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Difficulty: HardDefensive Driving and Hazard Anticipation

When approaching the crest of a steep hill on an unmarked two-lane rural road with limited sight distance, maintaining the posted speed limit while remaining centered in your lane constitutes safe defensive driving as long as no oncoming traffic is visible.

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Answer

The statement is False. Defensive driving and hazard anticipation require proactive risk mitigation before a hazard enters your sight line.
The statement is false because defensive driving demands anticipatory action rather than reactive driving. When sight distance is obstructed by a hill crest, a defensive driver must reduce speed below the posted maximum, cover the brake, and position the vehicle toward the right side of the lane prior to reaching the top.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the road geometry and sight line limitations.
Recognize that a hill crest restricts forward sight distance, creating a blind zone.
Hazards such as stopped vehicles, pedestrians, or drifting oncoming cars cannot be detected until reaching the crest.
2
Apply the basic speed law and hazard anticipation principles.
Determine that the posted speed limit may be unsafe for conditions with restricted sight distance.
Maintaining posted speed in blind conditions reduces stopping sight distance below what is required to avoid sudden obstructions.
3
Select proactive defensive vehicle control measures.
Ease off the accelerator, cover the brake, and track toward the right side of the lane.
Reducing speed and increasing lateral buffer space proactively creates reaction time and space cushion without relying on reactive braking.

Key Concept

Defensive Driving and Hazard Anticipation
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Topics

Defensive Driving and Hazard Anticipation

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