Defensive Driving Basics

What Is Defensive Driving?

Defensive driving is essentially driving in a manner that utilises safe driving strategies to
enables motorists to address identified hazards in a predictable manner. These strategies
go well beyond instruction on basic traffic laws and procedures.

Defensive driving lessons enable drivers learn to improve their driving skills by reducing
their driving risks by anticipating situations and making safe well-informed decisions.
Such decisions are implemented based on road and environmental conditions present
when completing a safe driving manoeuvre.

Defensive driving is a form of training or practice for motor vehicle drivers to drive in
such a way that they consciously reduce the dangers associated with driving. They do
this by anticipating dangerous scenarios, which could range from bad weather to erring
motorists.

For example: Suppose you are the second car in line at traffic lights. Your front bumper
is three feet from the car in front of you. You look in your rear-view mirror and notice a
car is approaching you at a high speed. The driver is waving at some girls and doesn’t
see the red light until it is too late.

He slams on his brakes and all you hear is the screeching of his tyres followed by a loud
and sickening CRUNCH. Everything suddenly fades to black. The next thing you notice is
an ambulance man trying to take your pulse as the Jaws of Life are ripping apart your
car so you can be extracted. Of course you noticed that the driver that hit you is not hurt
and you overhear him telling the police that YOU reversed into him. As you slip back into
unconsciousness you remember the wise words of your father; when you’re driving
always GIVE YOURSELF AN OUT.

If only you had left a car and a half-length between you and the car in front of you. You
could have pulled forward or even out of the way before the impact.

Defensive driving is designed to heighten your awareness of everything happening

around you while driving. If you start developing these habits early and realise that
every time you get in a car there is risk involved, you increase your chances that you
won’t be involved in a collision.

A driver who practices defensive driving has learned to control his emotions and is not
easily affected by other drivers who may exhibit bad driving behaviour and practices. A
defensive driver is ever watchful and careful. He is one who can quickly identify and
predict potential road problems and then immediately decide and act appropriately to
avoid dangers and accidents.

10 Basic Concepts of Defensive Driving:

1) Don’t start the engine without securing each passenger in the car, including
children and pets. Safety belts save thousands of lives each year.
2) Leave space to escape dangerous situations.
3) Slow down, especially during inclement weather conditions or at night.
4) Always adhere to speed limits.
5) Concentrate on your driving at all times and keep a watchful eye on pedestrians
and pets along the roadside.
6) Expect the unexpected and plan for escape routes.
7) Never drive if you are impaired by lack of sleep or being under the influence.
8) Check your mirrors frequently.

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 9) Assume that drivers will run through stop signs or red lights and be prepared to
react.
10) Follow the rules of the road. Don’t contest the right of way or try to race another
car. Be respectful of other motorists.

Youtoo can become a defensive driver by doing the following:

 Start practicing now by checking your mirrors constantly.
 Always be aware of what is on your right, your left and behind you.
 Check the road ahead. What is on the horizon, what is happening in front of the car
ahead of you?
 Learn to make eye to eye contact with drivers and pedestrians. That way you know
they see you.
 Look at the front wheels of the cars parked on the side of the road. If you see a car
with the wheels turned to the right, is it going to suddenly pull out?
 Be prepared for the unexpected.

Adapted 12/10/16 from: © 2016 Road Driver

https://www.roaddriver.co.uk/safety-tips/what-is-defensive-driving/

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 Defensive Driving 101: The Basics of Safe Driving

Staying safe on the road can be difficult, but the basics of defensive driving are easy:
pay attention to your surroundings, minimise distractions, avoid hazards, and never,
ever drive impaired.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

It sounds obvious, but it’s important to remember: paying attention to what’s on the
road can save your life.
 Scan the horizon: Prevent accidents by seeing what’s up ahead. Noticing
problems early on will give you more time to stop and avoid hazards.
 Check your blind spot before changing lanes: “This sounds so simple, and it’s
one of the first things you learn when you’re first starting out,” says Staver. “Many
accidents can be avoided by checking your blind spot by physically turning your
head and glancing over instead of relying on your mirrors, which might not even be
set properly.”
 Alert other drivers to changes you plan to make: “Use your turn signals,”
Staver advises. “This is another tip from driver’s ed, but your turn signals are an
indication to other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians that you do not plan to
continue forward but intend to turn or take some alternative course.”

