A KEY part of safe driving is observation – being aware of the road conditions as well as other traffic.

Clearly, you need to be alert to other traffic around you, not just in front but beside you and behind you as well.

The more you are aware of situations developing, the earlier you can react. The most common phrase on insurance claims is “suddenly...”.

If you are observant, things will not happen suddenly – you can see them developing.

Of course, that is not just being aware of other vehicles and conditions, but thinking about what might develop.

Such as the parked car ahead that may pull out in front of you – be ready for it and if needed, slow down.

Or the car behind you might not have noticed you slowing down – so dab on your brakes to alert them.

Once you are familiar with keeping a constant view of what is happening around you, you can start to look further ahead as you drive.

You should really be constantly scanning from side to side and up to the horizon.

Don’t let your eyes fix on any one direction, but keep scanning about for hazards.

On a fast road, you need to be looking a long way ahead to see situations developing.

If something happens even a quarter of a mile ahead of you, it will only take 10 seconds before you reach it.

Looking and planning ahead means that you will not be surprised and will be able to arrive at a situation in the correct lane and ready to move ahead.

Increasing your observation is not easy when you first practise it, but it is rewarding and makes your driving smoother and more satisfying, as well as extending your cushion of safety.