How to Practice Courteous Driving

We've all been cut off while driving. It seems that some people lose all sense of good manners when they get behind the wheel. Driving would be more pleasant if all drivers could practice some common courtesy. With a little attention and thought, courteous driving will become second nature.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Relax. Take a deep breath if you feel stressed. Leave early enough that you can enjoy your trip rather than feeling anxious. It's better to arrive a few minutes late to your destination than endanger yourself of others on the road.

2. Follow good driving practices. Watch for road signs and obey the speed limit. When we all obey the laws, the roads are much safer.

3. Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. You can't push them out of the way, so just slow down a little. Pass when you have a safe and legal opportunity to do so.

4. Use your turn signals. It helps everyone to know when you are going to turn or change lanes. Put on your signal several hundred feet ahead of your turn when you're on the highway.

5. Respect others. Stop for pedestians or bicyclists. Look for motorcyclists. Allow others to go ahead of you. Allow others to maintain their speed when you enter a roadway or change lanes.

6. Use your horn only when necessary. It's not put on cars as a tool to "yell" at others. Use the horn to signal others of your presence to avoid accidents.

7. Smile or wave at another driver. It makes their day and your day a little brighter!

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid road rage and competitive driving. Don't take other driver's driving mistakes personally.