Never Drive Impaired

Driving safely requires attention, fast thinking, and precise movements -- and that’s
tough to do if you’re driving impaired. Impaired driving is anything that interferes with
your ability to drive safely, and it can mean driving drunk, under the influence of drugs,
while drowsy, or while distracted.
 Never drink and drive: “Don’t drive if you’ve had even a drink,” advises Staver.
“This might sound paranoid but it’s best not to take a chance. Even if you’ve only
had a beer or two, you could be worried about having alcohol on your breath. You
might be so worried about your speed that you forget to look both ways before
turning, and you hit a pedestrian. This is a distraction. Eliminate distractions by
either not drinking and driving or calling a cab. There are many alternative taxi
options these days.”
 Don’t drive under the influence of drugs: Some states are enacting laws
allowing for recreational marijuana use -- but that doesn’t mean it’s safe to drive
under the influence of marijuana or other drugs. Just like drunk driving, driving
under the influence of drugs dangerously impairs your reaction time and
concentration and could prove to be deadly. Use a designated driver, call a cab, or
just avoid driving altogether while under the influence.
 Don’t drive drowsy: Driving while you’re tired can be just as dangerous as
driving while drunk or under the influence of drugs. Falling asleep at the wheel is
an easy way to get into an accident -- but you don’t even have to fall asleep for
drowsy driving to be dangerous. Driving tired means your reaction time is slowed,
and it’s best to avoid it altogether. Consider stopping to rest, stay the night, or
plan to drive earlier when you won’t be tired.
 Never drive distracted: “Distracted driving is the biggest threat to our safety on
the roads,” says Staver. “Texting, playing with a GPS, talking on the phone (even
over Bluetooth), digging something out of a bag, or daydreaming are just some of
the many distractions we might encounter while driving. Distracted driving is a
leading cause of accidents. Take the time to put your belongings away, set your
route for GPS, and situate yourself while parked.

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Avoid Bad Drivers on the Road

Even if you’re a safe driver, others on the road may not be. Other drivers may be
impaired, have road rage, or just aren’t skilled at driving safely for one reason or
another. You’ll need to be on the alert to avoid a collision with them.
 Give reckless drivers a wide berth: If you’ve noticed someone speeding,
making lots of lane changes, or otherwise acting erratically, just stay out of their
way. Move over, slow down, or change lanes -- whatever you need to do to stay
away from them. Even if they don’t hit you directly, you might end up in an
accident if you’re nearby.
 Move over for tailgaters: Tailgaters can really be a nuisance, and they might
make you feel like you need to fight back. Don’t. “The safest way to get rid of a
tailgater is to pull over to the side and let them pass,” recommends Staver.
“There’s no use inciting someone who is on your bumper by accelerating or slowing
down quickly – that’s likely to cause an accident. Be calm, signal that you are
changing lanes or pulling over, and let the person pass.”
 Let go of road rage: Stay calm on the road and remember that the most
important thing is getting to your destination and home safely – not proving a
point to anyone else. “Try not to bring life’s frustrations into the car with you,” says
Staver. “Find something calming, like music that relaxes you, to listen to. Remind
yourself that other people might be irritated by issues in their lives that you cannot
control, but know that you can control your own reactions. Drive safely by keeping
your distance and not getting upset when someone cuts you off. Many times
people are in a rush to get home or don’t know that a lane might be ending. Try to
be present in your driving and calm down. Finding non-driving outlets to deal with
stress can also minimising aggressive driving and road rage.”

Be a Safe, Courteous Driver

Respecting the rules of the road means fewer accidents and a safer ride home. You can
be a more safe, courteous driver by following these tips:
 Maintain an adequate following distance: Keep at least two car lengths
between you and the vehicle in front of you, more if you’re following a truck or are
driving in inclement weather. Leaving this space will give you more room to slow
down if you need to suddenly stop your vehicle.
 Wear a seat belt: It’s the easiest, but perhaps most important way to protect
yourself from serious injury or death in the event of a crash. Take just a moment
to click your seat belt, and you’ll be far safer if you end up in an accident.
 Slow down for bad weather: The speed limit may say 65, but that’s only safe
when it’s sunny and clear. If you’re facing fog, rain, snow, sleet, ice, or even heavy
winds, it’s safer to slow down.
 Give right of way -- even when you don’t have to: Sure, it may be your turn,
but if another driver doesn’t seem like they want to yield for you, just let it go and
allow them to pass. It doesn’t matter who is “right” if you end up injured or dead.
 Avoid speeding: It’s obvious, but worth pointing out: speed kills. Follow posted
speed limits and go with the flow of traffic to stay safe.

