To avoid crashes, what should a defensive driver do?

Being a defensive driver primarily involves maintaining a proactive mindset while on the road. Staying alert and looking for trouble spots is crucial because it allows drivers to anticipate potential hazards and respond effectively. By actively scanning the environment, drivers can identify and react to erratic behavior from other vehicles, pedestrians, traffic signals, and changing roadway conditions. This awareness helps mitigate risks and make informed decisions, ultimately reducing the likelihood of accidents.

Although the other options might seem relevant in certain contexts—driving faster might lead to quicker responses, using the phone less could minimize distractions, and ignoring other drivers could prevent frustration—they fail to encompass the comprehensive and vigilant approach required to navigate roads safely. Defensive driving hinges on awareness and readiness to adapt to the unexpected, which is captured best by staying alert and identifying potential trouble spots.