What is a key benefit of defensive driving in terms of risk reduction?

• A. To maximize travel time.
• B. To anticipate hazards and reduce crash risk.
• C. To outsmart other drivers.
• D. To always have right of way.

Answer: (B)

Defensive driving centers on minimizing risk by actively preparing for potential hazards. The best answer reflects that, because anticipating hazards and reducing crash risk means you scan the road, monitor other drivers and conditions, and adjust your speed and following distance to create time and space to react. This proactive approach lowers the likelihood of collisions by allowing smooth braking, steering to avoid an obstacle, or slowing down before danger arises. For example, noticing brake lights ahead, a pedestrian about to step onto the street, or slick pavement lets you back off early and maintain a safe buffer. The other ideas miss the safety focus: maximizing travel time, trying to outsmart other drivers, or insisting on right of way don’t inherently reduce crash risk and can lead to riskier behavior.