As summer approaches, the roads become more inviting but also more dangerous. With more people on the road, the chances of getting into an accident also increases. When an accident can cost you thousands of dollars or more, defensive driving is your best bet to protect yourself. To avoid catastrophic accidents, here are some methods of defensive driving you can use:
Obeying the speed limit
Speeding on any road can be especially dangerous. The faster you are driving, the less time you have to react to danger or obstacles on the road. Additionally, speeding near an unaware driver may catch them off guard and cause them to crash.
Give other cars space
Tailgating or otherwise crowding other vehicles drastically minimizes the time you have to avoid an accident, and it also limits your vision of the road around you. Give yourself the space you need to react safely on the road by keeping a good distance from other drivers.
Eyes on the road and hands on the wheel
Driver distractions are one of the leading causes of accidents. Even if the crash was not your fault, not paying attention to the road can cause you to crash into an accident ahead of you. If you are not using both hands to drive, you may also not be able to react properly to an accident. Avoid distractions like eating, using your phone, or updating your GPS while driving to stay safe.
Stay safe this summer
Even if you have never been in an accident while driving, an accident can happen at any time. Do not take your safety for granted while on the road, and remain vigilant behind the wheel. By practicing these defensive driving techniques, you can protect yourself and your passengers while driving.
