No matter your age or driving experience, you can always benefit from sound defensive driving tips. Defensive driving is a set of behaviors and habits you exercise to protect yourself on the road. These habits keep you alert and cautious, reducing accidents and avoiding dangerous situations.
This type of driving is not only for new drivers. Even seasoned drivers can benefit from defensive driving advice because it's about being aware of what’s going on around you to stay a step ahead of any trouble. This is the best way to stay safe.
Below, we share our top four defensive driving tips that will make you a better driver, reduce accidents, and protect you and your passengers wherever you go.
Top defensive driving tips for road safety
1. Prepare for the road
Make sure you have a clear mind before you drive. This means getting plenty of rest and having no drugs or alcohol in your system. You'll also want to keep your vehicle in decent shape. If it needs repair or maintenance, take care of that before driving. If you don’t have a properly functioning vehicle, you won’t be able to control it in the way you need to if danger arises.
Also, consider adding a car emergency kit to your trunk. This kit should contain essentials such as first aid supplies, a flashlight and nonperishable food. It will come in handy if your vehicle breaks down and you have to wait for help to arrive.
2. Eliminate distractions
It’s always good practice to drive distraction-free, but it can be easy to fall into distractions while on the road. Put technology, such as mobile phones, aside from when driving. If it helps, leave your phone on silent or hide it in the glove compartment.
Try not to multitask while driving. Avoid eating or engaging in complex discussions with passengers that will take your mind off what’s in front of you.
3. Pay attention to other drivers
When driving, you have to focus on what you’re doing and other drivers too. So be mindful of your surroundings and other drivers. Expect that another vehicle can suddenly stop, fail to signal, abruptly change lanes, swerve or even tailgate. Avoid tailgating other vehicles so you have enough space to react properly in these situations.
Also, watch out for other drivers’ blind spots and stay away from them. This is an easy way to avoid major accidents. In sum, keep your eyes ahead, and you’ll clearly catch these issues when they surface.
4. Consider the rules
Display safe driving behavior by following the rules of the road. Start by always wearing your seatbelt, which will increase your chances of survival if you get into an accident. Stay within the speed limit. Not only will it keep other drivers safe, but it will give you more time to react in a dangerous situation.
Other rules to keep in mind are staying in your lane and signaling properly when changing lanes. Also, it's wise to understand traffic signs and lights and respond to them correctly.
Defensive driving starts with you, then your vehicle
Following these defensive driving tips will surely make you a smarter driver and keep you safer on the road. But without a reliable, efficient vehicle that’s regularly maintained, you’ll still be unprepared when problems show up.
At Mike Duman Auto Superstore, we have a large inventory of quality, top-rated vehicles that provide everything you need to drive and react properly behind the wheel. And if you’re just looking for a qualified technician to keep your vehicle in shape, our highly experienced factory-trained technicians offer a variety of services, such as repairs and service updates.
Contact us today to set up your next maintenance visit or check out our online inventory to find a vehicle that will aid you in defensive driving.
