Every year, there are around 6 million car accidents in the US. If you’re a driver, then practicing good road safety is an absolute must if you want to decrease your chances of getting in a crash yourself.
In this case, knowledge is power. Here are 5 tips to keep you safe when driving a car.
1. Keep Your Driver’s License Updated
First of all, driving without a license is illegal. But also, by staying on top of your driver’s license, you’ll be able to keep your road knowledge fresh.
For example, studying for the test can help refresh information you might’ve forgotten. Check out this site for some free practice test questions to see how much you know!
2. Eliminate Distractions
The key to driver safety is eliminating as many distractions as possible. Don’t try to multitask while driving. Driving should be the sole thing you’re focusing on!
Don’t try to put on makeup, eat food, talk on the phone, or argue with your significant other. If you must handle something immediately, pull over and do it and only resume driving when you’re done.
You can significantly reduce your risk of having an accident by avoiding distractions when driving. To be aware of these distractions, check out this guide on the costs of distracted driving and ways to stay safe on the road so that you are able to reach your destination safely.
3. Only Drive When You’re Alert
Needless to say, you shouldn’t drive while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. This impairs your judgment and slows down your reaction time significantly!
But did you know that driving while tired can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence? If you’re ever fatigued behind the wheel, make some changes. You can roll down your window for fresh air, blast loud/energetic music, make small talk (even to yourself if you’re alone), or even pull over for a coffee or a small nap.
4. Drive Defensively
You might be doing all you can to stay safe on the road, but the same can’t be said of others around you. The main thing to avoiding car accidents is to drive defensively!
Assume that others are going to make mistakes. By doing so, you’ll be more prepared should anything unexpected happens.
For instance, if you see a car that’s swerving a lot in front of you, either speed up or slow down to put some distance between you and them. Chances are, they’ll hit someone nearby, and you don’t want that someone to be you.
5. Maintain a Safe Distance
Even if you slam down on your brakes, it’ll take a little bit of time for your car to come to a complete stop. And the faster you’re going, the more time it’ll take.
In general, you’ll want to follow the 2-second rule. Look at a landmark and start counting when the vehicle in front of you passes it. If you pass it before 2 seconds are over, you’re too close to them and need to slow down.
Stay Safe When Driving a Car
While you can’t prevent accidents when driving a car, there are certainly steps you can take to decrease your chances of getting in one. So remember our tips and practice good car safety. You just might save some lives!
