What does "Defensive Driving" mean?

Defensive driving refers to the practice of being aware of and anticipating potential hazards on the road while actively taking steps to protect oneself and others. It involves recognizing dangerous situations and reacting in a safe and responsible manner to avoid accidents. This approach not only includes maintaining a safe following distance and observing traffic signals but also being aware of the behavior of other drivers, pedestrians, and road conditions.

The focus of defensive driving is on proactive safety measures, such as scanning the road ahead, understanding and predicting the actions of other road users, and remaining calm under pressure. This mindset helps in minimizing the likelihood of accidents and ensuring a safer driving environment for everyone.

Other choices reflect attitudes that either encourage risky behaviors or misunderstand defensive driving principles. For instance, driving aggressively or blocking other drivers contributes to road rage and can create more dangerous situations rather than preventing them. Additionally, driving slowly doesn't necessarily equate to being safe or defensive; it can lead to other issues like obstructing traffic flow, potentially causing frustration for other drivers.