Which of the following conditions is essential for defensive driving?

Identifying accident-causing situations is essential for defensive driving because it enables a driver to anticipate potential hazards and take proactive measures to avoid them. Defensive driving focuses on being aware of the surroundings and recognizing the actions of other drivers, pedestrians, and various road conditions that may lead to accidents. By understanding and identifying these situations, a driver can make informed decisions, such as adjusting speed, changing lanes, or preparing to stop, which ultimately enhances the safety of everyone on the road.

In contrast, driving aggressively would increase the risk of an accident by making impulsive decisions. Maintaining a constant speed may not be ideal in all situations, as adaptive speed based on traffic and road conditions is often necessary for safety. Ignoring distractions does not directly address the proactive awareness needed to identify hazards. Therefore, awareness of potential accident-causing situations is the cornerstone of effective defensive driving.