Defensive Driving Flashcards

A driver experiences 'highway hypnosis' on the New Jersey Turnpike. What is the safest corrective action?

Answer: Exit at the next rest area, park, and take a short break

Highway hypnosis is a sign of driver fatigue; only stopping and resting safely addresses the root cause.

When a tire blows out at highway speed, a defensive driver should first:

Answer: Grip the wheel firmly, ease off the gas, and steer straight

A firm grip and gradual deceleration prevent the vehicle from spinning out; hard braking can cause loss of control.

In New Jersey, distracted driving includes which of the following activities?

Answer: All of the above

Any activity that diverts attention from driving — cognitive, manual, or visual — qualifies as distracted driving under NJ law.

What is the correct defensive response when you see brake lights suddenly appearing far ahead on a NJ expressway?

Answer: Ease off the accelerator, cover the brake, and prepare to stop gradually

Gradually covering the brake while easing off the gas gives vehicles behind you time to react, reducing chain-reaction collision risk.

When parallel parking on a New Jersey street, you should signal and check mirrors at minimum how many feet before your target space?

Answer: 25 feet

NJ requires signaling at least 100 feet before a turn or parking maneuver, giving other drivers adequate warning.

Which of the following correctly describes 'target fixation' as a defensive driving hazard?

Answer: Staring at an obstacle, causing the driver to steer toward it

Target fixation causes drivers to unconsciously steer toward what they're staring at, often leading to the collision they were trying to avoid.

How does a defensive driver handle an aggressive driver who is tailgating and flashing lights demanding you move over?

Answer: Safely move to the right when possible and let the driver pass

Moving right and letting an aggressive driver pass removes the confrontation and reduces your collision risk.