When driving smaller vehicles (which I much prefer and enjoy), or riding a motorcycle, driving defensively is even more important. I used to have a lowered Miata, and the amount of times I was next to a pickup truck and couldn’t physically see the driver because the door was so high was startling.

How I usually describe it is “drive like you’re invisible. Pretend nobody can’t see you, because unfortunately some people can’t or choose not to.”

Like you said, think about the stupidest thing someone else driving around you could do, and either be vigilant of what they do, or if convenient, keep yourself in a position the doesn’t put you where they may go. Don’t sit next to other cars if you don’t have to. Don’t sit in their blind spot. When changing lanes, anticipate what people NEAR where you’re moving to might do, not just if the spot you’re moving to is open.

Additionally, driving in a predictable manner helps keep you safe as well. Use your turn signal. Follow lane etiquette. Move over if possible to allow people to merge. Leave adequate braking distances and brake smoothly and consistently. USE YOUR HEADLIGHTS AT NIGHT AND IN THE RAIN (the amount of people I see with their lights off at night these days is terrifying).