Defensive driving is more than just obeying traffic rules. It’s about anticipating hazards, staying alert, and keeping yourself, your passengers, as well as your pets safe on Singapore’s roads. Many accident are preventable if drivers adopt a defensive mindset. This guide highlights common mistakes and practical strategies to improve your driving safety.

1. Avoid Speeding

Speeding may feel convenient, but it drastically reduces your reaction time. At 110 km/h, your car travels over 35 meters before you even have a chance to brake. Instead:

  • Drive at speeds that match traffic conditions without exceeding limits.
  • On faster-moving traffic, stay slightly slower than the flow to maintain control.
  • Remember, speeding doesn’t save much time and increases fuel consumption.

2. Stay Focused

Inattention is a leading cause of accidents. Common distractions include daydreaming, talking, fatigue, and mobile devices. Tips for maintaining focus:

  • Pay attention, even on familiar roads near home or work.
  • Avoid multitasking or letting your mind wander.
  • Scan the road regularly and anticipate potential hazards ahead.

3. Observe Traffic Signals

Running red lights is a frequent cause of urban accidents. Drivers who rush through amber lights risk serious collisions. Defensive strategies include:

  • Always stop at red lights and be patient.
  • Approach intersections cautiously and anticipate other drivers’ actions.
  • Recognize that impatient driving endangers yourself and others.

4. Look Far Ahead

Many drivers focus only on the immediate stretch of road, limiting their ability to react. Instead:

  • Look 15–20 seconds ahead or as far as possible.
  • Avoid staring at a single spot for too long, which can lead to “road hypnosis.”
  • Continuously scan your surroundings for potential hazards.

5. Drive Predictably

Unpredictable driving increases the risk of collisions. Defensive driving includes:

  • Signal your intentions early.
  • Position your car in advance for turns or lane changes.
  • Avoid last-minute lane switching on highways.
  • Smooth, consistent driving gives others time to respond safely.

6. Handle Tailgaters Safely

Tailgating is dangerous, reducing your reaction time and increasing accident risk. To deal with tailgaters:

  • Increase your following distance – Apply the “two-second rule” plus the tailgater’s distance, effectively doubling it. This gives you more time to react.
  • Slow down slightly – Let impatient drivers pass safely without escalating tension.

Important: Never tap or slam your brakes to intimidate tailgaters. This can trigger road rage or accidents. Stay calm and drive defensively.

7. Maintain a Safe Following Distance

Always keep at least a two-second gap from the vehicle ahead under normal conditions. Increase this distance in heavy traffic, bad weather, or poor visibility. This buffer allows you to brake safely and avoid collisions.

8. Summary of Defensive Driving Principles

  • Speed responsibly and within conditions.
  • Stay alert and minimize distractions.
  • Observe traffic signals carefully.
  • Scan the road well ahead.
  • Drive predictably and signal early.
  • Deal with tailgaters calmly.
  • Maintain safe following distances.

By adopting these defensive driving habits, Singapore drivers can reduce the risk of accidents, improve reaction times, and enjoy safer journeys for themselves and everyone on the road.