Online Tips for Defensive Driving
Have you almost been in an accident? Are you noticing more aggressive drivers on the road? Are you getting rusty in your knowledge of defensive driving? I have been almost hit by three trucks lately. Thankfully, I was able to hit my brakes to avoid the trucks pulling right into me.
The roads are getting more and more crowded, and we all need to be on our toes, making sure we are not only driving safely, but are watching out for those who are NOT driving safely!
The following defensive driving tips were found online.
Before You Get In Your Car
What to do first
* Check your tire pressure, tread, and condition, and check, and clean if necessary, all windows, mirrors, and light lenses.* When you first get in the car, check that the mirrors, seat, and steering wheel are positioned so that you can drive comfortably.
* Secure all loose objects inside or move them into the trunk. You don't want to be distracted by sliding or falling objects.
* Keep your windows clear and transparent. Avoid stick-on toys, light shades and dangling decorations.
Make Sure Your Vehicle Can Be Seen
* Do not drive in the blind spot of other vehicles.
* Always use your turn signals well in advance whenever
making a turn or lane change.
* Activate your hazard-warning lights on approach to a crash scene or unexpected on-road obstruction in order to improve the alert/warning given to other drivers further behind. Keep the hazard warning lights continually on - if you are stopped, or if you will need to stop.
Watch Carefully!
Be ready to react quickly.
* Watch for strange vehicle movement up ahead that can signal trouble.
* Keep an eye on faster rear-closing traffic, and don't pull out in front of it.
* Keep your distance when driving behind large vehicles, to keep your line of sight clear.
* Don't drive in large packs on the highway; try to either lead the pack or be behind the group.
* Drive with hands positioned at 9 and 3 o' clock, or at the 10 and 2 o' clock position. This has been shown to be the most comfortable position for long time driving as well as the easiest to maneuver in reaction time.
* Do not talk on a cell phone while driving.
* Don't get distracted while changing stations on the radio or popping in a CD.
* Actively look for and anticipate the movements of pedestrians, bicycles, motorcycles, animals, and be aware of all signs that warn you of dangers ahead, objects on the road, and potholes.
* Keep a reasonable distance between your vehicle and the one ahead of you so that you can stop without hitting what's in front of you.
* Beware of blind intersections. If your view of traffic on cross streets is obstructed by buildings or trees, take your foot off the accelerator and place it over the brake - to reduce your reaction time.
* Don't drive too slow or too fast - doing so will increase the likelihood of an accident.
* At traffic signals when starting off; ensure you have checked side roads beforehand - other drivers may not necessarily obey their traffic lights!
* Never do a U-turn on a motorway class road.
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Assume the Worst in Others
* Expect that a vehicle which is apparently not turning may turn.
* Expect that a vehicle with its turn signal on might not actually turn
* Assume that stop signals will be ignored by others and be prepared for it.
* Expect that a red traffic light will be "run" (so don't take off too quickly on your green light).
* Assume that other drivers have not seen your vehicle.
* Assume that other drivers are not capable of preventing an accident.
* Watch for drivers talking on cell phones while driving, and be aware that their driving skills are severely diminished.
* At intersections never assume that you have the right of way. Maintain an exit route.
* Keep wheels straight when waiting to turn across oncoming traffic. If your car is rear-ended, it won't be pushed into the opposite lane.
Lanechanger III
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