Hi Rick! Salute from RSA. I would buy you a full tank of gas/fuel because this video and the tips about always being aware and managing space helped me through 1000 km worth of driving within a month of getting my first car... Your advice is invaluable even a person is not from the USA. I would like to say a big thank you for your teachings because they didn't teach me this stuff in my driving school. Well done and keep up the great work Mr August 🌟👍👑🙏🏆✌️🙂
@@jacksonmehlape6144 The most powerful defensive driver technique I've used for decades which has saved me from many accidents is looking/ checking my rearview mirror frequently while driving and while stopped at a light or stop sign. This has helped avoid dozens of accidents by using the horn when someone is approaching too fast. The other is not being the first to get in the middle of an intersection when the light turns green, because people will run red lights that just changed from yellow.
The most dangerous thing about driving is other people. I’m always looking around and thinking what’s the dumbest most dangerous thing that other driver could possibly do and then trying to plan ahead for that outcome. Doesn’t always work, there’s always situations you absolutely cannot avoid but trying to anticipate other drivers’ stupidity is one of the best defensive driving techniques.
Agreed, brother! Like my driving instructor told me.... When you're driving, you should be an incorrigible pessimist and drive making allowances for even the most unimaginably stupid thing anybody in your field of vision could do. The same applies for those in your blind spots as well, but yea.... That's another topic.
@@RinksRides It's not about protecting the idiots, it's about protecting one's self... So, anticipating the potential actions of another prepares you to take evasive action. Think ahead !!
there is actually one more point he should mention. that is focus on the road. using smart phone, sleeping or making video showing other people the 5 defensive driving strategies are definitely something you should avoid when you are on the road.
@@egaskrad exactly, especially around 2.45 where he's talking about people getting distracted and the amount of time spent looking at the camera. Also, I'm from UK so don't know what drivers are generally like in USA and Canada, but this doesn't seem like defensive driving....it just appears to be 'how to drive' like 1 through to 4 is basically "pay attention" and 5 is "don't have road rage"🙄 scary if this is actually needed for people
Some good advice here. Some people you can see are dangerous as they question this person and his manner of driving. In a typical country there are more than a dozen dying every day on the road and obviously accidents at ten times this rate. If people drove sensibly then the accidents would go to zero and zero. The first one is one of the most important. I leave the two seconds and when stopped I mist be able to see the whole of the car in front. As he says people overtake you and he should be saying these people are accidents waiting to happen. Talking of overtaking, this is one of the most dangerous manœuvres and I try never to overtake unless there is little sensible choice. My dad used to overtake everybody and on a long journey compared to my uncle who was the opposite the time was not enough to brew a cup of tea and so while it may give you pleasure it is risky and is your life worth a few seconds to be safe. He never talked of this but it is vital to avoid accidents. In parking lots it is often illegal to be in any gear but the first. Reversing out is hazardous and as he suggests try to manœuvre so as to be able to drive straight out. I nearly lost my life when someone reversed out at me and so pedestrians need to adopt fail safe ideas too. Finally someone me,tio,ed falling asleep and though it sounds silly this os one of commonest ways to kill yourself on a journey a d we know the times a,d the number one time is in the afternoon after a meal. As to intersections I say to 100 per cent certain is not enough and you need to be 200 per cent certain. Ie check and control that check is correct and someone mentioned jumping out at green when you may face someone jumping the lights again green means go but only if safe.
I'd like to add a couple tips. Green means go when the ways is clear, just because you get the green light, doesn't mean you can slam the gas and go. Always pause to check for red light runners and emergency vehicles. No one has the right of way. Certain vehicles must yield the right of way in each situation. Use caution when you are in a right if way situation, when in doubt, wait it out.
Hi Kevin Alexander - you are correct my friend. Green means go...if the way is clear. And the right-of-way is always given, it is NEVER taken. All the best, Cheers Rick
Also to add on to that because I see it alot. If the light is green and your approaching and the second lane of cars hasn't started moving yet don't go flying by, slow down and make sure the intersection is clear, there might be a reason for that other lane to not be moving yet. To many times I see a car going full speed 1 lane over with the other lane still sitting still.
At intersections that are unmarked, vehicles that come from the right have the right of way. You have to yield to them if there is no signage, lights or roundabouts.
A big defensive driving tip, something I learned when taking a motorcycle course but very applicable to people driving cars, on multilane roads/highways/whatever, DO NOT stay in someone's blind spot. This goes double if that someone is a big rig. Even if people shoulder check, peripheral vision is not always 100%. Make sure the cars in other lanes know you are there or can see you. This means, getting up to their front side windows or pulling back so that you can see their rear view mirror through their back window. If you are anywhere in between, there is a big risk of not being seen and they drive into you.
Defensive tip, never operate a motorcycle, I once visited my dad in an ICU for a health issue and it was filled with the head traumas and broken lives of motorcyclists. Had one end up in my friends neighbors lawn when he was turning into a 25 MPH slow road and the driver on the road didn't see him or stop. Over the hood he flew, mother earth to catch him. Avoidable by not trusting others to see you, better to surround yourself in a bigger crush absorbing shell found inside vehicles.
My grandfather told me one thing that stuck with me, and I passed it on to both my children when they learnt to drive. "No matter how good you are at driving a car remember one thing - EVERY other driver on the road will try to kill you. Maybe not now, maybe not tomorrow, but as long as you watch them when they are near you then they may not get that chance as you can try to avoid them"
I feel like confidence plays a big role when your driving as well. I think with time, the more you drive the better you get at learning these tips and tricks.
@@eagle25311 Exactly, people translate the horsepower of their car engine to confidence and make stupid decisions like overtaking at extreme high speed in less than a block when they could have just waited on the same lane.
Oh, absolutely! Critically important. Hesitation literally kills. Never be a timid, unsure driver. If you are going to change lanes; do it! Don’t just sit there with your blinker on cogitating on it for 3 minutes. If you are going to pass someone, triple-check everything first, and then DO IT! Hesitation & timid driving is so dangerous. Almost worse than being wantonly reckless. At least the reckless person is somewhat predictable; they’re going too fast or whatever. Someone driving slow can whip their car around in any direction because they freak out like a scared horse.
My 3 main defensive driving habits are: Leave plenty of room between me and the other idiots on the road. Drive the speed limit and if someone is tailgating me I slow down and allow them to pass--I’d rather have them in front of me than behind me. Leave early enough that I can take my time and arrive on time or ahead of time.
What you said is absolutely true. I see a lot of drivers who are either drunk, distracted by mobile phones, feeling entitled and mostly having ego problems. Although a majority of us drive safe and are always alert, it's the other half that we should be worrying about everytime. And yes, having to backout and yield in certain situations is always a good idea to avoid getting in more trouble. This doesn't make you weak. It just means you are smarter than the other guy :)
Defensive Driving, the most important, life saving skill.... myself have been driving in U.S for 48 years & never had an accident in my fault, because in 1978, when I applied a driver job in Louisiana coca cola bottling company & took the training course & very first I learned was defensive driving.....
7 years ago I got my G2 license for the help of this instructor. Today I'm a heavy commercial driver who operates Truck for transport goods Canada/US. Still learning and spending time to gain knowledge. Thanks instructor for your tireless effort to help your students.
got my license a couple weeks ago, and realized today after driving a couple weeks that i'm a pretty reckless driver...these tips helped a lot, i'll be using all of them :) thank you so much for this!
Good for you! People think that speeding or driving carelessly is going to save them time when in reality it doesn't. You have to drive a FULL HOUR at 10 mph OVER the posted speed limit to gain just 10 minutes.
I would also add a very important point, to be a predictable and visible driver, such as: -When merging or changing lane, check your blind spot before using the turn signal, and change lane slowly in case you missed a car in your vision (I see too many people changing lane too fast, almost hitting someone they missed). -Don't change two lanes in one shot using one turn signal (unless the bad road design forces you to do so), use your turn signal twice with a very short pause in the middle and check your blind spot again. -When about to turn, use your turn signal before braking (give cars behind extra time to either change lane or slow down). -When about to stop for an emergency, turn on your hazard light before slowing down (again give cars behind time to react), and turn it off once you re-engage (clearly letting people know that you are back on the road). -Try to avoid passing cars on the right lane. -Accelerate gradually and brake gradually. -Don't rely on your automatic light to turn on when it's raining or snowing heavily. -Don't close the gap with cars in front of your, if there is a 200 yard gap with the car in front of you and don't want to pass him, just keep that 200 yard gap as is and stay on the right lane, this is a typical north American thing where you see herd of cars because they all close the gap on each other by instinct, creating a needless hazardous condition. -Don't stay on the left lane if you're not passing, at some point you gonna block faster cars behind you and contribute to that herd effect, you might get stuck in the middle of it because of that. -Stay away from car herds, if you can't pass it, stay low key far behind on the right lane until you see an opening to go throught quickly.
Great tips! However, in isolated areas with poor visibility, it’s I think ok to herd up. The first car should always be the one with the best headlights (most likely volvo) and high beams on. Others illuminate the surroundings with daylights and there should be always enough of space between the cars for anyone to safely pass from the behind (you never know if there’s volvo coming from behind with even better highbeams) 😁
Great video. I take it a step back with what I call the "3 P's". 1) PAY ATTENTION. 2) PACE, it's not a race. 3) PLAN AHEAD, know where you're going and take the safest path avoiding unnecessary risks or impediments. There are more, but these are the foundations of defensive driving.
