FREE CDE Defensive Driving & Hazard Recognition Questions and Answers

Question 1

What is the main goal of defensive driving?

Accepted Answer

To anticipate and avoid hazards

Answer

The main goal of defensive driving is to anticipate and avoid hazards on the road. This proactive approach involves constantly scanning the environment, recognizing potential dangers, and being prepared to react safely to prevent accidents. Defensive driving prioritizes safety by minimizing risks from other drivers and road conditions.

Question 2

What should you do if you see a pedestrian about to cross the street?

Accepted Answer

Slow down and prepare to stop

Answer

If you see a pedestrian about to cross the street, you should slow down and prepare to stop. Prioritizing pedestrian safety is crucial, as they have the right-of-way in many situations. This action allows you to react safely if the pedestrian enters the crosswalk and helps prevent accidents.

Question 3

Why is maintaining a safe following distance important?

Accepted Answer

To have time to react

Answer

Maintaining a safe following distance is important to have enough time to react to unexpected events on the road. This buffer zone allows a driver to perceive, process, and respond safely to sudden stops or hazards ahead. It is a fundamental principle of defensive driving that helps prevent rear-end collisions.

Question 4

How can distractions be minimized while driving?

Accepted Answer

Avoiding phone use and focusing

Answer

Distractions can be minimized while driving by avoiding phone use and focusing entirely on the road. Even hands-free phone use can be cognitively distracting, impairing attention and reaction time. Eliminating distractions ensures full concentration, leading to safer driving decisions.

Question 5

What should you do when driving in bad weather?

Accepted Answer

Reduce speed and increase following distance

Answer

When driving in bad weather, you should reduce your speed and increase your following distance. Adverse conditions like rain, snow, or fog reduce visibility and tire traction, making it harder to stop or steer. Adjusting your speed and maintaining a greater distance provides more time and space to react safely and maintain control of your vehicle.

CDE - Comprehensive Driver’s Education Practice Test

CDE - Comprehensive Driver’s Education Practice Test

FREE CDE Defensive Driving & Hazard Recognition Questions and Answers