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With car accidents being an almost daily occurrence on many expressways and secondary roads alike any technique that can make people safer is a good idea. All drivers learn the mechanics of how to operate a car and the laws and regulations related to having a drivers’ license before obtaining their license. Sometimes these skills aren’t enough to be completely safe. Defensive driving is a good way to improve your chances of avoiding an accident on the road.
There are several factors involved in being a good defensive driver. The place to start is with your vehicle itself. There is no need to rush out and buy a car that fit these specifications, but they are useful to keep in mind. A vehicle that has a low center of gravity and all wheel drive is helpful in maintaining a defensive driving frame of mind.
Avoid tinted windows. You don’t want anything that is going to limit your visual capability. Even the color of a car impacts its potential to be seen by other drivers. Neutral colors tend to blend into urban environments and believe it or not, red has been proven to be more difficult to see at night. Of course, you want to be sure the car is properly maintained with the correct tire pressure and fluid levels.
As far as your driving there are a few hints to remember when driving defensively. Some experts suggest using your headlights at all times, even in the sunniest weather. With visibility in mind, clean windows are an absolute must. Another thing to remember that you can control is to maintain a safe distance between your car and the one in front of you. This is especially true when following a large, semi truck. If you can’t see their side view mirrors then it is a safe bet they couldn’t see you.
Watch all activity going on. This includes other vehicles, pedestrians, and animals, absolutely anything that could move in a sudden manner. The longer you have to react, the better the chances are that you can avoid an accident. Turn signal use is important in defensive driving. Use them often and in enough time to make your intention obvious to other drivers and pedestrians. Modifying your driving skills in this manner will go a long way in helping to keep you and your passengers safe.
Of course you aren’t the only driver on the road and the actions of others definitely has bearing on your driving experience. A helpful tip to remember is to trust no one. That doesn’t mean you are the only person out there that can drive; it means people can be unpredictable. When at a stoplight, wait a second before moving through the intersection. Drivers run red lights all the time and you don’t want to get hit by someone who does.
When driving defensively it is useful to presume that the other drivers can’t see you. In other words assuming that others can see you is a dangerous practice. You have no way of knowing if something is obstructing their vision making it difficult to see your exact location. Defensive driving is all about paying attention.
You can improve your chances on the road by maintaining your vehicle, practicing good driving skills, and paying close attention to other moving objects that may cross your path. It all adds up to a safer driving experience.