Which of the following is an example of defensive driving in high-risk areas?

Which of the following is an example of defensive driving in high-risk areas?

• A. Look 20-30 seconds ahead
• B. Drive at the posted speed limit
• C. Increase following distance excessively
• D. Ignore road signs

Answer: (A)

Looking far ahead, about 20–30 seconds, is a key defensive driving habit in high‑risk areas. That forward scan lets you spot potential problems early—like slow or stopped traffic, pedestrians near the roadway, merging vehicles, or changing signals—so you can slow gradually, adjust your speed, and choose a safer lane position before things tighten up. This proactive planning reduces the need for abrupt braking or last‑minute maneuvers, which is exactly how you protect yourself and others in risky conditions. Driving strictly at the posted speed limit isn’t enough on its own in these areas because conditions can require slower speeds and more caution. Keeping an excessively long following distance isn’t necessary and can disrupt traffic flow, while ignoring road signs removes important information you need to navigate safely.

Looking far ahead, about 20–30 seconds, is a key defensive driving habit in high‑risk areas. That forward scan lets you spot potential problems early—like slow or stopped traffic, pedestrians near the roadway, merging vehicles, or changing signals—so you can slow gradually, adjust your speed, and choose a safer lane position before things tighten up. This proactive planning reduces the need for abrupt braking or last‑minute maneuvers, which is exactly how you protect yourself and others in risky conditions. Driving strictly at the posted speed limit isn’t enough on its own in these areas because conditions can require slower speeds and more caution. Keeping an excessively long following distance isn’t necessary and can disrupt traffic flow, while ignoring road signs removes important information you need to navigate safely.