Smith System (driving) explained

The Smith System is a defensive driving strategy^[1] created in 1952 by Harold L. Smith.^{[2] [3]} Smith's goal was to increase the safety of commercial drivers.^[2] After he opened the Safeway Driving School in Detroit in 1948,^[4] Smith established the Smith System Driver Improvement Institute in 1952.

The Smith System is built around five driving habits:^{[2] [5]}

1. Aim high in steering — stay alert to traffic and dangers
2. Get the big picture – be aware of your surroundings
3. Keep your eyes moving – constant eye movement helps keep you alert
4. Leave yourself an out – do not allow other drivers to box you in
5. Make sure they see you – remove assumptions about other drivers

The company remains active, headquartered in Arlington, Texas.^[6] The company claims that it has trained drivers from more than half of the Fortune 500 companies.^[7]

External links

• DriveDifferent.com
• The Smith System of Driving w/ Harold Smith 1968 via YouTube

Notes and References

1. News: Company Teaches Its Employees to Drive Defensively—and Live . . E-16 . November 26, 1961 . May 6, 2023 . newspapers.com.
2. Web site: 5 Key Rules of the Smith System of Driving . topdriver.com . November 7, 2018 . May 6, 2023.
3. News: Plan Has Phone Drivers 'Read' Possible Road Risks . . . 21 . April 5, 1960 . May 6, 2023 . newspapers.com.
4. Web site: About Our History . drivedifferent.com . May 6, 2023.
5. News: Mrs. W. C. Scott Discusses Safe Driving For Civic Club Members . . . 14 . March 29, 1959 . May 6, 2023 . newspapers.com.
6. Web site: Team Our History . drivedifferent.com . May 6, 2023.
7. Web site: About . drivedifferent.com . May 6, 2023.