Defensive Driver: Profile Of A Good Defensive Driver
It is more important than ever to learn good defensive driving skills. In addition to the added protection you get by become a more proactive driver you may also enjoy a reduction in your insurance rates. In this article, I'll give you a profile of what a good defensive driver does when they're on the road.
Rule number one, when it comes to being a good defensive driver is this -- always assume the worst in other drivers. For example, if you see a car approaching an intersection with a right turn signal on, don't pull out into the intersection thinking that they are actually going to turn right.
Some people may have accidentally put the turn signal on, others may have it turned on right when they mean left, or they might not decide to turn at the last minute. Assume the worst.
When approaching a stop signal, don't assume that all the other drivers are going to be stopping. Be prepared to stop suddenly if somebody runs through the stop signal. Assume the worst. Yes, it's true that people run traffic lights that are red and roll through stop signs when they should stop. It's more than just following the law. It's also taking additional cautions against those who don't follow the law. When you're driving, do not assume anybody has seen your vehicle. People may be talking on cell phones, changing the radio station or eating some fast food that distracts them from paying attention. If you assume that they see your vehicle, when they haven't, you increase your chances of risk. Even when you have the right of way, be extra careful. Not everyone will always honor your right to that right of way. As a defensive driver, it's always good to give yourself an escape route if need be. This means that if you can, ideally you want to leave a space on both sides of car free. At the very least, one side. Also, it is important to drive on the right lane, or the outer lane, when you are on the freeway. If you have to get to the shoulder, it is closer this way. Finally, a little bit of common sense goes a long ways. Make sure your tires are adequately aired up, and your windshield and mirrors are not dirty. Keep these clean and keep your car well-maintained to avoid unnecessary accidents. These are all the things that a good defensive driver does.
Defensive Driving
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