As a driver, you will constantly face hazards on the road. A hazard is any object or situation that could be dangerous.
Hazards include:
- intersections
- curves or bends in the road
- pedestrian crossings
- the position or movement of other road users, such as other vehicles, cyclists or pedestrians
- changes in weather and road conditions
- steep downhills.
To deal with hazards safely, you should get into the habit of using the hazard action plan and system of vehicle control described in this section.
The hazard action plan
When you’re driving, you should always be:
- identifying potential hazards that could affect you
- predicting how the hazard might develop and endanger your safety
- deciding what action to take to negotiate the hazard
- acting upon your decision by using the system of vehicle control.
The system of vehicle control
This system is a safe and simple method of driving that will help you deal with hazards safely. It ensures you are always positioned in the right place on the road, and travelling at the right speed and in the right gear.
Use this system when you approach any type of hazard.
- Course: choose a safe and legal path.
- Mirrors: check your mirrors to see the position of traffic behind and beside you.
- Signal: always signal if you intend to change your position on the road.
- Brake: use the brakes to reduce your speed.
- Gear: select the correct gear for the speed you have chosen.
- Accelerate: accelerate safely to leave the hazard.
