What driving approach involves preparing for potential hazards?

Defensive driving is the approach that involves preparing for potential hazards while operating a vehicle. This driving technique emphasizes awareness and anticipation of possible dangers on the road, such as other drivers' actions, road conditions, weather changes, and other unpredictable factors. By adopting a defensive driving mindset, drivers are encouraged to maintain a safe following distance, stay alert, and be ready to respond safely to unexpected situations, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.

In contrast, other driving approaches do not focus primarily on hazard anticipation. Offensive driving tends to involve a more aggressive and proactive style, emphasizing speed and assertiveness rather than caution. Reactive driving signifies a response to an immediate situation without prior preparation, while intuitive driving suggests a reliance on instincts without a structured strategy for managing risks. Defensive driving is the best practice for maintaining safety and mitigating hazards on the road.