Defensive Driving
Did you know driving is probably the most dangerous thing you do in a day? According to defensive driving, “Every year there are more than 5 million car accidents on U.S. roads”. Although you cannot control other drivers on the road there are things you can do to try and protect yourself on the road.
A term you should be familiar with in order to protect yourself better is defensive driving. Safe Motorist describes defensive driving as, “Defensive Driving is essentially driving in a manner that utilizes safe driving strategies to enables motorists to address identified hazards in a predictable manner”.
So what actions does defensive driving entail?
How to Drive Defensively:
- No distractions
Focus on what is in front of you—the road. Put the cellphones down, turn the radio lower, save arguments for later. It is important that you are alert incase you need to react quickly.
2. Don’t assume anything from other drivers
Expect them to make mistakes—it happens. Don’t assume they will do what you think they should do.
3. Respect other drivers
All drivers are going to make mistakes at times. Those on the road must have mutual respect and remain patient with eachother.
4. Look ahead
Look farther than what is just in front of you. If you do so you will be able to anticipate problems and have much more time to react to them.
5. Slow down
Speeding is a huge issue. Arriving sooner is never as important as arriving in one piece. Leave earlier, allow for more time to get to your destination and never rush.
6. When in doubt—yield
Even if they know the rules of the road, not everyone will follow them. Don’t expect a driver to yield for you.
7. Adjust for weather
Driving in the winter with ice and snow doesn’t look the same as driving in a warm summer month. Make the proper changes in your driving behavior to accommodate for weather changes.
8. Use safety devices if your car is equip with them
Many cars now have safety features that you should take advantage of. And of course as always everyone should be wearing their seatbelt
Driving defensive can save you from an accident, try and do so at all times when behind the wheel.
Contact: Glisson Law