What Is 'Defensive Driving'?

Defensive driving basically is a type of training for motor vehicle drivers which goes further than the mastery of the rules of the road and the fundamental basics of driving.

The primary idea of defensive driving is to lower the risk of driving by anticipating risky situations, in spite of unpleasant circumstances or the mistakes of others. This can be attained with devotion to a range of basic rules, along with practice of precise driving methods. Due to the larger need for understanding and practice of defensive driving, quiet a few administrative agencies along with non profit organizations have started expert courses which can enhance people's driving skills.

In America some of the well known defensive driving courses are Alive at 25, DDC or Defensive Driving Course, Coaching the Mature Driver, etc.

Defensive driving is probably best summed up as the opposite of aggressive driving!  It is a safe method of driving which encourages drivers to be vigilant, observant and resonsible.  It does not mean defensively clinging onto the middle lane of the motorway, clogging the whole lane up, but is about making sure that you know what is going on around you.
Defensive drivers are constantly looking around to see if there are any obstacles coming into view, they check their mirrors regularly and they leave adequate space from the car in front.
Defensive driving also entails being aware of certain situations which may present danger in a street if an ice cream van is around, a defensive driver will know that there is a risk of children running around so s/he will be especially vigilant.
It is a very safe way of driving and is one which is advocated by the Institute of Advanced Drivers as a means of ensuring road safety for all.