Defensive Driving Techniques Flashcards

When a TLC driver experiences brake fade on a long downhill stretch, the best corrective action is to:

Answer: Downshift to a lower gear to use engine braking

Downshifting uses engine braking to slow the vehicle and reduces reliance on overheated brakes.

Which behavior is a classic sign of an aggressive driver that a TLC professional should watch for and avoid engaging with?

Answer: Frequent lane changes without signaling and tailgating

Frequent unsignaled lane changes and tailgating are hallmark aggressive driving behaviors that increase crash risk.

A TLC driver is approaching a school zone during dismissal. Beyond reducing speed, what additional defensive action is recommended?

Answer: Be prepared to stop for any pedestrian near the curb

Children are unpredictable and may dart into the street, so drivers must be ready to stop for anyone near the roadway.

What does the SIPDE defensive driving process stand for?

Answer: Scan, Identify, Predict, Decide, Execute

SIPDE — Scan, Identify, Predict, Decide, Execute — is a systematic method for anticipating and responding to hazards.

When a TLC driver must back up in a for-hire vehicle, the safest practice is to:

Answer: Walk around the vehicle first, then back slowly with windows down

Walking around the vehicle identifies hidden obstacles, and backing slowly with windows down allows you to hear hazards.

A TLC driver is cut off sharply by another vehicle. The best defensive response is to:

Answer: Brake smoothly, increase following distance, and let the vehicle go

Responding calmly by braking and creating space prevents road rage escalation and maintains passenger safety.

At night, when should a TLC driver switch from high beams to low beams?

Answer: When approaching an oncoming vehicle within 500 feet or following within 300 feet

New York law and safe driving practice require dimming high beams within 500 feet of oncoming traffic or 300 feet when following.