What is the ultimate goal of defensive driving?

The ultimate goal of defensive driving is to ensure personal safety and the safety of others. This approach emphasizes being aware of one’s surroundings and anticipating potential hazards to prevent accidents. Defensive drivers are trained to recognize the behavior of other road users, manage their driving environment, and respond effectively to unexpected situations. This goal plays a vital role in reducing the risk of collisions, enhancing overall road safety, and contributing to a more secure driving experience for all participants on the road.

While following traffic laws strictly is important, it is a foundational aspect of driving rather than the ultimate goal of defensive driving. The same applies to gaining recognition for driving skills; this focuses more on personal accolades rather than the driving safety ethos. Driving faster than everyone else can significantly increase danger, contradicting the very principles of defensive driving and undermining safety goals.