In high-risk situations like ambushes or roadblocks, three seconds can decide life or death for both the chauffeur and the passenger. Immediate reaction is crucial, with no room for hesitation. A professional security driver must fully understand their vehicle—its engine power, braking, tire pressure, dimensions, and structural durability. This knowledge is essential for both safety and swift decision-making under pressure.

Attackers may also assess these vehicle features to exploit weaknesses. To counter this, many security drivers customize or fine-tune their cars, improving performance and making the vehicle less predictable in dangerous situations.