What does it mean to “Drive Defensively?” Unlike some people, I’ve always considered defense in a sports environment.

When I played hockey, soccer and football, I was usually on the defensive end of things. The goal of the defense was to prevent the other team from entering our end and scoring a goal. Let’s look at how sports and driving fit together like a glove on OJ.

• A good defenseman always knows where everyone else is. When the puck or ball is heading for an area, the d-man will already know if there is opposition in the area. On the road, you need to keep an eye on the path ahead as well as the area around your vehicle. This way, if a small furry animal jumps out in front of your car, you will have an opportunity to swerve into around it.
• A good defensivemen won’t allow an opposition forward to stand unimpeded in front of the net. A good crosscheck to the lower back usually solves this problem. On the road, unless you drive a Hummer, it is hard to push the car in front of you out of the way. That is why it is important to follow the next point.
• Be in a better position than the opposition. In hockey, a defenseman will always try to stay between the opposition and the goal. On the road it is no different. If there are cars between you and the destination, you are in a bad position.
• Eliminate the potential disaster. A good defenseman will key on the opposition player most likely to score. On the road, every vehicle is a hazard or potential liability to arriving at your destination. It only makes sense to try and put as many vehicles behind you as possible.
• Don’t get caught by the authorities. This is self-explanatory. However, you also don’t want to appear too clean or this will look suspicious. For example, if you drive with your hands at 10 and 2, or travel at the speed limit, this will cause the authorities to assume you have something to hide.

In conclusion, drive defensively. Defense wins championships.