You’ve seen it happen time and time again. You’re driving down the street, minding your own business when suddenly a car cuts you off or slams on their brakes. It’s enough to make anyone angry. The good news? You can do many things to become a safe driver and avoid these situations altogether. This article will discuss six ways to help you become a safer driver for yourself and others around you.
Take DMV Classes
Even if you’ve been driving for years, it’s a good idea to refresh your knowledge of the rules of the road. The DMV offers new and experienced drivers classes to help you stay safe on the road. DMV classes are usually short, easy to follow, and can be done online or in person. You can practice multiple choice questions to prepare for your final exam to ensure you’ve learned everything. It will help ensure you know the road rules and how to react in different situations that could come up while you’re behind the wheel. Take some time to research different options and find one that works best for you. There’s no reason not to get started today. ÂÂ
Keep Your Cool on the Road
One of the biggest causes of accidents is road rage. When someone cuts you off or does something that makes you angry, try to stay calm and avoid retaliating. This puts yourself at risk and other drivers on the road. If you can’t control your temper, then pull over until you’ve calmed down. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
In addition, keep in mind that other drivers might not be paying as much attention as you are, so cut them some slack. You’ve all been there before. It’s easy to get frustrated when you’re stuck in traffic or trying to find a parking spot. Just remember that everyone is trying their best and be patient.
Do not Drive too Fast or too Slow
While you don’t want to go over the speed limit, it’s also vital you drive at a safe and reasonable pace to have time to stop if something happens ahead of you on the road. If there are people in front of you driving slowly, try giving them some extra space. It will help ensure they’re out of your way before changing lanes or passing their car to get around them safely. On long commutes when traffic is moving quickly, however, stick with what everyone else around you is doing, even if this means going slightly above the speed limit. It’ll be safer for yourself and other drivers involved because it’ll ensure that you have enough time to shop for cars in front of you if need be.
Be Ready to Brake at all Times
It would be best if you stayed prepared when driving. That means being aware of what is going on around your car, including the traffic, weather conditions, and road signs. You always know how much distance or time it will take before stopping. If there are obstacles ahead, count down from five seconds to give yourself an extra moment or two to prepare for whatever may come next. If someone else stops suddenly up ahead, try braking gently without hitting your horn or screaming out profanities under your breath.
Wear a Safety Belt
Many states have laws prohibiting their drivers from taking off their safety belts when driving, even if they only plan on being behind the wheel for a few minutes before getting back out again. Wearing a safety belt can help prevent serious injury or death if you get into a car accident.
Many states have laws that require children to wear seatbelts as well. Instead of letting them sit on your lap while driving around town, buckle them up in the backseat where they belong, for everyone arrives at their destination safely without putting themselves at risk.
Avoid Distractions
It includes eating and drinking, applying makeup or fixing your hair, texting and driving, playing loud music, reading a map on the road, talking to other passengers in your car if you’re by yourself, etc. All of these can be dangerous, even deadly. You have to refrain from engaging with any of them while behind the wheel. If possible, pull over somewhere safe until you’ve finished whatever task is at hand before getting back onto the road again. Ensure to put cell phones away since they can also cause distracted driving, significantly increasing your chances of being involved in an accident.
Following these tips may seem like a lot of work, but they can help make you a better driver and keep you safe on the road. Keep in mind safety should always be your top priority while driving, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed. Stay safe out there.
