What is Defensive Driving?

Definition: Defensive driving is driving to save lives, time, and money, regardless of the conditions around you and the actions of other people. Some actions include –

1. Controlling your speed.
2. Looking ahead and expecting the unexpected.
3. Being alert and distraction free.
4. Maintaining a safe following distance.
5. Driving safely considering (adjusting for) weather and/or road conditions.

Safe Driving Strategies and Principles

Safe driving strategies involve looking ahead, getting the big picture, having an escape plan, and maintaining proper following distance. People often believe that driving skills and knowledge are all that is needed for them to be safe on the roads. However, one of the most important influences on driving ability is attitude and the subsequent behavior it creates. Attitudes can exert an automatic influence on behavior. Improving and maintaining a good attitude towards driving enhances the safety of the roads.

Fact: Speed reduction is surprisingly the single most important cause of anger and frustration. In essence, other drivers’ behavior does indeed affect your own behavior, especially when they slow down.

Definitions:

Attitude: A settled way of thinking or feeling about someone or something, typically one that is reflected in a person's behavior.

Emotions: Specific emotions (i.e. anger, anxiety, and happiness) have significant influence actions while driving such as speeding. If you allow them to, emotions can change the way you assess risk. When strong emotions such as anger affect you, your ability to make wise decisions may be reduced, increasing your chances of making a mistake. 

Behavior: The way in which one acts or conducts oneself, especially toward others…. the way in which a person acts in response to a situation or stimulus.

Five main factors causing anger and aggression while driving;

1. Reckless Driving
2. Impatient Driving
3. Progress Impeded
4. Direct Hostility
5. Inconsiderate Driving