Adapted 12/10/16 from: © 2016 DefensiveDriving.org

https://www.defensivedriving.org/defensive-driving/

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 Defensive Driving Practices

Defensive driving is probably the most crucial, and safest way of driving. Its aim is to
reduce the risk of collision by anticipating dangerous situations, despite adverse
conditions or the mistakes of others. Knowing what’s going on around you, predicting
what might happen, and knowing how to react quickly in case another driver suddenly
changes direction or road conditions catch you off-guard. Read this chapter to learn
about effective defensive driving techniques. Constantly scanning the road is the core
idea of defensive driving. Visual Search strategies will help you to notice the hazards on
the road and prepare to avoid them. Communicate with other drivers to avoid collisions.
Do so by using your horn, headlights and brakes lights.

Another important concept in defensive driving is managing the space around you. Make
sure that there is a safe space cushion around your car and position your car in a lane
according to the road situation.

Become familiar with tips on what you will need to do in emergency situations:
equipment failure, broken brakes, tire blowout, engine fire and other unexpected things
that can happen in the middle of your trip. The following section will also teach you what
action you will need to take if you get involved into a collision or hit an unattended
vehicle or property.

1. Defensive Driving Techniques

What is defensive driving? It is a set of driving skills that allows you to defend yourself
against possible collisions caused by bad drivers, drunk drivers, and poor weather. If you
look ahead and keep your eyes moving, you will spot potential hazards more easily.
Once you have identified a potential hazard and decided what to do, act immediately.

Defensive drivers are able to avoid dangers on the road by using their safe driving
practices.

Tips for defensive driving:

 Plan ahead for the unexpected.
 Be able to control speed.
 Be Prepared to react to other drivers.
 Do not expect the other driver to do what you think he or she should do.
 Respect other users of the roadway.
 Be aware of driving in special road and weather conditions.
 Be alert and avoid distractions, e.g., cell phone use, eating.

Don’t make assumptions about another driver’s intentions. If you expect drivers in
parked vehicles to remain parked at all times, always yield at intersections, or remain in
one lane at all times, etc., you risk being caught off guard when drivers do not do what’s
expected.

Expect other drivers to make mistakes and be prepared to react. If a mistake is made,
you will be ready to defend yourself.

Never assume that other drivers are sober, alert, and follow the rules of the road at all
times.

2. Visual Search Strategies

Safe driving depends on your ability to notice many things at once. Our eyes provide two
types of visions: central vision and peripheral or side vision. Central vision allows us to
make very important judgments like estimating distance and understanding details in

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the path ahead, whereas peripheral vision helps us detect events to the side that are
important to us, even when we’re not looking directly at them. Most driving mistakes are
caused by bad habits in the way drivers use their eyes.

IPDE (Identify, Predict, Decide and Execute) is an important concept in defensive

driving. To know more about its principles, read carefully the following section.

In order to avoid last minute moves and spot possible traffic hazards, you should always
look down the road ahead of your vehicle. Start braking early if you see any hazards or
traffic ahead of you slowing down. Also check the space between your car and any
vehicles in the lane next to you. It is very important to check behind you before you
change lanes, slow down quickly, back up, or drive down a long or steep hill. You should
also glance at your instrument panel often to ensure there are no problems with the
vehicle and to verify your speed.

2.1. Using Your Eyes Effectively

Gathering information with your eyes is called visual perception. Safe driving depends on
your ability to notice many things at once.

To get the right information to the brain, a driver’s eyes have to move constantly and
pick out the appropriate spots at the right time.

Our eyes provide two types of visions:

1) Central vision: Our central vision covers about three degrees of our visual field and
peripheral vision, or side vision, covers the rest. The three degrees of central vision is
a very small area in your total field of vision. But central vision allows us to make very
important judgments like estimating distance and understanding details in the path
ahead.
2) Peripheral or side vision: Our peripheral vision is not as sharp as central vision, but
it is more sensitive to light and motion. That’s a good thing because it helps us detect
events to the side that are important to us, even when we’re not looking directly at
them. Events like cars entering our field of vision from the side, or warning lights from
ambulances, police cars, and other emergency vehicles are all observed using
peripheral vision.

