DEFENSIVE DRIVING TECHNIQUES

An advanced form of training for drivers, it goes beyond knowing the rules of the road and the basic mechanics of driving. The goal of defensive driving Is a proactive driver who can avoid dangerous road situations or the poor conduct of the other drivers. This can be achieved through adherence to a variety of general rules as well as the practice of specific driving techniques.

Speed Thrills but kills

one of the major cause of road accidents in uae

Statistics of 2019

4788

+ TOTAL ACCIDENTS

725

+ DEATHS

6681

+ INJURIES

DEFENSIVE DRIVING TECHNIQUES

KEEP BOTH HANDS ON THE WHEEL

People tend to multitask while driving. It is not advisable to remove any of your hands from the steering wheel while you’re driving; an urgent situation might make you lose control if you’re using only one hand to operate the wheel. Therefore, it’s recommended to you keep your hands at the 10 o’ clock, 2 o’ clock position at all times. Some of the tasks that are considered illegal while driving, around the world, include operating a phone, texting, calling, tending to a pet or a child, applying makeup (beware ladies!), reading and eating.

DON’T FIX YOUR EYES AT ANY PARTICULAR SPOT

Remember, while driving, you need to make sure you’re well aware of your vicinity at all times. Check the rear-view and wing mirrors regularly to make sure there’s no one behind your car or on your side driving dangerously. Give yourself enough time to react by anticipating a problem before it actually happens.

DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE

Even if you’re allowed to drink alcohol, don’t consume too much of it if you have to drive afterwards. Alcohol intoxication reduces reaction time for people, slows down their reflexes, and even causes blurred vision when consumed in excess.

KEEP YOUR SPEED IN CHECK

While the temptation to drive a supercar “as fast as it would go” is irresistible, it is best if you muster the patience required. Official statistics tell us that people jumping red lights and driving at high speeds caused a lot of people to lose their lives . Therefore, resisting the temptation to fly is of paramount importance.

DON’T DRIVE IF YOU’RE UPSET OR ANGRY

Being full of emotions, the UAE drivers tend to react to every little mistake another driver makes. People here are also susceptible to the heat and humidity, which take a toll on the stress levels. If you’re upset or angry about something, it’s best to let a friend drive you instead of doing it yourself. When you’re irritated, it reflects in your driving which becomes more aggressive, thus hazardous.

YOU HAVE TO BE ALERT WHILE DRIVING

If you had a tiring day at work, it’s better to give someone a lift back home, so you don’t have to be alone in the vehicle on your way back. Reports suggest that tired persons have the tendency to fall asleep driving on a highway; this can be catastrophic. You must be fresh before you plan to drive to work or take a road trip. Visual, cognitive and manual distractions often cause accidents, so you must be alert to avoid these disturbances.

TAKE THE ROAD CONDITION INTO ACCOUNT

Ensure you know the conditions of the road you are heading to and take the appropriate vehicle. Of course, you need an SUV for off-roading as they have sturdier tyres that are powered by all-wheel drive layout. Moreover, you need perfect brakes to drive on the highways and so on.

GET THAT TRAFFIC RULES PAMPHLET OUT

We have probably forgotten that little pamphlet we get, describing traffic signs. It is always wise to familiarise yourself with the rules of traffic and the road signs. and abide by the rules.

MAINTAINING SAFE DISTANCE

Defensive driving requires you to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you, especially on the highway. This saves your vehicle from frontal collision if the car ahead applies the brakes suddenly. Sometimes a pedestrian appears out of nowhere on the main road and tests your reflexes, so be attentive. If you are driving in the rain, stay at least 6 to 8 seconds behind the front vehicle. In all cases, avoid tailgating.

MAKE YOUR PRESENCE FELT ON THE ROAD

You need to make sure the cars ahead are aware of you. Many accidents happen just because “the other car appear out of nowhere”. To avoid that, here are a few tips to follow:

  • Make sure you turn the headlights on as soon as the sun sinks; don’t wait for it to get completely dark. Even during raining, headlights help increase visibility.
  • While changing lanes, ensure turning on the indicator to alert the cars in front and back of you.
  • Your car’s brake lights must be working perfectly, so they illuminate at night or when you apply the brakes.
  • Don’t stop the car or slow down where the highway curves. If you’re at one end of the curve, and cars at the back are approaching full-speed, they might not be able to immediately see you halted in the middle of the road.

HOW TO DRIVE ON FOG CONDITIONS

  • Do NOT drive with your hazard lights on
  • Do NOT use your high beam light while you are driving.
  • Use your hazards lights when you stop for an emergency to notify the driver behind you.
  • In Low visibility conditions Stop the vehicle immediately on the service lane and use your hazard lights and wait till you can get a clear view to move.
  • Avoid changing lanes
  • Keep your distance
  • Turn your heater on
  • Turn your fog lights on
  • Slow down