Pay attention also means you eliminate any and all distraction, if necessary (tell you passengers to shut up!). Don't make plans about the weekend while driving in dense dangerous traffic. Multitasking is ok on near empty Roads (like in the vid), but Humans can't Multitask without losing some situational awareness (and increasing their reaction time.) Proper control of the vehicle and some understanding is also extremely useful. Half the people on the road are unable to properly drive around a corner without cutting it. Means they either then have to slow down extremely or put unnecessary load on their tires (all fine and good, until there's oil or ice). Also 50% of people brake in corners instead of ahead of the corner. And you need to look twice (or once for a bit) to be able to judge the speed of another vehicle.
@timking2822, Right, it's not a race. Early in my and wife's relationship she said "why don't you go around them like all those other drivers are doing" pharspased. I said " I'm not racing them. They can go on if they want to " Something like that. A wife's nagging while driving itself is unnecessary aggravation and distraction!!!!! Unless your husband is about to hit someone you need to button it up...
I have been driving for 13 years, and can relate to these tips. They work. When I drive, I stay away from other vehicles a good distance, I stay away from every cars blind spot, never rush. Because with more and more fools every day on the road, your primary priority should be safety of you and your passengers, not getting to your destination as fast as possible. I had many clowns sit on my tail and tried to push me of the road multiple times because they feel ‘entitled’ to do so, because you’re going the speed limit. I've been to New Hampshire and everyone is following the rules of the road. Came back to MA, total chaos. Drivers running red lights, not yielding, parking where they are not supposed to, no blinkers when changing lanes - you don’t know what they gonna do! I had a truck just jump into my lane out of nowhere almost clipping the front of my car, no signals, nothing! I had an illegal wreck my car with a truck and that dude didn’t had a license, no English either. I will give you some tips: 1. Never try to pass a vehicle when approaching a turn, you don’t know if other vehicles are coming. If you’re forced to pass a standing vehicle, give yourself a good viewpoint so you can see approaching vehicles, and do it when it’s safe to do so. 2. Do not pass someone when going through train tracks, you will be blocking their view of their surroundings. I had a moron do this to me and didn’t see the pedestrians around me and almost injured them and crashed into a pole. 3. Never block an intersection. If you see a square with an X in it, dont drive and stand on it, it’s there for a reason. I see drivers do this every stinking day making piles of traffic. No one can turn or go through. 4. Be aware of “lane catchers’. People will turn into your lane without letting you know. 5. Watch out for drivers trying to make the yellow light. Had a crazy almost T-Bone my car and injure my entire family. Blew past me by few inches of my car. 6. Watch out for semi trucks blowing red lights. When in motion hauling heavy cargo, they cannot stop immediately. 7. Always have snow tires on in the winter, don’t trust all season and summer tires. Snow tires provide better traction for all cars in the winter: FWD,AWD, RWD. And finally, expect the unexpected. Expect shit to happen every day and be ready to find alternative routes. Life happens and we have to navigate it. Stay safe out there everyone.
Hi Jass Manawan Vlogs - that is *_STUPENDOUS_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎 PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate? See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
i've told my family "stay back from the car in front of you"... it's so simple.. not only does it reduce the risk of you running into the back of the car in front of you, it also reduces the risk of the car behind you running into you cause w/ no car close to the front of your car, you have little chance of ever having to slam on your brakes... which is usually why people run into the back of others.
I would like to add 3) no jerky, sudden, abrupt maneuvers, except possibly in emergencies. Slow is smooth, smooth is fast. Smooth is safe. Be predictable. Have your maneuvers be at lesser angles and only the speed required. Sudden accelerations, decelerations, or sudden turns are going to get you into an accident
yep. I once drove 250 miles with a tall glass of water 3/4 full sitting on my dash.. never spilled a single drop. Always signal on EVERY lane change and check that convex mirror on BOTH sides. on my F350 NOTHING can hide from that mirror even a motorcycle riding next to my FRONT axle! oh.. never ride in blind spots and pass semi's expeditiously do NOT sit next to them!
I love this. I'm a new driver and appreciate these tips. I'm older, but my age is an advantage because I've seen alot of stupid behavior while riding with my husband.😐
@@rogelio9801 @Elusive Medic @Dandyjack - all the best with your driver's license test. Drop us a note if you have questions. We'll do what we can to help you out. All the very best, Cheers Rick
Please, please take it from someone who has been there, done that, got the tickets to prove it; All that driving fast, crazy & careless will do is get you tickets at best, accidents and death at worst. PLEASE drive the speed limit (or flow of traffic; don’t be “that guy” going 55 when EVERYONE else is doing 70 - that’s just as dangerous as going 95 in a 70). Please listen to your driving instructors, your parents, etc. Stepping on the gas is just never worth it.
I've been a safe truck driver for more than 20 years and I can tell you, the Smith system works, it's still used to train new drivers, at least in the company I work for, this video is great refreshing material. KEEP YOUR DISTANCE, PEOPLE!!!
You don't see much on YT that isn't overhyped, but I completely, 100% agree with everything said, and underlying reasoning. Especially #1: leaving enough space in front. I have personally put this as 'whatever feels like the right distance, add one car length'. I would like to contribute an idea I apply: When driving on motorways and faster multi lane roads, I constantly scope the traffic 10+ cars ahead, particularly looking for brake lights. If I see any brake lights on ahead of me in that sort of range, I take my foot of the accelerator. When brakes are required, my rule of thumb is that if am not actually on the brake *before* the car in front of me, then I'm not looking far enough ahead.
Thank you for your kind words my friend. And yes, keeping space in front and looking farther down the road are important to staying safe when driving. All the very best, Cheers Rick
In the NL Armed Forces it was mandatory to park cars with the front to the way out. If we didn't the sergeants or officers told us to park like we should. Makes sense, because end of the day everybody wanted to leave the premises at the same moment. I still do it like that, most of the time. Another trick is to park not in front of the mall or shop or what ever, but park further away. Reduces the risk of finding your car with damage and no one around who damaged it.
But check your local laws, because in some places, it is illegal to “pull through” as he suggests. I get why he suggests it, but it’s illegal in some places because people “drive through”, instead of driving in the lanes.
My first accident happened this December. I am a new driver, but I have never gotten in trouble, thank god. However, while making a right turn, a lady turned with me (from the middle lane) at the same time, and she side swiped me. It’s unbelievable how many people have licenses without knowing how to drive properly!
@@stevenlitvintchouk3131 yeah they don't wanna do that with my truck they won't be going anywhere as my hitch on my F350 will go right through their grill somewhere. watch vehicles coming up behind you if you're back from the vehicle in front of you you may be able to swtich lanes.
@@leecowell8165 I have the same feeling in the semi truck 80 thousand pounds with a full cattle guard. Like what damage is your car gonna do bring it on lol.
My contributions: 1) live in your mirrors. I CONSTANTLY scan all 3 mirrors, 180 degrees in front of me; be aware of exactly who & what is around you at ALL times. If you ever look in your mirror & are surprised / caught off guard / “where did that guy come from” then you are failing. Miserably. 2) Never let yourself get distracted / go down mental / conversational rabbit holes. It’s weird because I have ADHD (or maybe it IS because of my ADHD), but I hyperfocus on my driving. I’m constantly scanning all around, looking at road signs, is that car swerving, is that guys tire low, is his tire wobbling like it’s gonna blow off the axel, what kind of poor little animal is that on the side, ETC. I’m hyper fixated, present & aware. If I’m on the phone or talking to a passenger; they are a distant, distant second for my attention, compared to driving. I won’t be much use in a conversation while driving, but I am fully present & aware of the road & my surroundings. That’s the best way I can explain it.
Oh man, thank you. May your tips be heard by all out there on the roads. I often say to myself: Two seconds of patience, and much less stress an danger for everyone.
I used to be a maniac driver until I was forced to take a defensive driving class at 17 after getting a 64 in a 35 🙃, 25 now and still say it was the best 3 days the courts ever gave me
The only thing I would add is that, when possible, you should avoid making left turns. Particularly left turns that are not controlled by a light. That's what my driving teacher taught me and I always adhere to that rule. And if you look it up, left turns are statistically more dangerous. Apparently you are 55x more likely to get in an accident making a left turn. So this rule is not without any basis in fact.
Hi Gurkirat Singh - that is SPECTACULAR news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎 PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate in Surrey? See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
@@smartdrivetest thanks for the lovely response. Well I haven't purchased my first vehicle yet, but maybe in the summer I'll grab one and go on a trip towards Okanagan. My throat is thirsty for some wine/spirit. 😄
Hi The Real Yoshi Crazy - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
@@nicolearburua2693 - actually I do my friend. And I'm eternally grateful. It's the reason that this video has over a million views. All the very best, Cheers Rick
I’ve felt anxious about driving in the new city I live in and hardly driven at all but I had a job interview a few miles away today and didn’t have another way to get there. These videos helped me feel confident enough to drive there! I just got back! Thanks!
Hi Nettie A. Staton - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
you're female meaning there's an 80% chance you have lousy depth perception compared to males (that rarely have a perception issue). Be very careful with left turns because you're ability to judge time/distance is GREATLY diminished.
Just wanted to say I watched your videos like crazy for the past 3 days, learned as much as possible, and got my N license today thanks to your tips. Thank you Rick!
Hi Aamir Sayeed - that is GREAT news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎 PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate? See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
Hi PETER UGBOKE - that is *_INCREDIBLE_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎 PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate? See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
I have been driving exactly like this for 17 years and I have never caused an accident. Self awareness has helped me get out of trouble without a scratch when inattentive driver swerves into me or oncoming driver gets into my lane. It pays to stay vigilant
I've been driving for a couple of months now and everytime I drive I remember this video. Actually helped me avoid a couple of close calls. Great video!
