According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), motor vehicle crashes are the 1st or 2nd leading cause of death in every major industry group in the United States. Work-related accidents on the road cost employers $39 billion in 2019, so it’s important for employers who have employees that drive as part of their job to do their part to prevent accidents on the road, which can involve promoting defensive driving.

What Is Defensive Driving?

Defensive driving involves the ability to identify potential hazards, comprehend the appropriate defensive measures, and take timely action to avoid them. Being defensive while driving is crucial in preventing accidents, regardless of other drivers' behavior or unfavorable road conditions. To be an effective defensive driver, one must have the ability to anticipate potential traffic situations and take appropriate action to avoid accidents.

The standard accident prevention formula, which involves seeing the hazard, understanding the defense to use and acting in time, is a useful tool that can be applied to various driving scenarios. In the following discussion, we will examine this formula in greater detail and explore its practical applications in everyday driving.

Defensive Driving Part 1: Seeing the Hazard

To drive defensively, it is crucial to continuously scan the road ahead and check your mirrors. Anticipate potential hazards as early as possible, and avoid assuming that dangerous situations will have resolved by the time you reach them. Consider the following examples:

• You notice a vehicle attempting to pass another car. Although it appears to have sufficient space, you are uncertain if it will complete the pass safely. Prepare for potential risks.
• As you approach a vehicle parked on the side of the road, you cannot see the driver outside the car. What if they open the door as you pass by? How would you react?

Remember that there are countless other risky scenarios, so keep your attention beyond the car directly in front of you and stay vigilant for any potential danger that could lead to an accident.

Defensive Driving Part 2: Understanding the Defense

To effectively manage hazardous situations on the road, there are certain strategies that can be employed. By anticipating potential hazards, you can mentally review the situation and envision your defensive response, allowing you to react quickly when necessary to prevent an accident. Adequate preparation is essential. If you have anticipated and planned for various scenarios, you will feel more at ease when confronted with them.

In the event of an emergency, it is critical to remain calm and composed. Visualize the defensive action you will take to minimize harm and execute it calmly and quickly. Panic can cloud your judgment and impair your ability to make sound decisions in critical moments.

Defensive Driving Part 3: Acting in Time

When you identify a hazard and determine your defensive strategy, it is crucial to act promptly. Do not presume that the situation will resolve on its own. The faster you react, the more opportunity you will have to evade an accident.

Defensive driving is a demanding task. It necessitates ongoing efforts to enhance your observation and coordination abilities by continuously scanning the road and focusing on potential hazards. Recognizing the danger, comprehending the defense, and taking timely action can be the difference between saving lives - including your own and those of other drivers around you.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.