Safe Driving and Hazard Perception
Hazard perception is about scanning, anticipation and space. Use the system of vehicle control: mirrors, signal, manoeuvre, position, speed and look. Keep a following distance of at least two seconds in good conditions and double it in rain, at night or behind large vehicles. Stopping distance equals thinking distance plus braking distance, and both grow with speed and load. Wet roads lengthen braking distance, and aquaplaning removes steering control entirely.
Scan far ahead and use the mirrors regularly; junction hazards, pedestrians stepping out, cyclists in blind spots and parked cars hiding children are classic test scenarios. Vulnerable road users include pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and children; give them time and space. Overtaking requires clear sight lines, a legal opportunity and a safe return gap; never overtake at crossings, bends or crests.
Weather demands adaptation: fog requires dipped headlights and reduced speed, ice demands gentle inputs, and heavy rain demands more distance. Night driving reduces contrast and depth perception.
Rule of thumb: the two-second rule is a minimum, not a target. If the vehicle ahead passes a marker and you reach it before counting two seconds, you are too close.
Worked example: a ball rolls into the road ahead. Anticipate a child following it, slow immediately and prepare to stop, rather than swerving around the ball.