Defensive driving and low-risk driving are similar, but they also have their own unique differences. In this blog post, we will delve into the difference between defensive driving and low-risk driving techniques, exploring their meanings, examples, and their significance in ensuring road safety. Learn Drive Survive are committed to teaching you the skills and techniques needed to navigate the roads safely and confidently. With the experienced driving instructors at Learn Drive Survive together with the Safer Drivers Course, you can elevate your driving skills to new heights.
The Unification of Defensive and Low-risk Driving Techniques
While defensive driving and low-risk driving techniques differ in their primary focus, they are not mutually exclusive. In fact, incorporating both approaches can significantly enhance your overall driving skills, making you a safe and conscientious driver. By adopting a defensive mindset, you equip yourself to anticipate potential dangers, while low-risk techniques provide you with the necessary tools to prevent crashes proactively. Together, they create a comprehensive approach to safe driving.
Defensive driving and low-risk driving techniques serve as cornerstones for mastering the art of safer driving. The best driving course for learner drivers is the Safer Drivers Course. By combining the mindfulness of defensive driving and the preventive nature of low-risk driving, you not only help safeguard yourself but also contribute to a safer road environment for everyone.
Defensive Driving – Protect Yourself and Others
Defensive driving is a proactive approach to driving that emphasises anticipating and identifying potential dangers on the road. It requires drivers to continuously maintain awareness, assess situations, and take preventative actions to avoid collisions. With defensive driving, you become responsible not only for your own safety but also for the safety of others around you.
Maintaining a Safe Following Distance
One of the critical concepts in defensive driving is the three-second safe following distance. By keeping a three-second gap between your vehicle and the car in front, you give yourself sufficient time to react effectively to any sudden changes in speed or unexpected situation.
Effective Scanning
To avoid surprises and identify potential hazards, constantly scan your surroundings. Look as far ahead as possible, to the sides including checking your mirrors, blind spots, intersections, and road signs. This practice allows you to anticipate and react promptly to any potential risks.
Practicing Situational Awareness
Defensive driving emphasises being aware of your surroundings, including the actions of other drivers. Anticipate their actions by recognising subtle cues, such as a driver drifting between lanes, pulling out from a side street or a pedestrian approaching a crosswalk.
Low-Risk Driving – The Art of Prevention
Low-risk driving, on the other hand, focuses on minimizing potential risks by adopting a range of preventive driving techniques. It employs strategies that aim to reduce the likelihood of crashes, ultimately promoting a safer driving environment.
Maintaining a Consistent Speed
By adhering to speed limits and adjusting your speed according to road conditions, you can increase your control over the vehicle and reduce the potential for crashes. Low-risk drivers ensure they never exceed speed limits, even in seemingly ideal driving conditions.
Smooth and Predictable Movements
Avoid abrupt acceleration, braking, or turning, as these sudden actions can catch other road users off guard. By executing smooth and predictable manoeuvres, you reduce the likelihood of causing crashes or being involved in one.
Practicing Responsible Lane Positioning
Low-risk drivers position themselves in a way that maximises their visibility and minimises blind spots. This includes staying centred within the designated lane, out of the blindspots of other vehicles, and avoiding frequently changing lanes, especially in heavy traffic.
Enhance Your Driving Skills – NSW Safer Drivers Course
Learn Drive Survive® are committed to making our roads safer by creating and empowering drivers with the necessary skills and knowledge whilst showcasing the numerous benefits the Safer Drivers Course provides to learners looking to enhance their driving skills.
What is the NSW Safer Drivers Course?
The NSW Safer Drivers Course is a comprehensive program designed to provide learner drivers with enhanced driving skills, knowledge, and experiences. Developed by the Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) in New South Wales, this course aims to reduce the number of injury and fatal crashes involving young P plate drivers on the road.
Benefits of Completing the NSW Safer Drivers Course
Enhanced Hazard Perception Skills
The course focuses on developing your hazard perception skills, a crucial aspect of safe driving. You will learn how to identify potential risks, anticipate hazards, and respond appropriately, helping you make more informed decisions on the road.
Increased Confidence and Skills
The comprehensive nature of the course ensures that you develop a wide range of driving skills, including defensive driving techniques, low-risk driving strategies, and decision-making abilities. This helps to build your confidence by knowing what to look out for and best positioning of your vehicle in various situations to significantly reduce the likelihood of a crash.
Additional Logbook Hours
Successfully completing the Learn Drive Survive® Safer Drivers Course will not only provide you with additional strategies for safer driving, you will also receive a bonus of 20 hours of logbook credit towards the 120 hours required for a P1 licence. Additionally, learners who have completed the course are exempt from the Hazard Perception Test (HPT) requirement when applying for a P1 license.
Interactive and Engaging Learning Environment
The course is designed to create an interactive and engaging learning environment, facilitating valuable discussions with experienced facilitators, coaches and other learner drivers. This interaction allows you to share experiences, gain insights, and learn from different perspectives, enriching your overall learning experience.
Emphasises Positive Attitudes and Behaviours
The course is not solely focused on low risk driving skills. It also highlights the importance of developing positive attitudes and behavioural traits that contribute to safer driving practices. This includes understanding the risks associated with distractions, fatigue, and peer influence, allowing you to make responsible choices behind the wheel.
Experienced Facilitators & Coaches
Learn Drive Survive® are an experienced and friendly team who are passionate about road safety and dedicated to teaching you the skills and knowledge necessary for safe and responsible driving. The NSW Safer Drivers Course offers a host of benefits for learner drivers in New South Wales. By completing the course, you can develop crucial driving skills, gain confidence on the road, and benefit from additional logbook credits.
To book a course, click the booking button below or alternatively, call the course provider on 1800 898 969 to assist you.