Good driving is the result of having a solid driving technique and practices that will keep you at maximum safety on the road. Being a defensive driver with a car insurance is the perfect combination for a commuter like you!
On the road, you cannot control the actions of the people you share the streets with – however, you do have complete control over your vehicle. Driving defensively is the surefire way of combining tactics, precautions, and safety techniques that greatly reduces someone’s probability of being in a collision.
Traits defensive drivers have
1. Defensive drivers focus on the task at hand.
Nothing will ever distract them from driving and their eyes are always on the road. Cellphones, music, adjustments, or discussions with passengers will be sound out or avoided to keep maximum focus on driving.
2. They expect other drivers to commit mistakes on the road.
The only person you should trust is your own, everyone else is a risk. So make decisions based on this premise.
3. Safe drivers keep their speed at the speed limit.
The higher your acceleration is, the longer it takes for the brakes to take effect – leaving you in a more vulnerable position if there is a collision. Drive with the flow of traffic.
4. Wherever they go, the seat belt is always worn by everyone in the car.
Even if it’s just a quick run to the grocery, seat belts must always be worn. There are plenty of cases where people could have lived had they worn seat belts.
5. They always yield on confusing road situations.
When in doubt, you yield to the other driver. This shows your cautiousness and patience. It is better to waste a few seconds waiting than to get in a collision.
6. Drivers follow the traffic lights and stop when it’s red.
Slow down before each intersection and see the traffic lights properly in case of the glaring sun or a heavy rain. No matter how much you’re hurrying, you should never risk your life and your passengers’.
7. They inform other drivers through their blinkers.
Signaling in advance to other motorists about your actions on the road can avoid confusion. Being predictable and smooth will help other drivers decide better on their end.
8. Defensive drivers know road rage is not worth it.
The drivers that cut you off or almost hit you is a stranger, and they can be just anyone. The safest option is to overlook the offense as long as they did not harm you and your vehicle.
9. Staying safe on the road means not tailgating.
Rear-end collisions are completely avoidable if people do not tailgate. It is completely avoidable by having proper distance between you and the car ahead.
10. They keep an eye on their blind spots.
While doing this, you must be careful and avoid going on other vehicles’ blind spots. Especially on large heavy-duty 10-wheelers and up.
11. Safe drivers drive only when they’re sober and in a sane mind.
Being sick, sleepy, and drunk can alter your response and thinking skills on the road. Steer clear of the wheel when you are either of these 3 to avoid endangering yourself and others.
12. Defensive drivers know they have to adjust for the bad weather.
You must take extra precaution when the weather is lowering road visibility. Add more space between you and other vehicles, slow down to help with your response time in case something is blocking the road, and be alert just in case there is road debris scattered.
13. They maintain their vehicle.
Tires must be taken care of, inflated, and replaced when they do hold friction on the ground. Oil changes and engine checks limit the chances of your car breaking down in the middle of nowhere.
14. Headlights are being adjusted according to the situation.
When you’re alone on the road or its relatively low traffic, use your high beam when necessary. Turn them off for opposite drivers and if you’re behind another vehicle.
15. They have a safe solution to tailgaters.
You put additional distance between you and the tailgater by using the space there is between you and the car ahead. This gives you more road visibility and more time to react in case of a collision.
16. Look beyond your vehicle’s immediate field of view.
Have a feel for drivers who are behaving strangely, look ahead on an intersection, and observe for possible debris on the highway.
Integrate these 16 traits into your driver persona, and you will become part of the better drivers who are safe, responsible, and polite.