Driving brings freedom, and depending on where you live, it’s a necessity. Many drivers need their cars to commute to work, stores, and appointments. Roads are often unpredictable because there are always potential hazards lurking. Driver safety is paramount, not only for you but for everyone on the road. This article furnishes valuable tips to enhance your driving skills to keep everyone safe on the road.
1. Maintain Your Vehicle
When focused on staying safe on the road and getting back home at the end of the day, keeping your vehicle well-maintained is critical. Some aspect to consider is to include systematic and regular service for your vehicle. Don’t overlook brakes, tires, and fluids. When you disregard maintenance needs, you may find yourself stuck with a breakdown. You may also find that a lack of proper maintenance can lead to accidents.
2. Drive Defensively
You have to pay attention to everything that’s happening on the road while you drive. The best way to drive is to always be prepared for anything to happen. To protect yourself, you want to maintain a safe distance, chiefly when there is bad weather or heavy congestion. You have plenty of reaction time when you give yourself enough space.
An integral piece of defensive driving is your focus. When you are distracted, there is a higher chance you will be in an accident. There are an average of six million car accidents in the U.S. every year. Avoid activities like eating, texting, and even playing with the radio to help maintain focus on the roads. If something urgent pops up, it’s always better to move over and stop in a safe place.
3. Take Precautions in Parking Lots
Surprisingly, 20% of car accidents happen in parking lots and garages, according to MotorBiscuit. In a parking lot, you have to maneuver through tight spaces, and there tends to be constant movement. This situation requires you to be vigilant. Your head needs to be on a swivel to see pedestrians, stray shopping carts, and other vehicles.
While you may obey all traffic rules when on the road, they also apply to parking lots. This includes adhering to speed limits, traffic signals, and road signs. Even in a parking lot, these rules are critical for your safety.
4. Consider the Economics of it All
If you’ve been in a car accident, you know they can have severe financial repercussions. According to Bankrate, the costs for fatal and disabling car accidents in 2020 were staggering, as much as $1,750,000. Understanding these costs include administrative expenses, loss of wages, medical injuries, and vehicle damage. Seeing these costs can motivate you to drive safely, not only to protect your physical well-being but also to safeguard your financial stability.
5. Avoid Impaired Driving
You want to ensure that you never drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any substances that can impair your judgment. In the event that you consume alcohol, arrange for a designated driver or use public transportation to get home safely.
It would be best if you also kept in mind that driving at night can be more challenging due to reduced visibility. If needed, limit your nighttime driving and take extra precautions when you do. One such step is ensuring your headlights are properly aligned.
You have responsibilities as a driver. It goes further than just arriving back home safely. You are responsible for every action you take while behind the wheel of the car. As a result, you should prioritize safety, be attentive, and take proactive measures to protect yourself and others on the road.
