Defensive Driving Strategies

Crucial Defensive Driving Strategies


These five defensive driving strategies are vital for becoming a secure driver. Defensive driving is about driving in a manner that prioritizes preserving lives, time, and money, irrespective of the conditions around you and the actions of others.

1. Keep Your Focus Far Ahead & Maintain a Safe Distance

Humans are not naturally designed to travel at speeds much higher than 15mph. Anything faster is unnatural for us. Regrettably, many new drivers form the habit of only looking directly in front of their vehicle. The key is to look as far ahead as possible, even miles ahead! This article delves into the importance of looking far down the road and anticipating potential hazards. A large number of accidents could be prevented with better situational awareness and forward planning. Read more about Keeping Focus and Safe Distance.


2. Get the Big Picture

In driver's education, the phrase "grasp the overall scenario" is often repeated. However, its meaning is rarely defined. As a certified commercial vehicle driving instructor, I've realized that many people struggle to grasp the concept of getting the big picture. While it's easy to explain what this term means, it's much harder for you to implement it. Most drivers have bad habits that are hard to break. Read more about Getting the Big Picture


3. Always Have a Backup Plan

This is a skill that is developed over time. To be one of the safest drivers on the road, you must always have a backup plan. While you may be a great driver, you can't always predict what other drivers around you will do. Trust no one but yourself! Read about leaving yourself an escape route.


4. Maintain a Safe Following Distance

This is one of the most frequently broken defensive driving tips in the history of driving. A safe following distance is just as important, if not more important than maintaining a safe speed. After all, you could be going 120mph but as long as there is enough space between you and other vehicles, you'll never hit anyone. Read about Maintaining Safe Following Distance


5. Reduce Driving Distractions

Remember when cars didn't even have cup holders? Cars today are equipped with on-board computers, GPS systems, satellite radios, subwoofers, and even flat-screen televisions. And let's not forget the number of people who eat and drive at the same time, text and drive, or even get distracted by passengers in the vehicle. Managing Distractions while Driving


What Defensive Driving Is Really About

Mastering defensive driving is not just about enhancing your own driving abilities, but also about effectively navigating and avoiding potential hazards caused by other drivers. It's a fact that people make mistakes on the road, and we have all been guilty of that at some point. No driver is perfect. That's why it is crucial to maintain a mindset of expecting the unexpected and being prepared for any situation that may arise.

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Take the first step towards becoming a confident and skilled driver. Check out our Teen Program Options and Adult Driving Options to find the perfect driver education program tailored to your needs. Whether you're a teenager or an adult starting your journey or looking to enhance your driving skills, our professional instructors are here to guide you towards success.


Benefit From Expert Guidance

Maximize your driving capabilities with our extensive resources and information. Our Safety Tips page offers valuable insights into safe driving, including defensive driving strategies, understanding safe driving distances, managing distractions, and handling tailgaters effectively.

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