One thing that you can do to stay safer on the roads is just to become a more defensive driver. The main focus of defensive driving is simply anticipating others’ mistakes. If you can spot hazards and dangerous drivers in advance, you can often avoid accidents.
So, how do you become a defensive driver? Here are three tips that can help.
Avoid all distractions
First and foremost, defensive driving is about analyzing the traffic conditions around you and identifying hazards. This means you can never be distracted by a cellphone, a passenger, the radio or anything else. You always have to be focused on the road. Do things like finding a radio station or programming the GPS before you leave the driveway.
Use a proper following distance
The next step to take is to maintain a proper following distance at all times. Generally speaking, you should be three seconds behind the next car. It helps to periodically count off the time until you get used to judging the necessary physical distance – which changes depending on your speed.
Avoid aggressive driving
Finally, just focus on safety and never drive aggressively. If someone else is tailgating your car, let them pass. If another driver is acting aggressively, never engage with them or escalate the situation. As a defensive driver, your goal is to identify aggressive drivers and keep your distance, because these are the drivers who are most likely to cause car accidents.
Even using these tips may not be enough to prevent all car accidents. If you’ve been injured by another driver’s negligent mistake, be sure you know what legal options you have.