So glad to see him looking backward while he was moving backward. I can't tell you how many people I see back up while facing forward. It's too easy to miss something if you rely completely on your mirrors - they just don't cover the entire scene.
Better idea. Avoid that situation at least in perpendicular parking lots by doing the Japanese thing. Those are the smartest people in the world. Know what they do? they BACK IN! Why? because you ain't gonna run over anybody backing IN.. but you can most certainly run over somebody BACKING OUT! Why? Because you're backing INTO a TRAFFIC LANE. I NEVER PULL IN to a perpendicular parking space.
Hi Wise Mystical Tree - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
I passed road test July 2021 I'm an older driver and I still watch your videos weekly and have been watching since 2018. Due to covid my road test was cancelled several times in Nova Scotia. Thanks for your videos
Hi Heather Campbell - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Females have notoriously poor depth perception. 80% cannot judge time/distance so be especially careful on LEFT turns, Heather. My spouse could not judge time/distance for shit but our Great Granddaughter has excellent perception she's fortunate.
When I was taking driving lessons, i was told 1. Know your limitations and that of your vehicle. Your response time, your vehicle breaking capacity and distance, etc 2. Be predictable to others and predict others moves to adjust your driving. 3. Always be alert for unexpected surprises. Take adequate rest and intermittent brake. 4. Maintain breaking distance in front of your vehicle. That's what you mentioned as breathing space around you. 5. Most accidents happen within first half an hour of taking out our vehicle as we Orient ourselves to driving conditions of the day.
Space = time. Physicist call it "space time". Space time gives you options to make decisions and act accordingly. Space time gives you options, rather than events being dictated to you. :). I wish I had access to videos like this when I was learning. Excellent video.
I have great respect for people watching this video. As well as the content creator for this. People who value knowledge are the world’s best leaders in my opinion.
Hi Rob E. - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Other than the small number of scenarios where it's not allowed, or where you can driver through into the opposite space like on the video, I believe you should always reverse into a parking space to make your exit later safer. Reversing into a spot is much safer than reversing out.
Depends on the driver. I'm a professional driver over 20 years no accidents I've backed in and I've pulled in either way works for me backing up isn't hard
@@eagle25311 It's not about being "hard", but the fact, that when you drive in - you see area much better and are able to go backwards much safer than when driving out
@@eagle25311 all cars don't have them and still, it's better to rely on yourself than on cameras. Same as going into garage - when you go in - you can see there are no children around. If you go backwards out - it's a much higher risk. Extra safety does not hurt.
I also learned in a defensive driver course that is much safer to back into a defined parking space from the isle rather than backing out into the isle where you have people walking and cars coming in both directions. The reason being people and other vehicles may not see when you start backing out from in between other vehicles and you can’t as easily see them being sandwiched between other vehicles. That is how accidents happen. When you back in you are stopped in the isle passed the spot, you put it I’m reverse, people can more easily see what you are about to do and you can clearly see what you are backing into.
Great tips👍 I would add two more: „Always think for others” People may not think while driving but you have to try, to predict their actions. „Control the space behind you” by adequate usage of stop lights. Time when and how you press your breake pedal is crucial for your savety. Breaking early enough when seeing someone behind you might save your back bumber😉 Pulsating breaking might catch attention of distracted driver behind you( especialy when you see them approaching too fast in the mirror) better then constant stop light. Same when You get on the slippery surface.😉 Good luck
Welcome Smart Drivers from Sr Pelo's "Mokey's Show - Missed Christmas." That person has a tremendous sense of humor, and an even greater talent to tell such engaging stories. Happy New Year everyone. All the very best, Cheers Rick
I really appreciate this video!! I’m currently learning (have my learners want my license). I am 31 and defensive driving is so important in my city! I live in Edmonton and there are sooo many impatient drivers, inexperienced drivers, non-defensive drivers and I want to be a defensive driver so that I can keep myself and others around me safe!! 😊
Im kinda glad a got a ticket because the judge gave me a choice, a huge ticket or take defensive driving classes and im so glad i took this option because i have learned so much as a new driver.
All of those are good, I've had that "see the tire" trick since I started driving (50 years). Keep an eye out for possible problems, ie: traffic gap in left lane. Patience; it's better to let a vehicle finish their lane change, versus pushing a situation and having a collision.
The traffic condition and road condition that you are driving is like a paradise. You wouldn't even want to imagine in what condition I am IN. It is getting harder and harder to drive safely and away from invaders. Thanks for the great video.
Rick's method of driving is what I call a "Zen Mode". I bet nothing ever escapes his sight. Great self-awareness and immense patience. Rick, your last name "August" suits you perfectly. Glad to know ya!
right. never, EVER be in a hurry doing so can get YOU or someone else killed! If you need to be somewhere at a specific time LEAVE early depending upon time of day, weather, terrain, etc. don't be STUPID! here in FL we get unbelievably nasty thunderstorms and I see STUPID people driving through unknown puddles like they're on DRY pavement. unreal. be aware that when roads are WET you've just lost 70% of your traction.
Great refresher. Driver's handbook is also a good source. Like, tips on changing lanes -- turn on signal, look over shoulder, rear and side mirrors, merge after 3s to allow the driver behind to notice, etc.
Hi bluebay700 - We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
I agree with everything in this video. One additional pinpoint: when the road is wet, snowy or icy, you need to be even more defensive and allow more space in front, and not least braking distance.
O!RICK;BE ALWAYS FRESH AND GREEN. A TEACHER LIKE YOU I HAVEN'T SEEN. YOU ARE A MAN OF LAW AND ORDER. YOU ARE NOT CROSSING ANY BORDER. YOU ARE A MAN OF SKILL AND ART.SUCH SKILLS NEED A PRACTICE A LOT.
Hi Ibad Ullah - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Hi D Kip - that is *_BRILLIANT_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎 PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate? See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
One added suggestion: When stopped in a line of traffic (say in a turn lane waiting for the green arrow), offset your vehicle just slightly so the guy behind you sees TWO sets of brake/tail lights. This helps trigger their attention to the STOPPED traffic, rather than seeing just one car in front of them as they've probably been lulled into after routine driving.
Seeing the tires on pavement is something my aunt always said, and I remember it from 8 years ago. That’s important! Helps when you also get impatient at a light and want to crawl.
I am advanced driver trained ( emergency services UK) and did a defensive driving course. This is a good video and the advice is important. Also as soon as you enter your car you have to switch to a committed and assertive but considerate/kind driving mode. Remember you are in charge of a potentially lethal machine and that`s not to be taken lightly. I see so many people on their phones, or they are a million miles away thinking about other stuff and the car is almost driving itself. Be positive, kind, considerate, confident, in control, also you should take great pride in driving. I visited the States from UK and spent 6 weeks driving around in hire cars. I found Americans to be fantastic drivers, very calm, considerate and obeying most rules like using indicators. Didn`t see any road rage , here in the UK many drivers are rubbish 😁
they are not they are shit drivers , also 40,000 road deaths ,alot high pedestrian deaths , despite the uk having a higher population density per capita
Excellent video. Always great to brush up and refresh. Thank you. My father n law drove ups 33 years using these practices and was submitted to the circle of drivers a the highest honor awarded for safe driving.
Hi Joyce Dollar - We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Hi Sohrab Gill - that is *_TERRIFIC_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎 PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate? See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
Hi Rick I just wanted to say I've been watching your videos for the last few years, you've helped me with getting my L, my N, and today I finally got my Class 5 so thank you for making these videos and helping myself and others out :)
Keep your thumbs outside of the steeringwheel, spit seconds count when you need to stear fast unplanned, also if the airbag comes out, no broken thumbs. Stay out of the blind spot of trucks. Use you mirrors when backing up instead of hugging the passengerseat...2hands on the wheel.
One of the most important videos out there. No exaggeration! (The following distance in a queue tip at about 1:-00 would have saved my nineteen year-old son a lot of grief--and money--last March. Fortunately, no one was hurt.)
On the parking point I feel that (in addition to what you said about driving thru a parking spot to the one on the other side) you should also reverse into parking spots as much as possible (especially if you have a reversing camera). The only times I go in forwards is if I have to get heavy items in and out of the back.
Hi chedunn - that is EXCELLENT news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎 PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate? See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
I have ptsd and it actually increased after a car accident that I had 2 days ago and it wasn’t my fault. The other vehicle hit my car while I stopped! It literally came out of nowhere, the street was empty and it came and hit the front left side of my car thankfully he didn’t hit my door or else I’d be seriously injured 💔 the front exterior on the left side of my car is completely damaged ; the sensors, lights and wheel ! He came and hit my car on really high speed ! I’ve rented a car now until my car gets fixed. But honestly I couldn’t surpass the fear of having a similar accident! While I’m driving, I get really scared of a car that comes and hits me out of nowhere I’m having flashbacks while I’m driving it’s stressing and I can’t get over it 💔💔
Hi sara A - that's normal to feel that way after a crash my friend. See this video to help with your anxiety: th-cam.com/video/GRX7iW4Jqcs/w-d-xo.html Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
@@smartdrivetest hello again , I had another accident 💔💔it’s also the other person’s fault 😭😭💔my car is damaged and I have injuries but thankfully they’re minor 😭😭💔 my left pinky is broken 😖😭 I don’t know what’s wrong !
