Defensive Driving

Defensive driving means “always expect the unexpected.” The first step in driving defensively is to wear the safety belt. See Safety Belts on page 3‑15.

• Assume that other road users (pedestrians, bicyclists, and other drivers) are going to be careless and make mistakes.

Anticipate what they might do and be ready.

• Allow enough following distance between you and the driver in front of you.

• Focus on the task of driving.

    See also:

    Replacing Safety Belt System Parts after a Crash
    WARNING A crash can damage the safety belt system in the vehicle. A damaged safety belt system may not properly protect the person using it, resulting in serious injury or even death in a crash. To ...

    Reading Lamps
    Press the button near each lamp to turn them on or off. For more information, see: • Dome Lamps on page 6‑5. • Instrument Panel Illumination Control on page 6‑5. ...

    If Steam is Coming from the Engine Compartment
    WARNING Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Turn it off and get everyone away from t ...