A study once deduced that nearly 90% of car accidents are caused by human error. Don’t let yourself become one of the statistics!
By practicing defensive driving techniques, you will become a better driver, and create a safer environment on the road for you and others around you.
Are you a defensive driver? Read on to find out!
1. Leave the Road Rage at Home
Anger can make us all do things we later regret. Even if someone is driving below the speed limit, or pulled out in front of you, or cut you off, do NOT let it make you flustered. Letting situations like that get the best of you means you will not be focusing on other things that are happening on the road, which can put you in a dangerous position.
While on the road, you don’t have anything to prove except to drive as safely as possible. If that means letting someone in your line even though they clearly tried to cut ahead, let them. Your safety and the safety of others around you is more important.
2. Leave Space and Brake Early
One of the rules of defensive driving is leaving plenty of space between you and the car in front of you. The more space you have in between yourself and the car in front of you, the more reaction time you will have if someone in front of you brakes quickly.
It might feel like you are getting to your destination more quickly to wait until the last minute to stop or to ride the tail of the car in front of you, but in reality, it only increases the chance of you getting into a car accident.
Leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you, and begin slowing early when coming up to stoplights and signs.
3. Stay Alert and Aware
Defensive driving requires you to completely focus on the task at hand: getting yourself and your passengers safely from point A to point B. NEVER look at your phone while you are driving. And if you would like to be playing music, get that all set up before you put your car into gear.
Staying alert also means that you have planned and are well-rested before getting into the car. Studies show that sleep-deprived drivers have the same tendencies as those who are drunk.
Always be scanning your surroundings and paying attention to the drivers around you. If you see any drivers that seem like they are swerving, making illegal turns, driving with their lights off at night, or braking too fast without warning. Stay WELL away.
Detecting a troubled driver before you are too close can save your life, and even theirs. Slow down to give them space ahead of you, or even pull over and let them pass if they are behind you. If you are very concerned about their actions on the road, you can call the police and let them know what you are witnessing.
Will You Put These Defensive Driving Tips Into Practice?
Defensive driving can save your life or the lives of others around you. It will take practice, and patience…as well as maybe leaving a few minutes early so you don’t feel rushed! If you feel you can’t do this on your own, consider going to defensive driving school, or taking a defensive driving course. You won’t regret it!
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