In a car park, if you get in your car and do not leave immediately, get out again and look first. Just looking backwards before you reverse is not enough as such carparks can have too many blind spots. When walking to your car assume the drivers headspace and begin looking for which parked cars are unattended and which have drivers sitting there idle, cause you can guarantee that the idle driver will suddenly become active and want to move out the same time as you, and when they revers they wont look. Knowing which nearby cars have a driver sitting in them is to expect the unexpected when they just take off. Ideally you should also walk around your vehicle once to look for stray children, animals, objects that can be run over on exit. This is opportunity to notice damage or deflated tyres before entering traffic.
When you show the view on your rear (for example, here: 2:10), snow can be seen on the back of your vehicle. Therefore, here is another tip: always GET SNOW OFF your vehicle before you start driving! Snow and ice flying off cars can seriously injure or kill other drivers. That could be viewed as a safety tip, an elementary gesture of courtesy, and part of defensive driving.
Trying to get drivers to completely clean the snow off their vehicle is like trying to get everyone to exercise & eat healthy. It’s simply not a reality. The better practice is to protect that space in front and have that minimum safe distance. That way if snow does come off other vehicles, it’s unlikely to hit yours. Drop us a note if you have questions. Cheers Rick
@@smartdrivetest With icy and snowy cars traveling at highway speeds, "that minimum safe distance" would have to be impractically big and is NOT required by traffic laws. People keep normal distances - and get their windshields smashed by ice and snow flying off less sensible drivers' vehicles. As for "it’s simply not a reality", I wonder if charges of dangerous driving or even manslaughter are still a reality in some states.
yep. fortunately here in FL we don't have that issue. we also don't have salt on our roads thus rust isn't as much of an issue. however vehicles in AZ last forever in this regard because it hardly ever rains there. they do get snow though but probably not very much (I've never been there).
I didn’t see a lot of snow on his vehicle. Sometimes almost impossible to clear all snow. If wet snow has frozen before you have a chance to clear it, very difficult to clear it without damaging you paint finish. Sure, clear what you can, especially all widows and all loose snow.
@@ericripley9739You don't see a lot of vehicle, either. Whatever part of the vehicle you can see, there's snow on it. So, you are not OK with damaging your paint finish but OK with damaging somebody else's car? Or, even killing people behind you? As for "difficult to clear", the frozen snow is unlikely to fly off your roof. So, yes, clear what you can. The problem is, many people don't even try.
I can't believe someone else drives like me. Wow!! I always say if everyone drives like me, there would be no accidents or traffic. Don't get me wrong, I don't drive like I'm 80. I drive aggressively, but I'm always aware of everything around me. I keep a distance in front of me. I don't let people tailgate me. And I keep a spot open next to me at all times on the highway. Thank you for keeping the roads safer.
Thank you for your articles Rick. I have been learning from them since 2017, driving in Kenya, where motorists, motorbikes and pedestrians share the same spaces (roads), your articles have kept me sane and courteous on the road
the USA have excellent lane markings compared to just about every other country I've noticed. half the roads in Russia have NO LANE MARKINGS at all! India same thing. I don't know how anybody in those countries survive to old age!
Rick I wish you can come to Mississippi & teach us a smarter way to drive safely. People in where I live drive like lunatics!!!! They drive like they own the road. I hate driving to Tupelo for work.
Hi Jeffery McIntosh - We can teach you to drive with more confidence my friend. And you'll look forward to your drive to Tupelo. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best for the New Year, Cheers Rick
Hi Claudia Ordenes - that is *_INCREDIBLE_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎 PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate? See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
Hi Morph - We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Hi Gerson Zacarias - that is *_SUPER AWESOME_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎 PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate? See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
Bro I came here from Sr. Pelo expecting lore or some krimah funni, but instead I get genuine driving tips that actually helped me. *the perfect krimah gift* :D
Dad was the driving instructor at the Police Training Academy, and taught me the tricks to better driving. He always said that he got his experience at a teenager from driving as a gin runner back in the 1920's when prohibition was in effect. Gin was made in the bathtubs, and whiskey was made from corn, in the woods, out of sight.
Great video and all good advice! I'm from the UK but 'usually' find most drivers in Canada and the States are quite steady and polite in their road manners. Your point about failing to yield is so true - I'm currently in Portugal, where many drivers have little understanding of the concept......strange how these generally relaxed, tolerant people totally change once behind the wheel of a car. I always like the suspect ones to be in front rather than behind!
Hi Julie Ann Dalisay - that is *_GREAT_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎 PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate? See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
Good video.. if he want to improve: 1. Sharp hose clamps behind steering wheel. 2. Put camera more in front of you so you can always keep looking forward instead looking from the road you will be heading to into the cam aside. 3. Put the top of your headrest always at minimal the top of your ears to avoid whiplash related accidents.
Hose clamp is for a camera stabilizer. Camera has been moved as suggested. And in that particular Honda CRV, the head restraint is at its maximum. Thanks for the tips, Cheers Rick
@@smartdrivetest Hi Rick, ok i understand all points. Thanks for the reply! Also i thought the keep 2 second distance rule can be very handy to explain.. Bless you!
Thanks for your response. Here's the vid with showing how to measure following distance: th-cam.com/video/153l3yT2iTA/w-d-xo.html If you're using the brake to control distance however, you're too close. You should be able to use the gas pedal to control space in front of your vehicle. In an ideal world, the brake should only be used for stopping, slowing to turn, controlling speed on a downgrade, and unexpected events. Drop us a note if you have further questions. All the very best, Cheers Rick
As a now retired, commercial driver, Smith System certified defensive driving instructor I give your video a big thumbs up! If I had to give only one piece of advice it would be to see the strong value of using a "systematic" approach to your defensive driving. Smith System has the "Five Keys" for example. Using a simple system that you ingrain into your daily driving habits is what makes it effective long term.🚛
Hi Rick! Salute from RSA. I would buy you a full tank of gas/fuel because this video and the tips about always being aware and managing space helped me through 1000 km worth of driving within a month of getting my first car... Your advice is invaluable even a person is not from the USA. I would like to say a big thank you for your teachings because they didn't teach me this stuff in my driving school. Well done and keep up the great work Mr August 🌟👍👑🙏🏆✌️🙂
Thank you for your kind words. Happy to hear we could help out. One day I’ll have to make to RSA & shoot some videos. All the very best, Cheers Rick
Anyone ever tell you that these are UPS driving rules almost exactly?
@@mattalbrecht7569 - Great minds think alike. Do you work for UPS? All the best, Cheers Rick
@@jacksonmehlape6144 The most powerful defensive driver technique I've used for decades which has saved me from many accidents is looking/ checking my rearview mirror frequently while driving and while stopped at a light or stop sign. This has helped avoid dozens of accidents by using the horn when someone is approaching too fast. The other is not being the first to get in the middle of an intersection when the light turns green, because people will run red lights that just changed from yellow.
The most dangerous thing about driving is other people. I’m always looking around and thinking what’s the dumbest most dangerous thing that other driver could possibly do and then trying to plan ahead for that outcome. Doesn’t always work, there’s always situations you absolutely cannot avoid but trying to anticipate other drivers’ stupidity is one of the best defensive driving techniques.
Wasting your energy trying to predict other people.
Can't fix stupid.
Genius knows it's limitations, stupidity has no limits.
Agree.... Analyze - Anticipate - Act !!
@@RinksRides It's not a waste if it keeps you out of an accident.
Agreed, brother!
Like my driving instructor told me.... When you're driving, you should be an incorrigible pessimist and drive making allowances for even the most unimaginably stupid thing anybody in your field of vision could do. The same applies for those in your blind spots as well, but yea.... That's another topic.
@@RinksRides It's not about protecting the idiots, it's about protecting one's self... So, anticipating the potential actions of another prepares you to take evasive action. Think ahead !!
1) space management
2) situational awareness
3) MIT--mapping, intersections, and tracking
4) parking lots, drive defensively
5) A defensive driving attitude
Thank you
there is actually one more point he should mention. that is focus on the road. using smart phone, sleeping or making video showing other people the 5 defensive driving strategies are definitely something you should avoid when you are on the road.
You forgot one. Turn off the frikking camera.
@@egaskrad exactly, especially around 2.45 where he's talking about people getting distracted and the amount of time spent looking at the camera.
Also, I'm from UK so don't know what drivers are generally like in USA and Canada, but this doesn't seem like defensive driving....it just appears to be 'how to drive'
like 1 through to 4 is basically "pay attention" and 5 is "don't have road rage"🙄
scary if this is actually needed for people
Some good advice here.
Some people you can see are dangerous as they question this person and his manner of driving.
In a typical country there are more than a dozen dying every day on the road and obviously accidents at ten times this rate.
If people drove sensibly then the accidents would go to zero and zero.
The first one is one of the most important. I leave the two seconds and when stopped I mist be able to see the whole of the car in front.
As he says people overtake you and he should be saying these people are accidents waiting to happen.
Talking of overtaking, this is one of the most dangerous manœuvres and I try never to overtake unless there is little sensible choice. My dad used to overtake everybody and on a long journey compared to my uncle who was the opposite the time was not enough to brew a cup of tea and so while it may give you pleasure it is risky and is your life worth a few seconds to be safe.
He never talked of this but it is vital to avoid accidents.
In parking lots it is often illegal to be in any gear but the first.
Reversing out is hazardous and as he suggests try to manœuvre so as to be able to drive straight out.
I nearly lost my life when someone reversed out at me and so pedestrians need to adopt fail safe ideas too.
Finally someone me,tio,ed falling asleep and though it sounds silly this os one of commonest ways to kill yourself on a journey a d we know the times a,d the number one time is in the afternoon after a meal.
