Defensive driving is about controlling what you can—your own actions—and being prepared for what you can’t control—the mistakes of other drivers, pedestrians, or unexpected conditions.

1. Look Ahead (The 12-Second Scan)

Do not just look at the car in front of you. Train your eyes to constantly scan 10 to 12 seconds ahead of your vehicle. This gives you time to spot far-off hazards, like brake lights, accidents, or debris, and adjust your speed or change lanes before the situation becomes an emergency.

2. Maintain a Safe Following Distance (The 3-Second Rule)

This is the fundamental rule for crash avoidance.

• Pick a fixed object on the road (like a sign or tree).

• When the vehicle in front of you passes that object, begin counting: “One-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one-thousand-three.”

• If your front bumper reaches the object before you finish the count, you are following too closely.

• Increase the time to 4 or 5 seconds in bad weather (rain, snow, fog) or on slippery roads.

3. Minimize and Eliminate Distractions

Distracted driving is a primary cause of accidents. Commit to focusing 100% of your attention on the road.

• Put your phone away or set it to “Do Not Disturb.”

• Adjust your GPS, radio, and climate controls before you put the car in motion.

• Avoid eating, drinking, or reaching for objects while the vehicle is moving.

4. Expect the Unexpected

Always drive with the assumption that other road users might make a mistake.

• Assume the driver next to you doesn’t see you.

• Assume the traffic light will be run by an approaching car.

• Assume a pedestrian or animal might dart into the road. This mindset keeps you prepared to brake or steer safely.

5. Be Visible and Communicate Your Intentions

You must ensure other drivers know exactly what you plan to do.

• Use your turn signals well in advance of a turn or lane change.

• Use your low-beam headlights in rain, fog, at dawn, or at dusk to make your vehicle more visible, even if the automatic lights haven’t come on yet.

• Make eye contact with pedestrians and cyclists to confirm they have seen you.

6. Always Have an “Escape Route”

Never allow yourself to get “boxed in” by surrounding vehicles. Constantly look for an open lane, a safe shoulder, or an empty space you could steer into to avoid a collision.

• When stopped in traffic, leave enough space between your car and the one ahead to see the tires of the car in front touching the pavement. This gap allows you to maneuver around them if necessary.

7. Check Your Mirrors Frequently and Clear Your Blind Spots

Situational awareness requires checking what’s around you, not just what’s in front.

• Develop a habit of checking your rear-review and side mirrors every 5-8 seconds (the “10-second scan” includes this).

• Always perform a quick shoulder check before changing lanes or merging to eliminate the blind spot.

8. Adjust Your Speed to Conditions

The posted speed limit is the maximum speed allowed under ideal conditions.

• Reduce your speed significantly in rain, snow, ice, or heavy fog.

• Slow down when entering construction zones or areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.

• The faster you go, the longer it takes to stop, and the less time you have to react.

9. Avoid Aggressive Driving and Practice Patience

Road rage and impatient decisions compromise your safety and control.

• Stay calm. Never let another driver’s mistake provoke you into driving aggressively.

• If you encounter a tailgater, safely change lanes or gently slow down to encourage them to pass, rather than “brake-checking” them.

• Give yourself extra time for trips to avoid feeling rushed.

10. Check Your Vehicle’s Condition

A safe driver operates a safe vehicle. Your ability to stop and steer depends on your car’s maintenance.

• Regularly check your tire pressure and tread depth.

• Ensure your brakes are working effectively and quietly.

• Keep your windshield wipers and washer fluid in good condition for clear visibility in all weather.https://sundrivingacademy.ca/beginners-driving-lesson-online/