Central vision plus side vision make up the entire visual field, which is the main source of
information that all drivers need for safe driving. Most driving mistakes are caused by
bad habits in the way drivers use their eyes.

1) AIM HIGH: Look ahead, not down. The experienced driver’s attention is focused on
the road ahead with his or her central vision following the intended path of travel.
2) KEEP YOUR EYES MOVING: A good driver concentrates on selecting details in the
traffic scene.
3) GET THE BIG PICTURE: Search the whole scene; check the rear-view mirrors.
(Source: Using Your Eyes Effectively, a movie by the AAA Foundation for Traffic
Safety)

2.2. Visual Search Categories

The length of time it takes a driver to identify a situation is called perception time.
Perception time depends on visibility, the driver’s physical condition, and the road
situation. Effectively scanning the road ahead will shorten your required perception time.

You can improve your ability to gather information by grouping like items into four basic
categories discussed below.

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 1) Signs, Signals and Roadway Markings: These items provide for orderly
movement of traffic. They help you make safe driving decisions by informing you of
the condition of the road ahead of you.
2) The Highway: Look for objects on the road and in the area bordering the road
that could possibly cause a collision. If there is a problem ahead, look for another
path you can take to avoid a hazardous situation.
3) Motorised Vehicles: It can be difficult to gather good information about other
motorised vehicles. Cars, motorcycles, trucks, and buses all handle and react
differently to road conditions. Watch out for other drivers who do not have full
control of their vehicles because of excessive speed or unnecessary lane changes.
Adjust your speed and position to protect yourself against their possible actions.
Remember that some drivers are less predictable than others.
4) Non-Motorised Highway Users: Pedestrians, bicycles, and animals belong to this
group. They are the most vulnerable users of the highways and should be watched
carefully whenever they come near a roadway.

2.3. Scanning The Road

In order to avoid last minute moves and spot possible traffic hazards, you should always
look down the road ahead of your vehicle. When you are looking far enough ahead in
your travel path, you will be able to spot hazards early and you will be well-prepared to
react to them.

Look ahead for signs of trouble. Watch the brake lights of cars both ahead of you and in
other lanes. Start braking early if you see traffic ahead of you slowing down.

Also check the space between your car and any vehicles in the lane next to you. Use
your rear-view mirror and side view mirrors every three to five seconds. After a quick
check of the mirrors or a fast look over your shoulder to check the rear, return your
attention to the path immediately ahead of you. Don’t stare. If there is no immediate
problem in the path ahead, check the mirrors or look over your shoulder again as
needed.

It is very important to check behind you before you change lanes, slow down quickly,
back up, or drive down a long or steep hill.

Check traffic behind you often. This way, you will know if cars are tailgating or coming
up behind you too fast. You may have time to get out of the way before being hit from
the rear.

You should also glance at your instrument panel often to ensure there are no problems
with the vehicle and to verify your speed. Determine what your gauges tell you and then
quickly return your attention to your path of travel.

3. Headlights and Communication with Others

You have several ways to communicate with other road users. You can use your horn
when necessary to avoid collisions. Never honk if slowing or stopping your vehicle will
prevent a collision. It’s safer to just use the brakes. You can also use your headlights.
You may have to flash your headlights under certain circumstances to get the attention
of another driver who may not see you.

Turn on your hazard lights (also called emergency flashers) to show a hazard or collision
is ahead or if you are having trouble with your vehicle.

Always signal your intentions before making a turn or pulling away from the curb, and
watch for other drivers’ signals.

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3.1. Use Your Horn
 Sound your horn when necessary to avoid collisions. Don’t honk at other times.
 If a driver is going slowly, don’t honk just to make a slow driver hurry. The driver
may be ill, lost, or may be having problems with the vehicle.
 Never honk if slowing or stopping your vehicle will prevent a collision. It’s safer to
use the brakes than push the horn.

3.2. Use Your Headlights

 Turn on your low-beam headlights when it is cloudy, raining, snowing, or foggy.
 On small country or mountain roads, it is a good idea to drive with your headlights
on, even on sunny days. This will help other drivers see you.
 You may have to flash your headlights under certain circumstances to get the
attention of another driver who may not see you.
 Turn on your hazard lights (also called emergency flashers) to show a hazard or
collision is ahead or if you are having trouble with your vehicle.
 If it is safe, lift the hood to signal an emergency.

