Defensive Driving Hazard Recognition

Single Hazard Course of Action

When you see a hazard, decide on the best way to deal with it. For example, if there are children playing nearby, move as far away from the children as possible, while safely avoiding the other side of the road.

Multiple Hazards Course of Action

It is rare to come across only one hazard at a time when driving - most of the time you see multiple hazards at once. This means you must stay aware of all the hazards, but give most attention to the hazard that is most likely to develop into a dangerous situation and require you to take action.

Identifying the Main Hazard

The following illustrations show scenes involving multiple hazards for the driver of the blue car. Remember, the main hazard is the one that is most likely to require you to take urgent action.

Cyclist: Hazard A is the main hazard. The cyclist is about to pull out around the parked car and move into the path of the blue car.

Reversing car: Hazard B is the main hazard. This car is reversing out of a parking space and about to enter the path of the blue car.

Turning car: Hazard D is the main hazard. This car is about to turn across the path of the blue car.

Children: Hazard B is the main hazard. The child's attention is focused on the adult on the other side of the road. Remember, the child may try to cross the road without looking.

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