1.14  ANTICIPATION - what next?

Lack of anticipation is a weakness in almost all new drivers. Anticipation is more than just looking ahead (as in observation). It is the action taken (in anticipation) to avoid problems arising.

Examples where drivers must anticipate:

When looking for an address, say No. 31 River Street, indicate when passing house No. 21, 23 or 25 in anticipation. To indicate and brake suddenly outside No.31 is risking a rear-end collision.

When moving off from the kerb into heavy traffic is testing judgement, decisiveness and anticipation, especially in a manual car. Drivers must indicate five seconds before take-off, therefore should engage gear, release the ratchet on the handbrake and start the mirror-indicator-blindspot-procedure, five seconds before the gap in the traffic is likely to occur. Anticipation is a matter of correct timing.

When approaching a "PA-crossing" (pedestrian activated) don't just stare at the green traffic light, but check, if anyone has pressed (activated) the button to cross. If so, the lights may turn amber at any moment. A child is likely to run across as soon as he or she sees "walk.

Too late - caught behind a parked car. The hatchback novice driver noticed the obstacle too late (lack of anticipation). Expecting the van behind to overtake, he/she slows down, despite indicating right, frustrating everyone behind.

 

When lanes merge or there are parked vehicles. Remember, the accelerator can get you into trouble, but also out of trouble.

Merging traffic: Below is a good example where anticipation and proper speed control help to keep traffic flowing smoothly. Merging traffic occurs when laned traffic ends, e.g. two lanes form into one, or three lanes will share two.


                   

If you are driving the vehicle in the left lane, anticipate the merging lanes and speed up, if safe.

The end of the white line is a sign that traffic merges. Look also for signs e.g. 'form one lane' or 'form two lanes'. The most logical way to merge is: one vehicle from the left lane, one vehicle from the right lane etc. It's called the 'zip-merge'.

Entering an intersection or stopping across a major driveway or side road, if the exit is not clear. Take notice of large white letters painted on the road: "KEEP CLEAR.

Choked intersection: The light shows green for this frustrated motorist. The car from the opposite direction might encroach into the pedestrians' space. Such thoughtless action often leads to a traffic jam.