What is a key practice for a defensive driver?

A key practice for a defensive driver is to stay alert and look for trouble spots. This approach emphasizes the importance of being aware of one’s surroundings and anticipating potential hazards that may arise while driving. By maintaining a vigilant mindset, a defensive driver can better react to other vehicles, pedestrians, and unexpected obstacles on the road. This proactive awareness allows drivers to make informed decisions, such as slowing down, changing lanes, or preparing to stop, which can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

The other options do not align with the principles of defensive driving. For instance, remaining in the center lane at all times can limit a driver's ability to adapt to changing traffic conditions. Using high speed to avoid traffic can be reckless and increase the likelihood of losing control of the vehicle, while ignoring distractions from passengers undermines the driver's focus and overall situational awareness. Thus, being alert and actively scanning for potential trouble is a fundamental aspect of driving safely and responsibly.