It is important that we know how to drive our vehicles in the best and most efficient ways possible, so having a defensive driving course is essential for all drivers. Taking a defensive driving course helps you be more aware of your surroundings while driving and teaches you how to avoid accidents.
This article will talk about everything you need to know about defensive driving and some of the great defensive driving techniques you can use whenever you need it.
What is defensive driving?
Defensive driving refers to a special and helpful set of skills and techniques that drivers can use to help them stay safe on the road. It involves being aware of what other drivers are doing, anticipating potential hazards, and knowing how to respond to them.
This type of driving is helpful to drivers because of the increase in traffic on the roads and the rise in distracted and aggressive driving. With a defensive driving course, the instructors will equip you with the techniques and theoretical knowledge you can use in various situations, from anticipating road accidents to avoiding them altogether.
Benefits of defensive driving
Defensive driving has a lot of benefits for both experienced and inexperienced drivers. For experienced drivers, it is a great refresher on the skills and techniques needed to stay safe on the road. Meanwhile, it is an excellent way for inexperienced drivers to learn how to stay safe while driving.
Some of the benefits of defensive driving include:
- Improved awareness of your surroundings while driving
- The added ability to anticipate any potential hazards on the road
- Greater confidence while driving
- Reduced stress levels while driving
- Fewer accidents and traffic violations
These benefit drivers regardless of their driving experience and skills.
How a defensive driving course works
There are generally two parts to the defensive driving course: the theoretical and the practical parts. These two parts are important because they teach you the knowledge and theories behind the defensive driving course and how to apply what you have learned in the real world.
Theory
For the theoretical part, this is commonly held in the classroom. You will study different topics, such as road safety, the different types of vehicles, and the laws that apply to driving. You will also learn about human factors contributing to accidents, such as tiredness and distractions.
Learning the theoretical aspect of the defensive driving course is important because it will give you a better understanding of the different concepts you will be using in the practical part of the course.
In addition, the theoretical part also equips you with the knowledge of what to do in different situations, such as if your car breaks down or if you are involved in an accident.
Practical
Afterwards, you will move on to the practical part of the course, where you will put what you have learned into practice. This is usually done in an empty parking lot or a quiet road with little to no traffic.
You will be given different scenarios to test your skills, such as emergency braking and evasive maneuvers. This is important because it will allow you to see how you can apply the different concepts you have learned in real-world situations.
Moreover, the practical part of the course will also help you build your confidence while driving and help you become more aware of your surroundings. You will be able to apply what you have learned in the theoretical aspect of the defensive driving course while you are driving your Mazda 3 or whatever car model you have.
Once you complete the course, the instructors will give you a certificate of completion. You can present the certificate of completion to your insurance company for a discount on your premium or for other purposes that may seem fit.
Defensive driving techniques
Some of the defensive driving techniques that they will teach you in the defensive driving course include:
Scanning the road ahead
This technique involves looking as far ahead as possible to anticipate any potential hazards on the road.
Checking your blind spots
This is important because some blind spots on cars can obstruct your view of other vehicles. Always check your blind spots every time before changing lanes or making a turn.
Following the three-second rule
This states that you should always maintain a three-second distance between your car and the next closest one, which is always the car in front of you. This ensures that you have enough time to brake if the car in front of you suddenly stops.
Using your mirrors properly
Mirrors are important because they give you a clear view of the cars behind you. Always adjust your mirrors before driving, and check them regularly while on the road.
Signalling properly
This is important because it will let other drivers know what you are doing, so they can react accordingly. Always signal appropriately when you are going to turn or change lanes.
Yielding to other vehicles
This is important because it shows courtesy to other drivers and can also help avoid accidents. Always yield to other vehicles when you are turning or changing lanes.
Conclusion
Defensive driving is a skill that all drivers should learn, as it can help them become better and more aware drivers. Taking a defensive driving course is one of the best ways to learn defensive driving. It will give you both the theoretical and practical knowledge you need. After completing the course, you will be able to apply what you have learned in real-world situations.
With the defensive driving course, you can become a better and safer driver and become a better member of society in the process.