As to intersections I say to 100 per cent certain is not enough and you need to be 200 per cent certain. Ie check and control that check is correct and someone mentioned jumping out at green when you may face someone jumping the lights again green means go but only if safe.
I'd like to add a couple tips. Green means go when the ways is clear, just because you get the green light, doesn't mean you can slam the gas and go. Always pause to check for red light runners and emergency vehicles.
No one has the right of way. Certain vehicles must yield the right of way in each situation. Use caution when you are in a right if way situation, when in doubt, wait it out.
Hi Kevin Alexander - you are correct my friend. Green means go...if the way is clear. And the right-of-way is always given, it is NEVER taken. All the best, Cheers Rick
Look out for red light runners. Absolutely.
Also to add on to that because I see it alot. If the light is green and your approaching and the second lane of cars hasn't started moving yet don't go flying by, slow down and make sure the intersection is clear, there might be a reason for that other lane to not be moving yet. To many times I see a car going full speed 1 lane over with the other lane still sitting still.
At intersections that are unmarked, vehicles that come from the right have the right of way. You have to yield to them if there is no signage, lights or roundabouts.
@@stefpix. I've never encountered an intersection that doesn't have traffic control devices
A big defensive driving tip, something I learned when taking a motorcycle course but very applicable to people driving cars, on multilane roads/highways/whatever, DO NOT stay in someone's blind spot. This goes double if that someone is a big rig. Even if people shoulder check, peripheral vision is not always 100%. Make sure the cars in other lanes know you are there or can see you. This means, getting up to their front side windows or pulling back so that you can see their rear view mirror through their back window. If you are anywhere in between, there is a big risk of not being seen and they drive into you.
Great advice.
Great tip! Heck, Some don't even do the shoulder check and just go by the RVM.
My driving instructor always said you have to reckon with the stupidity of others 🙄🤷♀
Defensive tip, never operate a motorcycle, I once visited my dad in an ICU for a health issue and it was filled with the head traumas and broken lives of motorcyclists. Had one end up in my friends neighbors lawn when he was turning into a 25 MPH slow road and the driver on the road didn't see him or stop. Over the hood he flew, mother earth to catch him. Avoidable by not trusting others to see you, better to surround yourself in a bigger crush absorbing shell found inside vehicles.
@@jamesalemanAbsolutely true. Known too many people who had their body mangled or died from motorcycles.
My grandfather told me one thing that stuck with me, and I passed it on to both my children when they learnt to drive. "No matter how good you are at driving a car remember one thing - EVERY other driver on the road will try to kill you. Maybe not now, maybe not tomorrow, but as long as you watch them when they are near you then they may not get that chance as you can try to avoid them"
Good advice to pass down! Keep your minimum safe distance to stay safe. All the best, Cheers Rick
Also: no matter how good a driver you are… everyone else believes that THEY are the BEST driver.
Your not driving a car your driving a big bullet Im always thinking it is a weapon lol
I feel like confidence plays a big role when your driving as well. I think with time, the more you drive the better you get at learning these tips and tricks.
Confidence is crucial in overtaking. Even passing a cyclist can be dangerous if done without proper acceleration
Yeah then confidence turns into arrogance and people still crash there's no way around it with human nature
@@eagle25311 Exactly, people translate the horsepower of their car engine to confidence and make stupid decisions like overtaking at extreme high speed in less than a block when they could have just waited on the same lane.
I feel the opposite. The longer someone drives, the more likely they are to. Be reckless because they are overconfident
Oh, absolutely! Critically important. Hesitation literally kills. Never be a timid, unsure driver. If you are going to change lanes; do it! Don’t just sit there with your blinker on cogitating on it for 3 minutes.
If you are going to pass someone, triple-check everything first, and then DO IT!
Hesitation & timid driving is so dangerous. Almost worse than being wantonly reckless. At least the reckless person is somewhat predictable; they’re going too fast or whatever. Someone driving slow can whip their car around in any direction because they freak out like a scared horse.
My 3 main defensive driving habits are: Leave plenty of room between me and the other idiots on the road. Drive the speed limit and if someone is tailgating me I slow down and allow them to pass--I’d rather have them in front of me than behind me. Leave early enough that I can take my time and arrive on time or ahead of time.
What you said is absolutely true. I see a lot of drivers who are either drunk, distracted by mobile phones, feeling entitled and mostly having ego problems. Although a majority of us drive safe and are always alert, it's the other half that we should be worrying about everytime. And yes, having to backout and yield in certain situations is always a good idea to avoid getting in more trouble. This doesn't make you weak. It just means you are smarter than the other guy :)
Defensive Driving, the most important, life saving skill.... myself have been driving in U.S for 48 years & never had an accident in my fault, because in 1978, when I applied a driver job in Louisiana coca cola bottling company & took the training course & very first I learned was defensive driving.....
7 years ago I got my G2 license for the help of this instructor. Today I'm a heavy commercial driver who operates Truck for transport goods Canada/US. Still learning and spending time to gain knowledge. Thanks instructor for your tireless effort to help your students.
got my license a couple weeks ago, and realized today after driving a couple weeks that i'm a pretty reckless driver...these tips helped a lot, i'll be using all of them :) thank you so much for this!
You are truly a smart driver if you have that kind of self-assessment my friend. Happy to hear we could help out. All the best, Cheers Rick
Most new drivers are you learn the longer you do it or until you get into an accident
Don't be reckless, you'll settle down, drive calmly, follow road rules and be patient. Don't be a moron on the roads.
Good for you! People think that speeding or driving carelessly is going to save them time when in reality it doesn't.
You have to drive a FULL HOUR at 10 mph OVER the posted speed limit to gain just 10 minutes.
Your a good person keep assessing yourself you'll get better just keep pushing yourself and resershing
I would also add a very important point, to be a predictable and visible driver, such as:
-When merging or changing lane, check your blind spot before using the turn signal, and change lane slowly in case you missed a car in your vision (I see too many people changing lane too fast, almost hitting someone they missed).
-Don't change two lanes in one shot using one turn signal (unless the bad road design forces you to do so), use your turn signal twice with a very short pause in the middle and check your blind spot again.
-When about to turn, use your turn signal before braking (give cars behind extra time to either change lane or slow down).
-When about to stop for an emergency, turn on your hazard light before slowing down (again give cars behind time to react), and turn it off once you re-engage (clearly letting people know that you are back on the road).
-Try to avoid passing cars on the right lane.
-Accelerate gradually and brake gradually.
-Don't rely on your automatic light to turn on when it's raining or snowing heavily.
-Don't close the gap with cars in front of your, if there is a 200 yard gap with the car in front of you and don't want to pass him, just keep that 200 yard gap as is and stay on the right lane, this is a typical north American thing where you see herd of cars because they all close the gap on each other by instinct, creating a needless hazardous condition.
-Don't stay on the left lane if you're not passing, at some point you gonna block faster cars behind you and contribute to that herd effect, you might get stuck in the middle of it because of that.
-Stay away from car herds, if you can't pass it, stay low key far behind on the right lane until you see an opening to go throught quickly.
Great tips! However, in isolated areas with poor visibility, it’s I think ok to herd up. The first car should always be the one with the best headlights (most likely volvo) and high beams on. Others illuminate the surroundings with daylights and there should be always enough of space between the cars for anyone to safely pass from the behind (you never know if there’s volvo coming from behind with even better highbeams) 😁
Excellent tips! Bravo! 🙌🏾
Great video. I take it a step back with what I call the "3 P's". 1) PAY ATTENTION. 2) PACE, it's not a race. 3) PLAN AHEAD, know where you're going and take the safest path avoiding unnecessary risks or impediments. There are more, but these are the foundations of defensive driving.
Thank you for the information and kind words. All the best, Cheers Rick
Pay attention also means you eliminate any and all distraction, if necessary (tell you passengers to shut up!). Don't make plans about the weekend while driving in dense dangerous traffic. Multitasking is ok on near empty Roads (like in the vid), but Humans can't Multitask without losing some situational awareness (and increasing their reaction time.)
Proper control of the vehicle and some understanding is also extremely useful. Half the people on the road are unable to properly drive around a corner without cutting it. Means they either then have to slow down extremely or put unnecessary load on their tires (all fine and good, until there's oil or ice).
Also 50% of people brake in corners instead of ahead of the corner. And you need to look twice (or once for a bit) to be able to judge the speed of another vehicle.
@timking2822, Right, it's not a race. Early in my and wife's relationship she said "why don't you go around them like all those other drivers are doing" pharspased. I said " I'm not racing them. They can go on if they want to " Something like that.
A wife's nagging while driving itself is unnecessary aggravation and distraction!!!!! Unless your husband is about to hit someone you need to button it up...
I have been driving for 13 years, and can relate to these tips. They work. When I drive, I stay away from other vehicles a good distance, I stay away from every cars blind spot, never rush. Because with more and more fools every day on the road, your primary priority should be safety of you and your passengers, not getting to your destination as fast as possible. I had many clowns sit on my tail and tried to push me of the road multiple times because they feel ‘entitled’ to do so, because you’re going the speed limit. I've been to New Hampshire and everyone is following the rules of the road. Came back to MA, total chaos. Drivers running red lights, not yielding, parking where they are not supposed to, no blinkers when changing lanes - you don’t know what they gonna do! I had a truck just jump into my lane out of nowhere almost clipping the front of my car, no signals, nothing! I had an illegal wreck my car with a truck and that dude didn’t had a license, no English either. I will give you some tips:
1. Never try to pass a vehicle when approaching a turn, you don’t know if other vehicles are coming. If you’re forced to pass a standing vehicle, give yourself a good viewpoint so you can see approaching vehicles, and do it when it’s safe to do so.
