Defensive Driving

Defensive driving means “always expect the unexpected.” The first step in driving defensively is to wear the safety belt. See Safety Belts  .

  • Assume that other road users (pedestrians, bicyclists, and other drivers) are going to be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they might do and be ready.
  • Allow enough following distance between you and the driver in front of you.
  • Focus on the task of driving.
    See also:

    Trailer Brakes
    Does the trailer have its own brakes? Be sure to read and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes so they are installed, adjusted, and maintained properly. Because the vehicle has anti ...

    Filling a Portable Fuel Container
    WARNING! Never fill a portable fuel container while it is in the vehicle. Static electricity discharge from the container can ignite the fuel vapor. You can be badly burned and the vehicle d ...

    Ignition Transmission Lock Check
    While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF in each shift lever position. The ignition should turn to LOCK/OFF only when the shift lever is in P (Park). ...