1. Maintain Awareness: Pay close attention to your surroundings, including other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and potential hazards. Practice continuous scanning of your mirrors and blind spots to monitor the movements of other road users.
2. Keep Adequate Following Distance: Leave enough space between your vehicle and the one ahead to allow sufficient time and reaction space in case of sudden stops or unexpected maneuvers.
3. Avoid Distractions: Minimize distractions such as using a cellphone, adjusting the radio, or eating while driving. Keep your eyes on the road and focus on the task of driving.
4. Obey Traffic Laws and Speed Limits: Adhere to posted speed limits and obey all traffic signs, signals, and laws to avoid conflicts and potential accidents.
5. Be Predictable: Signal your intentions clearly and well in advance before making turns, lane changes, or other maneuvers to inform other road users of your actions.
6. Stay Alert: Avoid driving when tired, drowsy, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
7. Practice Defensive Maneuvers: Use proper hand signals, check mirrors and blind spots before merging or changing lanes, and be ready to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions.
8. Leave Enough Stopping Distance: Brake early and smoothly to allow for a gradual and controlled stop, even if you see a yellow light.
9. Avoid Aggressive Driving: Stay calm and courteous, and avoid engaging in aggressive behaviors like tailgating, cutting off other vehicles, or making rude gestures.
10. Be Prepared for Emergencies: Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained, have a spare tire and emergency equipment in place, and be prepared to respond calmly to unexpected situations.
11. Use Safety Features: If your vehicle is equipped with safety features like anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, and airbags, understand how they work and use them responsibly.
12. Continually Improve: Regularly refresh your driving knowledge by taking defensive driving courses, reading safe driving literature, and practicing safe habits on the road.
By consistently applying defensive driving techniques, drivers can enhance their safety and contribute to a more responsible and accident-free driving environment on the road.
