Defensive Driving Skills

Defensive driving is something every driver should practice

Driving is not an activity to be taken lightly. All drivers should drive defensively for the safety of themselves and other drivers. Here are a few tips.

Following Distance

When driving, following distance is crucial. Many drivers tend to tailgate, which can easily lead to one car rear-ending another. A tip is to check your speed, divide it by 10, and then keep that many car lengths between you and the car in front of you. For example, if you are driving 40 miles per hour, keep the distance between you and the car ahead 4 car lengths.

Distractions

When driving, 100 percent of your focus must be on the road and what's going on around you. Avoid distracting activities when driving, such as talking on the phone (even hands-free), eating, shaving and especially texting.

Changing lanes

A lot of drivers when changing lanes will slow down and not signal. It is important to keep consistent speed when changing lanes to avoid being rear-ended and it is important to use your turn signal to give cars in other lanes notice that you are changing lanes.

Space Cushion

It is hard to control cars around you, but safely try to move yourself around so you are not driving directly next to anyone or directly behind anyone.

References

• DMV: Safety and Driving