In life, we get what we expect. On the road, what you expect could save your life.
Today a friend of ours was going about her business when she was confronted by the stolen car which made the news today. Fortunately she escaped harm and the police found a way to bring the rampage to an end.
We never know who is out there on the road. We don’t know what they will do or where they might come from. There are rules which are designed to keep some sort of order but they are not a guarantee.
Drivers who expect people to make mistakes are much less likely to crash. Some call this defensive driving. I know a couple people who call it positive driving – being positive that other people will make a mistake, deliberately or other wise. It does not matter what you call it, it is about being alert and ready for anything to happen all the time.
Our friend today was fortunate not to become a victim of two young guys driving a stolen car. Reports say that the car was driven on the wrong side of the road several times.
On the road we must expect bad stuff to happen. If a car is slowing in front of you, expect it to stop suddenly for no apparent reason. Slow and leave space so you can stop too. If a car looks like it might come across onto your side of the road, believe it will. Move or slow to make room. If it turns back onto the correct side, all is good and you can continue on. If it does come onto your side, you will ready. You will have a chance to do something.
It is said that up to half of all crashes could be avoided if the not at fault driver did anything at all. Many drivers faced with a crash situation drive straight into it, knowing it was likely to happen but hoping it wouldn’t. React when you first saw things going wrong. You just might avoid a crash.
Even if it is a couple of young guys driving a stolen car up the wrong side of the road, if you are prepared and ready you have a good chance of avoiding a crash.
Our friend avoided harm today. You can too if you stay ready. On the road, expect things to go wrong always.
Defensive Driving Courses help prepare you for the worst. Maybe check out a defensive course with Drive Smart or other reputable Driving School near you.
Leave a Reply