We’re all in a ‘think like a driver’ business
I really enjoy driving, as do millions of people around the world. I, as many people do, take driving seriously. To the others, it’s just a way of life for them. Driving to them is like putting on their shoes; it’s something they do every day without much thought. However, driving should be much more than that.
I agree that driving is a series of habits. The habit of accelerating, braking and steering help us maneuver throughout the communities we live and work in. However, some of those basic habits have to change every now and then, depending on the circumstances.
Years ago while I was meeting with colleagues, one of the instructors said “we’re in the habit business” when it comes to teaching people how to drive. I thought about that and almost agreed with him. I then replied “we’re in the think-like-a-driver” business. I’ve used that line and belief for many years since.
Once a driver learns the basic skills to drive safely and pass their government road test, it’s only just begun. The real challenge happens when they reach the road and drive with other traffic around them. That’s when they truly must think like a driver.
Many drivers may remember when they learned to drive that they may have been instructed to stop when they see the wheels of the stopped vehicle ahead of them touch the ground. Not a good habit any longer. One reason is your vehicle is now more aerodynamic than they were 20 or more years ago. Your vehicle could be 1 metre or 3 feet behind that vehicle if your stopping position was determined that way. That makes it difficult to move around them if that vehicle in front stalled in traffic. The real problem happens if the vehicle behind you can’t stop in time. Where could you go to avoid that rear crash? Nowhere.
As a beginner driver we’re taught the basic skills of making turns, lane changes, right of way, etc. But were you taught how to avoid a potential head on collision? Using the “think like a driver” mentality, it gives you the insight of being prepared for the unusual. Thinking like a driver means you’re watching what the other road users are doing and anticipating their actions. You’re always looking for a way out and trying to keep space around your vehicle so you can escape.Using your eyes effectively and maintaining space are key elements to thinking like a driver.
If you are thinking like a driver, you’re always thinking “what if” each time you drive. What if the driver behind can’t stop in time? What if I get cut off and the driver behind is tailgating so I can’t stop suddenly? What if the driver traveling beside me suddenly drifts into my lane? What if the oncoming driver suddenly pulls out and comes at me in my lane? These are all questions we need to ask ourselves as we drive and these are just a few. The question I have for you is; do you rely upon your driving habits to get you out of trouble, or do you always think like a driver to solve the issues? If not, perhaps now is the time to start.
**Have a quick listen to this short episode of the “Speed Bumps” podcast as it discusses if you’re REALLY a good driver!