Safe Driving Practices and Hazard Perception
Safe Driving Practices and Hazard Perception
The exam asks how you scan, create space and react when something unexpected appears. Hazard perception is about seeing problems early, not reacting late.
Scanning and space
- Look 12–15 seconds ahead and check mirrors every 5–8 seconds.
- Keep a space cushion around the vehicle and identify an escape route.
- Cover the brake when a hazard is developing; do not wait until it is in your lane.
Speed and conditions
- Posted speed is a maximum for ideal conditions, not a target. Slow for rain, snow, ice, fog, darkness, gravel and wildlife.
- Scan ditches and shoulders at dawn and dusk; moose and deer often move then.
- If an animal is on the road, brake firmly in a straight line. Do not swerve into oncoming traffic or a ditch.
Emergencies
- With ABS, press the brake firmly and steer; do not pump.
- In a skid, ease off the accelerator and steer where you want to go; avoid hard braking.
- For a blowout, grip the wheel, ease off the accelerator and slow gradually.
Worked example
At dusk a moose appears on the shoulder. The correct response is to reduce speed, cover the brake and prepare to stop - not to swerve around it. If it steps onto the road, brake hard in a straight line and accept a controlled impact rather than a rollover.
Traps
The speed limit is not a safe speed on ice. Pumping ABS, yanking the wheel and staring at the hazard are common errors. Do not assume a hazard will stay put because you have seen it.