Tips for driving defensively!

I know we have all heard this before... Generally from the insurance company or driving schools. If you have or haven't taken a class or just need a refresher; here are some useful tips for the road!

There are many dangers on the road between bad weather, damaged roads, bad drivers, stray animals or pedestrians. Many of these can not be helped. But bad drivers, although their actions can not be controlled, you may be able to avoid an accident by driving defensively.

Stay attentive and alert: This means no sleepy driving, no using electronics, making sure your passengers are not bothering you, no drugs or alcohol prior to or while driving, etc.

Pay attention: To your surroundings, your car and other drivers. Take notice of patterns of other drivers and you may even be able to predict their next, possibly careless, move. By paying attention to them, you can give yourself some time if it seems like the person might cut you off and cause an accident.

Check your mirrors

Remember what your mirrors are for... checking on others cars and objects. Keep an eye on how far or close they are to you, especially while stopped. Other drivers may not notice you're stopped and hit you. Don't assume anything from other drivers!

Always be on the look out for people under the influence. If there are people driving noticeably slow and swerving, avoid these people at all costs. Go a different route or pass them. If they seem especially reckless, pull over and phone the police.

 

Driving while tired can have the same effect as a drunk driver. Get yourself some coffee, some form of caffeine or maybe something small to munch on to keep you alert. If you notice, as a passenger, that the driver is falling asleep offer to drive if you can or pull over.

Always look ahead: That means not just the car in front of you, but all the cars in front of you. If you notice a car or cars that are braking and the person in front of you does not, you should know to start braking to. The person in front of you may not be paying attention.




Avoid road rage: Driving can be maddening at times, but trying to stay calm and keep a clear head can really do wonders for your driving record. Also, driving in a rush and tailgating people may only hurt you in the end. Generally, the car that has been rear ended is not at fault. So that can leave you with a ticket, points on your license, increased insurance premiums and/or a possible lawsuit. None of that seems worth it. Try to keep a car or two's length in between yourself and the cars in front of you. Driving fast poses the same hazardous as very slow drivers.
 


Have a plan: If you do find yourself in a possible accident, always check for an escape route. You should look to your sides to see if there's a clear path or lane to move. But do not accidentally drive into oncoming traffic. Swerving is also an option too, if clear.

Blind spots

Try not to be in another car's blind spot. Either speed up or slow down, they might not double check to see if its safe before making a move and side swipe you.

Keep these in mind: You must remember that, although driving a car is very normal to most people, it is still tons of metal that can seriously injure or kill yourself or others. The car should be thought of as a weapon, used with caution and care.

Buckle up!

  

Wear your seat belt!

Drive the speed limit!

Always use turn signals! 

Check for working head/tail lamps!

And in bad weather, everything needs to be slowed down immensely. Check out this blog to learn more on how to drive in inclement weather.