What is the purpose of defensive driving?

The purpose of defensive driving is fundamentally centered around the proactive approach to driving that emphasizes anticipation and prevention of potential collisions. This practice involves being aware of the driving environment and anticipating the actions of others on the roadway, allowing the driver to make informed decisions that enhance safety.

Defensive driving techniques encourage a driver to observe their surroundings, respond appropriately to unforeseen circumstances, and maintain adequate distance from other vehicles, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents. The focus is on minimizing risks and ensuring not only the driver’s own safety but also the safety of others on the road.

In this context, demonstrating superior driving skills, while important, does not encapsulate the essence of defensive driving as much as anticipating and preventing collisions does. Similarly, while strictly adhering to traffic rules is crucial, it does not fully address the proactive mindset required in defensive driving. Driving at the highest speed possible contradicts the principles of defensive driving, which prioritizes safety over speed. Hence, the correct focus is on the anticipation and prevention of accidents.