Everything You Need to Know About Defensive Driving
At our driving school North Vancouver, we incorporate defensive driving into all of our lessons. Driving safely is only part of being a good driver; knowing how to drive defensively and watch out for unsafe drivers is vital in being a good and safe driver yourself.
What is defensive driving?
Defensive driving is the physical and mental preparation for the unexpected. A defensive driver is cautious and focused, without being panicked or worried about driving. Noticing other drivers' driving habits is important in being a defensive driver. You'll often notice during our driving lessons in North Vancouver that our driving instructors will point out to you other unsafe drivers, such as drivers who are texting, speeding, or driving recklessly. We do this to ensure our students are able to recognize potential hazards and drive safely around these drivers.
How can I practice defensive driving?
At our North Vancouver driving school, our instructors have put together a list of tips to help you become a defensive driver:
1) Stay focused and in the moment
To drive defensively, you need to stay focused, watch how other drivers are driving, and recognize bad habits. Scan intersections and your surroundings and make note of any unsafe drivers or changes to your surrounding environment.
2) Leave enough space between other cars
Rear-ending someone is never fun, and you are almost always guaranteed to be at fault. As a rule of thumb, leave about 2 car-lengths between you and the driver in front of you. This will give you enough time to stop incase they decide to slam on their brakes. This is why instructors during our Class 5 driving lessons in North Vancouver will always remind you to leave space!
3) Make your intentions clear
To drive defensively, always be sure to signal before you change lanes. Our driving school North Vancouver will teach you the proper steps in signalling and safely changing lanes on both rural and city roads. In addition, always drive appropriately; do not make last-minute or sudden decisions where you may endanger other drivers and do not cut off other vehicles.
If you need help in becoming a defensive driver, please contact our North Vancouver driving school at 778-889-7167. We also provide driving lessons in Burnaby, Port Coquitlam, New Westminster, and Vancouver.