3.3. Signal Your Intentions

 Always signal when you change direction. Signal even when you don’t see any cars
around. A car you don’t see could hit you.
 Watch for other drivers’ signals.
 Always signal before pulling next to (or away from) the curb.
 Signal before turning or changing lanes.
 Even though you signal, do not assume that the space you wish to occupy is clear.
Look in your mirrors and over your shoulder to check your blind spot before
making a lane change.
 If you plan to turn beyond an intersection, don’t signal until you are actually in the
intersection. If you signal too early, another driver may think you will turn before
you reach him or her and might pull into your path.
 Check your signal after turning. Turn it off in case it hasn’t clicked off by itself.

4. Managing Space

To drive defensively, you must manage the road space around your car. You can do that
by controlling your speed, properly positioning your car in a lane and communicating
with other road users.

The crucial concept is keep a safe distance from the car in front of you. The more space
you allow between your car and the car ahead, the more time you will have to see a
hazard down the road and avoid it! You will have to increase your following distance in
some cases, e.g., when you follow a motorcycle, pull a trailer, carry a heavy load, drive
in adverse weather conditions or slippery roads. The same rules apply to the sides and
back of your car. Don’t drive in the blind spot of another driver. The other driver may not
see your car and could change lanes and hit you. And if you see someone is following
you too closely brake lightly a few times to warn the driver behind you that you are
slowing down. Change the lane whenever it is safe to lose the tailgater.

4.1. Space Management

To be a safe driver—to drive defensively—you must manage the road space around your
car. There are three basic elements to space management:
 Speed control
 Lane positioning
 Communication

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Kinds of Special Conditions: We need to determine the kinds of spatial conditions that
exist while driving on the road. There are three types of conditions you encounter on the
road:

1) Open Conditions: This means that you have a space or a larger area in which to
drive that is without restrictions—you see only wide, open spaces on the road ahead,
with no restrictions around your car—you are free to move forward or to change lanes
without conflict.
2) Closed Conditions: A closed zone means that it is not available for your car’s path of
travel—that there is a restriction to the drivers view or that space is unavailable in a
particular zone.
3) Changing Conditions: This often occurs when the driving situation changes from an
open to a closed zone. Changing conditions can include speed limits, roadway or
weather conditions, lane width, environmental conditions, visibility, traffic flow, time
of day, traffic controls, etc. Each of these conditions should have an influence on what
speed is appropriate, the path of travel, and what type of communication is used.

Professor Frederik R. Mottola’s Space Area Zone Control: There are seven basic
areas of operating space around the vehicle. The diagram on next slide shows the six
zones, areas, or spaces surrounding the car which are visible to the driver. A zone is an
area of space around a vehicle that is the width of a lane and extends as far as the
driver can see. The vehicle occupies the central area, or Zone 7. Each area must be
managed in order to reduce risk of collision.

4.2. Keep a Space Cushion to the Front

Good drivers keep a safe following distance so they can see well. The more space you
allow between your car and the car ahead, the more time you will have to see a hazard
down the road and the ability to avoid it!

Steering will be easier if you have a big picture of your intended path of travel. Keep
enough space between your car and the car in front of you so that it does not block your
view. Driving in the centre of the lane also improves your view of the roadway.

Following too closely causes most rear-end collisions. A good safety rule is to keep a
following distance of not less than three seconds. Consult your state’s Drivers Handbook
for details.

You will have to increase the following distance in some cases, e.g., when you follow a
motorcycle, pull a trailer, carry a heavy load, drive in adverse weather conditions or
slippery roads.

4.3. Keep a Space Cushion to the Side

Don’t drive in the blind spot of another driver. The other driver may not see your car and
could change lanes and hit you.

Avoid driving alongside other cars on multi-lane streets. Someone may crowd your lane
or change lanes directly into your car. Move ahead of the other car or drop back.

4.4. Keep a Space Cushion to the Back

Watch for tailgaters! If someone is following you too closely, be careful. Tap your brake
lightly a few times to warn the tailgater that you are slowing down. This will flash your
brake lights as a warning. Brake slowly before stopping.

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Lose the tailgater as soon as you can by changing lanes. If you cannot change lanes,
slow down enough to encourage the tailgater to go around you. If this does not work,
pull off the road when it is safe and let the tailgater pass.

5. Collision Avoidance

Some collisions are more dangerous than others, but all of them are hazardous
outcomes of unsafe driving. Most collisions occur due to speeding and not obeying traffic
laws. The responsibility of every driver is to minimise the risk of hitting the cars,
pedestrians or other objects on the road. There is almost always something you can do
to avoid an impending collision or reduce its severity.

