Studies show that over 70% of people rate themselves as good drivers, yet the majority of accidents are caused by individual errors. Working on being a better driver benefits all road users by lowering the risk of crashes and collisions. So let’s discuss the basics of becoming a better driver.
Invest Time & Energy in Learning
Driver education is key at any stage. From teens taking their first foray into the world of driving to older drivers who’ve been traveling from A to B for decades, you can learn from every journey. Investing time and energy in learning will help you develop your capabilities and confidence. Hone your hazard awareness skills and adjust to new challenges. It’s wise to find the best driving schools if you’re starting classes or looking to refresh after a period of time away from driving. Research online, ask for recommendations and read reviews and testimonials. It can also be helpful to explore advanced driving courses and workshops if you’ve lost your confidence or want to enhance your skills.
Familiarize Yourself With the Rules of the Road
It’s easy to get comfortable if you’ve been driving for a long time or you know the roads around you like the back of your hand. Bad habits can creep in and you may find that you’re breaking the rules without even realizing. Familiarizing yourself with driving laws and good driving etiquette guidelines can help you be a safer, more respectful driver. It can also lower the risk of getting into trouble with the police and facing accusations from fellow road users if there’s an accident. If you cause a crash through negligent driving, you’ll be held liable for the incident.
Pay Attention to Speed Restrictions
The risk of serious and fatal injuries increases significantly at high speeds. Speed restrictions are there to protect drivers, pedestrians and passengers and lower the risk of severe injuries. Data shows that over 20% of fatal collisions in the US in 2022 involved at least one driver who was speeding. Always pay attention to speed restrictions. It’s advisable to reduce your speed if there is heavy traffic or you’re driving in poor conditions, for example, rain, snow or high winds.
Give other Road Users Time and Space
When you take the wheel of a vehicle in your hands, you assume responsibility not only for your safety but also that of others around you. From pedestrians and cyclists to other drivers and passengers, it’s critical to understand the importance of respecting others. Give other road users enough time and space. People should never feel rushed or pressured into driving too fast. They also shouldn’t have to deal with road rage or abusive behavior. Stay calm, keep well back from the vehicle in front of you and allow plenty of time for your journey.
Maintain Your Focus
Distracted driving is a common cause of road accidents. When you’re driving, things can change in a flash. Hazards can appear from nowhere. If you’re not focused on the road, you may not be able to react fast enough. A driver in front may slam the brakes on or a child may run out from behind a parked car. These are examples of incidents that require instant reactions. Common distractions include using a phone. Or adjusting the radio or entertainment system and talking to other people. If you need to make a call or check your phone. Then pull over in a safe place or use a hands-free system. More than 3,300 people died in crashes caused by distracted driving in 2022.
Don’t Drive Tired
Tiredness affects your ability to make clear judgements and react rapidly, creating additional hazards when driving. If you feel drowsy or you’ve not slept, avoid driving. Delay or postpone your journey or take a break to have a nap, stretch your legs and get some food and fresh air. If you’re tired, there’s a risk of making fatal errors, which could harm you and others. In extreme cases, you could even fall asleep at the wheel.
Being a good driver doesn’t just enhance your safety. It also protects others. If every driver invested time and energy in driving safely and developing their skills, the roads would be much safer. Basic steps to be a better driver include embracing learning and driver education, understanding the rules of the road and paying attention to speed restrictions. Additional guidelines include giving other road users time and space, maintaining your focus at all times and avoiding driving when tired.
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