What is the primary focus of defensive driving?

The primary focus of defensive driving is to anticipate and react to other road users' actions. This approach emphasizes the driver's ability to foresee potential hazards and respond appropriately to the behaviors of other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Defensive driving involves being aware of the surrounding environment, understanding that not all drivers will behave predictably, and preparing oneself to handle unexpected situations safely.

By anticipating the actions of others, a defensive driver can make proactive decisions that enhance safety, such as adjusting speed, changing lanes, or maintaining a safe following distance. This skill is essential for preventing accidents and minimizing risks on the road.

In contrast to this, driving as fast as possible disregards safety by prioritizing speed over caution, while avoiding all other road users is impractical and suggests a level of isolation that doesn't reflect real driving scenarios. Additionally, while following speed limits is important for legal compliance, it doesn’t alone encompass the broader strategy of defensive driving, which is about proactive risk management and situational awareness.