To avoid collisions, a defensive driver should:
A. Ignore the driving of others
B. Signal only when meeting other traffic
C. Insist on his/her right-of-way
D. Stay alert and keep his/her eyes moving
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is D. Stay alert and keep his/her eyes moving.
Explanation:
Defensive driving is a proactive approach to road safety, where the driver anticipates potential hazards and reacts to them in a safe and controlled manner. Staying alert and keeping your eyes moving is one of the most essential principles of defensive driving. Here’s why:
- Anticipating Potential Hazards:
A defensive driver is always scanning the road for possible dangers. This involves monitoring the behavior of other drivers, road conditions, traffic signals, pedestrians, cyclists, and any other factors that might pose a threat. By keeping your eyes moving, you can anticipate problems before they escalate. For example, observing a driver ahead who is swerving may alert you to prepare for a possible lane change or sudden stop. - Avoiding Blind Spots:
Continuous scanning of the surroundings helps identify any vehicles in your blind spots. The act of keeping your eyes moving ensures that you’re aware of everything happening in the area around your vehicle, reducing the risk of collisions due to not noticing another car that may be merging into your lane. - Adapting to Changing Conditions:
Traffic conditions can change unexpectedly. By staying alert and constantly scanning the environment, a defensive driver can adapt more quickly to sudden changes, such as a car braking in front of them, a pedestrian crossing the road, or an unexpected hazard like debris on the road. - Improving Reaction Time:
When you’re actively scanning the road, you increase your chances of spotting potential dangers early. This early detection gives you more time to make decisions and react accordingly, whether that means braking, accelerating, or changing lanes. - Enhancing Overall Safety:
A defensive driver who stays alert and keeps their eyes moving is less likely to become complacent or distracted. They remain prepared for whatever may come, improving not just their own safety, but also the safety of others on the road.
In contrast, answers A, B, and C represent risky driving habits that don’t prioritize caution or awareness. Ignoring the actions of others or insisting on your right-of-way can lead to conflicts or accidents.