Q&A for How to Drive Defensively

Check your mirrors frequently so you're aware of your surroundings. Another thing you can do is activate your turn signals about half a block before you make your turn.

Speed is key. You need time to judge the movement of traffic both on and about to enter a roundabout. Vehicle positioning is crucial from you and others as this is the strongest signal of your (and others) intentions. Turn indicators are meant to let others know your intentions not confuse. Don't accept every signal, look at their positioning and speed.

Some of the qualities of a good driver include having patience with other motorists, being considerate, conscientious, communicative, cooperative, and cautious. A good driver respects the law and avoids confrontation while driving. He or she is licensed, insured, and the vehicle is registered. He or she also drives in a manner that saves lives, time, and money, in spite of the conditions around them or the actions of others.

Make yourself visible, always use turn signals when appropriate, use headlights when needed, watch others on the road, pay attention to traffics signs and lights, and observe speed limits. Use good timing when weaving into traffic, and try not to cut people off if possible, but be prepared for others to do so.

The answer to this could take pages but assuming you mean observations, then `PLANNING` is the key word. Constantly scan ahead for potential events such vehicles slowing to negotiate junctions or for lane changers. Try to prepare and predict what they may do next. A good driver will be checking traffic in all mirrors every few seconds, usually starting with rear view, followed by the appropriate door mirror for following/overtaking vehicles and prior to moving in either mirrors direction.

Slow down/stop and wait for them to move. Do not honk or try to frighten them. Just be patient. The roads have encroached upon their environment, not the other way around.

By reversing and maneuvering slowly, with the hazard lights on.

Plan to `arrive to go`. In other words, rear mirror check and reduce speed on approach in order to come to a gentle halt and in the appropriate gear to enable you to continue through a new green light. Remember, a green light does not mean go, it means go if safe and clear to do so. NEVER commit to passing through any junction without checking right and left for light jumpers. An experienced driver will be able to predict the lights changing in his/her favor.

You start by watching a good driver and learning the basic highway code. Then find a recommended approved instructor, don't just look for the cheapest you can find because the cheaper they are, the more time you will spend parked up at the side of the road allegedly learning your theory. The best way to learn is perhaps a double lesson once or even twice a week. Expect to need around 40 hours if you have no experience.

Yes. Now it's recommended to put your hands at 9 and 3, or 8 and 4 to avoid airbag injuries.

Experience. Try to drive when you know the roads are quiet, avoid heavy traffic, and keep at it until you overcome your fears.

Imagine a clock on the steering wheel. 10 o'clock is the upper left region of the steering wheel, keep your left hand there. Your right hand should be at 2 o'clock, just above the very right of the steering wheel.

It's best to drive in the middle of the lane as much as you can, far enough back from the vehicle in front so that you have a clear view of the situation ahead. Never get too close to the center line in order to stay safe from oncoming traffic.

If there is room, you can try swerving around it to avoid hitting it. Otherwise, try to stop before you reach the animal. You may have to slam on the brakes if necessary.

The same way as in a regular vehicle. The type of vehicle you drive doesn't really make a difference unless it poses some extra inconvenience or complication, and four-wheel drive just makes it easier to drive in harsh weather, mud, etc.

Anywhere you will not encounter a lot of other drivers. Relatively empty parking lots, parks, and cemeteries are popular options.

When reversing, you should always be looking in your rearview and side mirrors to ensure that you are not backing into anything. Some cars even have rearview cameras to help you. If necessary, you can also turn around and look out your back window as you reverse.

Don't worry about getting to your destination, just focus on driving safely. Many accidents happen because of people that drive aggressively or recklessly. You can always call in late if you get stuck in traffic. If you get into a collision or get pulled over by police, it will make you even later than you would be otherwise.