2. Do not pass someone when going through train tracks, you will be blocking their view of their surroundings. I had a moron do this to me and didn’t see the pedestrians around me and almost injured them and crashed into a pole.
3. Never block an intersection. If you see a square with an X in it, dont drive and stand on it, it’s there for a reason. I see drivers do this every stinking day making piles of traffic. No one can turn or go through.
4. Be aware of “lane catchers’. People will turn into your lane without letting you know.
5. Watch out for drivers trying to make the yellow light. Had a crazy almost T-Bone my car and injure my entire family. Blew past me by few inches of my car.
6. Watch out for semi trucks blowing red lights. When in motion hauling heavy cargo, they cannot stop immediately.
7. Always have snow tires on in the winter, don’t trust all season and summer tires. Snow tires provide better traction for all cars in the winter: FWD,AWD, RWD.
And finally, expect the unexpected. Expect shit to happen every day and be ready to find alternative routes. Life happens and we have to navigate it. Stay safe out there everyone.
My Road test was today and I have passed.
Hi Jass Manawan Vlogs - that is *_STUPENDOUS_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation
Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎
PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate?
See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
Congratulations!
Congratulations!
Congratulations
Congratulations
i've told my family "stay back from the car in front of you"... it's so simple.. not only does it reduce the risk of you running into the back of the car in front of you, it also reduces the risk of the car behind you running into you cause w/ no car close to the front of your car, you have little chance of ever having to slam on your brakes... which is usually why people run into the back of others.
I agree, liked your comment.
I would like to add 3) no jerky, sudden, abrupt maneuvers, except possibly in emergencies. Slow is smooth, smooth is fast. Smooth is safe. Be predictable. Have your maneuvers be at lesser angles and only the speed required. Sudden accelerations, decelerations, or sudden turns are going to get you into an accident
and sudden lane changes
yep. I once drove 250 miles with a tall glass of water 3/4 full sitting on my dash.. never spilled a single drop. Always signal on EVERY lane change and check that convex mirror on BOTH sides. on my F350 NOTHING can hide from that mirror even a motorcycle riding next to my FRONT axle! oh.. never ride in blind spots and pass semi's expeditiously do NOT sit next to them!
I love this. I'm a new driver and appreciate these tips. I'm older, but my age is an advantage because I've seen alot of stupid behavior while riding with my husband.😐
And by sheer coincidence I'm studying for my driving test right now. Thank you Pelo, very cool!
Literally doin' the same thing
yes
@@rogelio9801 @Elusive Medic @Dandyjack - all the best with your driver's license test. Drop us a note if you have questions. We'll do what we can to help you out. All the very best, Cheers Rick
Yeah lol
Please, please take it from someone who has been there, done that, got the tickets to prove it;
All that driving fast, crazy & careless will do is get you tickets at best, accidents and death at worst.
PLEASE drive the speed limit (or flow of traffic; don’t be “that guy” going 55 when EVERYONE else is doing 70 - that’s just as dangerous as going 95 in a 70).
Please listen to your driving instructors, your parents, etc. Stepping on the gas is just never worth it.
I've been a safe truck driver for more than 20 years and I can tell you, the Smith system works, it's still used to train new drivers, at least in the company I work for, this video is great refreshing material.
KEEP YOUR DISTANCE, PEOPLE!!!
Hi J.M .B - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
You don't see much on YT that isn't overhyped, but I completely, 100% agree with everything said, and underlying reasoning.
Especially #1: leaving enough space in front. I have personally put this as 'whatever feels like the right distance, add one car length'.
I would like to contribute an idea I apply: When driving on motorways and faster multi lane roads, I constantly scope the traffic 10+ cars ahead, particularly looking for brake lights. If I see any brake lights on ahead of me in that sort of range, I take my foot of the accelerator. When brakes are required, my rule of thumb is that if am not actually on the brake *before* the car in front of me, then I'm not looking far enough ahead.
Thank you for your kind words my friend. And yes, keeping space in front and looking farther down the road are important to staying safe when driving. All the very best, Cheers Rick
In the NL Armed Forces it was mandatory to park cars with the front to the way out. If we didn't the sergeants or officers told us to park like we should. Makes sense, because end of the day everybody wanted to leave the premises at the same moment. I still do it like that, most of the time. Another trick is to park not in front of the mall or shop or what ever, but park further away. Reduces the risk of finding your car with damage and no one around who damaged it.
But check your local laws, because in some places, it is illegal to “pull through” as he suggests.
I get why he suggests it, but it’s illegal in some places because people “drive through”, instead of driving in the lanes.
you mean backing up to park tail (trunk) first in reverse so that the front of the car is ready to drive away?
My first accident happened this December. I am a new driver, but I have never gotten in trouble, thank god. However, while making a right turn, a lady turned with me (from the middle lane) at the same time, and she side swiped me. It’s unbelievable how many people have licenses without knowing how to drive properly!
I got rear-ended when I was stopped at a red light. The driver admitted that she had been talking on her cell phone and didn't notice me.
@@stevenlitvintchouk3131 yeah they don't wanna do that with my truck they won't be going anywhere as my hitch on my F350 will go right through their grill somewhere. watch vehicles coming up behind you if you're back from the vehicle in front of you you may be able to swtich lanes.
@@leecowell8165 I have the same feeling in the semi truck 80 thousand pounds with a full cattle guard. Like what damage is your car gonna do bring it on lol.
My contributions:
1) live in your mirrors. I CONSTANTLY scan all 3 mirrors, 180 degrees in front of me; be aware of exactly who & what is around you at ALL times. If you ever look in your mirror & are surprised / caught off guard / “where did that guy come from” then you are failing. Miserably.
2) Never let yourself get distracted / go down mental / conversational rabbit holes. It’s weird because I have ADHD (or maybe it IS because of my ADHD), but I hyperfocus on my driving. I’m constantly scanning all around, looking at road signs, is that car swerving, is that guys tire low, is his tire wobbling like it’s gonna blow off the axel, what kind of poor little animal is that on the side, ETC. I’m hyper fixated, present & aware. If I’m on the phone or talking to a passenger; they are a distant, distant second for my attention, compared to driving. I won’t be much use in a conversation while driving, but I am fully present & aware of the road & my surroundings.
That’s the best way I can explain it.
Oh man, thank you. May your tips be heard by all out there on the roads. I often say to myself: Two seconds of patience, and much less stress an danger for everyone.
Hi Marc Blume - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
I used to be a maniac driver until I was forced to take a defensive driving class at 17 after getting a 64 in a 35 🙃, 25 now and still say it was the best 3 days the courts ever gave me
The only thing I would add is that, when possible, you should avoid making left turns. Particularly left turns that are not controlled by a light.
That's what my driving teacher taught me and I always adhere to that rule.
And if you look it up, left turns are statistically more dangerous. Apparently you are 55x more likely to get in an accident making a left turn. So this rule is not without any basis in fact.
Im a left turn god
You serious?
@@gabrielle9958 Yes. It is a proven fact that left turns, that are not controlled by an arrow light, are the most dangerous to make.
@@sirarnie9837 Thanks! 👍🏽
@@sirarnie9837 Here, it is the opposite. Right turn is the riskiest thing to perform.
Passed my road test in Surrey, thanks to you sir
Hi Gurkirat Singh - that is SPECTACULAR news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎
PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate in Surrey?
See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
@@smartdrivetest thanks for the lovely response. Well I haven't purchased my first vehicle yet, but maybe in the summer I'll grab one and go on a trip towards Okanagan. My throat is thirsty for some wine/spirit. 😄
Omg congratulations, I feel like the hardest part is the damn written test lol
@@Anthony0899 will u marry me
@Maximiliano Jesus do u want to flixzone and chill
Who came here just because of Sr.Pelo’s subtitles in the video
how fast can people get with the comments but yeah, me
@@mejkerer it came like 30 minutes ago as I’m saying of this comment
I did I was not expecting this
I cAme here too
Me
Thank you Mokey and Pelo for teaching me how to be a future good driver
Hi The Real Yoshi Crazy - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
@@smartdrivetest You dont realise that some people are coming here because of a hidden message in the subtitles of a video from sr.pelo
@@nicolearburua2693 - actually I do my friend. And I'm eternally grateful. It's the reason that this video has over a million views. All the very best, Cheers Rick
I’ve felt anxious about driving in the new city I live in and hardly driven at all but I had a job interview a few miles away today and didn’t have another way to get there. These videos helped me feel confident enough to drive there! I just got back! Thanks!
Hi Nettie A. Staton - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
you're female meaning there's an 80% chance you have lousy depth perception compared to males (that rarely have a perception issue). Be very careful with left turns because you're ability to judge time/distance is GREATLY diminished.
Just wanted to say I watched your videos like crazy for the past 3 days, learned as much as possible, and got my N license today thanks to your tips. Thank you Rick!
Hi Aamir Sayeed - that is GREAT news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation
Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎
PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate?
See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
I took my test today and I passed. Your videos are so good and educative. Continue with the good work to make driving safe for all. Thanks so much.
Hi PETER UGBOKE - that is *_INCREDIBLE_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎
PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate?
See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
I have been driving exactly like this for 17 years and I have never caused an accident. Self awareness has helped me get out of trouble without a scratch when inattentive driver swerves into me or oncoming driver gets into my lane. It pays to stay vigilant
I've been driving for a couple of months now and everytime I drive I remember this video. Actually helped me avoid a couple of close calls. Great video!
