In the context of defensive driving, what does the 'recognize' step entail?

The 'recognize' step in defensive driving involves identifying potential hazards that could affect your safety on the road. This means being aware of various situations that may arise, such as other vehicles that might be merging unexpectedly, pedestrians crossing the street, or changes in road conditions due to weather or construction. Recognizing these hazards allows a driver to anticipate problems and respond appropriately to avoid accidents.

While understanding road signs, noticing other vehicles’ speeds, and being aware of passenger activities are all important aspects of driving safely, they fall under other stages of the defensive driving process, such as comprehension or action. Recognizing hazards is specifically about detecting elements in the driving environment that could pose risks and preparing to manage those risks effectively.