Texas Defensive Driving Senses
About ninety-percent of your driving is based on vision. This is why any distraction that keeps your eyes off the road can be destructive so you should avoid anything that keeps you from watching the road, even if it is only for a few seconds.
You should always actively watch the road for any hazards that may appear whether they're in front of you, behind you, beside you, or hidden from view. To make sure drivers see these hazards in time to properly deal with them, it is recommended that you check your rear-view mirrors every 5-8 seconds. Seeing a hazard promptly can be the difference between making it home or ending up at the hospital.
Hearing tells a driver about other, nearby vehicles and other hazards. Drivers should always listen for traffic and maneuver to avoid hazards. A siren or horn can alert you to a hazard. An unusual noise may serve as an early warning of engine or other vehicle trouble.
If you have an audio system in your car, keep the volume at a level that allows you to hear other vehicles. Drivers can be ticketed for loud music or exhaust that hinders them and other drivers from hearing approaching hazards. If the weather is good, keep a window partially down so that you can better hear approaching emergency vehicles.
Article written by Online Texas Defensive Driving Course - Comedy Driving