LEANNE BROOKS
Driving is one of those things that is integral to a lot of people, whether as their main mode of transportation or to earn a living.
Needless to say, it’s also one of the main causes of injuries and death. It’s important all motorists abide by traffic laws to avoid accidents. Here are 5 tips to make your driving safer.
Create a driving plan
When people with vehicles need to go somewhere, they straight away jump in and drive, following the most familiar or convenient route.
Wise drivers will know to plan their routes ahead, even before getting behind the wheel. Route selection includes factors like convenience, traffic flow, and the amount of traffic lights they might encounter.
It also takes into account places to stop to take short breaks, get food, or make phone calls. Before beginning the drive, make sure you adjust the seat and mirrors.
Practice defensive driving
We’re all encouraged to drive defensively. But do we really know what it means? Being a defensive driver means being constantly aware of what other drivers near you are doing and to always expect the unexpected.
Part of the practice is to assume that motorists will sometimes act crazy. And you always have to brace yourself to avoid them.
Maintain at least a 2-second gap between you and the car in front. This can be extended to 4 seconds in bad weather.
Preventing accidents
For those transporting heavy cargo in their vehicles like those providing heavy towing service, they need to remember to secure it properly to prevent it from moving around. Always have important items within easy reach while driving. Never try to pick up items that have fallen to the floor while the car is in motion.
If it’s an important object, pull up to the side and put the car in park before retrieving it. And lastly, always wear your seat belt the moment you enter the vehicle.
And never drive while intoxicated with alcohol and other drugs.
Respect amber lights
The point of traffic lights turning amber (or yellow) is to warn motorists to slow down and prepare for a full stop.
It should never be viewed as a signal to speed up to avoid stopping at a red light.
This type of behavior has led to many accidents at intersections, when drivers run red lights.
And on the same vein, make sure you come to a full stop when you’re at a red light or stop sign. Even if you don’t think there is no other traffic, it pays to be on the safe side.
Obey speed limits
Drivers, young and old, are always reminded to abide by the speed limits that are posted along roads and streets. These limits are posted with a specific intent and not just arbitrarily.
Speed limits have been selected to ensure the drivers, pedestrians, homeowners, and business owners are kept safe at all times.
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