What is the primary role of defensive driving?

The primary role of defensive driving is to anticipate and react safely to the actions of others. This concept emphasizes being aware of surroundings, predicting potential hazards, and understanding that other drivers may make mistakes. By anticipating these actions, a defensive driver can take proactive measures to avoid accidents or collisions, enhancing overall road safety.

Defensive driving involves maintaining a safe following distance, observing other drivers' behaviors, and being prepared for unexpected situations, such as sudden stops or erratic maneuvers by other vehicles. This approach encourages drivers to remain calm and respond appropriately to various situations on the road.

While following traffic signals and rules is important, defensive driving goes beyond strict compliance by incorporating an awareness of other drivers and possible unsafe behaviors. The idea of avoiding interactions with other vehicles may lead to unsafe driving practices, such as erratic lane changes or unnecessary maneuvers to keep distance from others. Also, the emphasis on speed does not align with the core principle of defensive driving, which prioritizes safety over speed.