Defensive Driving Techniques That Can Save Lives
Yes, you may have gotten your driver’s license when you were 16 years old, but what training have you had since then? Probably none. Once a person gets their license, they gain experience by driving on the roadways.
However, navigating the road is not always smooth sailing, even if you have done it hundreds of times. People drive erratically. They may be drunk or speeding. Maybe they are having a medical emergency or have fallen asleep while behind the wheel. There could be hazards in the roadway, like deer, fallen trees, wood, boxes, damaged tires, or even pedestrians.
Because of this, it’s important to know how to drive defensively. You need to be prepared to take quick and evasive action to avoid accidents and stay safe. Here are some tips to keep in mind.
Stay Alert
Always keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. Avoid distractions such as texting, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving. Be well-rested before driving, as drowsiness can slow reaction times and impair judgment. Continuously scan your surroundings, including checking mirrors frequently to be aware of nearby vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.
Maintain a Safe Following Distance
Follow the three-second rule: Choose a stationary object ahead and ensure at least three seconds pass before you reach it after the car in front passes. Increase the following distance in poor weather, heavy traffic, or at high speeds. This space allows extra time to react to sudden braking or unexpected road conditions.
Scan the Road Ahead
Look 10 to 15 seconds ahead rather than just focusing on the car in front of you. Watch for brake lights, erratic drivers, pedestrians, and debris on the road. Be mindful of intersections, construction zones, and areas where animals or bicyclists may be present.
Expect the Unexpected
Assume that other drivers might make mistakes and be ready to react. Watch for sudden lane changes, drivers running red lights, or vehicles stopping abruptly. Be cautious in parking lots and near driveways, where vehicles may enter the roadway unexpectedly.
Follow Speed Limits
Keep in mind that speed limits are set based on road conditions, visibility, and traffic patterns, so exceeding them increases stopping distances and accident risks. Adjust your speed based on weather conditions (rain, snow, fog), construction zones, and heavy traffic.
Use Turn Signals
Signal at least 100 feet before turning or changing lanes to alert other drivers. Check mirrors and blind spots before making a move. Avoid last-minute lane changes or sudden turns, which can confuse or surprise other drivers.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
While it’s important to be predictable when driving, sometimes other motorists are not, so you need to be prepared to drive defensively.
The roadways can be difficult to navigate with so many other drivers and hazards. Sometimes accidents happen. Get the help you need from a Houston car accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC. We can assess your accident, ensure you get medical treatment, guide you through the claims process, calculate losses, determine liability, and more. Fill out the online form or call (281) 347-3247 to schedule a consultation.
Source:
hsi.com/blog/15-rules-of-defensive-driving
