Defensive Driving (risk awareness, weather, distance) -

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This guide covers the most tested Dutch theory points for defensive driving: aquaplaning, safe headway, reaction time, fatigue, and correct use of lights in poor visibility.

Key rules in 60 seconds

Aquaplaning (water film = no grip)

Aquaplaning happens when a thin layer of water forms between the tyres and the road, reducing steering and braking control.
Main risk factors: higher speed, standing water/road ruts, worn tread/incorrect tyre pressure, wide tyres.

If aquaplaning happens: what to do

1) Stay calm and hold the wheel steady.
2) Ease off the accelerator smoothly.
3) Do not brake hard.
4) Do not steer sharply.
5) When grip returns, steer gently and brake smoothly.

Following distance (2-second rule)

In normal conditions, keep about 2 seconds behind the vehicle ahead.
In rain, darkness, fog, snow or ice, increase the gap.
Check it with a fixed point: count “one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two”.

Quick estimate (optional)

Approx. distance in metres: (speed / 2) + 10%.
Example: 50 km/h → 25 + 2.5 ≈ 28 m.

Reaction time and fatigue

Reaction time = time between noticing danger and responding (braking/steering).
Average reaction time is about 1 second.
It gets worse with fatigue, distraction (phone/multitasking), alcohol or drugs.

Lights in poor visibility (exam trap)

DRL help in daylight but may not fully light the rear; use dipped beam when needed.
Front fog lights: only when visibility is seriously reduced.
Rear fog light: only in fog/snow when visibility is < 50 m (not in rain); switch off ASAP.

Detailed guide

Aquaplaning: what the exam wants you to recognise

A water film can make steering and braking feel “light” or ineffective.
Speed is the biggest trigger—reduce speed early in heavy rain and in rutted lanes.
Good tyres and correct tyre pressure reduce risk.

Following distance: how to apply the 2-second rule

Pick a fixed point (sign/lamppost) the vehicle ahead passes.
Count “one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two”.
If you reach the point before finishing the count, you’re too close.
Increase time gap further in rain, fog, darkness, snow or ice.

Fatigue: why it is dangerous

Fatigue increases reaction time and reduces hazard perception.
Plan ahead, scan far ahead, and take breaks—especially in poor weather or at night.
Never combine fatigue with alcohol/drugs or phone distraction.

Fog lights: what you may (and may not) do

Front fog lights: only when visibility is seriously reduced (fog/snow/heavy rain).
Rear fog light: only in fog/snow when visibility is < 50 m; switch off as soon as visibility improves.
Using the rear fog light in rain is a common exam mistake (it dazzles drivers behind).

Common mistakes to avoid

Using the rear fog light when it rains.
Braking hard or steering sharply during aquaplaning.
Following too closely at motorway speed.
Relying on DRL instead of dipped beam in poor visibility.

FAQ

What is the 2-second rule?
Keep at least about two seconds behind the vehicle ahead (more in bad conditions).

What causes aquaplaning?
Mainly speed, plus standing water/ruts and tyre condition (tread/pressure/width).

What should you do if aquaplaning happens?
Ease off the accelerator, don’t brake hard, don’t steer sharply until grip returns.

When can you use the rear fog light?
Only in fog or snow when visibility is less than 50 metres.

Why is fatigue dangerous?
It increases reaction time and reduces hazard perception.

Relevant Dutch law (high-level references)

RVV 1990: speed adapted to conditions and use of lights in reduced visibility (Art. 19; Art. 34).
WVW 1994: general duty to avoid danger/hindrance (Art. 5).

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