4. Driving in Various Conditions
In this chapter (9 sub-chapters):
1. Driving in Various Conditions — Basic Principles
When road, weather or traffic conditions change, the defensive driver adjusts three things: speed, following distance and driving style. In every environment, the PMMMB and MPKGA principles from Chapter 3 still apply. The golden rule: adjust your speed so that you can always stop within the distance you can see to be clear.
Golden rules for all conditions
- Stay within legal speed limits — and reduce below the limit when conditions require it.
- 2-second rule (dry, good weather): stay at least 2 seconds behind the vehicle ahead.
- 4-second rule (wet, dark, poor visibility): double the gap.
- Keep headlights on in rain, fog and tunnels.
- Look 10–15 seconds ahead (one city block / 400 m on expressways).
2. Driving in Urban Areas
Urban driving means high traffic density, frequent junctions, traffic lights, pedestrians and short stopping distances.
2.1 Be able to control the vehicle well so you don't interrupt smooth traffic flow.
2.2 Plan your route before you start, and stay in the correct lane early (do not cut across lanes at the last minute).
2.3 Control your emotions to avoid actions that endanger other road users (no tailgating, no honking in anger, no road bullying).
2.4 Before turning or changing lanes, ensure safety by practising the CITO routine — Check mirrors → Indicate → Turn head / blind-spot check → Overtake / move smoothly.
2.5 Watch out for buses stopping, vehicles pulling out of parking, delivery vans and e-hailing drivers stopping abruptly.
2.6 Obey traffic signals and give priority to pedestrians and cyclists.
2.7 Slow the vehicle and make sure you are in the correct lane when approaching a toll plaza.
