Defensive driving entails a selection of tactics used to avoid involvement in a car crash.
How can you become a defensive driver and be more aware of your surroundings on the road? Consider some tactics to employ and how you will benefit.
Adopting defensive driving tactics
Staying focused and alert is the first step in adopting a defensive approach to driving. Other crucial tactics include:
- Following the three-second rule. Choose an object near the road and start counting to three when the car in front of you passes it. If you pass the object after reaching three, you are at a safe distance from the other car.
- Keeping your speed down. Always be aware of the speed limit and follow it.
- Avoiding distractions. Eliminate anything that could distract you while driving, including daydreaming.
- Yielding to aggressive drivers. If someone tailgates you or drives aggressively, get out of their way as safely and quickly as possible.
- Being aware of road conditions. Slow down and stay as far from other vehicles as you can in heavy traffic or in the presence of other road hazards.
A defensive driver is always aware of other drivers and potentially dangerous conditions.
Benefiting from defensive driving
The obvious benefit of driving defensively is that it reduces the risk of collisions with other drivers. However, it also saves on insurance costs, improves your driving skills and reduces vehicle maintenance expenses. Abiding by traffic laws also avoids violations and the associated consequences.
Defensive drivers make the road safer for themselves and other drivers.
