Test Your Knowledge Of The 5 Smith Keys For Defensive Driving

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  • 1/24 Questions

    Distracted drivers do not have the big picture while driving. What are some distractions that we all may have?

    • Cell phones
    • Unsecured items in your vehicle
    • Beautiful scenery
    • All of the above
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About This Quiz


Looking to enhance your knowledge of safe driving practices? Take our interactive quiz to Test Your Knowledge Of The 5 Smith Keys For Defensive Driving. This comprehensive quiz is designed to challenge your understanding of the essential principles of the Smith System, a proven method for reducing road risks. By participating in this quiz, you'll have the opportunity to discover See moreSmith system driving test answers and gauge how well you understand this prominent approach to safe driving. The Smith System, established in 1952, has become an industry standard for teaching defensive driving skills. It revolves around five key principles, collectively known as the 5 Smith Keys, designed to ensure safety, awareness, and correct decision-making on the road. These principles are not merely theoretical constructs but are actionable strategies that drivers can apply in everyday situations to minimize risks. Our quiz will take you through each of the 5 Smith Keys, providing questions and scenarios that are both practical and insightful. You will be challenged to apply these principles to realistic driving situations, thereby assessing your ability to implement the Smith System in real life. Whether you're a seasoned driver looking to refresh your knowledge or a new driver eager to understand the basics of defensive driving, this quiz offers a detailed exploration of the Smith System's core concepts. Even professional driving instructors may find value in revisiting these principles. If you've ever wondered about the practical application of these keys, this quiz offers a real-world perspective, bridging

Test Your Knowledge Of The 5 Smith Keys For Defensive Driving - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    You must have your seatbelt properly fastened

    • While driving around in the work center parking lot

    • When driving slowly

    • When you take gearshift out of park

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "All of the above" because having your seatbelt properly fastened is important in all of the mentioned situations. Whether you are driving around in the work center parking lot, driving slowly, or taking the gearshift out of park, it is crucial to have your seatbelt on for safety reasons.

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  • 3. 

    What are some methods of making eye contact?

    • Flash your lights

    • Friendly hand signal

    • Tap your horn

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "All of the above" because all the mentioned methods, flashing lights, friendly hand signals, and tapping the horn, can be used as a way to establish eye contact with someone. These actions can grab the attention of the person and indicate that you want to make eye contact or communicate with them.

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  • 4. 

    Most drivers stay in packs or herds as they travel. Why is this practice risky?

    • If one driver has an emergency, they all have an emergency.

    • Reduces your time to react to situations.

    • Reduces your space cushion and limits your escape routes.

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    Staying in packs or herds while driving is risky because if one driver has an emergency, it can affect all the other drivers in the group. This can lead to a chain reaction of emergencies and increase the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, driving in a pack reduces the time available to react to unexpected situations, as there is less space between vehicles. It also reduces the space cushion and limits the number of escape routes available, making it harder to avoid potential hazards on the road. Therefore, all of the given options contribute to the riskiness of this practice.

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  • 5. 

    Smith System recommends this technique while backing

    • Concentrate on one mirror during the maneuver.

    • Back rapidly to minimize the time exposed to risk.

    • Back at approximately 5 MPH.

    • Back slowly

    Correct Answer
    A. Back slowly
    Explanation
    The Smith System recommends backing slowly as a technique because it allows the driver to have better control and visibility while maneuvering. Backing slowly reduces the risk of accidents or collisions, as it gives the driver more time to react and make necessary adjustments. It also allows the driver to concentrate on their surroundings and use their mirrors effectively to check for any potential obstacles or hazards. Backing rapidly or at a higher speed increases the chances of losing control and not being able to react in time, which can lead to accidents.

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  • 6. 

    When staring ahead for more than 2 seconds, you rob yourself of what?

    • Seeing vehicles around us.

    • Seeing situations that are occurring beside us.

    • Seeing vehicles behind us.

    • All of the above

    • A & C

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    When staring ahead for more than 2 seconds, you rob yourself of seeing vehicles around us, seeing situations that are occurring beside us, and seeing vehicles behind us. This means that by not paying attention to our surroundings, we are potentially missing important information and putting ourselves and others at risk on the road.

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  • 7. 

    Your peripheral vision is about 180 degrees around you. What purpose does peripheral vision serve while driving?

    • Picks up movement around your vehicle.

    • Picks up color and light around your vehicle.

    • Acts as an "Early Warning System" while driving.

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    Peripheral vision serves multiple purposes while driving. It helps to pick up movement around your vehicle, allowing you to be aware of any potential hazards or other vehicles approaching from the sides. It also picks up color and light around your vehicle, providing additional information about the surroundings and potential obstacles. Additionally, peripheral vision acts as an "Early Warning System" by alerting you to any sudden changes or movements in your surroundings, allowing you to react quickly and prevent accidents. Therefore, all of the given options are correct.

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  • 8. 

    It is recommended that we leave a vehicle length space cushion behind the crosswalk or balk line (white line) when stopped at an intersection. What are the advantages of this space cushion?

    • It gives you space to park.

    • If hit from the rear, you will be less likely to be pushed into the crosswalk or intersection.

