Why can driving under pressure of time be dangerous?

Driving under pressure of time can lead to several dangerous behaviors on the road. When a driver feels rushed, they are likely to underestimate risks, which means they may not fully assess dangers like pedestrians, cyclists, or changing traffic conditions. This underestimation can lead to dangerous situations, such as collisions or sudden braking.

Additionally, a driver who is pressed for time often exceeds speed limits to save minutes, thereby increasing the likelihood of accidents. Speeding reduces the time a driver has to react to unexpected hazards and can result in more severe consequences in the event of a crash.

In contrast, defensive driving, which involves being cautious and anticipating other drivers' actions, is often neglected when someone is rushed. This means the driver may fail to maintain safe distances or might not be prepared for the unexpected, such as sudden stops or turns by other drivers.

Understanding these implications is crucial for safe driving. German traffic laws emphasize the importance of driving at appropriate speeds and maintaining attention to potential hazards, making it essential to recognize all aspects of the danger of driving under time pressure.