The Smith System, a 1950s defensive driving method, teaches drivers to look far ahead and position their vehicle early to avoid obstacles. Scanning the road, choosing lanes in advance, and maintaining safe speed reduce crashes and jackknives by giving you time to react.
Today we're going to be discussing how to drive defensively by aiming high when steering. The Smith System is a defensive driving program that was developed in the 1950s by Orlin Smith, an expert in traffic safety and driver education. The program is based on the following 5 keys to safe driving. Aim high in steering. Always look as far ahead as possible when driving and steer to a point in the road where you want the vehicle to go. This will allow you to anticipate Get the big picture: Be aware of your surroundings at all times, and scan the roadway and your mirrors frequently to get a big-picture view of the traffic environment. Keep your eyes moving: Continuously scan the roadway and look for potential hazards, including other vehicles, pedestrians, and objects in the road. Leave yourself an out: Always have an escape route in mind in case you need to avoid a hazard. Keep your eyes moving: Continuously scan the roadway and look for potential hazards, including other vehicles, pedestrians, and objects in the road. This may involve changing lanes, slowing down, or even stopping. Make sure they see you. Use your vehicle's lights, signals, and horn to make your presence known to other drivers, and be sure to use them appropriately. By following these principles, drivers can improve their situational awareness and reduce the risk of accidents and injuries on the road. Let's discuss the Smith System's first key: Aim High in Steering. Aim High in Steering refers to the practice of anticipating and planning for potential hazards on the road ahead by positioning the truck in the proper lane well in advance of the obstacle. This allows you to maintain a safe speed and avoid any sudden, last-minute maneuvers that could cause the truck to swerve, jackknife, or overturn. It's a great way to improve safety and prevent accidents by being proactive and anticipating the road ahead. You can aim high in steering by taking the following steps. Constantly scan the road ahead. You should always be looking well ahead. Beyond the immediate vicinity of the vehicle to anticipate potential hazards such as sharp curves. Position the truck in the proper lane. In advance of any obstacles, you should position the truck in the appropriate lane to provide the most room for maneuvering and to avoid the need for sudden last-minute lane changes. Maintain a safe speed. By anticipating obstacles and positioning the truck in the proper lane, you can maintain a safe speed that allows for proper maneuvering around the obstacle while also providing enough time to react to any unexpected hazards. Use your mirrors and signals: Always use your mirrors and turn signals to indicate your intentions to other drivers and avoid any sudden lane changes. Avoid distractions: Avoiding distractions like using a cell phone help you better focus on the road ahead and make safer decisions. By following these steps, you can aim high in steering and increase the safety of the truck and the passengers on the road. Thanks for watching. Be safe out there.
