In these threads it feels like you are not reading what they are saying, or at least reading it in the least charitable way. Defensive driving simply means to

In these threads it feels like you are not reading what they are saying, or at least reading it in the least charitable way. Defensive driving simply means to not assume drivers are going to take an action until they give evidence of it. If a driver is going to stop at an intersection, they will slow down before they get to the intersection. A defensive driver approaching a crossing with other cars approaching will look for evidence that the other cars are slowing down before assuming that they will stop. If a car is stopped at a pedestrian crossing and a defensive pedestrian is looking to cross, they will look for evidence the car is about to accelerate into the crossing. They don't assume the car will suddenly accelerate for no reason, because there is no evidence that they would! Evidence that they may suddenly accelerate includes things like looking down at their phone, or not looking at pedestrians. If the defensive pedestrian sees that evidence they approach the crossing with caution, ready to take evasive action or not enter the crossing if needed. Right-of-way tells everyone who has the right of way, it makes the expected behaviour clear. Assuming that everyone else will do what you expect them to do is extremely dangerous, as even without malice or carelessness it's very easy for each invloved party to have different assumptions about the expected bahviour. So, to be defensive it's important to - have a well informed understanding of what you think should happen - look for evidence that all parties are acting in accordance with what you think should happen - be prepared to change your actions if any party does not act in accordance with what you think should happen