Which defensive driving principle emphasizes driving with an adequate margin of safety?

The principle of driving with an adequate margin of safety is fundamental to defensive driving because it encompasses the overall approach to operating a vehicle in a manner that anticipates potential hazards. This principle encourages drivers to maintain a buffer zone around their vehicle, allowing them ample time and space to react to unexpected situations, such as sudden stops from vehicles ahead, pedestrians entering the roadway, or other unforeseen hazards.

By adhering to this principle, drivers cultivate situational awareness and are better equipped to respond safely to potential dangers. It promotes a mindset of precaution, urging drivers not only to assess the road ahead but also to consider the actions of other road users and environmental factors that may affect driving conditions.

Maintaining an adequate margin of safety goes hand in hand with concepts like speed management and safe following distance, but it is more encompassing. While specific techniques such as adjusting speed or keeping a safe distance are important, the overarching idea of having an adequate margin of safety encapsulates the broader strategy of defensive driving, enabling drivers to minimize risks effectively.