Defensive driving means watching for possible crashes and for other drivers' mistakes before they happen. When something does go wrong (brake failure, a blowout, a stuck pedal), knowing the right response in advance keeps you from panicking.
Crash facts:
- Over half the drivers killed in two-car crashes in Utah were not at fault
- One in four people will be in a crash in the next four years
- Driver error is a factor in 75% of all car crashes (national study)
- Most crashes happen between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
- The highest crash rate is in shopping and business areas
- Crashes are the leading cause of death for ages 1–24
Staying safe with a vehicle problem:
- Maintain your vehicle, tire pressure and tread, and enough fuel
- Pull off as far as possible or exit the freeway; a ruined tire or rim beats risking your life
- Stay in your vehicle as much as possible; keep walking on the road to a minimum
- Call the dispatcher; with no phone, raise the hood and turn on hazard lights
- Tell family when to expect you; keep an emergency kit with blankets, food, and water
Know the rule
A brake warning light means your brakes aren't working. Don't drive if you see it.
Handbook p. 75 ↗If your brakes fail while driving:
- Use the parking brake, applying it slowly so the rear wheels don't lock
- Be ready to release it if you start to skid
- If it fails too, turn off the engine, find a safe place to stop, and get well off the road
Know the rule
With ABS, press the brake pedal as hard as possible and keep pressure on; ABS works only if you stay on the pedal. Vibration and clicking are normal, and you can still steer. Don't pump ABS brakes.
Handbook p. 76 ↗If you break down:
- Get your vehicle off the roadway and away from traffic
- Turn on flashers, raise the hood, tie something white or orange to the antenna or door handle
- Put flares or triangles 200 to 300 feet behind the vehicle
- Call law enforcement (911)
Know the rule
Engine dies while driving: grip the wheel firmly (it will be hard to turn, but you can), brake gently with steady pressure, pull off, try to restart, and if it won't start raise the hood, use flashers, and call for help.
Handbook p. 76 ↗Know the rule
Stuck gas pedal: shift to neutral, steer smoothly to a safe place, brake gently, and pull off the road.
Handbook p. 76 ↗Know the rule
To steer around a hazard, grip the wheel with both hands and steer where you want to go while avoiding other traffic. Once past it, straighten out and slow down.
Handbook p. 76 ↗Know the rule
A front tire blowout pulls the car hard toward the blown tire; a rear blowout makes it wobble, shake, and pull that way. Don't slam on the brakes.
Handbook p. 76 ↗Know the rule
With a flat, grip the wheel firmly, steer straight, take your foot off the gas, and let the car slow; brake gently only if you must. Don't stop on the road.
Handbook p. 77 ↗Know the rule
If your wheels drop off the pavement edge, don't panic: slow down gradually, then turn back onto the road.
Handbook p. 77 ↗Put it into practice
Your accelerator sticks as you merge onto the freeway. You shift to neutral, steer smoothly onto the shoulder, brake gently, and stop well off the road with your flashers on.