Hi @TerranMarine656 - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
So glad to see him looking backward while he was moving backward. I can't tell you how many people I see back up while facing forward. It's too easy to miss something if you rely completely on your mirrors - they just don't cover the entire scene.
Hi Ros C - or they're just looking at the backup camera! Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
Better idea. Avoid that situation at least in perpendicular parking lots by doing the Japanese thing. Those are the smartest people in the world. Know what they do? they BACK IN! Why? because you ain't gonna run over anybody backing IN.. but you can most certainly run over somebody BACKING OUT! Why? Because you're backing INTO a TRAFFIC LANE. I NEVER PULL IN to a perpendicular parking space.
Sr.Pelo was helping us learn how to drive safely. This video saved my life. Thank you Sr. Pelo and Smart Drive Test youtube channel
Hi Wise Mystical Tree - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
I passed road test July 2021 I'm an older driver and I still watch your videos weekly and have been watching since 2018. Due to covid my road test was cancelled several times in Nova Scotia. Thanks for your videos
Hi Heather Campbell - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Females have notoriously poor depth perception. 80% cannot judge time/distance so be especially careful on LEFT turns, Heather. My spouse could not judge time/distance for shit but our Great Granddaughter has excellent perception she's fortunate.
When I was taking driving lessons, i was told
1. Know your limitations and that of your vehicle. Your response time, your vehicle breaking capacity and distance, etc
2. Be predictable to others and predict others moves to adjust your driving.
3. Always be alert for unexpected surprises. Take adequate rest and intermittent brake.
4. Maintain breaking distance in front of your vehicle. That's what you mentioned as breathing space around you.
5. Most accidents happen within first half an hour of taking out our vehicle as we Orient ourselves to driving conditions of the day.
Space = time. Physicist call it "space time". Space time gives you options to make decisions and act accordingly. Space time gives you options, rather than events being dictated to you. :). I wish I had access to videos like this when I was learning. Excellent video.
I have great respect for people watching this video. As well as the content creator for this. People who value knowledge are the world’s best leaders in my opinion.
Hi Rob E. - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Great 5 defensive driving strategy tips for making me and everyone else a successful smarter drivers on the road, highways and freeways
Hi Dion Thomas - Thank you my friend. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Other than the small number of scenarios where it's not allowed, or where you can driver through into the opposite space like on the video, I believe you should always reverse into a parking space to make your exit later safer. Reversing into a spot is much safer than reversing out.
Depends on the driver. I'm a professional driver over 20 years no accidents I've backed in and I've pulled in either way works for me backing up isn't hard
@@eagle25311 It's not about being "hard", but the fact, that when you drive in - you see area much better and are able to go backwards much safer than when driving out
@banest0 sounds backwards to me. Either way cars come with wide angle backup cameras now so there's no excuse
@@eagle25311 all cars don't have them and still, it's better to rely on yourself than on cameras. Same as going into garage - when you go in - you can see there are no children around. If you go backwards out - it's a much higher risk. Extra safety does not hurt.
I also learned in a defensive driver course that is much safer to back into a defined parking space from the isle rather than backing out into the isle where you have people walking and cars coming in both directions. The reason being people and other vehicles may not see when you start backing out from in between other vehicles and you can’t as easily see them being sandwiched between other vehicles. That is how accidents happen. When you back in you are stopped in the isle passed the spot, you put it I’m reverse, people can more easily see what you are about to do and you can clearly see what you are backing into.
I learned the Smith System of driving many years ago. It has never let me down. I drove for a utility company for 30 years and no accidents.
Great tips👍 I would add two more:
„Always think for others” People may not think while driving but you have to try, to predict their actions.
„Control the space behind you” by adequate usage of stop lights. Time when and how you press your breake pedal is crucial for your savety. Breaking early enough when seeing someone behind you might save your back bumber😉 Pulsating breaking might catch attention of distracted driver behind you( especialy when you see them approaching too fast in the mirror) better then constant stop light. Same when You get on the slippery surface.😉 Good luck
Now that I have my license, these videos will be very helpful for me.
Thanks Rick. You are doing a great job in teaching us to be safe on the road.🙏
Hi Jacklyn Bennett - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the very best, Cheers Rick
Welcome Smart Drivers from Sr Pelo's "Mokey's Show - Missed Christmas." That person has a tremendous sense of humor, and an even greater talent to tell such engaging stories. Happy New Year everyone. All the very best, Cheers Rick
Lol
you do realize the view traffic lol
xD
Lmao
nice!
I really appreciate this video!! I’m currently learning (have my learners want my license). I am 31 and defensive driving is so important in my city! I live in Edmonton and there are sooo many impatient drivers, inexperienced drivers, non-defensive drivers and I want to be a defensive driver so that I can keep myself and others around me safe!! 😊
Im kinda glad a got a ticket because the judge gave me a choice, a huge ticket or take defensive driving classes and im so glad i took this option because i have learned so much as a new driver.
What was the ticket violation for my friend? And are you in California? All the best, Cheers Rick
All of those are good, I've had that "see the tire" trick since I started driving (50 years).
Keep an eye out for possible problems, ie: traffic gap in left lane.
Patience; it's better to let a vehicle finish their lane change, versus pushing a situation and having a collision.
I'm here bc of sr pelo, thank you for this link, this is truly life-changing advice.
The traffic condition and road condition that you are driving is like a paradise. You wouldn't even want to imagine in what condition I am IN. It is getting harder and harder to drive safely and away from invaders. Thanks for the great video.
Hi Mikayil Eliyev - We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. All the best, Cheers Rick
you didn't state WHERE!
When backing, I always put my 4 way flashers on!
Nice Video Rick👍👍👍👍👍
I prefer to back into a Space on a Parking Lot so you don't have to back out into Traffic.
Whoever does the subtitles in the Sr pelo video is amazing
Rick's method of driving is what I call a "Zen Mode". I bet nothing ever escapes his sight. Great self-awareness and immense patience. Rick, your last name "August" suits you perfectly. Glad to know ya!
right. never, EVER be in a hurry doing so can get YOU or someone else killed! If you need to be somewhere at a specific time LEAVE early depending upon time of day, weather, terrain, etc. don't be STUPID! here in FL we get unbelievably nasty thunderstorms and I see STUPID people driving through unknown puddles like they're on DRY pavement. unreal. be aware that when roads are WET you've just lost 70% of your traction.
Great refresher. Driver's handbook is also a good source. Like, tips on changing lanes -- turn on signal, look over shoulder, rear and side mirrors, merge after 3s to allow the driver behind to notice, etc.
Hi bluebay700 - We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
I agree with everything in this video. One additional pinpoint: when the road is wet, snowy or icy, you need to be even more defensive and allow more space in front, and not least braking distance.
O!RICK;BE ALWAYS FRESH AND GREEN. A TEACHER LIKE YOU I HAVEN'T SEEN. YOU ARE A MAN OF LAW AND ORDER. YOU ARE NOT CROSSING ANY BORDER. YOU ARE A MAN OF SKILL AND ART.SUCH SKILLS NEED A PRACTICE A LOT.
Hi Ibad Ullah - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Thank you, Sr Pelo, for keeping us safe by feeding us this content. ;)
Hi MrPickle Studios - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
@@smartdrivetest he meant sr pelo a funny youtuber his video: th-cam.com/video/ZugzorDwM9w/w-d-xo.html linked to this video
Trueeeee. I just got here from the video too
@@fidgetpants7568 Same here, from the vid
@@smartdrivetest You're not Sir Pelo my guy...
am so thankful for Rick,spent hours with his channel,and did my driving test once, God bless you Rick.
Hi D Kip - that is *_BRILLIANT_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation
Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎
PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate?
See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
One added suggestion: When stopped in a line of traffic (say in a turn lane waiting for the green arrow), offset your vehicle just slightly so the guy behind you sees TWO sets of brake/tail lights. This helps trigger their attention to the STOPPED traffic, rather than seeing just one car in front of them as they've probably been lulled into after routine driving.
Seeing the tires on pavement is something my aunt always said, and I remember it from 8 years ago. That’s important! Helps when you also get impatient at a light and want to crawl.
I am advanced driver trained ( emergency services UK) and did a defensive driving course. This is a good video and the advice is important. Also as soon as you enter your car you have to switch to a committed and assertive but considerate/kind driving mode. Remember you are in charge of a potentially lethal machine and that`s not to be taken lightly. I see so many people on their phones, or they are a million miles away thinking about other stuff and the car is almost driving itself. Be positive, kind, considerate, confident, in control, also you should take great pride in driving. I visited the States from UK and spent 6 weeks driving around in hire cars. I found Americans to be fantastic drivers, very calm, considerate and obeying most rules like using indicators. Didn`t see any road rage , here in the UK many drivers are rubbish 😁
You were definitely not driving in California lol!!
they are not they are shit drivers , also 40,000 road deaths ,alot high pedestrian deaths , despite the uk having a higher population density per capita
Excellent video. Always great to brush up and refresh. Thank you. My father n law drove ups 33 years using these practices and was submitted to the circle of drivers a the highest honor awarded for safe driving.
Hi Joyce Dollar - We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Thanks a lot I passed my road test today
Hi Sohrab Gill - that is *_TERRIFIC_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation
Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎
PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate?
See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
Hi Rick I just wanted to say I've been watching your videos for the last few years, you've helped me with getting my L, my N, and today I finally got my Class 5 so thank you for making these videos and helping myself and others out :)
Keep your thumbs outside of the steeringwheel, spit seconds count when you need to stear fast unplanned, also if the airbag comes out, no broken thumbs. Stay out of the blind spot of trucks. Use you mirrors when backing up instead of hugging the passengerseat...2hands on the wheel.
