Driving often feels like second nature as it’s just you, the wheel, and the open road. But here’s the thing — even the best drivers can fall victim to accidents caused by someone else’s mistakes or unpredictable conditions. That’s where defensive driving comes in.

Think you’re a great driver? Most of us like to believe so, especially if we’ve never been in a major accident. However, accidents tend to happen when you least expect it to.

Defensive driving isn’t just about following the rules of the road, it’s about anticipating the unexpected and preparing for it. By embracing this approach, you can minimise risks and avoid accidents, even when other drivers aren’t at their best.

Beyond personal safety, road accidents have a ripple effect that can impact your workplace, wallet, and community.  Whether it’s the nearly S$1 billion Singapore loses annually to road-related incidents or the emotional toll of a crash, the benefits of defensive driving extend far beyond the driver’s seat.

Here are some defensive driving techniques that will transform you into a road-savvy pro.

Stay Focused and Avoid Distractions

Driving is a full-time job that requires your undivided attention. Distractions like texting, eating, or changing your songs may seem harmless, but they can take your eyes and mind off the road in critical moments. Even a glance away from the road can significantly increase your chances of an accident.

Instead, set up your playlist, GPS, or other settings before driving. Keep your phone out of reach and turn on “Do Not Disturb” mode if necessary. Staying focused allows you to react promptly to changing road conditions, helping you avoid potential dangers.

Maintain a Safe Following Distance

Tailgating is a risky habit that leaves you little time to react if the vehicle in front of you stops suddenly. Following the ‘three-second rule’ gives you enough space to brake safely in an emergency. For larger vehicles or during adverse weather, increase this distance to five or more seconds.

This space also helps reduce stress and aggressive tendencies. Maintaining a safe following distance makes you less likely to get caught in multi-car pile-ups or sudden traffic stops. It’s a simple habit that could save lives.

If you’re being tailgated, it’s best to stay calm and avoid reacting aggressively. The safest move is to change lanes when possible to let the car behind pass. This not only reduces the tension but also ensures you can continue driving safely without the added pressure of someone too close behind you.

Anticipate Other Drivers’ MovesNot everyone on the road drives responsibly. Defensive driving means staying aware of others and anticipating their mistakes. For example, watch for distracted drivers, weaving between lanes, or failing to signal.

By keeping an eye on traffic patterns and being ready to respond, you give yourself extra time to avoid potential accidents. This also helps you avoid making sudden reactions, which can be dangerous for both you and the surrounding vehicles.

Obey Speed Limits and Adjust for Conditions

Speeding reduces your ability to control your vehicle and increases the chances and severity of accidents. Speed limits are set for optimal conditions, but road conditions can change quickly. Rain requires slowing down even further to maintain control.

Driving at an appropriate speed for the conditions helps you handle unexpected obstacles, like debris or sudden stops. The ever-changing construction scene in Singapore means roads are constantly being modified. This leads to new detours or temporary lanes appearing frequently. Staying alert and adjusting your speed ensures you have enough time to react safely to these changes, keeping you and others out of harm’s way

Keep Your Vehicle in Good Condition

Your vehicle’s performance is crucial to your safety. Brakes, tyres, lights, and windscreen wipers should be checked regularly. Imagine driving in the rain with worn tyres—you try to brake at a red light but your car skids, barely stopping in time to avoid hitting the vehicle in front. Regular maintenance prevents such close calls from turning into major accidents.

Routine maintenance doesn’t just keep you safe, it also ensures your car is ready for emergencies and helps with fuel efficiency. A well-maintained vehicle responds better to sudden stops, quick turns, and other defensive manoeuvres, giving you peace of mind on the road.

Be Aware of Blind Spots

Mirrors don’t show everything. Before making lane changes or turns, always check your blind spots by turning your head to look over your shoulder. This small action ensures you won’t sideswipe another car, cyclist, or pedestrian.

Similarly, avoid lingering in other drivers’ blind spots, especially those of large trucks or buses as they have larger blind spots. Staying visible to others and being mindful of these hidden dangers is important even if you don’t drive large vehicles. This will potentially help in reducing accident risks.

Stay Calm and Avoid Aggressive Driving

Driving can be frustrating, especially in heavy traffic or driving alongside reckless drivers. However, losing your temper or engaging in aggressive behaviours like tailgating, honking excessively, or cutting others off increases the risk of an accident.

To stay calm while driving, take deep breaths when frustrated, play soothing music, and keep a safe distance from aggressive drivers. Avoid reacting to others’ mistakes, and if stress becomes too much, pull over to regroup before continuing. Your priority is to keep yourself and other motorists safe, not to win a battle of egos.

Use Your Signals Effectively

Turn signals are your primary way of communicating with other drivers. Whether changing lanes, turning, or merging, using your indicators gives others enough notice to adjust their driving accordingly. Failing to signal can lead to confusion and accidents.

Make it a habit to signal early and clearly. Don’t wait until the last moment to activate your turn signal. Give at least three seconds’ notice to ensure that you and everyone around you can navigate safely.

Scan the Road Ahead

Defensive driving isn’t just about watching the car directly in front of you; it’s about scanning the road far ahead for potential hazards. Look out for brake lights, traffic slowdowns, pedestrians, or debris on the road. This foresight allows you to adjust your speed and position early, avoiding sudden, risky manoeuvres.

In addition to looking ahead, use your mirrors frequently to stay aware of what’s happening behind and beside you. A 360-degree awareness helps you react proactively to any situation, from sudden stops to tailgaters or emergency vehicles.

Learn to Drive Defensively

The Automobile Association of Singapore provides Members and the Public with a one-day Crash Prevention Course, focusing on the consequences of unsafe driving behaviours, and to reduce road accidents.

You will learn how to manage your environment, vehicle, speed, and safe distance. Through simulation software, be road-prepared and ready by viewing over 50 different driving situations and critical events that may lead to a vehicular crash.

Visit https://aas.com.sg/events-activities/crash-prevention-course-3/ for more information.