Practice Daily Driving
Complete step-by-step checklist to practice daily driving covering maintain safe gap distance and scan road ahead constantly, and essential action items.
Maintain safe gap distance
Keep 3-second gap behind vehicle ahead
Scan road ahead constantly
Look 10-15 seconds ahead for hazards or brake lights
Use turn signals early
Signal changes at least 100 feet before lane merges
Check mirror and blind spots
Look over shoulders before shifting lanes
Observe local speed limits
Drive at or below posted limits depending on road state
Avoid tailgating trucks
Stay far back so truck drivers can see you in mirrors
Scan crossroad intersections
Look left-right-left before crossing green lights
Check weather road grips
Drive slower on wet, icy, or leaf-covered streets
Keep hands on steering wheel
Maintain 9-and-3 or 10-and-2 hand grips at all times
Avoid mobile phone distractions
Keep phone locked and focus completely on driving tasks
Test braking response early
Tap brake pedal in morning to verify hydraulic pressure
Scan road margins for pedestrians
Watch sidewalk edges for children or dog walkers