Escape routes are central to defensive driving: they allow you to anticipate danger, stay calm, and respond rather than simply reacting.
Don’t take for granted that things will stay the same. Other drivers are always likely to change speed and direction, and hazards can appear without warning.
Mentally run through possible scenarios around you. What if this car pulls out of the junction? What if that pedestrian steps into the road? What if this lorry swerves into my lane? And so on…
Once you’ve gathered information and imagined what could go wrong, you prepare. That includes always keeping an escape route or action in mind.
You can’t plan if you haven’t mapped out what’s going on. Scan ahead, behind, and to both sides of you, and use mirrors frequently. Identify hazards, such as vehicles moving in erratic ways, or pedestrians who are not paying attention.
By creating a safe zone around you, you buy yourself time to make a crucial decision or move. This doesn’t mean just two or three seconds from the vehicle in front, but also avoiding being boxed in on multi-lane roads.
For example, being in the middle lane on a multi-lane road often gives options both left and right, and when lanes merge into one, slow for a gap to create a zone around you on all sides, so you don’t get squeezed. Also, avoid sitting in blind spots of other vehicles, and try not to linger where you might be hemmed in.
Always look for open lanes, hard shoulders, junctions and exits that you could use if events require you to escape. Match your speed to potential actions too: if you’re concerned about another driver, ensure you’ve slowed enough to make the escape move safely.
Sometimes, even the best anticipation and escape route planning ends up with you needing to take emergency action. Here’s what to do if that occurs:
For more in-depth tips and detailed recommendations, download the full PDF guide. Stay informed and drive safely!
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