Depending on the situation, you can do one of these 3 things to prevent a collision: stop,
steer away or speed up. Read the Collision Avoidance section to learn about the
circumstances, when you can apply one or another technique and their advantages and
disadvantages.

5.1. Types of Collisions

A head-on collision occurs when your vehicle hits head-on to another vehicle or a solid
object. This is very dangerous and could be lethal at high speeds. Air bags and seat belts
are the best protection. If you slow down the force of impact will be less. Some of the
causes of such a collision are unsafe passing and driving on the wrong side of the road.

Side collisions happen when another vehicle hits you from the side. The impact from side
collision will be highest when the vehicle hits you at the driver or passenger side. In such
a case, try to adjust so that you are not hit at the passenger or driver sides.

Rear-end collisions occur when a vehicle hits you from the back. These are common
when the vehicle behind you is driving too close to your car. Avoid sudden moves and
stops so that the vehicles behind you have time to react. If you stop unexpectedly and
the car behind you hits you it could be your fault.

Serious pile-up collisions happen when drivers don’t slow down and follow too closely on
slippery roads.

Roll-overs happen when your vehicle trips over to its side or top. Vehicles going at
excessive speeds have a potential to roll over, especially when the driver jerks the
steering wheel suddenly.

Always follow the advisory speed sign for the highest speed you should travel around the
curve. Taller and narrower vehicles are more likely to roll over. Seat belts protect you in
case of a rollover.

5.2. Escape Techniques

When it looks like a collision may happen, many drivers panic and fail to act. In some
cases, they do act, but in ways that do not help to reduce the chance of the collision.
There is almost always something you can do to avoid an impending collision or reduce
its severity. In attempting to avoid a collision, drivers have three options:
1) Stop;
2) Turn (or steer away);
3) Speed up

Stopping Quickly: In order to stop, you have to use your brakes effectively. Most new
vehicles have an Antilock Braking System (ABS) which will allow you to stop without
skidding. Consult the vehicle owner’s manual for how to use the ABS.

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Stopping Quickly with ABS:
 Press on the brake pedal as hard as you can and keep pressing on it firmly.
 You might feel the brake pedal pushing back when the ABS is working. DO NOT let
up on the brake pedal. The ABS system will only work with the brake pedal pushed
down firmly. Never pump antilock brakes

Stopping Quickly with Conventional Brakes:

 Apply the brakes as hard as you can without locking them. You can cause the
vehicle to go into a skid if you brake too hard.
 If the brakes lock-up, you will feel the vehicle start to skid. Quickly let up on the
brake pedal.
 As soon as the vehicle stops skidding, push down on the brake pedal again. Keep
doing this until the vehicle has stopped.
 In case of brake failure, pump the brake pedal quickly.

Turning Quickly: In most cases, you can turn the vehicle to avoid a collision quicker
than you can stop it. When you don’t have enough room to stop, you may have to steer
away from what’s ahead. It’s very important, however, not to oversteer, which may
increase risk of skidding or rollovers.

How to turn quickly and safely:

 Do not apply the brake while you are turning. It’s very easy to lock your wheels
while turning. If that happens, you may skid out of control or cause too much
weight transfer and rollover.
 Do not turn any more than needed to clear whatever is in your way. The more
sharply you turn, the greater the chances of a skid or rollover.
 Be prepared to counter-steer—that is, to turn the wheel back in the other direction,
once you’ve passed whatever was in your path.
 Keep both hands on the steering wheel. In order to turn quickly, you must have a
firm grip on the steering wheel with both hands. It is best to have your hands at
the 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock positions. This will keep your wrists and forearms out of
the main impact area of the air bag, reduce weight transfer, and is generally more
comfortable.

Speeding Up:
 Sometimes it is necessary to speed up to avoid or lessen impact forces in a
collision. This may happen when another vehicle is about to hit you from the side
or from behind and there is room to the front of your vehicle to lessen or change
the impact area. Be sure to slow down once the danger has passed.
 Always, try to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead and
position yourself to see the bigger picture.

5.3. Have an Escape Route

By maintaining a good visual lead, you are able to identify and take action early so you
can adjust your speed and space. The main objective is to maintain the greatest possible
space around your vehicle.

