The competence of other motorists and the need to drive DEFENSIVELY!

For most of us, the greatest risk encountered each day is on familiar roads and highways as we commute to and from work.

And no matter how rigorous I am in avoiding speed, unnecessary distractions, and alcohol, the unsettling reality is that my safety – and that of others in my vehicle – is to a large extent contingent on the care and competence of other drivers with whom I share the roads.

I don’t know whether these unknown drivers are proficient, insured or even legally licensed to drive.

But that’s where defensive driving comes in: being aware of, and prepared to react to, the negligence of other drivers.

The following video shows how speed and distraction result in collisions at intersections in clear weather and with good sight-lines. Every accident is preventable. Some are narrow misses, and others result in sobering crashes. Warning: some of these collisions are graphic.