Recognizing hazards on the road, similar to risk perception, is very important.

Hazards on the road can have a strong potential for risk.

When drivers spot a hazard on the road, they should evaluate the associated risk and set a priority level for it.

If the hazard develops into risk, the driver should decide how to proceed.

Upon deciding, the driver should safely make a manoeuvre to reduce the risk and avoid the hazard.

Decision-making skills are crucial for safe and responsible driving. They are the abilities and strategies drivers use to make effective decisions when faced with hazards and risks on the road. Some of the decision-making skills that are important for driving include:

Problem-solving skills are the ability to identify, analyze, and solve problems that may arise while driving. Drivers need to be able to think critically, evaluate situations, and find solutions to issues on the road.

Reasoning skills are reasoning and drawing conclusions based on evidence and data. Drivers must use reasoning skills to make decisions when there is incomplete or uncertain information.

Time management skills are managing time effectively and making the most available time. Drivers need to have good time management skills to ensure they arrive at their destination on time and avoid rushing or taking shortcuts.

Emotional intelligence skills are the ability to recognize, understand and manage emotions. Drivers must have good emotional intelligence skills to manage their feelings and understand other road users' emotions.

All these skills are closely related to hazard perception, decision-making, and judgment while driving. For example, problem-solving skills are critical for identifying and analyzing hazards; reasoning skills are essential for making quick decisions when confronted with unexpected hazards; time management skills are necessary for planning and avoiding rushed decisions, and emotional intelligence skills are vital for managing emotions and dealing with stressful situations while driving.

Effective responses to potential hazards involve using decision-making skills to evaluate the situation, identify risks and make the best possible decision. For example, drivers should use problem-solving skills to identify potential hazards and develop strategies to avoid them. They should use their reasoning skills to weigh the risks and benefits of different actions and make the best decision. They should use their time management skills to plan and avoid rushed choices and their emotional intelligence skills to manage their own emotions and respond to the feelings of other road users.