What should drivers do to minimize collision risks according to defensive driving principles?

To minimize collision risks, defensive driving emphasizes the importance of being aware of one’s surroundings. This involves actively observing the environment, including the behavior of other vehicles, pedestrians, road conditions, and potential hazards. By maintaining a high level of situational awareness, a driver can anticipate potential dangers and react appropriately, which is essential for preventing accidents.

This principle not only includes looking ahead but also checking mirrors frequently and being alert to what is happening around the vehicle. It allows drivers to make informed decisions and adjustments to their driving behavior, such as slowing down or changing lanes when necessary, significantly reducing the likelihood of a collision.

In contrast, driving faster when possible can lead to increased stopping distances and reduces reaction time, which heightens collision risk. Ignoring distractions is also not a proactive approach; instead, avoiding distractions altogether is a better practice. Finally, while using a mobile phone cautiously might seem responsible, it still poses a significant risk and is generally discouraged as it can easily divert attention away from driving.