A defensive driver is always prepared for the unexpected?

Question

A defensive driver is always prepared for the unexpected?

Answer 1

Especially when the flames from godzilla roar through the streets

Answer 2

No, any sort of driver should be the same...

I always keep an eye on the traffic around me but always watch the road further ahead looking for potential hazards. Even when driving on a road with no traffic, I'm alert to roads crossing mine ahead and other junctions coming up and what the traffic is like on them. You can see people ahead that are going to join your road so you make allowances ready for them. Expect the unexpected at all times as people are unpredictable and the standards of driving seem to be diminishing rapidly with everyone in a hurry to get somewhere two seconds ahead of everyone else. Then take it as a pleasant surprise when someone does something right!

Answer 3

The unexpected could be................

1. a police car darting out from the deep grass in the ditch with his lights flashing, just as you are approaching.

2. another driving passing you and cutting you off as they make their lane change.

3. while passing a long tractor trailer unit, there is suddenly a vehicle up ahead pulling out in front of that long truck.

4. while driving along in heavy traffic, with much happening around you, the vehicle to your left and just slightly ahead of you doesn't see you because that person didn't SHOULDER CHECK, and begins to steer into your lane. Hmmm, who is behind you if you need to brake suddenly?

5. you are making a right turn and wait for that pedestrian to finish crossing and ALMOST forget to SHOULDER CHECK, but do it out of HABIT and suddenly there is a child on a bike in your path......whew! Close one!

6. Covering your brake when approaching busy intersections, especially with limited visibility, and scanning well - left,right,left and then right again as you pass through so you don't get 't-boned'....

7. Following far enough back so that you could stop if something falls off that truck full of furniture ahead of you. People move on the 15th and 30th of the month.

They also rent trucks, so I watch out for poor judgement due to heavier weight and too much speed when stopping or turning in these vehicles.

..................and so many other things which COULD happen.....

I have experienced all of the above on more than one occasion......

So, yup, watch out for the unexpected.........which is anything happening at any time when you are NOT expecting it to happen.

Answer 4

Thats the general thought process...

A (good) offensive driver is also prepared for the unexpected, and counters it before it gets close.

From my experience, an offensive driver generally watches the road more closely anyway, someone who pays attention that is. They have to, in order to avoid wrecking themselves. A lot of people associate defensive driving as driving slow, using your blinkers, etc.

Answer 5

Always give way to pedestrians.

Never drive a car that is not in good mechanical condition.

Watch out for the "other guy".