Fundamental Principles of Defensive Driving
Overview
The standard Safe Practices for Motor Vehicle Operation, , defines defensive driving skills as "driving to save lives, time, and money, in spite of the conditions around you and the actions of other drivers".
Even though you are a driver who drives safely and without taking unnecessary risks, we can never fully control what other drivers on the road do? Of course, you can't control the rest of the vehicles in traffic, but you can use defensive driving techniques to stay safe no matter what happens around you.
Defensive driving means being alert and prepared at all times, aware of the road conditions over as much distance as possible around you. When driving as a precaution, you may be able to take precautions based on the likelihood of a future accident or other potential hazards that may occur unforeseen.
You will also be aware of the distracted behavior of the drivers around you that may endanger you or other road users. Here are some basic aspects of defensive driving, tips and things you can follow to do your best to avoid unpleasant events.
BE READY
Preparation begins just before you get in the car. Make sure you have a first aid kit with medical supplies, water and basic snacks. In winter, especially for people who go on a long journey, it is advisable to have an extra blanket and clothes. Check tire pressure, oil and water levels and brakes to make sure the car is in a safe condition to drive. When in the car, check the positions of the mirrors and the functionality of the lights. Of course, it would be best to postpone travel when there are weather warnings related to natural phenomena, which are totally unfavorable. It is better to postpone arriving at your destination on your own, than to force your way through the weather and need the assistance of the intervention teams.
Before you set off, it's a good idea to do one more essential thing: rest! Take the time and hours of sleep not to get behind the wheel tired or sound excessive stress. These factors can decrease your concentration while driving, can decrease your reaction speed and therefore your ability to avoid an accident that you could normally avoid.
Once you're on the road, pay attention to what's going on around you. When driving, consider the road you will be on to see if it will allow you to get out of the road safely to avoid a possible accident. If you notice dangerous behavior of the driver or drivers nearby, it is recommended that you take action to get out of the vicinity of the driver (s). For drivers in front, who appear likely to cause an accident, keep a significant distance from them, and if you notice dangerous behavior of the driver behind you, it is advisable to let him overtake you so that you can take over. control over the distance between cars. Keep in mind that driving on public roads is not a competition, but rather has to do with getting to your destination safely.
KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE ROAD
Look ahead, away from the muzzle of the car or the car in front. An extended field of view helps you observe and anticipate the maneuvers of other road users, but also provides more response time in the event of an emergency.
KEEP CALM
Angry driving is a danger to all drivers. Even if you are normally a calm and reasonable person, it can be tempting to engage in aggressive driving behavior when you are near a driver who is driving worse. The best thing to do if the traffic participant near you is inexperienced or drives worse, is to keep more space between cars. Do not give in to the temptation to react angrily or try to teach him a lesson. Emotional reactions can affect you negatively and the end result can be an accident or a fine. Remember that such an episode is not worth it if it ends up causing an accident with material damage or even casualties.
3 SECOND RULE: KEEP THE DISTANCE
The easiest way to keep a safe distance when driving at high speeds is to usually use 3 seconds. In other words, keep a distance between cars that takes 3 full seconds to travel at the speed you are driving. In adverse weather conditions, such as rain or strong wind, increase this distance to 4 seconds, and if the road is frozen, a suitable distance to avoid hazards would be 10 seconds. The 3-second rule gives you reaction time to avoid accidents and is perfect for staying safe on the road. Never stay too close to the drivers in front of you, as it is very possible to cause an accident that can have serious consequences.
BREAKING
In real life, left-footed braking is pointless. The brake pedal is more sensitive for street cars, which is why it is recommended to operate them gently and progressively. This also helps to meet a low-adhesion surface and prevents potential slipping.
Always use the Headlights
Even drivers with impeccable driving behavior can cause accidents if they are unable to see another car clearly. The more visible the car, the safer it is on the road. You can increase your chances of being seen by using the headlights properly, such as on rainy days or when it is cloudy. When driving at night, make sure that they are in a proper position so that they do not blind the driver in the opposite direction. Do not stay in the blind spot of other vehicles. Keep in mind that large vehicles, such as trucks or buses, have an extremely high dead center, so it is recommended that you avoid traveling as close to them as possible.
AVOID DANGERS: ACCIDENTS AND DRIVING DEFICIENCIES
It may seem obvious that alcohol or drug use affect your ability to drive safely and can cause accidents. But there are several things that can affect our ability to drive. However, many people do not take many prescribed medications that can cause drowsiness or reduce reflexes (in these cases it is good to read