Defensive Driving Techniques
Defensive Driving. According to a recently published report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) there were about 333,000 collisions involving big trucks during 2012. These resulted in 3,821 deaths and about 104,000 injuries. Safety professionals believe that being prepared to face the challenges and dangers of the road is one way that you can help to prevent collisions. One way is to become a defensive driver. In a split second this means that as a defensive driver means that you should:
- Watch for changes.
- Observe the entire situation.
- Recognize potential hazards.
- Decide on the appropriate response.
- Carry out your plan.
Defensive driving also means that while driving that you use continuous visual scanning techniques. These include scanning:
- Ahead – Scan the entire sight area, looking 12 to 15 seconds ahead of the vehicle. In the city, 12 to 15 seconds is equal to about two or three blocks. While travelling at 60 MPH, 12 to 15 seconds is equal to about .25 to .38 miles. Scanning 12 to 15 seconds ahead should provide enough time to spot a problem; decide how to react; assess traffic conditions; and to maneuver out of a potential situation. Look for vehicles, distracted or aggressive drives, road signs/signals, debris, animals, construction, etc.
- Sides – Scan to the left and the right using your vehicle’s mirrors as well as the side windows. It is especially important to scan to the sides at:
ü Intersections.
ü When changing lanes or merging.
ü At any other place where people could unexpectedly dart into traffic.
- Behind – Using your mirrors to monitor the back of your vehicle is also important. In addition to watching for vehicles and potential hazards check for loose product hoses, leaking product, etc.
See and Be Seen. In addition to being able to see clearly, it is important that your vehicle can be seen by others.
- Keep your windshield and mirrors clean and clear.
- Adjust mirrors properly and use them to constantly scan around the vehicle.
- Make sure all lights, turn signals, four-way flashers, and reflectors are clean and working properly.
- Especially during inclement weather, ensure that your wiper fluid reservoir is topped off and wiper fluid pump is functioning properly.
- Check your headlamp lenses for clarity. Over time the plastic lens becomes oxidized. Have the shop buff them out or replace them if necessary.
Space Management. Space Management takes into account the space ahead, behind, and to the sides of your vehicle as well as above and below i.e. rail grades, tunnels, and overpasses. There simply must be enough space to allow you to adjust when traffic conditions change.
Speed Management. Speed Management includes driving at posted speed limits when conditions allow and adjusting your speed when traffic or weather conditions deteriorate.