Anticipating Road Hazards Ahead- Why & How it Matters?

Whether you are an aspiring driver or an experienced pro, looking ahead of the road is imperative to avert potential hazards and stay safe behind the wheels. To anticipate is to take immediate action when you expect something dangerous might happen or rather a warning that may compel you to slow down, change direction or even stop. 

The way you analyse would depend upon a few compelling factors such as the surrounding traffic, action of other drivers or pedestrian movements etc. Thus, to act immediately, you need to stay constantly focused on road and keep your eyes moving. Try to get a broader overview of the road to ensure you get sufficient time to act to emergencies.

Not All Hazards Are Easy to Anticipate- Expect the Unexpected

While taking charge of the steering, you should prepare yourself to expect the unexpected and take precautionary measures to act as guided by the instructors of driving school in Castle Hill. Pay close attention to:

• Indications given by other drivers

• Road signs and surrounding traffic

• Type and condition of the road

• Weather conditions

• Pedestrian movements

A few basic techniques you may apply to anticipate the road better:

• Get a clear picture of the road while observing hazards.

• Slow down upon identifying warning signs.

• Analyse surrounding traffic to determine your speed.

• Avoid distractions while driving.

• Keep your eyes moving on side mirrors.

• Maintain a safe distance from other cars ahead.

Practical Tips to Anticipate the Road Ahead

• Improve Observation

To get a broader picture of the road ahead and respond immediately, you need to improve your observation skills. Keep a close watch on the surrounding traffic and analyse the movement of other cars ahead of you. Focus on your direction and try to fix your vision on ‘full beam’. 

• Slow Down or Stop

Looking further down the road will help in anticipating the potential hazards and determine your course of action. Slowing down at warning signs will allow time to react to learner drivers’ actions and determine your stand depending upon their approach. Don’t hesitate to stop when needed as this would mitigate the risk of collisions and keep you safe from unwanted dangers.

• Keep Speed Limits in Check

Anticipation will be better if you follow the tactics of safe driving and stick to the desired speed limit. This will enrich your thought process and help you analyse the potential hazards that may be ahead of the road. Maintain a safe distance from other cars as this would help you see further and stay safe from accidents.

• Use Road Signs for Corrective Actions

By looking further and having a wider picture, you can improve your vision as you drive and make use of the road signs better as recommended by the trainers of driving school in Hornsby. Road markings will help you determine the right course of action, keep you safe from potential hazards and plan ahead. 

Last Words!

Anticipating on-road hazards is a key component of defensive driving and helps you stay safe behind the wheels even under adverse climatic conditions. If you are an aspiring driver and willing to learn the tactics of safe driving, enrolling in a professional driving school can help.