At least 77% of traffic accidents are because of driver error.
Being a safe driver is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health, your family, and yourself. Following the rules of the road can help you avoid accidents, injuries, and even death.
There are many ways to be a safe driver. The more you know about what causes accidents and how to avoid them, the better.
Here are some driving tips you can follow to become a better driver.
1. Wears a Seatbelt
Wearing a seatbelt can help prevent serious injuries in the event of a car accident.
Seatbelts work by reducing the impact on your body during a crash. So, you’ll be less likely to suffer from broken bones or internal bleeding.
In addition, wearing a seatbelt could save your life. It helps keep you inside the car so you don’t get thrown out during an accident and injured by debris or another vehicle.
2. Keeps Their Eyes on the Road
Driving can be a dangerous activity. You need to always be alert and pay attention to what’s going on around you.
If you take your eyes off the road for too long, it can lead to an accident.
You should only use your cell phone in a car if it’s hands-free and voice-activated. That way, you can keep both hands on the wheel while still being able to make calls or send texts.
3. Maintains a Safe Distance
Keeping a safe distance between yourself and other vehicles is important.
If you get too close, you could cause an accident. You should always leave at least one car’s length between your vehicle and the car in front of you.
This will give you time to react if they suddenly stop or slow down unexpectedly.
4. Regularly Maintains Their Vehicle
Keeping your car in good condition is important.
If your vehicle is making strange noises or having issues with its performance, take it to a mechanic right away. Regularly changing the oil, filters and other fluids can also help prevent major problems down the road.
You should also check your tires, lights, and other important components. If you find something wrong, fix it as soon as possible.
5. Uses Turn Signals
Turn signals are a way to communicate with other drivers on the road.
They help you let others know where you are going and when you plan on turning. Use them whenever you plan on changing lanes, turning, or merging onto another road.
Be careful not to use your turn signal too often or for no reason at all. This could be dangerous and confusing for other drivers who need to know where you are going.
6. Keeps a Lookout for Pedestrians
Pedestrians are one of the most vulnerable groups on the road. If a pedestrian is crossing the street, give them plenty of room and slow down.
Don’t honk at or yell at pedestrians who are walking on the sidewalk or in crosswalks. This could startle them and cause an accident.
7. Avoids Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving refers to any behavior that puts other drivers in danger.
You should never tailgate, cut off other drivers, or follow too closely behind another vehicle. Avoid making quick turns without signaling first and changing lanes without using your turn signal.
You should also avoid speeding and weaving in and out of traffic. If you have been in an accident with an aggressive driver, contact this Car Accident Chiropractor.
8. Stays Alert and Focused
It’s important to stay alert and focused when you are driving.
Be aware of your surroundings so that you can react quickly if needed. If you are tired, stressed, or distracted by something else, it’s best not to drive.
If you cannot safely drive, call a car service or have someone else drive you where you need to go.
9. Adjusts Driving to Weather
Certain types of weather can affect how you drive.
If it is raining, snowing, or foggy outside, slow down and be more careful. Be prepared for dangerous driving conditions like ice and snow.
If possible, do not travel during times of inclement weather unless it is an emergency.
10. Checks Their Blind Spots
Be sure to check your blind spots before making turns or changing lanes. If there is another car in one of your blind spots, it can cause an accident if you do not see them.
If your vehicle has a blind spot mirror, use it to help you see what is around you. You can also check your blind spots by turning your head slightly while driving.
11. Never Drives Under the Influence
Driving impaired by alcohol or drugs is a major cause of car accidents.
A person’s reaction times may be slower and they may not see as well. They may also miss important cues like stop signs or lights.
If you are going to drink, do not drive or take drugs. Take a cab, call a sober friend, or use public transportation.
Driving under the influence is against the law in all states and results in jail time or fines.
12. Remains Calm
Driving while stressed or angry can be dangerous. If a driver is upset, they may react too quickly to things that happen on the road.
This can cause them to swerve into another lane or brake suddenly at an intersection. Try to remain calm when driving and do not take things personally from other drivers.
If you feel stressed out or angry, take a break from driving and walk around for a few minutes. You can also try to use deep breathing techniques to calm down before getting back in the driver’s seat.
Follow These Tips to Be a Safe Driver
Being a safe driver is more than just knowing how to drive.
It’s also about having the right attitude and being able to control your emotions when you’re behind the wheel. With these tips, you can become a better driver and keep yourself safe on the road.
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