It's about always questioning the actions of other road users and being prepared for the unexpected, so as not to be taken by surprise.
Defensive driving involves
- awareness
- planning
- anticipating
- staying in control
and driving with
- responsibility
- care
- consideration and courtesy.
It means putting safety above all else.
This means having real concern, not only for your own safety, but also for other road users, including the most vulnerable- those walking or riding.
Expect other people to make mistakes, and be ready to slow down or stop- even if you think you have the right of way.
Never rely on other road users doing the correct thing.
Your safety
Your safety lies mainly in your own hands.
The better your control of your vehicle and road space, the safer you'll be.
Defensive Driving A Good Example
Your driving should always set a good example to other road users.
You never know when your good example will make a deep impression on another driver, especially a learner or inexperienced driver, and perhaps save lives in the future.
Defensive Driving Reducing Hostility
With defensive driving, you'll show more patience and anticipation. This will help to reduce the number of incidents which result in
- open hostility
- abusive language
- threats
- physical violence.
Avoid
The kind of driving that
- gives offence to other road users
- provokes reaction
- creates dangerous situations.
Defensive Driving Competitive Driving
Never drive in a spirit of competition.
Competitive driving is, inherently, the opposite of defensive driving. It increases the risks to everyone.
