What does "defensive driving" entail?

Defensive driving is a proactive approach that involves anticipating and reacting to potential hazards on the road before they become dangerous situations. This means being aware of not only what is happening in front of you but also monitoring the actions of other vehicles, pedestrians, and any other factors that could lead to a risk while driving. By anticipating potential dangers, a defensive driver can take necessary precautions, such as adjusting speed, changing lanes, or increasing following distance, to avoid collisions.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of defensive driving. Merely reacting to immediate dangers can lead to delayed responses and heightened risk, as it lacks the foresight necessary to prevent accidents proactively. Driving aggressively does not align with the principles of defensive driving, which promotes safety and courtesy on the road, rather than asserting one's presence in a confrontational manner. While strictly following the speed limit is an important aspect of safe driving, it does not encompass the broader strategy of being prepared for various unforeseen circumstances that a defensive driver must consider.