There are many needed skills involved with driving a motor vehicle. As time goes on and the technological advances in vehicle manufacturing increases, it seems as though less and less human skill is needed behind the wheel.

This new technology includes auto emergency braking, skid control, auto steer, voice navigation, auto driving lights, backup cameras, sight assist, auto wipers, etc. There are actually many more.

Autonomous cars are here as well, although I’d rather not offer my thoughts on these right now.

Many of the systems being put into place are designed to increase your safety. Some are merely for your convenience.

Relying solely on these features and advancements can be dangerous. We are still responsible and accountable for operating the vehicle and need to pay attention to what we are doing. Even if you are paying attention, I can guarantee many others are not.

When I first began driving, a man who I greatly respected gave me a piece of advice: “Assume that everyone else out there on the road is a complete idiot.”

Obviously my father is not one to mince words. However, I believe he gave me sound advice. He was right, because I’ve seen them out there and have learned to drive defensively. Because of this, I’ve been able to avoid quite a few crashes.

My point with this is simple — don’t rely on automotive technologies to keep you out of a jam. Drive the car and pay attention, and remember these defensive driving tips:

•Don’t assume that just because you have the green light, that you can proceed through the intersection.

•Don’t assume that the oncoming vehicle is going to stay in its lane — they may be texting out their grocery list.

•Don’t assume the guy driving down the road with his blinker on is actually going to make a turn.

•Don’t assume that people have their headlights on, even driving through a blizzard.

•Don’t assume the carload in front of you won’t slam on the brakes and stop dead in the road just because they spotted a garage sale.

These are just a few examples obviously, but I assure you that they are pretty common occurrences. These people are still out there.

Protect yourself and drive defensively. Teach it to your kids, before it becomes a lost art.

Matt Djerf is the community service trooper for the Michigan State Police-Calumet Post.