    • So that the people walking across will have plenty of room.

    • It gives you room to do a circle check before leaving.

    Correct Answer
    A. If hit from the rear, you will be less likely to be pushed into the crosswalk or intersection.
    Explanation
    Leaving a vehicle length space cushion behind the crosswalk or balk line when stopped at an intersection is advantageous because if the vehicle is hit from the rear, it reduces the likelihood of being pushed into the crosswalk or intersection. This ensures the safety of pedestrians crossing the road and prevents any potential accidents or collisions in the intersection.

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  • 9. 

    Making eye contact is most closely related to which Smith Driving Key?

    • Aim high in steering

    • Keep your eyes moving

    • Make sure they see you

    • Get the big picture

    • Leave yourself an out

    Correct Answer
    A. Make sure they see you
    Explanation
    Making eye contact is most closely related to the Smith Driving Key "Make sure they see you" because maintaining eye contact with other drivers can help ensure that they are aware of your presence on the road. This can help prevent accidents and promote safer driving by increasing communication and awareness between drivers.

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  • 10. 

    Building and maintaining a "Space Cushion" around our vehicle is most closely related to which Smith Driving Key?

    • Aim high in steering

    • Keep your eyes moving

    • Get the big picture

    • Leave yourself an out

    • Make sure they see you

    Correct Answer
    A. Leave yourself an out
    Explanation
    Building and maintaining a "Space Cushion" around our vehicle is most closely related to the Smith Driving Key "Leave yourself an out". This key emphasizes the importance of always having an escape route or space to maneuver in case of any unexpected situations on the road. By leaving ourselves an out, we ensure that we have enough distance between our vehicle and other vehicles, allowing us to react and avoid potential collisions or hazards effectively.

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  • 11. 

    If you must back, the best time to do it is when you first arrive

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The statement suggests that if one needs to go back somewhere, the best time to do it is immediately upon arrival. This implies that going back at the earliest opportunity allows for the completion of any necessary tasks or the retrieval of forgotten items. It also indicates that delaying the return may result in inconvenience or missed opportunities. Therefore, the correct answer is "True."

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  • 12. 

    Tailgaters are "low aim" drivers. What are some of the habits of tailgaters?

    • Sudden braking, riding the brake

    • Stressed out driving

    • More chance of a rear end collision

    • All of the above

    • A & C

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    Tailgaters are drivers who follow too closely behind the vehicle in front of them, which can lead to dangerous situations on the road. The habits of tailgaters include sudden braking and riding the brake, as they are often not able to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. This behavior can cause stress while driving and increases the chances of a rear-end collision. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above" as it encompasses all the mentioned habits of tailgaters.

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  • 13. 

    What Smith Driving Key is related to eye movement?

    • Aim high in steering

    • Keep your eyes moving

    • Get the big picture

    • Leave yourself an out

    • Make sure they see you

    Correct Answer
    A. Keep your eyes moving
    Explanation
    The Smith Driving Key "Keep your eyes moving" is related to eye movement because it emphasizes the importance of continuously scanning the road and checking mirrors to be aware of potential hazards and changing traffic conditions. By keeping your eyes moving, you can anticipate and react to any potential dangers, maintain situational awareness, and make informed driving decisions.

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  • 14. 

    Describe your approach when entering an intersection

    • Speed up if the light is about to turn red.

    • Look left, right, left to watch for oncoming traffic.

    • Come to a stop before you go through an intersection.

    • Look right, left, then right again.

    Correct Answer
    A. Look left, right, left to watch for oncoming traffic.
    Explanation
    When entering an intersection, it is important to look left, right, left to watch for oncoming traffic. This approach allows the driver to scan for any vehicles that may be approaching from both directions before proceeding. By checking left first, the driver can ensure that there are no immediate threats from the left side. Then, by looking right, they can confirm that it is safe to proceed without any oncoming traffic. Finally, by checking left once again, they can double-check for any potential hazards before entering the intersection. This method helps ensure the safety of both the driver and other vehicles on the road.

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  • 15. 

    For which condition should you allow greater following distance?

    • Poor weather

    • Reduced visibility

    • At temperatures below 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • A & B

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. A & B
    Explanation
    In poor weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, or fog, the visibility on the road is reduced. This reduced visibility makes it harder to see other vehicles and obstacles on the road, increasing the risk of accidents. Allowing a greater following distance in these conditions gives the driver more time to react and brake if necessary, reducing the chances of a collision. Therefore, it is advisable to allow a greater following distance in both poor weather conditions and reduced visibility situations.

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  • 16. 

    As a general rule, how often should you check your mirrors?

    • Every 3 seconds

    • Whenever your peripheral vision detects a change in activity.

    • Every 5 to 8 seconds

    • At least every 30 seconds

    Correct Answer
    A. Every 5 to 8 seconds
    Explanation
    As a general rule, it is recommended to check your mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds. This frequency allows you to stay aware of your surroundings and potential hazards on the road. By checking your mirrors regularly, you can monitor the movement of other vehicles, ensure proper lane positioning, and be prepared for any sudden changes in traffic conditions. This practice promotes safe driving and helps minimize the risk of accidents.

