Defensive Driving and Riding emphasizes anticipating risks, understanding road behaviour, and taking early action to avoid incidents. It equips drivers and riders with the skills to stay in control, even when surrounding traffic is unpredictable.
The Defensive Driving and Riding Programme aims to equip all road users with the skills to reduce risks and make safer decisions on the road. In Malaysia, over 532,000 road accidents were recorded from January to October 2024, with more than 5,300 fatalities. To address this alarming trend especially as two-wheelers remain among the most vulnerable road users, MDDRC delivers certified, high-quality defensive training led by licensed and professional instructors, focusing on improving hazard awareness, reinforcing safe driving and riding habits, and reducing preventable accidents among commuters and commercial fleet operators.
Participants are introduced to key road signs, markings, and traffic signals relevant to both drivers and riders. The instructor explains proper interpretation of these signs and how they support safer decision-making in various traffic environments. Emphasis is placed on compliance with all traffic laws, lane discipline, and responsible speed management.
This section explains how the Demerit Points System operates under the Motor Vehicle Rules. Participants learn the offences that contribute to point accumulation, the administrative actions that follow, and the importance of maintaining safe driving and riding behaviour to avoid penalties.
Participants receive guidance on conducting essential pre trip inspections. This includes checking tyres, brakes, lights, fluid levels, load security for heavy vehicles, and safety equipment. Motorcyclists are taught routine checks such as chain condition, tyre pressure, and the correct use of protective gear. The purpose is to develop a consistent and efficient culture of safety inspections before each journey.
This topic addresses how fatigue and mental distraction contribute to road incidents. Participants learn to recognise early signs of tiredness, plan adequate rest periods, and manage stress levels. Drivers of commercial and heavy vehicles are briefed on required rest hours and regulatory expectations to ensure sustained alertness.
Participants are reminded of the importance of early planning to ensure safe and punctual arrival. This includes reviewing routes, considering traffic congestion, and allocating sufficient time buffers. Avoiding rushed behaviour significantly reduces the likelihood of accidents.
Participants are taught to maintain a minimum two second following distance from the vehicle ahead. This ensures sufficient reaction time for sudden braking or unexpected hazards.
In adverse weather, participants learn to increase this gap to at least four seconds to compensate for reduced traction and longer braking distances.
Participants are shown the blind spot zones surrounding cars, heavy vehicles, and motorcycles. The instructor demonstrates effective techniques to minimise blind spot risks through proper mirror use and shoulder checks. This builds safer habits when changing lanes or merging with traffic.
This segment explains the correct method for overtaking safely. Participants learn hazard scanning techniques, positioning, speed judgment, and the extended viewing distance required before initiating an overtaking manoeuvre.
Participants study the various types of hazards encountered on the road. These include physical obstacles, moving vehicles, pedestrian behaviour, weather related risks, and changing road conditions. Real examples and visual materials are used to enhance understanding and improve hazard awareness.
The Hazard Action Plan is introduced as a structured method for managing risks on the road. Participants learn to identify potential hazards, predict their likely outcomes, decide on the safest course of action, and act promptly. When applied consistently, this approach significantly reduces the chance of preventable incidents.
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Malaysian Defensive Driving and Riding