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6DANGEROUS DRIVING speed , they are actually just interpreting your distance from them . As drivers , preparation does not begin with the acceptance of the task , it starts way before that , and it starts with YOU !
Therefore , the investment into yourself and training is paramount . We must understand that although racing can be exciting , simply put , most of the racing techniques do not apply to public roads . Learning and practicing the techniques that do count such as setting up for corners and where to focus your attention , as well as being smooth in the operation of the vehicle are key . When we learn evasive tactics , they need to be taught as a way to accomplish the one evasive tactic that works ; MOVE ! And not taught or used as tricks !
IF IT IS IN YOUR CONTROL , CONTROL IT !
We can control our preparation and we can control ourselves . You should be setting the bar above the standard for yourself and not accept anything less from yourself . Put in the time and effort to become proficient at your role .
This means seeking out quality additional training when you have downtime , driving is a perishable skill just like firearms . You do not go to the firearms range once in your career and say you ’ re proficient , right ? Then do not accept that for your driver training either . There are plenty of reputable training facilities where you can learn vehicle dynamics and put yourself to the test of how well you can interpret the “ Vehicle Language .” Seek out training with real-world application , do not just spend time on the race track !
Some things to make note of and mention as well are the
personal components of being and becoming a driver in the industry . The better you know yourself , the easier it will be for you to understand your capabilities and limitations . For instance , key physiological components that could hinder your ability to perform at a high level or accurately read the vehicle language are :
• Fatigue- lowers visual efficiency and causes longer reaction time .
• Faulty Hearing
• Inadequate Vision
• Medical Conditions
• Cardiovascular Conditions
• Epilepsy
• Diabetes
TOUCH AND KINESTHETIC SENSE
Each of those listed above individually or collectively will diminish your ability to be effective as a driver . You must make a note of these and understand how they can and will affect your ability to safely and efficiently drive your vehicle instinctively . These are just the physiological aspects , when you then add in the limiting psychological factors that come along with them , well , as we have continuously said throughout this article , if you fail to prepare , you are preparing to fail . As drivers , we must also have our mindset dialed in , some of the negative contributing factors are : Attitude and Emotions ( stress ) can have a negative impact on driving by :
• Diminishing the driver ’ s power of observation
• Delays or distorts ability to interpret events