Safe driving should always be your primary concern, no matter if you’re driving alone or in a group. Distracted driving is a growing problem. It’s important to be familiar with safe driving principles and to practice them each time you drive. Here are some tips for safe driving:
Tips for driving
- Keep your eyes on the road
- Do not multitask.
- While driving, avoid using your phone or any other electronic device.
- Slow down. You have less time for reaction and an accident is more likely to happen.
- Drive “defensively.”
- Be aware of what others are doing around you and expect the unexpected.
- Take it as a given that other motorists might do something insane, and be ready for them to make it right.
- Keep a 2-second buffer between you, the car in front, and yourself.
- If it is raining, take 4 seconds.
- Create a safe driving plan
- Make sure to include time for breaks, meals, and calls.
- Before you shift the car into gear adjust your climate controls, mirrors, and seat.
- To eat or drink, pull over.
- Be safe
- Secure cargo that can move while the vehicle is moving
- Do not try to retrieve items from the floor.
- It is important to have all the necessary items at your fingertips – such as a toll fee, garage pass, or toll card.
- Always wear your seatbelt. Drive sober and drug-free.
Nationwide: More safety tips for drivers
Your children shouldn’t fight or climb into your car. Too much noise could easily distract you and make it difficult to focus on your road.
You should not drive when you’re tired. Do not drive when you are tired. Join Driving schools that ensure that learners become confident, skilled and responsible drivers. Always exercise caution when changing lanes. Don’t cut in front or change lanes too fast. You could endanger other drivers or cause an accident.
Be extra cautious during the deer season.
Safe driving requires common sense
What to do after an auto accident
First, ensure there are no injuries to anyone in your car if you are in an accident. Next, make sure to check on pedestrians, passengers, and everyone else around the accident site.
Stay right there
Refusing to comply with the terms of your agreement can lead you to be charged with a criminal offense, such as a fine or other violation.
Stay in your car
Stay inside your vehicle while you wait for police or ambulances if you’re driving on busy roads. It is unsafe for passengers to be on the freeway or any other road that has a lot of traffic.
Remain calm
Don’t fight or get into an argument about the other driver. You can simply exchange contact information and insurance information. As soon as possible, request the names and contact numbers of witnesses.
Your insurance provider should be contacted
Contact your insurance provider to file a claim. Your agent will ask for all documentation regarding the accident. They will also provide valuable information on how to fix your car.
How to react if pulled over
If you spot a police officer following you in a car with flashing lights, you should quickly pull over to one side. Wait in your car for the officer, and then be ready to:
Turn on your light
Turn on your inner light at night. Your hands should be visible to the officer, preferably on top of the steering wheel.
Keep your hands visible
You should not reach under your chair or into your glove box. This can lead to an officer thinking that you are hiding something or reaching for a gun.
Be sure to provide all documentation
If requested, provide proof of insurance and your license to the officer. If an officer asks you for permission to get out of your car, don’t panic or make threatening gestures.
Be polite
Remain calm and not get into arguments, disorder, or abuse.
If you feel that your rights have been violated, you can make a motion in traffic court to contest the citation. You could be represented by an attorney and, if necessary you will be heard by a judge/magistrate.