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  • 17. 

    Your eye-lead time is the time/distance that you look down the road. How many seconds is recommended?  

    • 2

    • 4

    • 15

    • Be aware of the vehicle in front of you.

    Correct Answer
    A. 15
    Explanation
    The recommended eye-lead time is 15 seconds. This means that you should look down the road at least 15 seconds ahead. This allows you to anticipate any potential hazards or obstacles and gives you enough time to react and make necessary adjustments while driving. By maintaining a sufficient eye-lead time, you can enhance your overall awareness and safety on the road.

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  • 18. 

    How often should we be moving our eyes?

    • Constantly - At least every 2 seconds.

    • Every time you make a turn in your vehicle.

    • Only when backing.

    • When something interesting is about to happen.

    • At least every 5 to 7 seconds.

    Correct Answer
    A. Constantly - At least every 2 seconds.
    Explanation
    It is important to constantly move our eyes while driving to maintain situational awareness and anticipate potential hazards. By scanning the road every 2 seconds, we can effectively check our surroundings for any changes, such as other vehicles, pedestrians, or obstacles. This helps us to make informed decisions and react promptly to any unexpected situations, ensuring our safety and the safety of others on the road.

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  • 19. 

    What is the best way to avoid a backing accident?

    • Carefully examine the area surrounding your vehicle before moving.

    • Avoid backing when possible.

    • Have someone serve as a guide behind your vehicle.

    • Sound your horn before backing.

    Correct Answer
    A. Avoid backing when possible.
    Explanation
    The best way to avoid a backing accident is to avoid backing when possible. This means trying to find alternative methods of maneuvering your vehicle, such as pulling through a parking space instead of backing out. This reduces the risk of colliding with other vehicles or pedestrians that may be in your blind spots. By avoiding backing whenever you can, you minimize the chances of a potential accident occurring.

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  • 20. 

    What is to be gained by aiming high, looking down the road?

    • You will see construction zones sooner.

    • You will see hazardous conditions before other drivers.

    • You will be able to pace traffic, save gas and wear on vehicle.

    • All of the above

    • A & B

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    By aiming high and looking down the road, you will be able to see construction zones sooner, allowing you to adjust your driving accordingly and avoid any potential delays or hazards. Additionally, you will be able to spot hazardous conditions before other drivers, giving you more time to react and potentially prevent accidents. Moreover, this approach allows you to pace traffic, saving gas and reducing wear on your vehicle. Therefore, all of the options mentioned above are benefits that can be gained by aiming high and looking down the road.

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  • 21. 

    Seeing all around us, checking the front, sides, and rear is related to which of the Smith Driving Five Keys?

    • Aim high in steering

    • Get the big picture

    • Keep your eyes moving

    • Leave yourself an out

    • Make sure they see you

    Correct Answer
    A. Get the big picture
    Explanation
    "Seeing all around us, checking the front, sides, and rear" is related to the Smith Driving Five Key "Get the big picture". This key emphasizes the importance of constantly scanning the road and being aware of your surroundings from all angles. By checking the front, sides, and rear, drivers can anticipate potential hazards, make informed decisions, and maintain situational awareness. This helps to prevent accidents and allows for better decision-making on the road.

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  • 22. 

    What Smith Driving Key is related to eye lead time?

    • Make sure they see you

    • Keep your eyes moving

    • Leave a way out

    • Aim high in steering

    • Get the big picture

    Correct Answer
    A. Aim high in steering
    Explanation
    The Smith Driving Key "Aim high in steering" is related to eye lead time because it emphasizes the importance of looking ahead and scanning the road as far as possible. By aiming high in steering, drivers are encouraged to focus their gaze on the horizon rather than just directly in front of the vehicle. This allows them to anticipate potential hazards, make better decisions, and have more time to react to any unexpected situations. It helps to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and be prepared for any road conditions or obstacles that may come their way.

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  • 23. 

    What is the recommended space to leave when stopped behind a vehicle?

    • 2 car lengths

    • Being able to see the rear tires of the vehicle in front of you

    • 3 car lengths

    • 50 feet

    • 1 car length

    Correct Answer
    A. 1 car length
    Explanation
    The recommended space to leave when stopped behind a vehicle is 1 car length. This allows for enough space to maneuver and react in case the vehicle in front moves suddenly. It also provides a safe distance to prevent a collision in case of a rear-end accident.

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  • 24. 

    What is the proper following distance while traveling?

    • 4 car lengths

    • 3 car lengths

    • 5 seconds, at any speed

    • 15 seconds, at any speed

    Correct Answer
    A. 5 seconds, at any speed
    Explanation
    The proper following distance while traveling is 5 seconds, at any speed. This means that you should maintain a distance from the vehicle in front of you that allows you to have at least a 5-second gap between you and that vehicle. This distance provides you with enough time to react and stop safely in case of any sudden changes or emergencies on the road. It is a recommended practice to ensure safe driving and prevent accidents.

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Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Mar 28, 2025 +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Mar 28, 2025
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Sep 19, 2012
    Quiz Created by
    DataDriveLab

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