Adopting the correct driving position is a crucial part of driving defensively in Singapore and staying safe on the road.
Adopting the correct driving position behind the wheel.
• First, adjust the seat height until you have a good view of the front. With the foot on the brake pedal, adjust the seat squab until your right leg is bent slightly.
• Next, extend your arms, then adjust the seatback and the steering wheel until your wrists are resting on top of the steering wheel.
• Move your hands downwards until they are in the 3 o’clock (right hand) and 9 o’clock (left hand) positions.
• Now, turn the steering wheel 180 degrees using only your right hand, followed by your left hand. Your shoulder blades should still be in contact with the seatback.
• Last but not least, the headrest must be adjusted so that your ears are in line with the middle of the headrest (height). Now, all that is left for you to do is wear the seatbelt and you are ready to drive off.
Knowing how to react to another driver’s road rage is part of defensive driving, too.
Now for some tips to help you handle road-rage incidents.
• Stay calm and think rationally. Do not be aggressive or confrontational, regardless of how the other party is misbehaving.
• Try reasoning with the person. An explanation is the most effective when done in a “normal voice; Shouting and expletives are a no-no.
• If the other party is acting in a very aggressive manner, i.e. he wants to fight, stay in your car and get ready to shoot with your mobile phone.
• Make a mental note of what the other driver looks like, and his car’s make and model, colour and registration plate number.
• Do not retaliate, ever – it’s better to run away. The penalty for a convicted road-rage offender is at least two weeks’ imprisonment (if the injuries are minor).
