6.5 Scanning for Hazards
Hazards are an undeniable part of driving, and can appear in many forms. Hazards can be categorized as real hazards and potential hazards. A real hazard is one that is happening at this very moment, such as a car stopped in the road. A potential hazard is one that could possibly happen. For example, a car signaling their intention to change lanes is a potential hazard.
To be a defensive driver, you need to be prepared for real and potential hazards. One effective method for defensive driving is SIPDE – Search, Identify, Predict, Decide, and Execute. As a defensive driver, you must Search the roadway and surrounding areas for real and potential hazards. Identify the hazard and then Predict the worst that may happen. ThenDecide what you will do to avoid the hazard, and Execute your maneuver if needed.
Using the SIPDE method, a defensive driver will be able to recognize potentially hazardous situations sufficiently in advance, so as to allow time to safely maneuver past them. Also, the driver will assume that other drivers may make mistakes and be on guard in the event an error is made. And finally, the driver will search ahead of what is immediately in front, to have advance warning of approaching hazards.
Parked Vehicles Moving Into Traffic
When you are driving next to parked vehicles, you should always be prepared by covering your brake. This is in case a vehicle may be pulling out into the lane in which you are traveling in. In addition, a person may be stepping out of a vehicle, a vehicle may be pulling out of an intersection, or pedestrians may be stepping out into the sidewalk of which parked vehicles may block your view of these hazards.
Vehicles Taking Your Right-of-Way at Intersections
Intersections are a very common situation for crashes to occur. Anticipate problems and keep an eye out for potential hazards.
Other drivers may make unsafe turns in front of you. Cover your brake if it looks like the other driver might turn in front of you unsafely. Other drivers may neglect traffic signs or signals. Expect the other driver to make the mistake, especially at intersections.
Other drivers may not yield to vehicles or hazards. Good manners are a sign of maturity and responsible driver. Unfortunately, some drivers do not follow these rules. Expect the occasional irresponsible or immature action on the road.
Before Making Lane Changes
Other drivers may not see your vehicle when they are making a lane change. Do not drive in other drivers’ blind spots! Either pull up or pull back, but never put the first third of your car next to the back third of the other driver.
Covering the Brake
When approaching an intersection or you see what may be a potential hazard ahead, use the technique of “covering your brake”.
This technique is when you take your foot off of the gas pedal and hover it over the brake pedal. What this does is, it reduces your reaction time should another driver pull out in front of you or some other hazard presents itself and you need to brake suddenly.
The normal reaction time for an average driver is about 3/4 of a second. If you are driving at 55 miles per hour, your vehicle will travel 62 feet from the time you recognize the hazard to the time you start applying the brakes. By using the “covering your brake” technique, you are eliminating this reaction time and distance. This could be the difference between a collision and avoiding one.