What is Defensive Driving? | Things to Know

Many driving schools charge an extra fee for defensive driving lessons. While Varsity Driving Academy doesn’t charge an extra fee for defensive driving lessons, there’s got to be a reason others do. What is defensive driving that makes it worth an extra fee at other driving schools? Defensive driving is very important and can keep you and others safe on the road which is why Varsity Driving Academy teaches it in every class, with no extra costs.

What is Defensive Driving? | Things to Know

What is defensive driving? It’s more than a driving technique, it could be a lifesaver that you should come to rely on often. Defensive driving is a driving technique that is easily employed when beyond the wheel. There are many facets to this driving technique but the most important thing to note is that it can prevent accidents. Roadways are interesting places, you are not the only one on them and that means you need to be prepared for almost any situation. This is where defensive driving comes into play.

What is Defensive Driving | The Tools

When you practice defensive driving, you employ certain tools while driving. Many of these tools are meant to help you avoid an accident before it even happens, hence the term “defensive”. So what tools does defensive driving require? Simply put, defensive driving requires you to look ahead, control your speed, give space, predict actions, consider weather, reduce distractions and be respectful of other drivers. The real question is how do you use each one?

What is Defensive Driving | How to Use It

While this will tell you how to use the tools, nothing will compare to actually practicing these methods with a professional. This is why Varsity Driving Academy teaches defensive driving in every class. However, maybe if you understand how to use the tools of defensive driving beforehand, you will be better prepared to put them to use.

• Look Ahead | Looking ahead gives you the opportunity to react to what is coming your way. For example, look two to three cars ahead of you, when that car starts to brake, you know you will need to brake soon as well.
• Control Speed | Controlling your speed allows you to be better prepared to stop when needed. You will also be able to better control the vehicle and become more aware of your surroundings.
• Give Space | Common practice is to give some space between you and the car in front of you. Combined with looking ahead, this tool gives you ample time to react to anything.
• Predict Actions | No one expects you to be a fortune teller but after you’ve practiced this tool you wouldn’t know the difference. Look for signs of lane changes or brakes while driving from others and predict what they will be doing next.
• Consider Weather | Always adjust your driving techniques based on the weather. If it starts to rain, monitor your speed closer, give more space, look ahead, and always drive slightly slower.
• Reduce Distractions | Distracted driving is always a bad idea and one of the most important aspects of defensive driving.
• Be Respectful | There is no need to say please and thank you verbally, but if you do it with your actions, you will yield better results. For example, if you see someone trying to get through, don’t speed up or cut them off, let them in. This will make sure you avoid any road rage as well as possibly getting in an accident if they weren’t paying attention.

Now that you know what defensive driving is, it’s time to sign up for your class with Varsity Driving Academy. Register online, take the course and then get behind the wheel to put your defensive driving skills to the test.