A 3-minute lesson from the New Jersey course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Most crashes are caused by driver error, so most are preventable. Defensive driving means expecting others to make mistakes and keeping your own emotions in check. Aggressive driving and road rage do the opposite.
The crash-prevention formula
Be alert: never assume the other driver won't make a mistake
Be prepared: know what to do when you must act fast, and expect the unexpected
Act in time: try not to panic; know what to do if something happens suddenly
A progression of unlawful acts such as unexpectedly changing speed, improper or erratic lane changes, ignoring traffic controls, failing to yield, and following too closely.
When drivers lose their tempers over a traffic disturbance: speeding, tailgating, weaving, running lights, passing on the right, gesturing, screaming, honking or flashing high beams.
A driver behind you is flashing high beams and weaving to get around you. Don't speed up or brake-check. Move right when it is safe, let him pass, and if a passenger is with you, have them call #77.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
What are the three parts of the standard crash-prevention formula described in the manual?
Look, listen, think
Slow down, signal, stop
Be alert, be prepared, act in time
See, brake, swerve
Answer: Be alert, be prepared, act in time
The crash-prevention formula is: be alert, be prepared, and act in time.
Which of the following is listed as an example of aggressive driving?
Using a turn signal before changing lanes
Driving at the posted speed limit
Coming to a complete stop at a stop sign
Following another vehicle too closely
Answer: Following another vehicle too closely
Aggressive driving includes behaviors like unexpectedly altering speed, erratic lane changes, disregarding traffic control devices, failing to yield, and following too closely.