You've probably heard time and time again that prevention is better than cure, yet that's not an advice you'd usually associate with driving. Unfortunately, a lot of people don't realize that most car accidents are caused by negligence and poor diving habits, and can therefore be avoided. This means that prevention is not exactly a priority for most drivers.
As roads around the world become busier and the number of vehicles increases, so does the number of traffic accidents, many of them resulting in fatal injuries. That's why it's crucial to understand the importance of prevention when getting behind the wheel and the need to adopt proper driving habits in order to keep yourself and everyone else around you safe.
It's up to each and every one of us to make roads safer by minimizing risks and keeping car accidents at bay. So, if you want to become a more responsible driver, here are a few tips that you should consider before hitting the road.
Stay focused and alert
For more experienced drivers, controlling a vehicle comes naturally because they've already developed muscle memory by practicing the same moves over and over again, so it's only normal for them to be more relaxed when they're behind the wheel. Novice drivers require more focus and concertation to perform basic driving maneuvers, which means they have to put more effort into it.
However, whether you're an experienced driver or not, you still have to stay focused and alert when you're on the road. A moment's distraction is all it takes for you to lose control of the vehicle and cause a tragedy. When you're driving your only job is to keep your eyes and mind on the road, so don't try to be a multitasker. Texting or talking on the phone while driving can spell disaster. If you really need to take that call or use your mobile device, just pull over and don't put yourself and others at risk.
Play by the rules
You've learned the rules when you got your license, so now all you have to do is follow them to a T. As drivers become more experienced and gain more confidence in their driving abilities, they tend to have a more relaxed approach when it comes to driving regulations.
Needless to say, this attitude can easily get you into trouble. If you get involved in a car accident that wasn't your fault, you have the right to claim compensation for the damages and injuries you've suffered. However, if you were the one who broke the rules and the accident was your fault, you are liable for the loss and injuries that result from it. So, if you don't want to find yourself in such an unpleasant situation, you should comply with traffic rules at all times.
Be aware of your surroundings
Long-distance driving can be boring and tiring, making some drivers switch to autopilot and pay less attention to their surroundings. You might feel like you're in control, but if you're not focused on what's going on around you, there's a higher risk of being surprised by another driver or a pedestrian and making a wrong move.
In order to avoid these scenarios, you have to constantly scan your surroundings by checking your mirrors frequently and paying attention to other road users. In case something unexpected happens, you'll have enough time to react and avoid a potential car crash.
Don't rely on other drivers
It's important to check what other drivers around you are doing, but keep in mind that you can't predict someone else's moves. That's why you should never rely on other drivers to keep you safe or guide you when you're on the road. Don't assume that the driver in front of you saw you coming and is going to move out of the way so you can merge. He might be distracted or he might not care, so it's better to keep your expectations in check and prepare for worst-case scenarios. That way, you'll always be ready to act promptly.
Don't overestimate your driving skills
Ask most drivers what they think about their driving abilities and most of them will tell you they're great behind the wheel, even if they're not. The truth is many drivers overestimate their driving abilities simply because they've been driving for quite some time or because they've never been involved in a car accident.
However, that doesn't translate into great driving skills. Even if you're a professional driver and you can control a car better than the average car owner, you still have to take into account that you can't control everything that happens on the road. You have to be aware of the risks and your limitations when you hit the road.
Practice caution
Sometimes it's not the skills or experience making the difference on the road, but the right driving attitude. Some drivers are impatient, they speed through yellow lights, they ignore the 3 to 4-second rule, and take unnecessary risks just because they've never developed the right attitude about driving.
Our recommendation is to practice caution at all times and have the right mindset when you get behind the wheel. That implies being patient, driving at a speed that feels comfortable for you, avoiding driving at night or in poor weather conditions, focusing on car maintenance, etc.
Practice makes perfect
Last but not least, if you want to become a better driver and stay out of trouble you have to drive. Getting your driving license doesn't necessarily mean you've developed the skills and abilities that turn you into a confident driver. You might need a bit more practice to get to the point where you can go out on the road without someone to supervise you. Taking additional supervised driving lessons can help a lot in this respect. As long as you are aware of your shortcomings, you can always work on improving them.
