When it comes to driving, new drivers are hesitant about hitting the road, even after getting their licenses.
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These first-time drivers are anxious about driving, which increases the chances of getting involved in a car accident.
According to the National Safety Council, it is estimated that approx. 40,000 people die every year because of car accidents, which is an alarming figure.
Car accidents lead to injuries or even deadly consequences. Of course, it is also an issue that affects your budget as the more accidents you accumulate, the more you’ll pay on auto insurance.
There’s no other way to battle that unless you give proof of good driving skills over the time.
It’s in your best interest to stay crash-free and drive safely. But, how do you do that?
Here you’ll learn how to avoid car accidents (and how to stay crash-free)
Tire safety to avoid a car accident
For your own safety, check that your tires are properly inflated. If you notice your tires are underinflated, have them fixed right away. If you ignore that, you may be at risk while on the road.
Underinflated tires causes a friction that could overheat your tires.
At the same time, it could be expensive to drive with underinflated tires over the long term. Neglecting your tires may cause to premature tread separation and wear.
Preventing an accident by checking your mirrors
The problem with new, and even experienced drivers, is that they focus too much on what’s going on in front of the vehicle.
Of course, it is good to pay attention to everything that happens in front of you, say road signs and other vehicles, but there are also other vehicles behind us driving at a reasonable distance or even way too close to us.
Look behind and predict what other drivers will do. Keep you distance as many distracted drivers do not always brake on time and that’s a dangerous scenario.
SEE ALSO: Drivers: How To Easily Overcome The Fear Of Driving
Preventing accidents through defensive driving
First, your goal is to develop confidence. But, how do you develop confidence while on the road? Learning and practice are the key.
If you enroll on a defensive driving school, you’ll get a deep insight of everything you need to do to reduce the likelihood of getting involved in a car accident.
A good advice is to complete the course and let your insurer know about it. Insurers always reward safe drivers with policy discounts to say the least.
Taking your time could prevent an accident
Just because you see an experienced driver speeding over the speed limit, it doesn’t mean he knows what he is doing.
The speeds signs are there for a reason and following the rules reduces the chances of getting involved in a car crash.
Slowing down will help you predict the reaction of other drivers and decrease your chances of being stopped for speeding. As long as you drive safely, you’ll be complying with the law.
Tailgating causes car accidents
This is for your own benefit as a driver. If you tailgate, you’ll increase your chances of getting into trouble for not stopping on time. Drivers may also find it aggressive since your car is getting way too close to them.
Avoid that risky habit and keep a reasonable distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
In real-life scenarios, drivers tend to accelerate and stop unexpectedly, which could affect your driving, giving you little time to react.
Being aware can prevent car accidents
Many drivers, either new or experienced, pay attention only to the vehicle in front of them. That’s a big mistake since you need to look ahead at the traffic in front of you and scan any possible problem or danger.
Looking at the traffic in front of you takes practice but it’s one of the best ways to stay safe while on the road. Remember that you need to observe everything around you to predict your next move.
SEE ALSO: 5 Defensive Driving Tips to Keep You Safe On The Road
2 comments
Great article. Be AWARE! Not sure about the exact details of defensive driving, can anyone give me some examples? Defensive obviously doesn’t mean aggressive driving.
Hello Ann. Driving safely means giving priority to your own safety by paying attention to your surroundings, keeping your speed down, and avoiding distractions just to name a few. Your safety comes first.