What is the goal of defensive driving?

The goal of defensive driving is primarily to anticipate potential hazards on the road and react appropriately. This approach emphasizes awareness and preparedness while driving, encouraging drivers to recognize unsafe conditions or behaviors from other road users. By staying alert and proactive, drivers can make informed decisions, adjust their driving according to varying situations, and ultimately avoid collisions and accidents.

This focus on hazard anticipation fosters a safer driving environment, allowing individuals to react quickly to unforeseen challenges, whether it’s a sudden stop from the vehicle ahead, adverse weather conditions, or erratic behavior from other drivers. These skills are vital for maintaining safety on the road, contributing to peace of mind and a lower risk of incidents.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the fundamental principles of defensive driving. Speeding to circumvent accidents contradicts the core of safe driving practices. Rigid adherence to traffic laws without considering conditions may lead to dangerous situations if those laws don’t account for unusual or hazardous circumstances. Lastly, the idea of always having the right of way overlooks the importance of driving with caution and the responsibilities that come with sharing the road with others.