Street Survival - Advanced Defensive Driving

SAFETY > TRIP > PRE-DRIVE

Pre-Drive

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Before stepping into your vehicle, a few simple yet important steps can help ensure a safer and more confident drive. This page is dedicated to pre-drive safety checks that form the foundation of defensive driving and help prevent accidents, breakdowns, or delays.

What should you check before getting behind the wheel? Why is it important to inspect your tires, windows, and leaks before every drive? And how can a quick walkaround help you spot problems before they become serious?

Whether you are preparing for a short daily drive or a long-distance journey, taking a moment to assess your vehicle's condition can make a big difference. These habits help you stay alert, maintain focus, and protect both yourself and others on the road. How do you know if your car is truly ready for the road ahead?

Approaching your vehicle is the ideal time for a quick visual check of key areas. This simple routine can catch potential hazards early, reduce stress, and set the stage for a smooth and safe trip.

Pre-drive preparation is not just a precaution, it is a vital step in responsible, defensive driving.

Cat sitting under parked car during pre-drive inspection check for safety and road readiness

Under the vehicle

  • Any leaks.

  • Deflated tires. Maybe a tire is punctured.

  • Animals.

Around the vehicle

Obstacles:

  • Take note of any hazards in your path. E.g., a low wall, pole, cable, ditch, toys, etc. that may not be so visible when reversing.

  • No toddlers near the vehicle.

  • No animals under the vehicle.

Body:

  • Any loose panels. E.g., petrol flap, trunk, hood or door not properly closed.

  • Anything on the roof, E.g., snow that could slide over and block the windshield when braking.

Windows:

  • Pamphlets placed under the wiper.

  • Broken window from smash and grab.

  • Bird droppings that would block view.

Suspicious:

  • Any persons lurking in the vicinity of the vehicle that may want to hijack the vehicle.

  • Criminal hiding inside vehicle.

Careless:

  • Vandalism.

  • Damage from careless individuals parked next to vehicle.

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Street Survival - Advanced Defensive Driving