Why you should be a defensive driver
There is more to being a competent driver than simply understanding how to drive and being aware of the road rules. Other drivers can be unpredictable on the road, so learning to be a defensive driver is the best way to reduce the chance of other peoples’ mistakes on the road affecting you.
Defensive driving describes the practice of always anticipating dangerous situations, despite adverse weather conditions or the mistakes of others while driving. It can be achieved by following the road rules strictly, which includes not speeding, ensuring a two or three second gap between your vehicle and the vehicle in front and looking out for potential road hazards.
Some other driving defensively principles include:
• Being alert and distraction free.
• Being prepared for all sorts of actions and reactions of other drivers and pedestrians.
• Not expecting the other drivers to do what you would ordinarily do.
• Watching and respecting other drivers.
• Adjusting your speed before entering a bend, to avoid applying the brakes in the middle of a bend.
What are the benefits of defensive driving?
Defensive driving skills can be self-taught by committing some of these driving tips to memory. This can help you avoid problems in the future, and encourage you to be more observant.
Only trust yourself
Unfortunately, you can’t trust anyone on the road. It is impossible to tell whether another driver is paying full attention to the road ahead of them, and you should never assume that you know what they are going to do. Especially if you spot another car driving recklessly, you should keep an eye on their behaviour and try to avoid them if possible.
While you cannot control someone else’s driving behaviour, you can control your own actions. By making sure you drive in a safe manner, you can minimise the risks that could be caused by other drivers.
Focus on the road
Most accidents on the road are caused by people who were distracted by something inside of their car. This could include adjusting the radio, using their Sat Nav, adjusting the air conditioning or talking to a passenger.
These distractions can force you to take your eyes off of the road for a couple of seconds, and in that time, you could collide with a car in front of you. It can also get in the way of reacting safely to emergency vehicles, so you should be aware of this and minimise the amount of distractions you have while driving.
Give other drivers space
Tailgating can lead to rear-end collisions. Avoiding these types of situations is as simple as making sure that you leave enough space between you and the vehicle in front of you. Allow for at least two seconds of time, or two car-lengths of space between you and the vehicle in front. This length should increase by double in bad weather conditions.
If you see that someone is following you too closely, try to add some space. Alternatively, you can change lanes and wait for them to move ahead of you.
Don’t get road rage
You should never let your temper get the better of you whilst driving. Being angry and impulsive can lead to you making mistakes while driving. If you are dealing with an aggressive driver, you should keep calm and let it go. You shouldn’t try to compete with or be aggressive towards other road users. Focus on being a courteous and polite driver to ensure a safe driving environment for all road users.
Drive how you would want other people to drive, and resist the urge to beep.
Make yourself visible
A lot of accidents happen because the driver was not able to see another vehicle. Being aware of other drivers blind spots can help to minimise this risk. You should always make sure to use your indicators to let people know what direction to intend to go, as well as making sure that all of your lights are in working order.
There are simple vehicle checks that you can do to ensure this, and keeping up with car maintenance is part of being a defensive driver.
Look ahead
You should always pay attention to the road ahead, keeping an eye out for pedestrians, road works and slow traffic. By spotting any potential hazards ahead of time, this can minimise your risk while driving.
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