Even if you are a safe driver, there is still no guarantee that you won’t get into an accident. With so many other vehicles on the road, you have no idea when something they do can affect you and your car in an accident.
Even though you can’t control the actions of other drivers, you can use defensive driving techniques that can further protect you from other drivers:
Always Anticipate Danger
Anticipating danger doesn’t mean that you have to be in a constant state of anxiety over a potential accident when driving, it simply means that you should be prepared in case an accident does occur.
In order to best prepare yourself, be aware of everything happening in front of you. Are you near a car that is weaving through the lanes at a high speed? Is the driver in the car in front of you on their phone? Is the car behind you driving too close? Be aware of this behavior, and try and move away if you feel unsafe.
Avoid Internal Distractions
One of the most important rules of driving in a safe manner is to avoid any distractions that come from the car internally. These distractions involve talking on your phone or texting, talking to your passengers, or focusing on radio channels more than you should.
You can enjoy a conversation with your passengers or listen to music when you’re driving, just make sure that it doesn’t distract you from the road.
Extreme Care in Heavy Traffic
Heavy traffic can be hard to manage whether you are a new or seasoned driver. Emotions flare, people become angry and anxious and road rage can precipitate. However, this is where you have to show extreme care on the road. Make sure that you always have a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you and that you have your eyes on the road at all times, even when you don’t think you have to.
Keep Away from Semi-Truck
Large vehicles such as semi-trucks can be difficult to drive, even for seasoned professionals. Knowing this, you should maintain your safe distance from them, give them the space they need to maneuver or change lanes. Most importantly, do not cut them off, allow ample time before passing them and use extra caution during inclement weather.
Both Hands on the Wheel
You might think you look cool with one hand on the steering wheel, but you need to have both hands steering for optimal safety. This holds true for every driver. Controlling the steering wheel requires all your attention.