Defensive Driving Techniques Flashcards

What is the purpose of maintaining a 'space cushion' around your vehicle?

Answer: To give yourself time and space to react to unexpected hazards

A space cushion in all directions gives you reaction time and room to maneuver if another driver or road condition creates a hazard.

What should you do when an aggressive driver tailgates you in Connecticut?

Answer: Safely change lanes or pull over to let them pass

Letting an aggressive driver pass by changing lanes or pulling over de-escalates the situation and keeps you safe.

Which factor is most important when judging a safe gap before changing lanes on a highway?

Answer: The speed and distance of vehicles in the target lane

Assessing both the speed and distance of vehicles in the lane you're entering determines whether a safe gap exists.

In Connecticut, what should you do when your vehicle's right wheels drop off the pavement edge?

Answer: Ease off the gas, grip the wheel firmly, and gradually steer back onto the road

Gradually steering back onto the road while reducing speed prevents overcorrection, which can cause a rollover or loss of control.

What does the term 'target fixation' mean in defensive driving?

Answer: Focusing only on a hazard and unintentionally steering toward it

Target fixation occurs when a driver focuses so intently on a hazard that they unconsciously steer toward it instead of away from it.

When driving in heavy rain in Connecticut, why should you turn on your headlights?

Answer: Connecticut law requires headlights whenever wipers are in use

Connecticut law requires drivers to use headlights whenever windshield wipers are in use, improving visibility for all road users.

Which of the following is a key element of the SIPDE defensive driving process?

Answer: Scan, Identify, Predict, Decide, Execute

SIPDE stands for Scan, Identify, Predict, Decide, Execute — a systematic process for anticipating and responding to hazards.