A close call on the road can stem from various factors—human error, equipment malfunction, weather conditions, or simply an unforeseen event. Regardless of the cause, the outcome remains the same: you need to react swiftly to steer your vehicle away from danger and avoid a crash.
Being prepared with emergency maneuver techniques and knowing the best course of action based on the situation can make all the difference. By understanding and practicing these strategies, you’ll be better equipped to respond to the unexpected, ensuring both your safety and the safety of others.
Reducing Risk with The Smith5Keys®
Adhering to the Smith5Keys® to Space Cushion Driving can significantly reduce the likelihood of an accident. When used correctly, these five keys create more space for your vehicle, improve visibility, and give you precious time to make quick, life-saving decisions during an emergency.
Key 1: Aim High in Steering® Look far ahead, at least 15 seconds or more. This gives you the extra time to spot a potential hazard, make a sound decision, and take action.
Key 2: Get the Big Picture® Keep an eye on everything around you, not just what’s directly in front. Scan your mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds and maintain a safe following distance. Stay aware of your surroundings.
Key 3: Keep Your Eyes Moving® Avoid fixating on any one object for too long—no more than two seconds. Continuously scan your environment to stay alert to any potential hazards.
Key 4: Leave Yourself an Out® Always maintain as much space as possible around your vehicle. The more room you have, the more time you’ll have to react to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions.
Key 5: Make Sure They See You® Stay alert to the actions of other drivers and anticipate their movements. Communicate your intentions clearly through signals, eye contact, or other visible cues.
The Goal of Emergency Maneuver
Emergency maneuvers are the actions you take to avoid:
- Colliding with another vehicle
- Hitting a stationary object
- Dealing with an unexpected vehicle malfunction (such as brake failure or a tire blowout)
Common Emergency Maneuver Scenarios
Skidding
Skidding can happen on slippery roads, whether wet, icy, or snowy. To prevent skidding, reduce speed and maintain as much distance as possible between you and other vehicles. If you do start skidding, ease off the accelerator and gently steer into the skid, avoiding any jerky movements.
Object in the Road
By using the “Aim High in Steering®” technique, you can spot obstacles ahead and make safe, timely decisions. If an object appears suddenly, resist the urge to swerve or overcorrect—stay steady and make a calculated adjustment.
Wrong-Way Driver
If you encounter a vehicle coming toward you in the wrong direction, immediately reduce your speed and shift lanes—preferably to the right—to avoid a head-on collision. Once you’re safely out of harm’s way, pull over and call 911.
Tire Blowout
Stay calm. Keep control of your vehicle and apply the brakes gently. Don’t overcorrect your steering. Let the vehicle decelerate naturally and pull over when safe to do so.
Brake Failure
Shift to a lower gear and avoid turning off the engine—this will lock the steering. Pump the brake pedal to build pressure and, if necessary, engage the parking brake. Steer to the side of the road as soon as possible.
Plan Before You Panic
Planning your emergency maneuvers before an actual emergency happens is crucial. It’s the difference between a controlled, effective response and a panicked reaction. By mastering these techniques and knowing your options, you’ll be ready to take the best possible action when unexpected threats arise on the road.