5.4. Avoid Multiple Hazards

Sometimes there will be dangers on both sides of the road. You can lessen these
multiple hazards by:
 Identifying all potential hazards early.
 Rate the hazards on the level of threat to your safety.
 Predicting what might happen or go wrong.
 Adjusting your speed and position to make sure you reduce risk.

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  Planning escape routes and courses of action before you are faced with a
dangerous situation.

6. Emergency Situations

Defensive driving also includes the knowledge on how to handle the unexpected. Read
the following section to know how you can manage sudden mechanical failures, such as
brake failure, tire blowout, hood latch failure, sudden shutdown of headlights, stuck
accelerator or engine fire.

All of these failures can cause a lot of inconveniences and may be dangerous for a driver,
passengers and others on the road. If one of these things happens to you, remember
that you should stay calm and confident, according to the tips we are giving in the
following section.

6.1. Handling Equipment Failure

The last step to your becoming a successful defensive driver is knowing how to handle
the unexpected. Mechanical failure and environmental hazards are a part of driving, and
you must be prepared to handle them.

6.2. Brake Failure

If your brakes suddenly fail, do the following:

 Downshift to low range (labelled as 1) in case of automatic transmission and low
gear in manual transmission.
 Pump the brake pedal fast and hard to build up brake fluid pressure. You will know
in three to four pumps if the brakes will work. Do not pump antilock brakes. (In
case of ABS, the driver has to press down hard on the brake pedal and hold it. In
an emergency situation, ABS pumps the brakes for the driver and pumps the
brakes at a much faster rate than the driver ever could.)
 Apply the parking brake, but be ready to release it if the car begins to skid.
 You can still steer and swerve. Find an escape route—a safe exit from the highway.
If you must, steer into bushes or something soft.
 Sound your horn and flash your lights to warn other drivers.
 When you no longer need to change direction, turn off the ignition.

6.3. Tire Blow-out

If your tires suddenly blow out, do the following:

 Do not slam on the brakes.
 Take your foot off the accelerator and gently apply the brakes.
 Steer straight ahead to a stop.
 When you are able to do so safely, pull the vehicle off the road.

6.4. Headlight Failure

If your headlights suddenly go out, do the following:

 First, try your dimmer switch. Often that will turn them back on again.
 Try the headlight switch a few times. If that does not work, use your parking lights,
hazard lights, or turn signals.
 Pull off the road as soon as you can and leave your hazard lights on so that other
cars can see you.

6.5. Hood Latch Failure

If you are driving and the hood of your car flies open, do the following:

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  Slow down.
 Try to look underneath the hood at the road ahead.
 If that is not possible, put your head out the window and look around the hood.
 Use the painted centre line or lane markings as a guide.
 As soon as possible, pull off the road, put your hazard lights on, and then deal with
the hood problem.

6.6. Stuck Accelerator

If your accelerator gets stuck down, do the following:

 Shift to neutral.
 Apply the brakes.
 Keep your eyes on the road and look for a way out.
 Warn other drivers by blinking and flashing your hazard lights.
 Try to drive the car safely off the road.
 Turn off the ignition when you no longer need to change direction.

6.7. Driving Off the Pavement

Serious collisions can result from driving off the pavement. Here are certain things you
can do to recover:
 Do not panic.
 Hold your steering wheel tightly.
 Steer straight ahead.
 Stay on the shoulder.
 Ease up on the accelerator and brake gently.
 When you can safely do so, turn back on the road at a low speed.

6.8. Engine Fire

If your engine catches fire, stop the car as soon and as safely as possible, and exit the
roadway. Turn off your engine, and quickly get out and away from your car.

7. Steps to Take After a Collision

If you are involved in a collision, stop your car at or near the collision scene. If you can,
move your car off the road so you do not block traffic. Protect yourself and others from
oncoming traffic. Failure to stop at the scene of a collision in which you are involved can
result in your arrest warrant. You could be convicted of hit and run. You must report the
collision to your insurance company, the Department of Motor Vehicles, and local police
authorities. Consult your state’s Drivers Handbook for details.

Exchange information with other people involved in the accident as soon as possible. Get
information (e.g., names, addresses, telephone number, driver’s license, registration and
insurance information) from the other driver(s) involved in the collision. Get the names
and addresses of witnesses to the accident.

If you hit an unattended vehicle, you must make a reasonable effort to find the owner of
the vehicle or property damaged in the collision. If you cannot locate anyone, leave a
note with your name and contact information that can be found easily at the scene of the
collision. You must also report the collision to the police.

