Mastering Defensive Driving

Mastering Defensive Driving

No one wants to be in a car accident, yet thousands of collisions happen every year. Part of the reason is that vehicles are so powerful that there is always a level of inherent danger when you get behind the wheel. Learn defensive driving tips that can help you reduce the risk for yourself and others.

Understanding the Meaning of Defensive Driving

Sometimes the word defensive can take on a negative connotation. However, being a defensive driver is a positive thing on the road.

Defensive drivers stay alert and ready to adjust if anything unexpected occurs. When you drive defensively, you decrease the odds of a crash occurring and can reduce the resulting damage if you can’t avoid an accident.

Defensive drivers also utilize new technologies to help them stay alert. For example, if you see a new Hyundai for sale, the vehicle will have helpful features like Lane Following Assist, Downhill Braking Control, and Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist.

Appreciating Why Defensive Driving Reminders Are So Important

You’re more apt to drive defensively when you appreciate why doing so is so necessary. The more often a person does something, the easier it is to become complacent, so defensive driving reminders help everyone keep the roads safe.

Remember that car accidents can result in extensive property damage, bodily harm, and even loss of life, which add up to hundreds of billions of dollars each year. Defensive driving helps you avoid these consequences.

Driving Defensively in Daily Practice

While technology can help travelers stay safe, motorists still have the primary responsibility. The following suggestions can help.

Visibility

Stay in the habit of understanding what’s going on all around your vehicle. Start by putting your rearview and side mirrors in a position where you can easily see what’s happening behind you. Also, ensure your headlights are in good working order.

As you drive, you should scan your mirrors and sides every few moments. Regularly viewing your surroundings helps you anticipate and avert a crash. Additionally, reduce any distractions in your vehicle, whether from fellow passengers, food, or electronic devices.

Space

A key aspect of defensive driving is leaving sufficient space around your vehicle. Never follow other vehicles too closely. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least three seconds of travel time between you and other cars in dry conditions, but twice that amount of time in wet conditions or if you’re in a large vehicle.

You should also avoid traveling in tight groups of vehicles or riding right alongside other automobiles for long periods. Pass others quickly. If someone is tailgating you, allow them to pass safely if they wish to do so.

Communication

Make yourself and your intentions clear to other drivers. Using your headlights at dawn, in precipitation, or at dusk helps others see you.

Also, use your signals far enough in advance for others to know when you plan to turn or change lanes. If someone doesn’t see you and is about to hit you, honk your horn to get their attention.

Making the Roads Safer for All Through Defensive Driving

Defensive driving makes everyone safer and saves you money on health care, repairs, and insurance. Take a few moments today to consider how you can drive more defensively before getting on the road. https://oncavip.com