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Topic 4 · Section 43

Plan Ahead

Many distractions or stresses can be prevented simply by planning ahead:

⏰ Give Yourself Time

  • Leave early so you’re not rushed — running late leads to:
    • Stress
    • Speeding
    • Multitasking (eating, texting, etc.)

🗺 Plan Your Route

  • Know where you’re going in advance:
    • Avoid sudden turns or GPS fidgeting
    • Helps keep your focus on driving, not maps

☕ Handle Needs Before You Go

  • If you get hangry or need coffee, take care of it before you start driving.
  • Anticipate your needs — avoid creating distractions mid-drive.

👥 Use Your Co-Pilot

  • If you have a passenger, let them assist:
    • Operate GPS
    • Answer texts or calls
    • Adjust music
    • Watch for signs or exits

Example:

“Hey, can you text Mom that I’m driving and will call her later?”

🧘‍♂️ Practice Driving Mindfully

  • Some drivers use driving as a form of mindful meditation:
    • Stay in the present moment
    • Feel the road, monitor surroundings
    • When your mind wanders (“What’s for dinner?”), gently bring it back

✅ Conclusion: “When I Drive, I Drive”

  • Driving is a full-time job when you’re behind the wheel.
  • Distractions and emotions divide your brain’s focus — that’s when errors happen.
  • Make this commitment:

    🚗 “When I drive, I drive. Everything else can wait.”

Check you have it

179 practice questions cover defensive driving and safe driving practices, each explaining the reasoning behind its answer.

Practise this topic

Source: California Driver's Handbook (DL 600, rev. 6/2025). Edited by Fernando Aguilera. Aprobify is not affiliated with the California DMV.

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