What is a key principle of defensive driving?

A key principle of defensive driving is always being aware of your surroundings. This involves not only watching the road ahead but also paying attention to the actions of other drivers, pedestrians, and potential hazards. By maintaining a high level of awareness, a driver can anticipate and react to any dangers that may arise, allowing for safer driving decisions.

This vigilant mindset helps in identifying situations that require a change in speed, position, or direction, ultimately reducing the likelihood of accidents. In contrast, assuming other drivers will obey the rules can lead to dangerous situations, as it creates complacency. Driving at the highest speed limit without considering conditions can be reckless, and minimizing observation of surroundings greatly increases the risk of overlooking potential threats. Therefore, keeping focused and alert is essential for protecting oneself and others on the road.