Chapter 7: Safe Driving Practice

Following traffic laws is the minimum requirement for driving, but being a truly safe driver involves a proactive mindset and a commitment to defensive techniques. Safe driving practices are about anticipating potential hazards, managing the space around the vehicle, and making responsible decisions to prevent crashes before they happen. Mastering these skills is not only vital for personal safety and passing the driver’s license exam but is a driver’s most important responsibility on the road.

Principles of Defensive Driving

Defensive driving means being constantly aware of driving conditions, planning ahead, and taking the right action to avoid danger. It is a strategy of observation and anticipation that goes beyond simply reacting to events as they unfold.

Scanning

Effective scanning is the habit of keeping one’s eyes moving and actively looking for potential hazards. A driver should look well ahead of their vehicle, not just at the car directly in front.

• Look Ahead: Scan the road 10 to 15 seconds ahead. In city driving, this is about one full block. On the highway, it is about a quarter of a mile. This practice gives a driver time to see and react to things like stopped traffic, pedestrians, or road debris.
• Check Mirrors: A driver should check their rearview and side mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds to be aware of the position of vehicles behind and to the sides.
• Scan Intersections: Before entering an intersection, a driver should look left, then right, then left again to ensure the way is clear of cross-traffic.

Space Cushions