Chapter 7: Safe Driving Practice

Possessing a driver’s license and knowing the basic rules of the road are only the starting points of being a good driver. The true test lies in applying safe, defensive driving practices every time you get behind the wheel, a skill essential for both the driving exam and a lifetime of safety. These techniques are about managing risk, anticipating the actions of others, and maintaining control of your vehicle in any condition, turning reactive situations into proactive, controlled responses.

Principles of Defensive Driving

Defensive driving is a strategy that aims to reduce the risk of a collision by anticipating dangerous situations, despite adverse conditions or the mistakes of others. It involves maintaining a constant awareness of your surroundings and making safe and legal driving decisions.

Scanning

Effective scanning means actively looking for potential hazards, not just staring at the road ahead. A defensive driver constantly moves their eyes, checking mirrors, looking down the road, and observing the sides.

• Look Ahead: You should scan at least 15-20 seconds ahead of your vehicle. In city driving, this is about one block; on the highway, it’s about a quarter of a mile. This gives you time to see and react to things like brake lights, traffic slowdowns, or pedestrians.
• Check Mirrors: Check your rearview and side mirrors every 5-8 seconds to be aware of the traffic situation behind and beside you.
• Avoid a Fixed Stare: Keep your eyes moving to get the “big picture” and avoid highway hypnosis.