One of the most important videos out there. No exaggeration!
(The following distance in a queue tip at about 1:-00 would have saved my nineteen year-old son a lot of grief--and money--last March. Fortunately, no one was hurt.)
Hi @greense65 - I am so glad it was helpful my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further. All the best, Cheers Rick
On the parking point I feel that (in addition to what you said about driving thru a parking spot to the one on the other side) you should also reverse into parking spots as much as possible (especially if you have a reversing camera). The only times I go in forwards is if I have to get heavy items in and out of the back.
Watched this before my test and passed! Thank you !
Hi chedunn - that is EXCELLENT news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎
PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate?
See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
I have ptsd and it actually increased after a car accident that I had 2 days ago and it wasn’t my fault. The other vehicle hit my car while I stopped! It literally came out of nowhere, the street was empty and it came and hit the front left side of my car thankfully he didn’t hit my door or else I’d be seriously injured 💔 the front exterior on the left side of my car is completely damaged ; the sensors, lights and wheel ! He came and hit my car on really high speed ! I’ve rented a car now until my car gets fixed. But honestly I couldn’t surpass the fear of having a similar accident! While I’m driving, I get really scared of a car that comes and hits me out of nowhere I’m having flashbacks while I’m driving it’s stressing and I can’t get over it 💔💔
Hi sara A - that's normal to feel that way after a crash my friend. See this video to help with your anxiety: th-cam.com/video/GRX7iW4Jqcs/w-d-xo.html Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
@@smartdrivetest hello again , I had another accident 💔💔it’s also the other person’s fault 😭😭💔my car is damaged and I have injuries but thankfully they’re minor 😭😭💔 my left pinky is broken 😖😭 I don’t know what’s wrong !
Thank you for your help. All your videos make me feel safe and secure at the time of my test . I passed and finally got my license. God bless you 🙏🏻
In a car park, if you get in your car and do not leave immediately, get out again and look first. Just looking backwards before you reverse is not enough as such carparks can have too many blind spots. When walking to your car assume the drivers headspace and begin looking for which parked cars are unattended and which have drivers sitting there idle, cause you can guarantee that the idle driver will suddenly become active and want to move out the same time as you, and when they revers they wont look. Knowing which nearby cars have a driver sitting in them is to expect the unexpected when they just take off.
Ideally you should also walk around your vehicle once to look for stray children, animals, objects that can be run over on exit. This is opportunity to notice damage or deflated tyres before entering traffic.
Best driving TH-cam channel ever
Hi Qetsia - thank you for your kind worlds my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
Thank you señior pelo for this advice
Hi DAshkiller Animations - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
When you show the view on your rear (for example, here: 2:10), snow can be seen on the back of your vehicle. Therefore, here is another tip: always GET SNOW OFF your vehicle before you start driving! Snow and ice flying off cars can seriously injure or kill other drivers.
That could be viewed as a safety tip, an elementary gesture of courtesy, and part of defensive driving.
Trying to get drivers to completely clean the snow off their vehicle is like trying to get everyone to exercise & eat healthy. It’s simply not a reality. The better practice is to protect that space in front and have that minimum safe distance. That way if snow does come off other vehicles, it’s unlikely to hit yours. Drop us a note if you have questions. Cheers Rick
@@smartdrivetest With icy and snowy cars traveling at highway speeds, "that minimum safe distance" would have to be impractically big and is NOT required by traffic laws. People keep normal distances - and get their windshields smashed by ice and snow flying off less sensible drivers' vehicles.
As for "it’s simply not a reality", I wonder if charges of dangerous driving or even manslaughter are still a reality in some states.
yep. fortunately here in FL we don't have that issue. we also don't have salt on our roads thus rust isn't as much of an issue. however vehicles in AZ last forever in this regard because it hardly ever rains there. they do get snow though but probably not very much (I've never been there).
I didn’t see a lot of snow on his vehicle. Sometimes almost impossible to clear all snow. If wet snow has frozen before you have a chance to clear it, very difficult to clear it without damaging you paint finish. Sure, clear what you can, especially all widows and all loose snow.
@@ericripley9739You don't see a lot of vehicle, either. Whatever part of the vehicle you can see, there's snow on it.
So, you are not OK with damaging your paint finish but OK with damaging somebody else's car? Or, even killing people behind you?
As for "difficult to clear", the frozen snow is unlikely to fly off your roof. So, yes, clear what you can. The problem is, many people don't even try.
Respected sir, your quality and purity is your subscription. Be ever bright and knight.
I can't believe someone else drives like me. Wow!! I always say if everyone drives like me, there would be no accidents or traffic. Don't get me wrong, I don't drive like I'm 80. I drive aggressively, but I'm always aware of everything around me. I keep a distance in front of me. I don't let people tailgate me. And I keep a spot open next to me at all times on the highway. Thank you for keeping the roads safer.
Thank you for your articles Rick. I have been learning from them since 2017, driving in Kenya, where motorists, motorbikes and pedestrians share the same spaces (roads), your articles have kept me sane and courteous on the road
Hi ESI Kimoi Angiro - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
the USA have excellent lane markings compared to just about every other country I've noticed. half the roads in Russia have NO LANE MARKINGS at all! India same thing. I don't know how anybody in those countries survive to old age!
Rick I wish you can come to Mississippi & teach us a smarter way to drive safely. People in where I live drive like lunatics!!!! They drive like they own the road. I hate driving to Tupelo for work.
Hi Jeffery McIntosh - We can teach you to drive with more confidence my friend. And you'll look forward to your drive to Tupelo. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best for the New Year, Cheers Rick
Try driving in Chicago. I think lunatics are every where. Which is why we are watching this video.
I love learning how to drive safely and totally not here bc I was curious while looking at subtles about KRIMAS
Good morning 🙏 thanks
I'm watching this video again in Florida. It should be play at least every 3 months minimum ❤
Happy to hear we could help out my friend. All the very best there in the Sunshine State. Cheers Rick
It’s hard to drive
I wish I had a personal driver
Thank you from Montreal 🎉🎉
Thanks! I did pass in my first test. Yours videos are amazing!
Hi Claudia Ordenes - that is *_INCREDIBLE_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎
PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate?
See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
Thank you Pelo. I now know how to drive better.
Hi Morph - We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
@@smartdrivetest Random guy linked your video as a throwaway joke, expect a horde of comments
@@smartdrivetest Hi there, would you like to sign my petition?
ty sr pelo really needed it
As a Nurse's Aid who has seen crazy sh*t at the hospital, I tell you : Thank You, Sir. Really
On behalf of all expert drivers everywhere, who have not seen this video, we approve and thank you for this video.
Thanks Pelo, Now I won't end up like Groovy!
Hi Marchello21 - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
Mokey took me here.
me too
Thanks for the advice! It helped me I passed my test yesterday ☺️☺️☺️
Hi Gerson Zacarias - that is *_SUPER AWESOME_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation
Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎
PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate?
See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
Bro I came here from Sr. Pelo expecting lore or some krimah funni,
but instead I get genuine driving tips that actually helped me.
*the perfect krimah gift* :D
Dad was the driving instructor at the Police Training Academy, and taught me the tricks to better driving. He always said that he got his experience at a teenager from driving as a gin runner back in the 1920's when prohibition was in effect. Gin was made in the bathtubs, and whiskey was made from corn, in the woods, out of sight.
I think I got this recommended because I watched a car crash compilation. Great advice though!
Hi stevebob240 - glad to help my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
Great video and all good advice! I'm from the UK but 'usually' find most drivers in Canada and the States are quite steady and polite in their road manners. Your point about failing to yield is so true - I'm currently in Portugal, where many drivers have little understanding of the concept......strange how these generally relaxed, tolerant people totally change once behind the wheel of a car. I always like the suspect ones to be in front rather than behind!
Worst drivers in the world are in Russia. those people are terrible drivers.
Thank you Rick to all your videos! It really Helped me passed my road test here in Manitoba! Keep safe!
Hi Julie Ann Dalisay - that is *_GREAT_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation
Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎
PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate?
See this vid too my friend: th-cam.com/video/21hBJ49sX-s/w-d-xo.html
Good video.. if he want to improve:
1. Sharp hose clamps behind steering wheel.
2. Put camera more in front of you so you can always keep looking forward instead looking from the road you will be heading to into the cam aside.
3. Put the top of your headrest always at minimal the top of your ears to avoid whiplash related accidents.
Hose clamp is for a camera stabilizer. Camera has been moved as suggested. And in that particular Honda CRV, the head restraint is at its maximum. Thanks for the tips, Cheers Rick
@@smartdrivetest Hi Rick, ok i understand all points. Thanks for the reply! Also i thought the keep 2 second distance rule can be very handy to explain..
Bless you!
Thanks for your response. Here's the vid with showing how to measure following distance: th-cam.com/video/153l3yT2iTA/w-d-xo.html If you're using the brake to control distance however, you're too close. You should be able to use the gas pedal to control space in front of your vehicle. In an ideal world, the brake should only be used for stopping, slowing to turn, controlling speed on a downgrade, and unexpected events. Drop us a note if you have further questions. All the very best, Cheers Rick
As a now retired, commercial driver, Smith System certified defensive driving instructor I give your video a big thumbs up! If I had to give only one piece of advice it would be to see the strong value of using a "systematic" approach to your defensive driving. Smith System has the "Five Keys" for example. Using a simple system that you ingrain into your daily driving habits is what makes it effective long term.🚛
Missed Christmas recently, this helped. Thank you!
Hi Pizza Broadcast - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick