Defense, Defense, Defensive Driving Tips
Defensive driving is a technique that can greatly reduce your chances of being involved in an auto accident -- and it works! Defensive driving assumes that you are a good driver and won't cause an accident yourself through poor judgment, carelessness, stupidity, or inexperience. It also assumes that every other driver on the road is a homicidal maniac, that something unexpected is always about to happen, and that whatever is around the next corner could jump out and cause a wreck.
According to the National Safety Council, the following tips will help you increase your chances of reaching your destination safely:
• Never look directly at an approaching car's head lights. Use the right edge of the pavement as a lane guide until the other car has passed.
• Be aware of any potential road hazards. Watch for cars that suddenly swerve from their lanes to avoid pot holes, construction barriers, or stalled vehicles.
• When driving on a highway, always be prepared for drivers to changes lanes suddenly in order to exit.
• Don't let your emotions dominate your driving.
• Don't drive when you are tired. If you feel tired, pull off the road for some exercise and fresh air or a cup of coffee.
• Drive a well-maintained vehicle.
Expect other drivers to make mistakes at intersections.
• When approaching a green light, be prepared for it to turn red.
• When you're at a red light that turns green, proceed slowly. Look left and right before you drive through the intersection. Expect someone to run the light.
• Yellow lights mean "Proceed with caution", not "Speed up" to get through the intersection before the light turns red.
• Turning right at a red light is not permitted in every state. Even in states where it is permitted, you must come to a complete stop first. Turning right is not allowed in some intersections. Watch for signs at the intersection.
Rules for passing another vehicle.
• Make sure you're in a passing zone.
• Be certain there's no oncoming traffic.
• Look at all your mirrors carefully before you make a lane change.
• Look behind you for any vehicles that might be trying to pass you.
• Be aware of any blind spots. Once the lane is clear, signal your move.
• Move into the passing lane, and accelerate to pass the car in front of you, moving back into the right lane as soon as it is safe.
