This article outlines possible situations which could happen at any time, when least expected, during your driving career. The defense suggestions are merely recommendations for the situation. Each problem varies as to detail, so the defense must vary according to the situation. Below are some specific situations and specific solutions.
Safe Driving Spells Survival
Situation 1
You are driving down the highway at 60 miles per hour approaching a curve when another car approaching from the other direction at 70 miles per hour crosses the solid center line heading straight for you.
Defensive Driving Tactic 1
Do not steer to the left across the solid line. Brake, and steer out of the way onto the shoulder to the right. Sound horn. Do your best to avoid fence posts, trees, etc.
Situation 2
You are driving a vehicle down a slight grade on a main highway at 50 miles per hour. Suddenly the rear right tire blows without warning, and the vehicle swerves to the left and heads for the center white line. A car is coming the other way at 60 miles per hour.
Defensive Driving Tactic 2
Do not brake. Gain control of the steering and bring the car back on the correct side of the road. Let the car slow down without using the brake. Pump the brakes very gently at 10 or 15 miles per hour, and stop the car at the side of the road, off the pavement if possible.
Situation 3
You are driving down the highway in a 60 mile per hour zone when a car approaches from behind. This car tailgates but does not pass.
Defensive Driving Tactic 3
Slow down so that the vehicle may pass. If possible, merge into the lane to the right allowing the driver to pass. Get off the road if necessary.
Situation 4
Defensive drivers are always prepared for the unexpected. Imagine that you are driving down a main highway approaching an intersection with a secondary road which has a stop sign. Another car is approaching the intersection on your right at a high speed, and it appears as though the other driver will not be able to stop. What defensive action can you take?
Defensive Driving Tactic 4
Slow down. Put your right foot over the brake. Be prepared to make an emergency stop if necessary. This is why it is important to look far when driving in order to pick up potential hazards in your peripheral.
Situation 5
You are travelling down a highway at night when your car develops engine trouble and starts to lose power. The car speed reduces to 20 miles per hour and the engine stalls.
Defensive Driving Tactic 5
Pull completely off the road onto the shoulder, or onto a driveway or lot. Turn the emergency four way flashers on. Lift up the hood. Tie a white cloth to the antenna and use flares if you have them available.
Situation 6
You are driving down a highway when suddenly a car coming from the other direction pulls out to pass. It is apparent that he has not got sufficient room to complete the maneuver.
Defensive Driving Tactic 6
Brake immediately. Pull over to the right. Leave the pavement and go onto the shoulder if necessary. It may even be necessary to go into the ditch if the other driver does not return to his own lane in time.
Situation 7
You are driving alone at night through a mountainous area where there are no motels. You become very tired about 50 miles from your destination. Gradually your eyes start to close for lack of sleep and you feel that you can no longer drive safely.
Defensive Driving Tactic 7
Immediately stop the car in an area off the road. Shut off the engine. Get out of the car and take a short walk. Open the window part way down and lock the car. Sleep for an hour or two, providing that the temperature is not below freezing. When refreshed, drive on.