Because these times can be stressful for so many while living under the impact of the pandemic, many motorists seem to be easily offended and aggressive. It is essential for the general welfare of drivers on the road to read about the 5 major factors of defensive driving.1
The defensive factors discussed are based on the Smith driving standards. These standards have been established to mitigate risk while driving by showing drivers how to avoid dangerous situations. By understanding and learning how to use defensive factors, the likelihood of accidents and injuries are minimised. Read on and discover more about the following guiding principles that will save the day.
Stay alert and focused1
The is the first factor that enables you to avoid accidents, including rear-end ones. Sitting upright gives you a better view of the road compared to leaning back in the driver’s seat. This is where drivers of SUVs have a clear advantage with the high ground clearance.
Avoid being distracted1
Distracted drivers are like intoxicated motorists. With this second factor, we need to learn to discover the aggressive and poor drivers on the road quickly and their next move. For instance, you want to cross a road but see a car coming along with its indicator informing you the car is about to turn into your street. But you cannot cross the street assuming that this is the case, because so many motorists forget their indicator is still on and end up going straight past you.
What about my eyes? 1
Your eyes need to move around all the time to keep them alert for spotting any potentially dangerous situation. This is the third factor. Be careful that your eyes don’t shut down because of lack of sleep. Always ensure you have had a good night’s rest before embarking on especially a long trip.
Leave an escape route open1
The fourth factor is to ensure you always leave yourself enough space to manoeuvre out of a dangerous situation and not become trapped by other drivers in other lanes. Avoid tailgating altogether, and when coming to a traffic light or stop sign, allow ample space between your car and the one in front.
Has the other driver seen your move? 1
The final factor is to ensure that other drivers near your car will spot the move you are about to make. Never make jerky or swift moves without indicating, such as shooting into the right lane at the last moment. By first suggesting and moving slowly, you give any nearby motorist enough time to figure out what you are doing. If someone hasn’t seen you, a polite, short tap on the hooter may alert them of your presence.
Despite all your good intentions and driving defensively, you may become involved in an accident. In such an event, is your car adequately covered? If you are not sure, contact PMD for more information on their affordable car insurance product with unique benefits like fixed premiums* and a reduce to zero excess*. T’s and C’s apply.
Source:
1https://colonialdrivingschool.com/blog/list-five-principles-defensive-drive
This article was prepared by Eric Sandmann in his personal capacity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own. The views and opinions in the article should not be attributed to anyone but the author unless expressly stated. Nothing in this article should be relied upon as advice, this publication is presented for informational purposes only. No person should act or refrain from acting in reliance on any information found in this article, without first obtaining proper financial advice from the appropriate professional. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, or completeness, of any information linked from, referred to, or contained in this article. The author reserves the right, to edit and change the content of this article.
