In a world where roads are busier than ever, filled with distractions when we’re at the wheel, defensive driving has come about as the key to road safety.
Far more than a skill, this kind of driving is a mindset that saves lives. That is, defensive driving means maintaining safe distances and respecting the rules of the road.
Explore the essential concept of safe driving in this article, where you can also find out the main practices and techniques of this driving style.
What is Defensive Driving?
Defensive driving prioritises road safety. As such, it involves anticipating potential hazards, monitoring your speed, and following distance, signalling correctly, and respecting the rules of the road.
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What is the Purpose of Defensive Driving?
The importance of defensive driving primarily aims to ensure road safety and minimise the risk of road accidents.
This driving method seeks to prevent collisions and incidents by drivers adopting a series of driving techniques and sensible behaviours, such as anticipating hazards and respecting the rules of the road, as well as avoiding distractions and adapting to road conditions.
In addition, it contributes to reducing stress and aggression in traffic, promoting a safer and more peaceful environment for all.
What is Following Distance?
Following distance is the space between one vehicle and the vehicle in front while driving.
Keeping an adequate following distance is key to traffic safety, as it allows you to react to unexpected situations appropriately.
The general recommendation is to maintain a distance of at least 15 metres between vehicles. Doing so gives you enough time to brake or manoeuvre safely, reducing the risk of accidents.
What are the Advantages and Benefits of Defensive Driving?
The main benefits of adopting safe driving involve:
- Fuel savings;
- Significantly reducing the risk of accidents, protecting the lives of drivers, passengers, and other road users;
- Lower maintenance costs thanks to a smoother, more careful driving style;
- Compliance with traffic rules, avoiding traffic violations and fines;
- Reduced polluting gas emissions thanks to more efficient fuel consumption.
What is the Difference between Defensive and Aggressive Driving?
Defensive driving seeks to ensure safety and prevent accidents, while aggressive driving produces unsafe behaviour that increase the likelihood of accidents and conflicts with other drivers.
While the former promotes a safe road environment, the latter can result in dangerous situations and unnecessary conflicts.
What are the Common Mistakes Made Behind the Wheel and How can they be Avoided?
Several common mistakes are made behind the wheel that should be avoided, as they can put everyone’s safety at risk.
The most common are:
- Speeding: drivers should adjust their speed to the road conditions to drive safely;
- Inadequate following distance: keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front to avoid rear-end collisions;
- Distracted driving: avoid using your phone, eating, or doing other activities that distract you from the road;
- Ignore signs and rules: be aware of signs and follow the rules of the road;
- Dangerous overtaking: overtake only in areas where doing so is permitted, and where there is adequate visibility;
- Not wearing a seat belt: always wear your safety belt and make sure all passengers are wearing theirs too;
- Lack of vehicle maintenance: keep your vehicle in good condition by regularly checking tyres, brakes, and lighting systems;
- Ignore weather conditions: adapt your driving to adverse conditions such as rain, snow, or fog by reducing your speed.
- Failing to adjust your mirrors: make sure that your rear-view mirrors are properly adjusted to eliminate blind spots;
- Failing to signal: use your indicators to signal your intentions to other drivers.
5 tips for Defensive Driving
Adopting defensive driving techniques helps maintain road safety. These include:
1. Keeping a Safe Following Distance
Maintaining an adequate distance from the vehicle in front, allowing sufficient time to react to any emergency situation.
2. Anticipating Hazards
Keep aware of road conditions and the behaviour displayed by other drivers.
Anticipate risky situations, such as a vehicle braking suddenly or a pedestrian crossing the street, and be prepared to react safely.
3. Using your Mirrors
Regularly check your rear-view mirrors to ensure you are aware of the traffic around you. This eliminates blind spots and informs decision-making when changing lanes or manoeuvring.
4. Respecting speed limits
Must keep to the speed limits set for the road and adjust your speed to road conditions such as rain, snow, or congested traffic.
5. Avoid Distractions
Focus on driving and avoid using your phone, eating, adjusting the radio, or engaging in activities that might distract you from the road.
Are there Specialised Training Courses in Defensive Driving?
Yes, a defensive driving course is taught with the aim of teaching drivers safety techniques and responsible driving practices.
These training courses are generally run by driving schools.
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