Tips on Defensive Driving Techniques
Even a moment of inattention as a driver may cost you your life. Each year more than 30,000 fatal vehicle crashes occur on the roads according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. With an increasing number of driver distractions such as cell phones and televisions present in cars, it's more important than ever to practice defensive driving techniques.
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Leave Yourself an Out
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Defensive driving means constantly keeping yourself in a position where your safety on the road is not in the hands of other drivers. Always give yourself plenty of space when driving so you have a place to go if an accident around you occurs. The more cars traveling around you, the better your chances are of having an accident, so keep your distance and avoid driving in concentrated packs of vehicles.
Constantly Scan with Your Eyes
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Safe drivers never stop moving their eyes while they are behind the wheel. This allows you to know everything that is happening around your vehicle. Look in all directions, including the rear and sides. If a problem does occur, you need as much advance notice as possible to allow time for reaction. Establish a visual sequence that you utilize constantly to keep your eyes scanning for potential obstacles on the road. With a little practice, this routine will become a habit you do without even realizing it.
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Assume Other Drivers Are Incompetent
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Never rest assured that your fellow drivers around you are practicing the same defensive driving techniques that you are. While the rules of the road may seem easy to follow for you, others may not care to abide by them. In these cases, being safe trumps being right. Always yield to cars that cut you off even though you have the right of way.
Overconfidence Is Dangerous
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Other drivers are not the only ones who makes mistakes. No matter how good of a driver you think you are, odds are that you are not always perfect on the road. Remember that being a safe driver does not only mean paying close attention to your surroundings; it's also important to follow all traffic laws, no matter how small they seem. Always buckle up and drive the speed limit, just as you expect other drivers to do.
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References
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