What is the term for actions taken to avoid a hazard?

The term for actions taken to avoid a hazard is "evasive action." This concept refers to specific maneuvers or behaviors aimed at preventing a potentially dangerous situation from escalating. Evasive actions are typically proactive and designed to navigate around obstacles or hazards rather than directly confronting them, emphasizing the importance of quick thinking and adaptive responses in situations that pose risks.

While defensive driving involves safe driving practices to prevent accidents and may incorporate elements of evasive tactics, it is a broader approach focused on overall safety rather than specifically avoiding hazards in the moment. Proactive response generally refers to planning and taking preventive measures before hazards arise, which, while related, doesn't encompass the immediate actions taken to evade an existing threat. Reckless behavior, conversely, describes actions taken that disregard safety and increase risk, standing in contrast to the thoughtful and careful nature of evasive actions.