You drive defensively when you:
Answers
Put one car length between you and the car ahead.
Look only at the car in front of you while driving.
Keep your eyes moving to look for possible hazards.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: Keep your eyes moving to look for possible hazards.
Explanation:
Defensive driving is a proactive approach to driving that involves being aware of potential hazards, anticipating dangerous situations, and taking steps to prevent accidents. The key to defensive driving is staying alert and prepared for any unexpected events on the road. Here’s why “keep your eyes moving to look for possible hazards” is the best answer:
- Awareness of Surroundings: Defensive drivers do not just focus on the vehicle directly in front of them. Instead, they scan the entire road, including mirrors, side streets, intersections, and even the behavior of pedestrians or cyclists. Keeping your eyes moving helps you spot potential hazards early, such as cars merging into your lane, a pedestrian about to cross, or a vehicle running a red light. It ensures that you are aware of what is happening around you at all times, allowing for quicker reaction times if needed.
- Anticipating Hazards: By scanning and keeping your attention broad, you can anticipate potential problems. For example, noticing that a car ahead is tailgating could prompt you to slow down and increase your following distance. Spotting a vehicle with brake lights on far in the distance may give you enough time to adjust your speed, thus avoiding sudden stops or collisions.
- Avoiding Tunnel Vision: Focusing only on the car directly in front of you limits your field of vision, and you might miss other cars or events happening around you. This “tunnel vision” can be dangerous as it doesn’t allow for early hazard detection.
In contrast, putting one car length between you and the vehicle ahead (while important for maintaining safe following distance) or focusing solely on the car in front of you are reactive measures rather than proactive ones. Defensive driving requires active scanning to prevent accidents before they occur.