The Points to Reduce Accidents When Driving
Whenever you are in command of a car, it is important to be aware of our surroundings to significantly reduce the risk of an accident. To avoid an accident due to the fault of another motorist, that is to maintain defensive driving. This result means it is required to anticipate what may happen on the road.
The basic elements of defensive driving can divide into five general categories: preparation, visibility, communication, space, and attitude.
To be alert
Concentrate on the act of driving to be prepared to react to the emerging danger. This step means being free from all distractions and keeping your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. If you prepared to stop at the time when danger is perceived, you could help avoid a crash. Observe the overall picture while driving, measuring the speed and position of all traffic near you.
Foresee
Pay special attention to changes in traffic signs, crosswalks, and other areas where confusion over the right of way could cause a crash. Make eye contact whenever possible with other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists to help measure your intentions. Put, it is to expect the unexpected.
Be receptive
When the unexpected occurs, we must respond as safely as possible. For example, if another vehicle turns in our lane and interrupts it when it has the right of way, it must still slow down. The responsibility lies with us to avoid a crash, even if another driver violates the law.
Take blind spots into account
Check the mirrors frequently to make sure there is no one in your blind spot before changing lanes. Look for motorcyclists, who will choose lane positions for better visibility, but they are even harder to see than cars. It would help if you also considered driving in other people’s blind spots to help them avoid crashing into you.
Prepare to yield
If you have any questions about whether another vehicle or pedestrian can see it, be prepared to give way. Again, even if you are sure that you have the right of way, addressing the situation can potentially prevent injury or fatality.
Adjust for bad conditions
Consider any condition that may reduce visibility and adjustment to improve the chances of being seen. Bad weather and low light conditions may require you to slow down or use headlights during the day, for example. Observe its speed on winding roads where it may be more difficult for pedestrians or cars on the side streets to see it.
Use directional
Always communicate your intention to turn or change lanes using your turn signal. Similarly, it would help if you respected other vehicles when they point. Allow other drivers to change lanes safely, merge, and turn.
Accelerate and brake properly
You may not realize the intention to accelerate and stop is a way to communicate with other motorists. For example, if another driver notices that he accelerates when approaching on the road, he will assume that he plans to pass them. Reducing the speed near a side street along with the signage indicates your intention to turn. When it accelerates and brakes predictably, other drivers can anticipate and react safely.
Indicate dangers
If there are dangers ahead, tell other drivers as best you can. If you can avoid the danger by changing lanes, for example, do it so that other drivers behind you notice your behavior and do the same. Use your horn only to indicate imminent danger and help keep yourself and others safe.
Respect the space of others
Imagine an air mattress surrounding your car, keeping a safe distance between your vehicle and others. Respect this cushion when following or passing other vehicles, giving a wider place to the most vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Take braking distances into account
A longer distance is required to stop when traveling at higher speeds, so keep this in mind when determining a safe tracking distance. Trucks and larger vehicles are heavier than cars and will take even longer to stop. Bad weather will increase everyone’s stopping distances along the way.
Be attentive to the escape plan
Make sure you can always see a path to safety, especially when traveling at higher speeds. Avoid locking yourself on the road, for example, where high-speed defense-to-defense traffic does not allow anyone enough time to react to danger.
Performance
Observe all traffic signs and right-of-way rules. Consider this as a matter of respect if it helps you remember the laws. When another driver has the right of way, give them room to maneuver your vehicle comfortably.
Be patient
Never rush or make other drivers feel rushed. Wait your turn, even if it costs a few more seconds. For example, if you turn left through traffic and there is an approaching car, wait for them to pass.
Be polite
If another driver is lost, struggling to merge or asking for help, be kind. A little courtesy is very useful. Also, recognize the courtesy of others and thank each time you drive.