What is the primary purpose of defensive driving?

The primary purpose of defensive driving is to anticipate and respond to potential hazards on the road. This proactive approach involves being aware of your surroundings, understanding the behaviors of other drivers, and recognizing potential dangers before they become critical situations. By doing so, defensive drivers can take necessary actions to avoid accidents, protect themselves and others, and maintain safety on the road.

This emphasis on hazard anticipation and response is essential because the road environment is constantly changing; accidents can occur unexpectedly. Defensive driving techniques, such as maintaining a safe following distance, checking mirrors regularly, and being cautious at intersections, all contribute to the ability to respond to unforeseen events effectively. This skill set not only helps in reducing the likelihood of collisions but also promotes overall road safety.