Defensive Driving Techniques
Defensive driving means expecting the unexpected. It's about staying safe even when others make mistakes.
The Core Principle
"Drive as if every other driver is going to make a mistake."
See, Be Seen, Anticipate
SEE
Constantly scan the road. Check mirrors every 5-8 seconds. Look far ahead, not just the car in front.
BE SEEN
Use headlights, indicators early, brake lights when slowing. Make sure others can see you.
ANTICIPATE
Predict what might happen. A car waiting at a side street might pull out. A pedestrian near a crossing might step out.
Identifying Hazards
Common Hazards to Watch For:
- • Vehicles entering from side streets
- • Pedestrians near crossings or footpaths
- • Cyclists and motorcyclists
- • Vehicles changing lanes without indicating
- • Brake lights ahead of you
- • Vehicles reversing out of driveways
- • Children near schools and playgrounds
- • Animals on the road
Positioning
Where you position your car matters:
- • Stay out of others' blind spots when possible
- • Position yourself to see around large vehicles
- • Keep space on both sides - an escape route if needed
- • Don't tailgate trucks - you can't see their mirrors
- • In traffic, stay in the lane with the best visibility
The SIPDE System
Scan
Identify
Predict
Decide
Execute
A continuous process - repeat every few seconds.
Safe Speed
The right speed is:
- • The posted speed limit
- • Appropriate for current conditions (weather, traffic)
- • Slow enough that you can stop in the distance you can see
Key Takeaway:
Defensive driving isn't about being scared or slow - it's about being aware, prepared, and ready. Confident, skilled drivers are the safest drivers.