In just about every scenario, being proactive is much better than being reactive to a situation. This is especially true when it comes to driving. You may have the right of way, but it is better to avoid an accident no matter what than to be in one even being in the right.
Defensive driving habits are essential when it comes to staying safe on the road. As any car injury lawyer can attest to, an accident claim can be as painful as the injuries themselves from an accident and is best avoided. If you aren’t careful, you may even be found partly at fault.
In this arctic, we will go over some defensive driving tips to make a part of your driving habits so you can avoid a costly accident
Don’t be distracted
Driving while distracted is one of the biggest dangers on the road. In fact. Texting while driving is just as much of a danger as drinking and driving is. Though, texting isn’t the only way to become distracted while you are behind the wheel.
Taking phone calls and sending texts can take your eyes off the road for a few seconds which is just long enough to drift into another lane or even off of the road entirely. If you have an urgent call or text, then find a place to safely pull off of the road to take it. Otherwise, it is not important enough to risk the life of others and your own so wait until you’ve reached your destination to respond.
You should also avoid eating while driving as a split second reaction will be impossible and can end up causing an accident. Even if it wouldn’t have been your fault, you will be held partly responsible since you were not actively driving.
Scan the road
It isn’t just important to keep your eyes on the road and not on your phone, but to also be looking intently at what is happening all around you. Look ahead at what is coming up such as intersections and parking lots where cars are exiting.
Looking behind you is also important. Every few seconds you should be taking a quick look into your mirrors to see what is happening all around you. You could be getting passed and not realize since they are in your blind spot, but if you have been checking your mirrors then you understand where every car around you is.
Give them space
Giving some space to the car ahead of you gives you enough time to brake in case there is something that happens aheads of you. Things can happen quickly so leave a few car lengths ahead of you depending on your speed.
Look at what is happening ahead of the car in front of you so you can anticipate when you need to start braking. If you see a yellow light then brake even before you see the brake lights activate from the car in front.