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Attitude
Patience, courtesy, tailgating, priorities and sharing the road safely.
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Slide 1
Attitude and Safe Driving
Safe driving is not just about vehicle control and driving skill. It is about developing the correct attitude towards road safety and other road users.
A driver's attitude affects:
- Decision-making
- Risk-taking behaviour
- Concentration
- Courtesy towards others
- Overall road safety
Remember
No matter how modern, fast or expensive a vehicle is, the driver determines how safe it will be.
Key Message
Good attitudes create safe drivers.
What it means
Attitude is how you behave towards other road users — being patient, courteous, and not letting frustration or ego affect your driving.
Why it matters
Aggressive or impatient drivers cause crashes, road rage, and intimidate vulnerable users. A calm attitude keeps everyone safer and reduces stress.
Common mistakes
- Tailgating to pressure a slower driver.
- Flashing headlights or using the horn out of frustration.
- Refusing to let merging traffic in.
- Hogging the middle or right lane on a dual carriageway.
Exam tips
- The horn is a warning device, not a way to tell someone off.
- Flashing headlights only means 'I am here' — never assume it means 'go ahead'.
- Give way to buses pulling out where it's safe — it's the law to give them priority in built-up areas.
- Keep at least a 2-second gap (4 in the wet) from the car in front.
Real driving examples
- A learner stalls at a junction in front of you — wait patiently, don't beep.
- Someone undertakes you on the motorway. Stay calm, keep your distance, let them go.
Key facts to memorise
- Horn: warning only; don't use 11:30 pm–7:00 am in built-up areas.
- Flashing headlights means 'I am here' — nothing else.
- 2-second gap dry, 4 seconds wet, 10× on ice.
Test your knowledge
10 questions, instant feedback, scored to your dashboard.
Start Attitude quiz