Practicing defensive driving can prevent a car accident. Defensive driving means abiding by the posted speed limits and traffic laws to reduce the potential of causing an accident. It also means paying close attention to traffic and driving conditions to identify hazardous road conditions.
For example, if you see someone traveling at an excessively high rate of speed or driving erratically, you should give that vehicle lots of room. If you are stopped at a red light, you should not blindly proceed forward when it turns green. Looking to the left and right could help ensure another driver is about to run a red light and smash into your vehicle.
Some ways you can practice defensive driving include:
- Driving while sober.
- Maintaining a safe following distance.
- No aggressive driving.
- Avoiding all distractions.
- Wearing your seat belt.
You should review the medications you are currently taking. Many types of medications could trigger symptoms similar to drunkenness and greatly affect your ability to safely drive. It always pays to be cautious.
Additionally, you should do your best to maintain a safe following distance of at least three seconds and even longer when the weather is bad. Limiting your lane changes will help keep you out of accidents.
It is critical to avoid distractions so that you can focus on driving. A defensive driver is a focused driver.
Finally, wearing your seat belt and ensuring any passengers are wearing theirs will reduce the chances of serious injuries occurring should a car accident happen.
Benefits of Completing a Defensive Driving Course
Some might suggest driving in an empty parking lot while it is raining or snowing to get a better feel for how your vehicle will handle inclement weather. Doing so might help you learn how to control your vehicle, but there are other things you can do to practice safe driving.
A defensive driving course is the best way to learn how to identify traffic conditions and situations that could pose a threat to your safety. Your instructor should cover common dangers on the road and teach you how to handle them safely.
Successful completion of a defensive driving course can help make you a better driver. It also could earn you a discount on your auto insurance. Many insurers reward policyholders who successfully complete a defensive driving course by giving them discounted rates.
Media Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Will Protect Your Rights if You Have Been Injured by a Careless Driver
Unfortunately, even your best efforts to drive defensively might not be enough to stop a negligent driver from injuring you. If you have been injured in a collision, speak with one of our Media car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. Call us at 610-565-3701 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation. Located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we assist clients in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.