driver-qualification-handbook-english

2Coping with the unexpectedThere are no magic formulas or techniques for predicting when unexpected hazardswill pop up when driving. Suggesting that you expect the unexpected when drivingis easy to say, but harder to do.Applying the following skills can help you reduce the risk of something unexpectedcausing problems for you or other road users:• Scan well ahead of your car – keep your eyes moving to the front, left andright.• Look for indicators on other vehicles.• Observe the head and eye movements of other drivers (eg where are theylooking? At you or at something else).• Look for pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists that may be hidden by othervehicles or objects – check your blindspots.• Give yourself plenty of time to detect and cope with hazards and space to takesome action to avoid a crash.• Be cautious in situations that are new or different (eg roadworks, crash scenes).• Make your vehicle easier to see – if it is dull, overcast or raining turn on yourheadlights, even during the day.• Slowing down is a good precaution as it gives you both time and space to copewith a hazard.Key points summary: Expectancies andthe unexpected• Drivers often rely on expectancies when they drive.• Other drivers will make mistakes and do things that you don’t expect.• To cope with the unexpected, use a scanning routine and keep a safe distancefrom other road users.• Give yourself plenty of time and space to cope.• Make your vehicle easier to see – drive with your headlights on.64Driver qualification handbook