Every driver must be aware that their safety is at risk every time they step into a vehicle. This is simply true because you cannot regulate how other people drive. Often it can be daunting with many drivers out there who are aggressive and lack the care for other drivers. Unfortunately, so many accidents happen every year because of the handful of those people who speed and drive recklessly. To ensure your safety and the safety of others, choose to practice defensive driving. 

Here are several tips on how you can be a defensive driver:

1. Plan Ahead of Time

Defensive driving can begin before you start your car. If you have a smartphone, get in the habit of checking weather conditions and traffic conditions. Then, make sure you consider those factors when timing out when you should leave and arrive at your destination. 

2. Always Check Lanes

This step should be an easy one for most people as we've all had to hear it countless times from our parents. Whether you are changing lanes, merging onto the highway, you should regularly check the lane. Even though some cars nowadays have lane detection systems, you should still check because technology can occasionally be wrong. It is a good practice to use no matter what car you drive and how old you are. 

3. Wait Longer at Stop Signs and Lights

Another fantastic tip for defensive driving is to pause a couple of extra seconds at a stoplight or stop sign. You might find a driver who attempts to speed through a yellow light that turns red as they cross the intersection. If you are impatient to wait a little longer, then there is an increased chance that you could get into a collision.

4. Brake Early

It is always better to brake early than brake too late. Make sure there is sufficient space between you and the other cars in front of you. It is especially recommended that you slow down sooner in slippery weather conditions. It takes 2x-3x as long to come to a complete stop after deciding to apply the brakes. 

5. Avoid Distractions

Defensive driving also includes making proactive choices. The best way to avoid an accident is to pay close attention to the road and limit your distractions to none. The common distractions include your smartphone, music, and eating; all can take your attention away from the road.

Let us know if these tips helped you. At Frank's Auto Service, our number one priority is you and your car's safety.