5 Tips for Defensive Driving
Some people drive to get from point A to point B, while others drive out of passion. Either way, the road is full of unexpected situations. To stay safe, it’s important to practice defensive driving. While you can pay for your own mistakes, nobody wants to be a victim of others’ mistakes. Here are 5 techniques that can help you avoid accidents, even when other drivers make errors.
1. Keep a Safe Distance
Always maintain a safe following distance from the car in front of you. This gives you more time to react if they suddenly stop or change lanes. A good rule of thumb is to stay at least three seconds behind the vehicle in ideal conditions and increase that distance in bad weather or heavy traffic.
Keep an eye on the taillights of the vehicle in front of you. If they are on, it means the driver has applied the brakes and is slowing down. This is a signal for you to apply your brakes and slow down as well.
Constantly scan your surroundings. Check your mirrors frequently and look ahead to spot any potential hazards.
You may see some vehicles approaching quickly in your rearview mirror and honking continuously. If you notice such vehicles, understand that they could cause trouble. It’s best to allow them to pass.
2. Expect the Unexpected
Other drivers might not signal their intentions or might brake suddenly. Be prepared for the worst-case scenario by staying alert and ready to react.
Especially in India near flyovers, some drivers may initially drive as if they are going to take the flyover but then suddenly realize they shouldn’t and change lanes at the last moment. This sudden lane change can be dangerous for you.
Always be prepared for such unexpected movements by staying alert and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles.
3. Keep Your Speed in Check
Follow the speed limit and adjust your speed according to road conditions. Driving too fast reduces your reaction time and increases the severity of accidents. The faster you drive, the longer it takes to stop.
As you increase your speed, your field of vision narrows. In poor weather or heavy traffic, it’s safer to drive below the speed limit.
Intersections are hotspots for accidents. Even if you have a green light, look both ways before crossing. Watch for drivers who might jump a red light or ignore a stop sign.
4. Communicate with Other Drivers
Use your turn signals to show your intentions and make eye contact with other drivers when possible. If another driver looks like they’re going to make a move, a simple wave or signal can help ensure you’re both on the same page.
Ensure that the other driver has responded to your signals because not everyone understands them correctly. The worst part is that they may misunderstand your signals and react in a way that is opposite to your intention.
You need to be smart enough to understand their movements and react accordingly.
5. Avoid Blind Spots
Stay out of other drivers’ blind spots, especially those of heavy vehicles like trucks and buses, which have large blind spot areas. Trucks also take longer to stop than cars, so be aware of their speed and keep a safe distance.
Minimize your own blind spots by adjusting your mirrors properly. When passing, do so quickly and avoid lingering beside other vehicles.
The major distractions in your car — your phone, the radio, and even other passengers. But when you’re driving, your attention should be on the road. Keep your eyes on the traffic, your hands on the wheel, and your mind on driving.
Defensive driving isn’t just about protecting yourself; it’s about being considerate and aware of others on the road.
By following these techniques, you can help prevent accidents and ensure that you, and everyone else, arrive safely at your destination. Understand that nothing is more important than your life.
Drive safe!
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