Chapter 7: Safe Driving Practice

Following traffic laws is the minimum requirement for driving, but true safety comes from a proactive and defensive mindset. Safe driving practices involve anticipating potential hazards, making conscious decisions to minimize risk, and maintaining full control of your vehicle and your attention. Mastering these skills is not just for passing the driver’s exam; it is a lifelong commitment to protecting yourself, your passengers, and everyone else on the road.

Principles of Defensive Driving

Defensive driving means operating your vehicle in a way that saves lives, time, and money, in spite of the conditions around you and the actions of others. It is a proactive approach that involves constant vigilance and preparation.

Scanning

Effective scanning is the practice of continuously moving your eyes to keep track of the entire driving environment. A defensive driver does not just stare at the vehicle directly ahead. Instead, they:

• Look Ahead: Scan the road 10-15 seconds ahead (about one city block or a quarter-mile on the highway). This allows you to see developing hazards like stopped traffic, pedestrians, or road obstructions well in advance.
• Check Mirrors: Check your rearview and side mirrors every 5-8 seconds to be aware of vehicles approaching from behind or preparing to pass.
• Scan Intersections: Before entering an intersection, look left, then right, then left again. Even with a green light, you must scan for cross-traffic running a red light or pedestrians stepping into the street.

Space Cushions