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:

    Starting the Engine
    Place the transmission in the proper gear. Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine will not start in any other position -- this is a safety feature. To restart when you a ...

    Head Restraints
    Adjust the head restraint so that the top of the restraint is at the same height as the top of the occupant’s head. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash. Pull the hea ...

    Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire
    1. Do a safety check before proceeding. See Changing a Flat Tire. 2. Turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise to loosen all the wheel nuts, but do no remove them yet. 3. Turn the jack handle cou ...