Safety should be your main concern whenever you’re behind a wheel of a car, alone, or with others. To drive responsibly, we are more distracted than ever. It is, therefore, crucial to be familiar with the basics of safe driving. Here are some safe driving tips.
Top Driving Safety Tips
Drive with focus
To drive safely, it is important to ignore distractions when driving. Follow these steps to stay focused when driving.
Focus 100% on driving and no other tasks.
Do not use your phone or another electronic device while driving.
Slow down. Accelerating reduces your reaction time and can lead to more serious accidents.
Protective driving
What is defensive driving? Defensive driving refers to motorists who use accident-preventive techniques while focusing on driving safely. You might be eligible for a defensive driver discount. To practice defensive driving:
You should be aware of the actions of other drivers and prepare for unexpected situations.
You should assume other motorists will be crazy and you should always be ready to avoid them.
You should keep a 2-second buffer in between you and your car in front.
You can do it in 4 seconds if the weather is not good.
Safe driving plans
You should include time for meals, rest breaks, and phone calls in your travel itinerary.
Before you shift the car into gear, make sure to adjust your seat, mirrors, climate controls, and other settings.
Take a seat and enjoy a meal or drink. It takes just a few seconds.
Make sure you are safe
You should secure cargo that could be moved around while the vehicle moves.
You shouldn’t try to get items off the floor.
You should keep all necessary items within easy reach, including toll fees and garage passes.
Always wear your seatbelt, and always drive sober and drug-free.
Nationwide safety tips for driving
Do not allow your children to fight or climb in your car. Too much noise can easily distract from your focus on the road.
Do not drive when you are tired. You should be aware that certain medications can cause drowsiness which can make it very dangerous to drive a vehicle. Learn more about driving while drowsy.
Always be cautious when changing lanes. You should never cut in front of another driver, change lanes too fast, or use your signals improperly. This could cause an accident or upset other drivers.
Take extra caution when driving in deer season.
Safety driving: Common sense
What to do in the aftermath of a car crash
In an accident, first, make sure that nobody is hurt. Next, ensure that you’re checking on all the people in the vehicle and pedestrians nearby.
Stay on the scene
You may face additional penalties if you leave, such as fines or other violations.
You can immediately dial 911 or contact the local police
They’ll send a medical team and an officer to the accident site. Wait until the cops arrive to complete an accident investigation.
Stay in the car
Keep your car inside if you are on a busy road. Wait for the ambulance or police. It is dangerous for passengers to stand on freeways or roads with much traffic.
Be calm
Avoid getting into an argument or fighting with the other driver. Exchange contact and insurance information. If possible, obtain the phone numbers and names of witnesses.
Talk to your insurance agent
For more information, contact your insurance provider. Your agent will ask for all documentation related to the accident.
Pass First Go will help you get the driving license you need if you are a learner driver.
