Principles of Defensive Driving
- 1/23Defensive driving means being constantly
Stay aware of surroundings, anticipate hazards, and plan your actions. This mindset helps avoid accidents before they happen.
A good defensive driver always keeps
In Ireland, follow the two-second rule in dry conditions. Increase it in rain, fog, or at higher speeds.
The main goal of defensive driving is to
Defensive drivers prepare for the unexpected and drive with safety as their top priority.
Checking mirrors frequently helps you
Use your rearview and side mirrors every 5–10 seconds. Know what’s around you before changing lanes or turning.
You should slow down at intersections even if
Not all road users obey rules. Slowing gives you time to spot red-light runners or stop-sign violators.
Anticipating other drivers mistakes allows you to
Expect errors like sudden stops, missed signals, or wrong turns. Prepare to react calmly and safely.
When driving near vulnerable road users, you should
Cyclists, pedestrians, and motorcyclists need more room. Pass wide and slow to ensure their safety.
The two-second rule is used to
Pick a marker the car in front passes, and count two seconds before you reach it. Adjust for weather and traffic.
In poor weather conditions, you should
Wet roads double your stopping distance. Fog or snow requires even more caution and slower speed.
Defensive drivers avoid distractions by
Turn off mobile phones, avoid eating, and keep both hands on the wheel to stay ready for sudden events.
Before changing lanes or merging, you must always
Use your indicators early and confirm no one is beside or behind you. Signal, check, then move.
Scanning the road ahead helps you
Look 10–15 seconds ahead to anticipate slow traffic, pedestrians, or obstacles in the road.
Defensive driving requires adapting to
Do not rely on speed limits alone. Drive at a safe speed for current conditions and visibility.
You should never assume that other road users
Stay cautious even when others appear to yield or indicate. Confirm their actions before proceeding.
Signalling early when turning or changing lanes
Give at least 3 seconds of warning so other drivers and pedestrians can anticipate your movement.
Driving too close behind another vehicle is called
Tailgating is aggressive and dangerous. It limits reaction time and can cause rear-end collisions.
You should reduce speed when approaching
These areas require more caution. Slow down to ensure control and visibility, especially in urban zones.
When being tailgated, the safest response is to
Do not speed up or brake suddenly. Instead, slow down slightly and move left when safe to let them overtake.
One of the key attitudes of defensive drivers is
Rushed or aggressive behaviour increases crash risk. Calm, cautious decisions protect everyone.
Avoiding driving in others blind spots helps you
Especially near trucks or buses, do not linger beside vehicles where the driver may not see you.
Adjusting your speed before entering a bend allows you to
Brake before the bend, not during. This helps maintain traction and lane position.
A defensive driver checks road signs to
Signs warn of speed limits, bends, hazards, or road works. Respond early, not last minute.
Defensive driving contributes to
It reduces the chance of accidents, lowers stress, and promotes a cooperative driving culture in Ireland.