What is defensive driving?

Whether you just got your license or you’ve been driving for decades, the safest way to drive is defensive, not aggressive. Defensive driving means using a collection of techniques designed to help improve road safety, reduce accident risk and help you in making informed decisions based on your surroundings. In this article, you will learn about the tips, techniques and benefits of driving defensively, which can help you avoid hazards, anticipate the road ahead and stay safe.[1]

Defensive driving techniques

Defensive driving is about staying aware of what’s happening around you, including other vehicles, people, stoplights, traffic, construction zones and more. Let’s review these 8 key techniques that focus on safety, caution and awareness.[2]

1. Look beyond the vehicle in front of you

Staying safe while driving means being vigilant about scanning the road ahead and behind. Look several car lengths ahead, including toward the next crosswalk, stop sign or intersection. Also be sure to regularly glance in your rearview mirror to understand what’s happening behind you. This will help you avoid hazards and give yourself time to react to the unexpected.

2. Give yourself space

As you’re driving, especially on roads with high speed limits, be sure to create space between your car and other vehicles. A good rule of thumb is to leave 2-4 seconds between you and the car in front of you. In bad weather, heavy traffic or construction zones, consider adding more space as a precaution.

3. Anticipate hazards

Because you cannot control how other drivers behave, it’s key to prepare for the unexpected and anticipate potential hazards. Other drivers may be texting, intoxicated, swerving or driving too close to other cars. Stay vigilant and be ready to react when other drivers are not paying attention.  

4. Follow traffic laws

Unfortunately, drivers can be careless and don’t always follow the laws. But traffic laws are in place to keep traffic moving and to help avoid collisions and hazards. It’s important that you always adhere to the laws, such as paying attention to traffic signs, stopping at red lights and most importantly, obeying the speed limit. Defensive driving means following the rules of the road and respecting others.

5. Don’t drive distracted or impaired

There’s a lot to be distracted by when you’re driving. From cellphones pinging to rowdy kids in the backseat, there’s no shortage of noise. Hands-free devices can help, but multitasking while driving is still unsafe. It goes without saying that it’s imperative to avoid driving if you’re fatigued, impaired by alcohol or drugs or even taking medications that make you drowsy.

6. Be aware of blind spots

A blind spot is an area not easily visible from the car windows and mirrors. Before you switch lanes, it’s important to check your mirrors and turn your head to verify there is no car in the lane you want to merge into. Be aware of your car’s blind spots and adapt your driving to account for them. Use your turn signals, giving time for others to see your signal, before turning or changing lanes.

7. Be cautious while changing lanes

When you’re changing lanes or turning at an intersection, be aware of your surroundings and be sure you’re signaling at the correct time – not too early or too late. Intersections can be hazardous, too. As you approach, be sure to look left and right to verify there’s not another car crossing. When you’re at a 4-way stop, and it’s unclear who should drive through the intersection, always let the other driver go ahead. Guard against accidents by being a defensive driver.

8. Adapt to changing weather conditions

Inclement weather can cause issues on the road. Rain, snow and winds can be tricky to drive through, so it’s important to take precautions. Reduce your speed if you’re driving in snow, rain or ice.  If your vehicle lacks ABS brakes, tap them gently to prevent lock ups that can put your car into a skid.  Check your tires regularly to ensure that they have enough air and tread depth.[2]

What are the benefits of defensive driving?

Defensive driving benefits everyone: the driver, passengers and all other vehicles on the road. First, defensive driving brings enhanced safety to all involved and these drivers are typically involved in fewer accidents.

Second, insurance companies may use telematics or other programs to recognize or reward safe drivers.  Fewer accidents also mean fewer auto repairs and fewer potential medical costs to the driver.

Third, drivers who follow traffic laws and regulations are less likely to receive tickets, license suspensions and become involved in legal disputes after an accident.[3]

Example of defensive driving

Let’s review some good examples of defensive driving.

• Always scan the road ahead and check mirrors to look for potential hazards.
• Focus on keeping a safe distance between yourself and other cars.
• Avoid aggressive drivers.
• If you have a driver tailing you too close, change lanes or pull over to the side of the road in a safe spot until they pass.
• Always use your turn signals and give other drivers time to see them when making a turn or changing lanes.
• Stay out of the left lane unless you’re passing other vehicles.
• When it’s raining or snowing, slow down to improve visibility and safety.

Defensive driving can help you react quickly to unexpected situations, thereby protecting yourself and everyone around you.[3]

Does Nationwide offer a defensive driving discount?

Did you know that Nationwide offers a discount for defensive driving? Get the details and eligibility on defensive driving discounts with Nationwide.

Sources:

[1] “What is defensive diving?” Shell, shell.com/business-customers/shell-fleet-solutions/fleet-focus/health-security-safety-and-the-environment/the-importance-of-defensive-driving.html# (accessed June 2025).
[2] “15 Rules of Defensive Driving,” HSI, hsi.com/blog/15-rules-of-defensive-driving (accessed June 2025).
[3] “What is Defensive Driving and Why Should Every Driver Learn It?” Defensive Driving School,  driving-school.com/what-is-defensive-driving-and-why-should-every-driver-learn-it (accessed June 2025).