In Young Drivers we were taught to choose positions at the intersection which offer an escape route (or to make space by leaving space), and to monitor our rear

In Young Drivers we were taught to choose positions at the intersection which offer an escape route (or to make space by leaving space), and to monitor our rear view mirrors as part of our scanning the intersection and to use the route when needed. Defensive driving isn't perfect, but can mitigate quite a few of risks posed by distracted drivers or buggy autonomous driving technology.