Defensive Driving

Defensive driving means “always expect the unexpected.” The first step in driving defensively is to wear the safety belt. See Safety Belts .

. Assume that other road users (pedestrians, bicyclists, and other drivers) are going to be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they might do and be ready.

. Allow enough following distance between you and the driver in front of you.

. Focus on the task of driving.

    See also:

    Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control
    Use the accelerator pedal to increase vehicle speed. When you take your foot off the pedal, the vehicle will slow down to the cruise speed you set earlier. ...

    Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control System Check
    WARNING: When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured. 1. Before starting this check, be sure there is enough room ...

    Steering Column Shift Lever
    If the vehicle has a steering column shift lever, use this procedure to shift the vehicle into P (Park): 1. Hold the brake pedal down. 2. Move the shift lever into P (Park) by pulling the shift ...