When you get behind the wheel of a car these days, you have to do more than watch the road in front of you. You have to be aware of the surrounding traffic, constantly scanning for people who may be driving erratically. By taking a defensive approach to driving, you may help prevent yourself from getting into an accident or altercation with other people on the road. The following are just a few tips on how you can drive safely.
everyone's incompetent
Always keep an eye out for other drivers. Never assume other drivers know what they're doing. Always expect the worst. In blunt terms, assume that all other drivers are idiots. You will drive more defensively if you think that way.Even when going through a green light, try to watch for drivers who may be running the red light. Keep an eye on potential dangers ahead of you, like slow-moving vehicles or traffic back-ups, but also watch behind you for fast-approaching cars. When driving on the highway, be prepared for a driver who suddenly changes lanes. If necessary, give up the right of way to avoid an accident.
Remember; automakers put horns in vehicles for a reason. Many drivers continue their bad habits because people allow them to get away with them. If you honk your horn, maybe they will be embarrassed by their stupidity and will try to improve their driving.
open your eyes
Use visual scanning. I'm not just referring to watching where you're going, but also watching your side and behind you.It's also a good idea to read signs and lane markings to make sure you are in the correct lane. Always move into the proper lane well in advance of an intersection and check your blind spot before changing lanes.
In addition, watch for potential road hazards such as potholes, construction zones or stalled vehicles. Be aware of large trucks on the road and pass them quickly. Don't get caught in their blind spot.
distance and driving
Be ready for danger. Begin braking early if you see a problem ahead. This will give you more room to stop safely and will also give drivers behind you the opportunity to brake in time. If you wait until the last minute, drivers behind you may not have enough time or room to brake and may end up crashing into your vehicle.Keep a safe driving distance. Some people may remember this tip from driver's education: The correct minimal distance between you and the car in front of you is one car length per 10 miles per hour. So if you are going 50 mph, you should stay at least five car lengths behind the vehicle in front of you.
Now this obviously changes depending on weather, traffic, visibility, and other factors. The worse the conditions, the more space you should leave between you and the next vehicle. Slow down your speed in fog and at night. If someone cuts in front of you, readjust your distance.
make some room
Leave plenty of space in front of a stopped vehicle. When you have stopped, keep an eye on the traffic behind you. If you think a driver may rear-end you, flash your brake lights.When you come to a stop behind other vehicles, you should still be able to see the tires of the vehicle in front of you. If you leave this much room, you are less likely to hit the car in front of you if you get read-ended, thus avoiding a chain-reaction collision.
In addition, if the car in front of you breaks down, you can go around it without backing up. You also won't feel boxed in if someone threatening approaches your vehicle.
When entering a curve, slow down before you start turning. Always brake before you go into a curve. If you wait to brake while you are in a curve, you may cause your vehicle to skid.
belt up that seat
Always wear your seatbelt. Wear your seatbelt even if you're just going on a short trip. Studies have determined that many collisions occur close to home because when one is more familiar with the area, they pay less attention to their surroundings.Also, make sure to wear your seatbelt properly. There have been situations where some people just hold onto the belt, thinking that will be enough to protect them in a collision. Obviously, this is not true.
Make sure that no part of the belt is twisted and ensure that the buckle is properly secured. The lap part of the belt should be worn low around your hips, just touching your thighs. The belt should be worn across your chest and should not sag. In addition, keep your children secured in child's seats or properly adjusted safety belts. Remind everyone to buckle up before starting the car.
don't start a fight
Don't let rude drivers get under your skin. If someone cuts you off or is tailgating you, don't provoke them. This will only escalate the situation and could lead to deadly consequences. Keep your emotions under control.Don't ever drive after you have been drinking. This means even one drink! Even though you may not be legally impaired, you are physically impaired. Your reaction time will be slowed even with just one drink. The purpose of defensive driving is to avoid collisions whenever possible. When you drink and drive, you increase your chances of getting into an accident.
Although there are many aspects of defensive driving, it is the safest way to travel on today's busy roads. So take the time to try some of these tips and remember to be cautious and aware of other drivers while on the road.
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