Defensive Driving Flashcards

What is 'road rage' and how should a defensive driver respond to an aggressive driver?

Answer: Avoid eye contact, do not retaliate, and create distance

Retaliating escalates danger; the safest response is to disengage, avoid eye contact, and increase the gap between vehicles.

What is the primary purpose of the 'space cushion' concept in defensive driving?

Answer: To provide time and space to react to unexpected hazards

A space cushion gives you reaction time and maneuvering room to avoid crashes when hazards appear suddenly.

At what blood alcohol concentration (BAC) does the law presume impairment for drivers 21 and older in all US states?

Answer: 0.08%

All 50 states set the legal BAC limit for adult drivers at 0.08%, above which impairment is legally presumed.

Which of the following best describes 'controlled intersection' in NSC defensive driving?

Answer: An intersection managed by signals, signs, or officers

A controlled intersection has official traffic controls such as signals, stop signs, or traffic officers directing vehicles.

What should a driver do when merging onto a highway from an on-ramp?

Answer: Match highway speed and merge smoothly into a gap

Matching highway speed before merging reduces speed differentials that cause rear-end collisions.

What does SIPDE stand for in the defensive driving decision-making process?

Answer: Scan, Identify, Predict, Decide, Execute

SIPDE — Scan, Identify, Predict, Decide, Execute — is a systematic process for managing driving hazards.

What is the recommended action when you experience a tire blowout at highway speed?

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

Hard braking after a blowout can cause a spin; maintaining control and gradually decelerating keeps the vehicle stable.