Mastering the Art of Driving Unnoticed: Why the Best Drivers are the Most Predictable

When it comes to driving, the best drivers are often the ones you don't notice at all. These drivers see potential problems developing and adjust their speed and position before any drama unfolds. To enhance your driving skills, try a game where you drive on the highway without touching the brake pedal, and ensure that no one around you needs to brake or steer to compensate for your actions. This might sound challenging, but by maintaining a calm and anticipatory approach, you can become an unnoticeable yet responsible driver.

The Role of Anticipation in Safe Driving

Rather than being the best drivers, those who swerve to avoid unexpected children, animals, or objects can sometimes be considered the most responsible. However, swerving all over the road without reason often indicates impaired ability or poor driving etiquette. It is crucial to develop and maintain awareness and anticipate potential hazards. By doing so, you enhance your driving safety and prevent accidents.

Personal Experience and Anticipatory Driving

After driving over 3,000,000 miles across Canada and Northern Canada, I can attest that planning ahead and looking further ahead to anticipate unexpected situations is key. For instance, when driving on multi-lane highways, I often change lanes on overpasses to give vehicles merging from the on-ramp on my blind side an empty spot on the highway. At red intersections, I always prepare for the possibility that someone might suddenly change lanes in front of me, ensuring a safe stopping zone.

Real-Life Example

A recent event in southeast Edmonton demonstrates the importance of anticipation and safety. Upon merging, a man in a pickup truck nearly ran into me, causing him to walk back and inspect his right-side rear bumper. Thankfully, he was not injured, but his actions were dangerous. Swerving to avoid a potential collision, even if close, shows good judgment. However, in a fully loaded truck, such an incident could have resulted in severe injury, financial losses, and numerous traffic violations.

Swerving for Anticipation vs. Swerving for Show

It's important to note that not all swerving is created equal. Swerving when necessary to avoid an unexpected hazard, such as a child or animal, is responsible and demonstrates skill. However, swerving to show off or for no reason at all is not only unnecessary but can be dangerous. True proficiency in driving lies in the ability to handle unexpected situations responsibly and predictably.

Drunk Driving and Swift Driving

The assertion that fast driving is good driving is a dangerous myth. Speeding and impaired driving are both significant contributors to road accidents. Drunk drivers are clearly not ideal drivers, and similarly, swerving to avoid hitting a jaywalker is commendable only if it doesn't result in unforeseen consequences.

In conclusion, the best drivers are those who demonstrate consistent predictability and anticipation. By maintaining a calm demeanor and staying vigilant, you can become a proactive driver and contribute positively to road safety.