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What is the Smith System in driving?
I just got my driver’s license and my grandpa told me that I should always floor the Smith System. What on earth is he talking about?
Mary Cahill · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Your grandpa sounds like a wise man. The Smith System is a driving methodology invented by Harold Smith in 1952. It’s based on *five basic road rules that, if followed by all drivers, will greatly reduce the number of traffic accidents.
Let’s take a look at the principles of the Smith System:
- Rule #1: Aim high. Look up and out as you drive to get a better scope of the whole road ahead, as opposed to what’s directly in front of you.
- Rule #2: The big picture. Be observant of what’s going on around you on the road. Being calm and alert behind the wheel is the best way to anticipate any irregularities around you and react safely when you need to.
- Rule # 3: Keep your eyes moving. Maintaining consistent eye movement while driving can help prevent you from going into a trance-like state—especially on longer drives. It also helps you remain engaged with your surroundings.
- Rule # 4: Leave yourself a way out. Don’t allow other drivers to box you into a lane—this is a common symptom of highway driving. Leave a good amount of space between your car and others. There’s never a good reason to follow too closely.
- Rule # 5: Make sure you are seen. Never assume that other drivers are paying attention. If you sense that a driver is merging toward you because they cannot see you, honk your horn to make your presence known.
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