Principles of Defensive Driving
- 1/20If you see a potential hazard ahead
Defensive driving means anticipating risks before they fully develop.
When driving near schools or playgrounds
Children may behave unpredictably; vigilance is essential.
You notice erratic behavior from another driver
Stay calm and allow space for the other driver to recover or exit.
If the road conditions suddenly worsen
Defensive drivers adapt quickly to changing environments.
When a vehicle follows too closely
This creates a buffer zone to react to braking safely.
You approach an intersection with obscured visibility
Be prepared to stop if another road user enters unexpectedly.
If another driver tries to provoke you
Defensive driving avoids escalation and prioritizes safety.
When merging onto a busy expressway
Smooth and respectful merging prevents congestion and collisions.
You feel tired or distracted while driving
Fatigue slows reaction time and increases risk significantly.
If visibility is reduced fog, heavy rain, darkness
Seeing and being seen are central to defensive driving under poor conditions.
When overtaking on a two-way road
Misjudged overtaking is a major cause of head-on collisions.
You drive in unfamiliar areas
New environments require heightened attention to avoid surprises.
If an animal crosses the road unexpectedly
Swerving suddenly can cause loss of control or a collision with other vehicles.
When another vehicle has its turn signal on
Defensive drivers verify intentions, not just signals.
You drive during peak traffic hours
Patience and alertness reduce stress and the likelihood of collisions.
If your brakes or steering feel unusual
Ignoring warning signs can lead to system failure during critical moments.
When entering intersections without traffic lights
Defensive drivers prioritize avoiding accidents over proving priority.
You see a pedestrian waiting to cross
Pedestrian safety is a top defensive driving priority.
If a vehicle is turning across your path
Being prepared for misjudgments prevents T-bone collisions.
When approaching a green light
Defensive drivers watch for violations even when signals are in their favor.