How to Use Defensive Driving

Defensive driving is the act of driving with regard for yourself and other drivers on the road. It is the only effective way to counteract the rampant amount of aggressive driving happening on the road today. By applying the principles of defensive driving, it is possible to drastically reduce the number of automobile related accidents that claim thousands of lives yearly.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Defensive Driving Course (optional)
• Defensive Driving Instruction Guide (optional)

1. (Defensive Driving Rule #1: Obey driving laws.)
   The fundamental first step of defensive driving is also the most obvious. Road regulations were invented for a reason; to keep people safe. By obeying the speed limit, actually stopping at stop signs and the like, you will reduce your chances of being involved in a car accident.

2. (Defensive Driving Rule #2: Watch out for reckless drivers.)
   You could be doing everything right in terms of defensive driving, and still become the victim of a car crash because the other person was being negligent. While using defensive driving, you not only have to watch what you do, but you also have to watch those around you. If you see someone dangerously speeding up behind you, let that person pass. Better to be safe than sorry.

3. (Defensive Driving Rule #3: Always be the bigger man / woman.)
   It's inevitable that someone is going to take advantage of you while out on the road. Your initial reaction will be to "teach them a lesson", but defensive driving denotes you do the exact opposite. Getting your revenge out on the roadways is called road rage, and its just as dangerous as drunk driving, if not more so. Save yourself the stress, and the potential threat to your life, and just let it go. It's never worth it, EVER.

Tips & Warnings

• The concept of defensive driving is a lot more inclusive than these three steps I've mentioned. They are simply 3 general guidelines that summarize 3 of the most important aspects of defensive driving.