Adapted 12/10/16 from: © 1997-2016 DriversEd.com

https://driversed.com/driving-information/defensive-driving/

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 How to Drive Defensively

Adopting defensive-driving techniques can keep you safe on the road and may even save
you money. Many insurance companies reduce policyholders’ premiums if they maintain
accident-free driving records or take an accredited course on defensive-driving
techniques. If you want to learn how to drive defensively, follow these steps.

1. Stay focused, keeping your hands on the wheel. Defensive drivers concentrate

on the road, keeping their hands at the 10-2 o’clock position. They don’t do other
tasks while driving, some of which are illegal. These include:
 Eating
 Applying makeup
 Holding a dog
 Tending to a child
 Operating a hand-held cell phone
 Texting

2. Keep your eyes moving. Continuously look in your mirrors and scan the road
ahead, checking for hazards and slowing traffic so you can anticipate problems before
they develop.

3. Stay alert. Don’t drive if you’re tired or upset.

4. Go with the flow. Most drivers know that speeding is a major cause of accidents, but
driving too slow can be dangerous, too. Drive at speeds that most other vehicles are
going.

5. Use the 2 second rule on heavily travelled roads to maintain adequate

spacing with the car in front of you.
 Choose a fixed object on the road ahead of you.
 Count “1 independence, 2 independence” when the car in front of you goes by the
object. If you pass the same object before you’re done counting, slow down a bit.
The 2 second rule helps reduce the chance of a rear-end collision when cars in
front make sudden stops.

6. Make yourself visible. Many accidents occur because drivers didn’t see the other
car. There are a few simple ways to make your presence known, making the road
safer for everyone. They include:
 Turn signals: Use your turn signals to let other drivers know where you’re going.
By using your blinkers, other drivers will be able to anticipate your actions and
slow down safely.
 Headlights: Turn on your headlights at dusk or anytime it is raining. This is more
for other drivers to see you than for you to see the road. In some states it is illegal
to drive without your headlights on while the windshield wipers are in operation.
 Brake lights: Operational brake lights are a safety must. They warn cars behind
you that you’re slowing down, signalling them to reduce speed, too.
 Avoid blind spots: Don’t linger in areas where the driver in front of you can’t see
you. Many people will only check their mirrors before making a lane change. If
you’re lurking slightly behind and a lane away from another vehicle, assume that
the driver of that car can’t see you. Either safely speed up or slow down to avoid
this scenario, which often results in an accident. This is an important defensive-
driving technique.

7. Resist road rage. Aggressive drivers may infuriate you, but retaliating with similar
tactics is dangerous. Take a passive approach in dealing with road rage. Use these
strategies in specific road-rage scenarios:

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  Tailgaters: If the driver behind you is right on your bumper, tap the brakes a few
times to let the driver know that he’s not maintaining a safe distance. If he stays
on your tail, slow down gradually. Chances are the tailgater will eventually pass
you.
 Speeders: If you see a car speeding or aggressively changing lanes behind you,
stay in your lane while maintaining your speed.

8. Adapt to road conditions. Even light rain can produce dangerous conditions,

particularly early in the season when the water picks up oil from the road surface,
making it slippery. Tires lose their grip at higher speeds, so slowing down in inclement
weather is a fundamental defensive-driving technique.

9. Familiarise yourself with traffic rules. Refresh your memory by browsing a

Department of Motor Vehicles pamphlet detailing the rules of the road. It provides
guidelines on rights of way, road signs, traffic law, and contains tips on safe driving.

10. Avoid Rear-Enders in Intersections: Move only when it is clear. Sometimes an

intersection gets backed up with traffic.
 If you’re the first car to go at green, make sure traffic on the other side of the
intersection that you are moving into has cleared before you decide to go. This can
prevent you from getting in a situation where you might get T-boned if you get
stuck or stalled in an intersection.
 Turning into an intersection: a lot of rear-end collisions happen when the driver
behind you assumes you are going to complete the turn, even if traffic is backed
up.
 Give yourself enough room: if you must stop in an intersection, slow down carefully
and keep distance from any other cars that have yet to complete the intersection.
If the person behind you ‘flip-flops’ and rear-ends your car, you’ll save yourself the
trouble the car in front of you is not involved.

Adapted 12/10/16 from: © 2016 Wiki How

http://www.wikihow.com/Drive-Defensively

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