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The roads today are busier than they've ever been, and they're getting busier all the time. As well as heavy traffic, the driver often has to cope with unpredictable, irrational, defensive and sometimes dangerous driving behaviour.
Such behaviour makes today's road conditions hostile in a very real sense, with a higher risk of incident. In such conditions, drivers need to learn and practise a defensive strategy.
That strategy is called 'defensive driving' sometimes known as 'planned driving'.
Defensive driving is based on effective observation, good anticipation and control. It's about always questioning the actions of other road users and being prepared for the unexpected, so as not to be taken by surprise.
Defensive driving involves
- Awareness
- Planning
- Anticipating
- Staying in control
And driving with
- Responsibility
- Care
- Consideration and courtesy.
Safety
It means putting safety above all else. This means having concern not only for your own safety but also for other road users, including the most vulnerable-those walking or riding.
Expect other people to make mistakes, and be ready to slow down or stop - even if you think you have priority.
Never rely on other users doing the correct thing. Your safety lies mainly in your own hands. The better control of your vehicle and road space, the safer you'll be.
A good example
Your driving should always set a good to other road users.
You never know when your good example will make deep impression on other driver, especially a learner or inexperienced driver, and perhaps save lives in the future.
Reduce stability
With defensive driving, you'll show mare patience and anticipation. This will help to reduce the number of incidents which result in
- Open hostility
- Abusive language
- Threats
- Physical violence
Avoid the kind of driving that
- Gives offence to other road users
- Provokes reaction
- Creates dangerous situations.
Never drive in a spirit of competition. Competitive driving is, inherently, the opposite of defensive driving. It increases risk to everyone.
Defensive driving
Make allowances if someone cuts in front of you, hold back and increase the distance between you and them. That way, if they brake suddenly, you have given yourself a greater safety margin.
When you check the mirrors, just looking Is not enough. You must act sensibly on What you see. |
