Buick Encore: Driving Information / Defensive Driving

Buick Encore 2020-2026 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 2020-2026 Owner's Manual: Vehicle Data Recording and Privacy

The vehicle has a number of computers that record information about the vehicle’s performance and how it is driven or used. For example, the vehicle uses computer modules to monitor and control engine and transmission performance, to monitor the conditions for airbag deployment and deploy them in a crash, and, if equipped, to provide antilock braking to help the driver control the vehicle...

Buick Encore 2020-2026 Owner's Manual: Vehicle Alarm System

If equipped with an anti-theft alarm system, the indicator light, on the instrument panel near the windshield, shows the status of the system. Off : Alarm system is disarmed. On Solid : Vehicle is secured during the delay to arm the system. Fast Flast : Vehicle is unsecured...