Whether you’re a newly-passed driver or a seasoned driver, you may have heard the term ‘being a defensive driver,’ and perhaps you’re looking to learn more about what that means. There’s never a bad time to learn more about how to drive safely, even if you feel as though you have safe driving skills already. Brushing up on your driving safety and learning more about defensive driving can always help at any stage of your driving journey.
Why is Driving More Defensively Important?
Driving defensively is all about reducing the risk on the road — both for your own safety and the safety of other drivers. It’s about being more aware of the dangers and risks of the road and making yourself better prepared to avoid them, as well as knowing what to do in the event of an emergency. Defensive driving is also key to proper and safe car maintenance to avoid any accidents.
How to Drive More Defensively
Here are some top tips.
Eliminate Every Distraction
You’ll know as a driver what distracts you the most, so be sure to set up a distraction-free zone for yourself when driving. Put any technology out of site, and be sure to get rid of any large accessories which block your view. If you’re traveling with others, be vocal about when you need to concentrate or pull over if something is too distracting, like a child in the backseat wanting your attention.
Don’t Expect Others on the Road to be Safe Drivers
The worst thing you can do on the road is be too trusting of other drivers and presume that they are going to drive safely. You can’t rely on other vehicles to adhere to safe road practices, even if you are. That’s why it’s always imperative to pay attention to what’s happening on the road in regard to other drivers. Never presume that a driver is going to slow down, that they’re not going to pull out, that they’re going to signal properly, or even that they’re going to stop at a red light. Always expect the worst in order to remain safe.
Reckless drivers can easily involve you in accidents, even if you are driving legally and safely. You can find the right support, like Peoria car accident lawyer opportunities, if you do become involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault.
Invest in Safety
Think ahead by kitting out your car with the latest safety gear or by investing more in a safer model. Think about additions like airbags, a parking camera, and an alarm system. Also, be sure to get dependent family extras where applicable, like secure booster seats.
Learn When to Give in
You may know that you are right — such as having the right of way — but if another driver thinks you’re wrong, it’s better to let them pass and save an accident. If you’re driving the speed limit, but someone is wrongly tailgating, let them pass to save any issues.
Use these tips to make sure you’re always driving defensively.
