Quick Defensive Driving Tips to Consider

No matter if you’re a new driver or have been behind the wheel for years, defensive driving is one of the most crucial skills a driver can learn. Knowing the basics of defensive driving can be the determining factor in whether you are safe on the road or not. Though many claim to be talented drivers, overconfident and aggressive people populate the streets and make things worse for everyone. Avoid the common pitfalls of driving and learn the essentials of driving defensively by reading these tips and taking a driver education course.

Watch for Hazards and Maintain a Safe Distance

Defensive drivers know how to take in their surroundings while driving and recognize potential problems. Road hazards that you should look out for include potholes, pedestrians, construction zones, and other unsafe drivers. Noticing these threats, however, isn’t enough. A central part of driving defensively is keeping a safe distance away from the driver in front of you. If you notice someone driving dangerously on the road with you, maintain a reasonable distance between their car and yours. This will help you to avoid an accident caused by the other driver’s carelessness.

Keep Your Cool

Aggressive drivers are the most dangerous ones on the road. If someone is driving aggressively or emotionally, they aren’t able to make rational decisions that affect their safety and the safety of everyone around them. When you encounter an aggressive driver on the road, remain calm, and stay a sensible distance away from them.

Limit Distractions

One of the most common causes of car accidents is distracted driving. Though you may not be able to get rid of everything that may distract you while on the road, you can reduce them. Don’t look at your phone while driving, ask your passenger to change the radio station, and ensure you are well-rested before getting on the road.

Stay Out of Heavy Traffic

Driving during rush hour when traffic is at its worst can be difficult for new drivers who have yet to master defensive driving. The stop-and-go nature of heavy traffic can be difficult to manage and is often the time of day when most accidents occur. While you are still learning how to drive defensively, it’s best to avoid traveling in dense traffic.

Follow the Rules of the Road

Laws exist for a reason: to protect you and the other drivers on the road. A huge part of defensive driving is following the laws that apply when behind the wheel. Even something as basic as following the speed limit can make a huge difference.

Always Check Your Blind Spots

One of your most important responsibilities as a driver is being aware of your blind spots. Anytime you turn, reverse, parallel park, or switch lanes, you must first check your blind spots. Turning to check your blind spots can be dangerous as it takes your attention away from the road in front of you. This is why you must also be aware of other driver’s blind spots too, so you can stay out of that area.

Take a Class

Everyone could use a refresher of the defensive driving rules. If you want to improve your skills, consider signing up for a driver’s education course. To spruce up your defensive driving skills or to sign up for a driver education course, contact Legacy Driving School of Andover, LLC.