The Smith System: 5 Keys to Safer Driving
For more than 50 years, Arcade Drivers School has centered its curriculum on the Smith System, a
proven defensive driving method built around five core rules.[web:462][web:468]
By focusing on space, visibility, and time, the Smith System helps drivers see hazards sooner, think
more clearly, and react more safely in real-world traffic.[web:457][web:470]
As the first driving school in Wisconsin to adopt the Smith System as our primary curriculum, we have
helped countless new drivers build habits that last a lifetime.[web:462]
On this page, you will learn what each of the 5 keys means and how they fit into the way we teach
every Arcade student.
Wisconsin's Premier Driver Education Program - Arcade Drivers School
For over half a century, Arcade Drivers School has been at the forefront of driver education in
Wisconsin, teaching the Smith Driving System's 5 Rules to new drivers of all ages.[web:462]
Our commitment to the Smith System, known for its emphasis on safe driving behaviors, reflects our
dedication to providing some of the best driver education in the United States. Learn to drive with
us and gain the skills and knowledge necessary for safe, confident driving.
Understanding the 5 Rules of the Smith Driving System
The Smith Driving System's 5 rules equip drivers to handle a wide range of driving conditions,
challenges, and changes, no matter where they drive or what type of vehicle they operate.[web:458][web:468]
These rules help drivers build three essential elements on every trip:
- Space: Maintaining enough room to steer away from potential conflicts.
- Visibility: Seeing hazards and possible conflicts with other vehicles or objects early.
- Time: Having enough time to respond to unpredictable and complex driving situations.[web:457][web:468]
- Our eyes are naturally suited to walking speeds rather than highway speeds.[web:458][web:468]
- Many drivers have not visually or mentally adjusted to higher vehicle speeds.
- Look at least 15 seconds ahead of your vehicle to anticipate your position and upcoming changes.[web:457][web:468]
- A 15-second eye-lead time gives early warning and a greater safety margin.
- Using longer eye lead time supports smoother, more economical driving with fewer surprises.
- While you look 15 seconds ahead, also scan the sides and rear of your vehicle.[web:458][web:459]
- Update your information continuously as traffic and road conditions change.
- Check at least one of your mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds to maintain awareness.[web:457][web:458]
- Avoid fixating on scenery or objects that do not affect your driving decisions.
- Stay alert to relevant details that help you identify hazards early and choose safe options.
- Maintain a safe following distance to remove visual obstructions in front of you.
- Keep enough space so you can see clearly and make independent decisions instead of just following the crowd.
- Staring at one object too long narrows your field of vision and reduces awareness.[web:459][web:460]
- Scan intersections from side to side before entering them, even on a green light.
- Move your eyes at least every 2 seconds to stay alert and engaged.
- Active eye movement helps keep your mind stimulated and reduces drowsiness and fatigue.[web:470]
- Avoid in-vehicle and mental distractions that pull your focus away from the driving environment.
- Identify distracted drivers around you and give them more space, since they are more likely to make sudden mistakes.
- The safest position in traffic is where there are few or no vehicles directly around you.[web:461][web:466]
- Create and maintain a space cushion around your vehicle whenever possible.
- Select the best lane and adjust your speed to preserve that space cushion.
- If you lose some of your space, try to keep at least the front and one side of your vehicle open.
- Watch for tailgaters, since they increase your risk of being rear-ended if you need to slow or stop.[web:457][web:468]
- Identify potential hazards and conflicts as early as you can.[web:459][web:468]
- Use turn signals, brake lights, and your horn at the right time—not too early or too late.
- Try to establish eye contact with pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers when possible.
- Do not assume others have seen you; make your presence and intentions clear through your signals and positioning.
- Even with eye contact, be ready for unexpected actions and keep your space cushion intact.[web:470]
The Smith System of Driving w/ Harold Smith 1968
This classic video, released in 1968, introduces drivers to the principles of the Smith System, a set
of driving guidelines designed to help motorists operate more safely.[web:463][web:474]
The scenery and vehicles may look dated, but the core concepts still apply on today’s roads.
Begin Your Driving Adventure with Experienced Instructors
Starting your driving journey can feel intimidating, but the right instruction and strong safety
habits make a big difference. At Arcade Drivers School, we focus on thorough driver education that
helps set you apart on the road.[web:462][web:264]
Our instructors are committed to building your confidence as you learn to handle a variety of driving
conditions, and our Safety Tips Page offers additional guidance on
defensive driving, following distances, managing distractions, and dealing with tailgaters.
Explore Our Informative Website
Reach out to us today at
(414) 328-1212
to kickstart your driving lessons with Arcade Drivers School.