Defensive Driving

Defensive Driving

            Learning to be a defensive driver is essential in becoming a good driver. When you are a defensive driver, you are ready for whatever happens. You are cautious and do not depend on other drivers to control what happens. You should always think safety first. Avoid aggressive driving and leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you. Always wear your seatbelt too, it could save your life if you happen to be in an accident. You should always pay attention. Scan ahead of you to predict what might happen and take action to make sure there is no accident. Get off the roadway if you are near a dangerous driver that is worrying you. Never depend on other drivers. Look out for yourself first, but be considerate of others. Do not assume that another driver is going to do the right thing, always prepare just in case they do the wrong thing. Follow the four second rule. When following another car, trail them by at least four seconds. Always keep your speed down. Speed limits apply to ideal conditions, however if conditions are not favorable, like if it’s raining, decrease your speed because the conditions are not ideal, and it provides less risk of an accident. Always separate your risks. While driving, you should avoid from having too many risks factors that could lead to an accident. If you can’t avoid it, separate the risks so that you will have the least risky situation. Always cut out distractions. Distractions can affect your driving and your attitude toward driving. This includes other people in the car and texting, eating, drinking, etc. Stay focused. You have a lot to think about while driving. You have road conditions, speed, traffic laws, signs and signals, being aware of others, etc. Stay focused on driving. If someone cuts you off, don’t get angry cause your attitude will affect you driving. Stay alert. You never know what could happen on the roadway, so be alert of other drivers and conditions. 90% of crashes are because of driver error. Being a defensive driver limits out most of these errors and you have a less chance of crashing.