Understand what defensive driving is, common driving hazards and how to use defensive driving techniques to prevent those hazards.
Driving Hazards – Distractions.
Any time a driver reaches for an object or gets distracted by outside stimuli, the chance of an accident drastically increases.
To limit distractions, drivers should:
- Map a route before starting the car.
- Refrain from eating, drinking or smoking en route.
- Avoid talking to passengers and children inside the vehicle.
Driving Hazards – Night time.
Reduced visibility during nighttime increases the risk of accidents by 40%. To combat nighttime driving hazards, drivers should:
- Aim headlights correctly and make sure they’re clean.
- Avoid using main beams with oncoming traffic.
- Look away from oncoming lights.
- Slow down to compensate for limited visibility.
Driving Hazards - Adverse Weather Conditions.
Reduced visibility, snow, ice and heavy rain can increase the risk of accidents. To stay safe in adverse weather conditions, drivers should:
- Maintain a significant distance between their car and the car in front of them.
- Give themselves plenty of time to stop.
- Test their brakes to ensure they’re working properly.
- Avoid using cruise control in poor weather conditions.
Driving Hazards: Fatigue.
Tired drivers may experience reduced alertness and slower response times, factors that could put themselves and others at risk on the road. To prevent driver fatigue and its harmful effects, drivers should:
- Get enough sleep.
- Avoid long drives at night.
- Keep the driver’s area cool and well ventilated.
- Take breaks every two hours or 100 miles.
Driving Hazards: Improper Lane Changes.
Improper lane changes typically occur when a driver changes lanes without looking or using their indicators. This behaviour is a major cause of car accidents. To merge safely, drivers should:
- Check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.
- Use indicators to signal their intention to change lanes.
- Pay close attention to cyclists & motorcyclists who may weave in & out of traffic.
- Never cut up the driver they’ve just overtaken.
Driving Hazards: Close Following Distance.
Tailgating is a factor in 1 in 8 collisions, according to a recent National Highways campaign. To prevent collisions, drivers should:
- Leave distance between themselves and other vehicles.
- Follow the two-second rule.
- Avoid purposely braking when someone is following behind them.
Driving Hazards: Speeding.
Exceeding the speed limit was reported as a contributory factor for 7.3% (4,918) of accidents in 2021, according to DFT data. To prevent speeding, drivers should:
- Use cruise control.
- Leave earlier so they don’t have to rush to their destination.
- Pay attention to their speedometer.
- Remind themselves of the consequences of speeding.
How to Drive Defensively: Obeying Traffic Signs and Signals.
Some drivers may disregard traffic signals because they are impatient, in a hurry, inattentive or simply reckless. To ensure safe driving, drivers should:
- Leave early to allow enough time to get to their destination.
- Know the meaning of the different roadway signs.
- Pay attention and obey posted traffic signs and signals.
- Maintain awareness of other drivers while on the road.
How to Drive Defensively: Passing With Care.
Passing can be a dangerous manoeuvre, especially near junctions or on two-lane roads. To pass safely, drivers should:
- Signal their intention.
- Scan for hazards, including oncoming vehicles, vehicles approaching from the rear and merging vehicles.
- Accelerate to an appropriate speed.
- Only pass when road markings permit it.
Summary.
Defensive driving can limit the frequency of accidents and keep everyone on the road safe.
To remain safe behind the wheel, keep in mind the responsible driving tips outlined here and follow all policies regarding the use of company vehicles.