While driving, it is important to be alert in several key areas to ensure safety:
- Watch out for distracted drivers who may weave or brake suddenly.
- Be cautious of impaired drivers showing erratic behavior like abrupt lane changes.
- Pay close attention to traffic signs, signals, and road markings especially at intersections.
- Adjust to road and weather conditions by slowing down and increasing following distance.
- Avoid speeding and be mindful of tailgaters behind you.
- Check and minimize your blind spots before changing lanes.
- Observe erratic lane changes by other drivers as a warning sign.
- Be vigilant of pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists, especially near schools and parks.
- Maintain situational awareness for traffic congestion and night driving.
- Watch for animals crossing the road, especially at dawn and dusk.
Overall, staying alert means continually scanning your environment for hazards and anticipating potential dangers to react safely and prevent accidents. Defensive driving focuses on staying ahead of problems rather than just reacting to them on the road.