Most people drive as their main mode of transportation. Cars make getting from point A to point B convenient. But sometimes you may lose focus on the journey, and trouble could ensue.
If you’ve been in a crash, you’ve likely thought about all the ways you could have avoided it. Or you might want to be a better driver. Yet you may be unsure about what makes a courteous motorist. These three tactics can help you avoid crashes and make the road a safer place for everyone.
Mind the gap
Tailgating increases your risk of causing an accident. Not to mention that it aggravates other motorists. You may think tailgating sends a message to slower drivers. But leaving room makes more sense. The State of Illinois suggests leaving three seconds between you and the car ahead of you. But you might want to leave more room when the weather is bad.
Get off your phone
Texting while driving causes over one million accidents each year, as well as thousands of fatalities. Yet you may find yourself tempted to respond to messages while behind the wheel, despite its dangers. Do everything you can to fight this urge, since distracted driving can be as dangerous as drunken driving. By keeping your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road, your odds of getting in a crash decrease.
Expect the unexpected
You cannot assume the skill of the motorists around you. They could be distracted, intoxicated or hurried. Practicing vigilance can help you prepare for these drivers. And it gives you proper reaction time for making maneuvers that keep both you and they out of harm’s way.
You may take driving for granted, and not consider your impact on other motorists. Yet automobiles are large objects that can be dangerous and require careful operation. By knowing the rules of the road and practicing common courtesies, you can become a safer, calmer driver.
