If you aren’t already on the road to becoming a responsible driver, it’s time to start learning the basics of safe driving. Safe driving involves more than just knowing how to operate a vehicle; it helps to be a good role model and to show that you’re a responsible driver to others. The importance of safe driving can’t be understated, as it’s one of the most significant ways to help prevent injuries and deaths due to traffic accidents. Learn the fundamentals of safe driving today by taking Driving Lessons with an approved driving school.
- Check car’s condition regularly.
Driving a vehicle safely means abiding by traffic laws, following the manufacturer’s stated maintenance and inspection schedule, and being aware of your vehicle’s condition. With car care, it’s imperative not to ignore minor problems that could develop into significant issues. Some car problems, such as a faulty tire, are easy to fix. Others, like a defective airbag, can be deadly. If you haven’t had your car’s oil changed recently, why not? Oil is vital to the performance of your car, and if it’s not changed regularly, it will break down. The oil’s function is to keep your car’s engine cooled and clean, and without change, it can become contaminated and less effective. More than 100,000 people die each year in car accidents caused by dirty oil, so check your oil often.
- Obey traffic rules.
Not only should drivers obey traffic laws, but they should obey every traffic sign. Drivers who break traffic laws or ignore traffic signs put themselves and others in danger. Driving is a privilege, but it is a responsibility, too. Many of us take our ability to drive for granted, but it’s important to remember that while we have the freedom to drive, others do not. Stay safe on the roads by being aware of road rules, but especially of the ones that protect you and other motorists. Safe driving starts with simple rules, like checking the speed limit. A great way to see if you are following the speed limit is to watch other cars. Not many people leave more than a foot of space between them and the car in front of them, so it’s pretty easy to see if they’re speeding or not. If you are driving a marked vehicle, such as a police car or an ambulance, you (the driver) are held to higher standards. A police officer or paramedic won’t hesitate to pull you over if they think you are driving unsafely.
- Avoid changing lanes too often.
Safe driving means being mindful of your surroundings and being proactive. This includes being aware of the weather, other drivers, and the road. However, in addition to paying close attention to these factors, it’s equally important to recognize that potentially dangerous situations may arise from your surroundings, and you need to be proactive to prevent them. Keep in mind that abruptly changing lanes can cause accidents and collisions, especially when other drivers aren’t anticipating such maneuvers.
That said, remember that if you ever find yourself caught in an accident due to the carelessness of another driver, you have legal rights that you can exercise. By working with a skilled Bothell Car Accident Lawyer or similar professionals elsewhere, you can bring the person who caused the accident to justice and be compensated for your losses. Of course, this responsibility goes both ways. To avoid getting sued or causing harm to another person on the road, it’s important to be conscious and drive carefully.
- Wear a seat belt at all times.
Safety is at the top of the list when it comes to driving. That’s why it’s important for everyone to learn the fundamentals and practice these safe driving tips before they’re required. In addition to keeping yourself and the public safe, using a seat belt can also improve your driving-providing extra protection against injury in the event of a crash.
- When turning, always use signals.
When turning, always use signals. This is one of the most basic driving rules, yet many drivers do it incorrectly. Signaling when turning is even more important in bad weather. When visibility is reduced, other drivers may have a hard time seeing you, and they may not be watching their mirrors or blind spots.
- Avoid Distractions.
If you drive an older-model car, you’re likely familiar with the dangers of distracted driving. Whether texting, reading, or changing the radio station, distracted driving can lead to serious accidents and injuries. And it’s not just teen drivers who need to take care in how they drive: elderly drivers often find themselves distracted by grandchildren in the car, and teens who consider driving a hobby may enjoy a video game or audiobook while behind the wheel. To avoid accidents and injuries, it’s important to keep yourself (and your passengers) focused on the road. Now, it can so happen that you are not the one conducting distracted driving, for example, when you are riding on the public transport. In such cases, you may not be in a position to keep the driver focused or even to advise. However, do note that if anything bad happens, you can always lawyer up and get compensation for your loss.
Safety is a top priority for anyone who drives, but it’s also important to stay up-to-date with safe driving practices for those of us with licenses who drive regularly. Whether you’re a new driver or a seasoned pro, it’s essential to be smart and defensive behind the wheel. And in order to stay safe, it’s important to know the basics, including knowing the rules of the road, the different safety technologies you can use, and practicing safe driving behaviors.
Learning how to drive safely is a lifelong process. Whether you’re learning to drive for the first time or are already an experienced driver, it’s important that you take the proper steps to avoid accidents and problems. That’s why the Department of Public Safety recommends that you choose driver’s education classes that cover the many different types of driving situations that you may encounter on the road.