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:

    Manual Rearview Mirror
    Hold the mirror in the center to move it for a clearer view of behind your vehicle. Adjust the mirror to avoid glare from the headlamps behind you. Push the tab at the bottom of the mirror forward for ...

    Hazard Warning Flashers
    (Hazard Warning Flashers): Press this button located on top of the steering column, to make the front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off. This warns others that you are having trouble. Pr ...

    Cruise Control Messages
    CRUISE SET TO XXX This message displays whenever the cruise control is set. See Cruise Control on page 9‑32 for more information. ...