Defensive driving is when you are driving for yourself and others. You are looking out for potential dangers ahead of time and avoiding them. According to the Safe Practices for Motor Vehicle Operations, defensive driving is "driving to save lives, time and money, in spite of the conditions around you and the actions of others". Studies show that 90% of accidents are caused by driver errors.
Although these skills are often taught in a driver’s education course, here are some ways you can begin defensive driving now:
Leave plenty of space between you and the car in front
Check all of your mirrors often and look at conditions way ahead of you
Keep your speed down
Position your vehicle so you can see and be seen
Don’t depend on other drivers to drive safely