Paul Messam, Gleaner Writer

Intelligent driving saves lives on our roads. - Norman Grindley/Deputy Chief Photographer

THE FUNDAMENTALS of control, like the table of elements in chemistry, are the essence of driving. Without this knowledge, a driver is headed for trouble no matter how cautiously he drives or how familiar he is with the regulations. However, besides knowing the fundamentals, today's driver must be defensive.

Defensive driving is intelligent driving geared towards avoiding accidents and saving lives. It means that at all times the driver must be alert, fully aware of the road and be in a position to act in a timely manner.

"Safe, steady, sober, cautious are some of the attributes off a good, defensive driver. Once the basics are learned, the way is clear for safer, more satisfying driving," says David Jones, an auto mechanic.

avoiding collisions

Intelligent driving means avoiding collisions at all cost. It means trying and succeeding to maintain reasonable space between your vehicle and others on all sides. It means talking to the other drivers with all the signals you can; use the turn signal correctly, giving adequate notice of the intentions.

Intelligent driving also means ensuring that brakes are pumped so that tail lights show you are slowing or stopping. It also means using the horn appropriately to warn other drivers where you are.

Applying intelligence means not allowing the heavy traffic or the rush-hour traffic to take charge of your nerves. It means relying on a driver's awareness, alertness and good judgement in stopping, starting and turning.

drive cautiously

Intelligent drivers cooperate with other drivers. They drive more cautiously and watch for the sudden, erratic movement of frantic, drunk, and distracted drivers. The intelligent driver will realise that in heavy traffic one needs extra time to react. He will look ahead, read the road and be extremely careful, especially at intersections, being mindful of uncontrolled intersections where there are no lights or signs.

The motor vehicle's performance - how it achieves maximum speed in minimum time, its power, as well as its sleek lines - add to the equation.

Are windshield and windows clean? Are wiper blades in good condition? Are there any deep cuts or cracks, splits or other damage obscuring vision? Are brakes in good working order? Is the oil level above the 'ADD' line? Do not overfill. Radiator - is the coolant level high enough? Are the tyres properly inflated? Do they have correct pressure, depth of thread and evenness of wear? For the battery, is the fluid in each cell correct?

The intillegent driver should be mindful of the following:

On long trips, take a rest stop every two hours, even if you do not feel very tired.

Rest before the start of the assigned tasks.

Do not take any drug that can make you drowsy, for example, even the night before you start your journey.

Look out for pedestrians, cars in front, cars behind, parked motor cars, intersections, bicycles, cars approaching, and children.

Know the peril of dangerous driving.

Manage your time on the road effectively by avoiding certain routes.

Try to remain calm at all times.