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14. ANTICIPATION

 

Anticipation is more than just looking ahead (as in observation). It is the action taken (in anticipation) to avoid problems arising next. To anticipate is a weakness in most new drivers.

Examples where safe drivers anticipate:

When looking for an address, say No. 31 River Street, indicate when passing house No. 21, 23 or 25 in anticipation. If you indicate late and/or brake suddenly at No.31, you are risking a rear-end collision.

Moving off from the kerb into heavy traffic is testing a driver's judgement, decisiveness and anticipation, especially in a manual vehicle. Considering it may take about five seconds to engage the gear, release the ratchet on the handbrake and complete the mirror / indicator / blindspot procedure, drivers who anticipate will indicate well before the gap in the traffic is likely to occur. Here 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 'walk' button to cross. If so, the lights may turn amber at any moment. A child is likely to run across as soon as the light changes.
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, the driver slowed down, despite indicating left, frustrating everyone behind.

Merging traffic... >>>

 ...is a good example where foresight (anticipation) and proper speed control keep traffic flowing  smoothly.

Merging traffic occurs when a lane ends, i.e. two lanes form into one, or three lanes change into two.

When lanes merge or parked vehicles ahead, remember this is a place, where the accelerator can get you out of trouble. Slowing down is not always the best course of action.

Look for a sign 'Lane ends' or 'Form 1 Lane'. The most logical way to allow traffic to merge smoothly is - one vehicle from the left-hand lane, the next vehicle from the right-hand lane etc. It's called the 'zip-merge' and works well, when done with patience and regard for other drivers.

Entering an intersection, when the exit is not clear creates a choked intersection  >>>

Not thinking ahead (anticipating) often leads to traffic jams as shown here. The light shows green for this frustrated motorist. If the vehicle from the opposite direction wanted to continue, there may be a conflict with pedestrians. 

Watch for these hazards, which may also cause traffic delays:

Road-works Anticipate speed limits and obey them.
Emergency vehicles If these display flashing lights traffic must slow. (Speed restriction may apply). Anticipate emergency personnel (ambulance officers, police etc.) Pass with caution! 
Stationary traffic This includes broken down vehicles, or those parked incorrectly in dangerous places, possibly talking on the cell phone.

 

To properly anticipate the traffic situation ahead, lift your eyes beyond the immediate traffic ahead. You will better manage traffic delays and by anticipating danger ahead you can reduce or increase speed early, avoiding problems before they occurs.

Whilst quick reflexes may avoid a collision, intelligent, forward looking motorists seldom need to brake sharply. They see danger developing, before it becomes an emergency.

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Our information could vary in your part of the world. We recommend you use above information in conjunction with a professional driving instructor.

Road Safety by Dieter Fischer 2001 - Learner Driver Hub 2020.