To lessen the likelihood of getting in an accident, a defensive driver attempts to foresee risky traffic situations and react swiftly. They employ tactics that lower their chance of a collision by staying vigilant, being ready for the unexpected, and controlling what they can.
Every day, careless drivers result in fatal crashes that could have been averted if they had taken a few simple safety precautions. Make sure to click here for help!
What Kinds of Driving Are Defensive?
To help drivers make up for other drivers’ mistakes and react to road hazards predictably, defensive driving applies specialized safe driving strategies.
Being prepared for anything is the aim of defensive driving. Driving defensively means:
- Put on a Seatbelt.
Seat belt use is mandated under Connecticut law for both drivers and passengers. Yet each year, several individuals suffer injuries or pass away as a result of not using seat belts. In the event of an accident, seat belts stop passengers from being flung around the cabin or ejected from the vehicle. Nobody wakes up intending to get into an accident, yet it does happen. Buckle up each time you get into a car to be prepared for the unexpected.
- Think Ahead
Before you leave on your trip, you should make the necessary preparations. When driving defensively, one considers the weather prediction and allows more time for bad weather travel. Along with monitoring the weather, keep an eye out for anticipated traffic snarls caused by sporting events or other planned events.
- Demonstrate Situational Awareness
Defensive drivers continually scan the horizon for potential dangers like potholes, debris on the road, or deer. Defensive drivers are constantly alert for approaching traffic, cars passing them, and intersection traffic. They usually glance in their mirrors as well. Driving distractions should be avoided so that drivers can maintain their attention on the road.
- Avoid Tailgating
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, rear-end crashes account for forty percent (40%) of all accidents. Defensive drivers control the space surrounding their cars and maintain a safe following distance of three to four seconds from other cars. In the event that the motorist in front of you suddenly slows down or stops, you will have adequate time to react. Controlling the area in front of your car and not following too closely helps avert many collisions.
- Take Extra Care at Intersections
When the red light changes to green, careful drivers who are halted at the crossing ensure all incoming traffic has passed the intersection before continuing.
