Ten Ways To Avoid A Car Accident
The easiest way to avoid a car accident is to stay off the road. But in today’s mobile society, that’s not a possibility for most people. So try doing the following instead. If you do, you’ll reduce your chances of being involved in a car accident.
1. Don’t get distracted
Never send text messages, read, put on your makeup, play the radio too loudly, or use your cell phone while driving. Keep conversations with other passengers minimal and keep your focus on driving defensively. Distractions are a leading cause of accidents.
2. Never drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Enough said.
3. Take care at intersections.
You’d be surprised by how many accidents occur at intersections. Slow down and approach them cautiously. Check left, right, and then to the left again, then proceed through only when it’s safe to do so.
4. Ignore other aggressive drivers.
This is hard sometimes, but you’re best defense when you encounter someone driving aggressively is to ignore that person, especially if that driver is trying to involve you in a conflict. Don’t lose your temper, try to “get back” at the other driver or encourage the other driver in any way. If necessary, get the car’s description and call the police to report the situation.
5. Drive in a way that’s appropriate for the current road conditions
This means slowing down traffic conditions warrant it and whenever visibility is limited by weather, darkness, smoke and other conditions that limit visibility. Turn on your headlights when state law or common sense requires it.
6. Never follow too closely.
Leave yourself ample room to safely react to changing road conditions. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to leave one car length between your car and the car in front for each 10 mph increment in speed.
7. Maintain your auto.
Keep tires properly inflated, change oil and get tune-ups and other required maintenance according to your car’s user manual.
8. Adjust and use your mirrors.
This applies to the rear view as well as both side view mirrors. You’ve got them, so use them!
9. Drive at a consistent speed.
Whenever possible, avoid accelerating and decelerating. You’ll be safer and you’ll save gas.
10. Enroll in a defensive driving class.
You’ll learn how to better anticipate and react to other drivers’ unpredictable driving behavior.