What is defensive driving?

Defensive driving refers to a set of skills and techniques that enable drivers to anticipate and respond to potential hazards on the road. The main goal of defensive driving is to protect oneself and others from accidents by being aware of the environment, anticipating the actions of other drivers, and making safe choices. This includes maintaining a safe following distance, scanning the road for potential dangers, and being prepared to react appropriately to the sudden actions of other road users.

In contrast, driving at night with headlights on is a safety measure but does not encompass the broader principles of defensive driving. Aggressive driving often puts individuals and others at risk rather than promoting safety, while listening to music, although a common practice, does not contribute to a driver's ability to react to hazards on the road. Therefore, the best definition of defensive driving is one that emphasizes proactive measures to enhance safety for all road users.