THE IMPORTANCE OF DRIVING PLANS
For the professional driver, things do not just happen. With adequate concentration and proper observation, there’s normally enough time to recognise a danger and respond early and appropriately. Nothing on the road ever happens ‘suddenly’.
The majority of driving situations are predictable and can be read. The observation links and clues are there for the driver who is planning ahead.
Driving plans are a ‘must’. Everything in this chapter is a consideration that contributes towards your driving plan(s). The essential parts of the planning process involve:
- Hazard Perception – Anticipating actual or potential danger
- Prioritising those hazards presenting the greatest risk
- Deciding what to do
Hazard perception, awareness and anticipation
Hazard perception is an important part of learning to drive. To achieve a mastery of traffic situations response, drivers need to be ready for all developing hazards, throughout the journey. Awareness and anticipation improve with driving experience and the amount of effort you put into improving it.
A very common example is driving behind the vehicle in front, particularly if it is a heavy goods vehicle. By dropping back two or three vehicle lengths, not only will the view be increased, but the overall stopping distance will be improved.
Deciding what to do in any situation is the main feature of any driving plan. Decisions can be drawn from the predictability of other road users’ behaviour.
Typically, a driving plan needs to take into account all that can be seen in front, to the sides and behind. A ‘Plan B’ may be needed that includes contingencies for dealing with both ‘b’ and ‘c’ above – what can’t be seen, but what might reasonably be expected to happen.
A good driving plan will keep you:
1. In the correct road position
2. Travelling at the correct speed
3. With the correct gear selected