4Defensive Driving, Vehicle Control & Road Safety Rules for Learners

Defensive Driving

Staying alert, prepared, and ready to avoid hazards.

Space Cushion

Safe area around your car for reacting to dangers.

Scanning Ahead

Look 10-15 seconds ahead to spot problems early.

Mirror Checks

Should be done every 2-5 seconds while driving.

Blind Spot Check

Look over your shoulder before changing lanes or merging.

Brake Lights

Signal to others that you're slowing down or stopping.

Horn Use

Only when necessary to avoid a collision—not for anger.

Avoid Distractions

Stay focused and avoid texting, eating, or adjusting controls.

Drowsy Driving

Slows reaction time; take breaks or don't drive when tired.

Road Rage

Aggressive or angry behavior—avoid reacting or engaging.

Vehicle Control

Includes steering, braking, and accelerating smoothly.

Hand Position

Best grip is at 9 and 3 o'clock on the steering wheel.

One-Hand Steering

Used only when backing up or adjusting vehicle systems.

Backing Up

Look over your right shoulder; move slowly and check surroundings.

Skid Recovery

Steer in the direction you want the front wheels to go.

ABS System

Prevents wheels from locking during braking; press firmly.

Tire Blowout

Grip steering, ease off gas, and steer straight until stopped.

Brake Failure

Pump pedal, downshift, and use emergency brake if needed.

Stuck Accelerator

Shift to neutral and brake while steering safely to the side.

Engine Overheat

Pull over, turn off engine, and wait before checking coolant.

Headlight Failure

Use emergency flashers and pull off road safely.

Steering Failure

Ease off gas, brake gently, and try to steer to a stop.

Flooded Road

Avoid driving through; turn around and find another route.

Tire Tread Depth

Must have enough grip; replace when worn or bald.

Car Registration

Must be current and kept inside vehicle at all times.

Insurance Proof

Required when pulled over or after a collision.

Seat Belt Law

All passengers must wear one; driver responsible for minors.

Child Safety Seat

Required for kids under 8 or under 4'9" tall.

DUI Limit

Illegal to drive with a BAC of 0.08% or higher (adults).

Implied Consent

Agree to BAC testing by having a license—refusal has penalties.