Buick Encore: Driving Information / Defensive Driving

Buick Encore 2020-2025 Owner's Manual / Driving and Operating / Driving Information / Defensive Driving

Defensive driving means “always expect the unexpected.” The first step in driving defensively is to wear the seat belt. See Seat Belts.

Assume that other road users (pedestrians, bicyclists, and other drivers) are going to be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they may do and be ready.
Allow enough following distance between you and the driver in front of you.
Focus on the task of driving.

Impaired Driving

Death and injury associated with impaired driving is a global tragedy.

Warning

Drinking alcohol or taking drugs and then driving is very dangerous. Your reflexes, perceptions, attentiveness, and judgment can be affected by even a small amount of alcohol or drugs. You can have a serious — or even fatal — collision if you drive after drinking or taking drugs.

Do not drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or ride with a driver who has been drinking or is impaired by drugs. Find alternate transportation home; or if you are with a group, designate a driver who will remain sober.

Control of a Vehicle

Braking, steering, and accelerating are important factors in helping to control a vehicle while driving.

Distracted Driving

Distraction comes in many forms and can take your focus from the task of driving. Exercise good judgment and do not let other activities divert your attention away from the road...

Braking

Braking action involves perception time and reaction time. Deciding to push the brake pedal is perception time. Actually doing it is reaction time. Average driver reaction time is about three-quarters of a second...

Other information:

Buick Encore 2020-2025 Owner's Manual: How to Wear Seat Belts Properly

Follow these rules for everyone's protection. There are additional things to know about seat belts and children, including smaller children and infants. If a child will be riding in the vehicle, see Older Children or Infants and Young Children. Review and follow the rules for children in addition to the following rules...

Buick Encore 2020-2025 Owner's Manual: Driver Behavior

Driving is an important responsibility. Driver behavior, the driving environment, and the vehicle's design all affect how well a vehicle performs. Being aware of these factors can help in understanding how the vehicle handles and what can be done to avoid many types of crashes, including a rollover crash...